Being a relative newcomer to the Northstar scene, I do not have first-hand knowledge of the changes that have occurred both on the mountain and within the Village although in my short time here I have been able to reap the benefits of those changes.  Each mountain resort I have lived in, including Jackson Hole, Steamboat Springs and Summit County Colorado encompassing everything from Beaver Creek to Breckenridge, is in a constant state of flux.  Northstar is no stranger to this phenomenon although it took a little longer to get on the right track.  Transforming from a small “town” mountain to a world class resort destination takes time and patience.  Having watched this transformation in many other locations, I can say with confidence that Northstar has taken all the right steps and is truly a family resort rivaled by no other.

My 6 year old son, Hawken, and I have enjoyed many fun days on the slopes here at Northstar but one specifically sticks in mind.  The day began with the typical rush to eat breakfast, get dressed and compile and organize each piece of ski gear and clothing for both of us.  I think every parent out there knows exactly what I am talking about!!  This amazingly was the last of our troubles for the day. The parking and shuttle process here is the best I have seen and once we unloaded I was able to quickly grab one of Northstar’s most underrated amenities, the WAGON!  These little gray wagons can be found throughout the Village and to anyone with kids they are a godsend!  Not only can you throw all your gear in, the kid/kids can jump in too making the short walk through the Village enjoyable for all.  Hawken jumped in and we soon found ourselves at the Gondola.

The mountain offers some of the best beginner to intermediate terrain available making it the perfect destination for families.  Hawken and I enjoyed several nice runs, making laps on ‘Axe Handle,’ his favorite for the day.  When the time came we made our way to the Village where dad enjoyed a cold beer and son received the largest mug of hot chocolate seen anywhere south of the North Pole.  After happily gorging ourselves on pizza at Rubicon in the Village we set out for a couple more runs and called it day.  Once again using the wagon and shuttle services provided by the mountain our journey back to the car went without incident.

I have skied at many resorts and have never experienced a stress free day with kids from start to finish.  The fact that Northstar can provide this experience not only to us but to all families here to enjoy the slopes is an astonishing feat and not one that you come by easily.  I hope to create many more memories here with my 2 boys, Tucker and Hawken and hope to make new friends along the way.