Happy happy Wednesday!
Over our winter break, we loaded up the kids and a ton of luggage and made our now annual trek to Park City, Utah for the week!
Sigh. We have our own ski and snowboard equipment, so by the time you pack all of that up along with every warm weather layer that goes underneath, you have a lot of luggage. One whole suitcase was just helmets and boots! We left Dallas on the 27th and made it to Salt Lake City by mid-afternoon. We were having record high temps in Dallas that week, so our fam was SO happy to see cold weather and snow!
We loaded up, headed to Park City, checked into our condo for the week and made it to dinner…
…where we had a delicious meal at Fletcher’s!
It was a super fun start to our vacation!
On Day TWO…
…it was time to ski. Sigh. You guys, I am terrible at skiing. I take lessons, I try, I put on the gear and show up in the cold, but the video footage proves, I suck. (Side note, Andrew understands that if said footage ever sees the light of day, he will find his belongings on the curb when he comes home from work…) My family though, loves to ski and board! They were all so excited to head out that morning!
Ashby and Mades were all set for three days of ski school. Our littlest birdie was all smiles when we dropped her off!
In our family, the girls ski and the boys board. Kensington and I have both tried boarding, but skiing is a much better fit for us (so clearly, imagine how poorly I snowboard!!!!!!).
While the little girls enjoyed ski school, the four of us went out together.
It was COLD!
It was a fun day with my oldest girlie!
We took a midday break and enjoyed lunch on the mountain before the boys headed back out to finish and Kensington and I “piddled around” as my grandmother would say until we picked up the little girls from ski school. It’s very rare to just have my big kids for a meal!
After a full day of skiing, we headed back, cleaned up…
…caught some snow…
…and headed off to dinner at our very favorite restaurant in Park City, Grappa 🙂 .
You know it’s been a good day on the slopes when you fall asleep at dinner 🙂 .
On Day THREE…
…we dropped off the little girls at ski school…
…and hit the slopes…
…let me recap our afternoon of skiing: I dropped one of my poles from way up high on the ski lift, I fell down hard three times, and I cried twice. Needless to say, I was super ready to call it a day, clean up…
…and head to Prime for dinner.
On Day FOUR…
…we spent the day enjoying Main Street in Park City! A little shopping, lunch, looking around…
…and loving the snow!
We stopped for lunch at 501…
…and had a delicious meal!
Joy.
After lunch, we headed back to the mountain but this time…
…to ice skate!
These crazy kids love to ice skate!
#brothers
Andrew and I enjoyed watching our four crazy kids skate around all afternoon in the snow.
That wraps up this PART ONE! I’m going to share one more post on this trip and then I thought I’d do an entire Q&A post on our trip (the packing, where we stay, the ins and outs of skiing with our family, etc) in a few days too. If you have any questions, drop them in the comment section below, and I’ll try to answer them on that post. In the meantime, make sure you check out my WHAT TO PACK WHEN YOU’RE SKIING and my first SKIING WITH YOUR FAMILY Q&A posts from two years ago.
If you’re interested in anything I was wearing in this first part of the recap, I made a widget below of any items I could find. Just click!
Have the best day, friends! I’ll see you tomorrow! xx
Erika Slaughter says
Awwww!!! Looks like the perfect part one (minus the dropping off poles and falling hard). The pic of your four in town is stunning!
Karlie says
Sounds like a fun trip! I went to Keystone, Colorado in November- did y’all buy Epic Passes since park city is a part of epic pass? Does your family rent a car or do you have a shuttle service from SLC to park city? Considering skiing at park city next year but want to know the details!
Elspeth says
What a fun first few days!! I can’t wait to read about part 2! For a future post, how many layers do you wear and how do you go about making sure you don’t leave things behind since these trips require so much gear?
http://www.elspethsdaybyday.com
Kim says
Looks like an amazing trip! We are planning a ski trip out west after Christmas this year as well and I was so looking forward to your recap!!! A few questions…where did you stay and how did you book your lodging (VRBO, through the resort, etc)? When would you recommend booking by for this time of year? Is it too early to start now??
Jenny says
Thanks for sharing. Our family is traveling to Park City in February for the first time. I’d love to hear a ranking of the restaurants or which three you recommend the most. We will be staying in some nights and going out to eat others. We are 13 people (two families and set of grandparents), so going out can sometimes be challenging. Thank you!
Or any other “must do” that isn’t skiing.
Sheaffer Sims says
It looks magical!!!!! So many memories!
Jenn says
We’re heading to Park City the first weekend in Feb. We always grocery shop and cook our own meals the whole time we’re there but I thought it might be fun to do one meal out this time. If you had to pick one restaurant to try, would it be Grappa?
Mix and Match Mama says
For sure!!!!
Julie says
Oh, Shay-you are a trooper! I feel your pain. My husband and 3 kids ski. On one of the first lessons I took as an adult, I fell on my back, rolled around like a turtle and could not get back up. Meanwhile, my ski instructed had skiied off (assuming I was right behind him?) and I NEVER saw him again that day-lol! Needless to say, I did have better teachers after. I finally learned to go down the easy mountains and thought I’d enjoy it more once I was comfortable. Though it’s very peaceful and zen out there, I had to accept it’s just not my favorite thing. All the carrying of things and the ski lift and the being hot and then cold, blah. I’m team sit by the fire and read. And I’m excellent and holding a place for us all to sit at the lounge! Anyway, I admire you for trying and hope a beach vacation is in your plans soon. PS I’m halfway through ‘Our Woman in Moscow’-love it!!!
Laci Murray says
All that snow!! How fun!! I am like you, I would rather sit by the fire with a good book and enjoy the scenery!
Shannon says
Can older kids do ski school?
Mix and Match Mama says
For sure!!! There are classes for all ages and abilities.
Amanda says
Beautiful pics! Your makeup looks fabulous! What are you wearing on your lips??
Mix and Match Mama says
It’s super random, let me check!
Amanda says
Looks like you and Kensington are close to the same size now. My daughter and I just reached that sweet spot, and can share shoes and some clothes- it’s awesome!! We just went to NYC, and it helped so much to be able to share boots, coats and bulky sweaters. Reading your post, I wondered if that’s helped in your family? I do t think my daughter is done growing, so it won’t last, but sure is nice for the time being!!
Mix and Match Mama says
YES!!!! Kensington feels like she hit the lottery now that she can wear my shoes and clothes. Bahahaha! It’s a fun stage!
Sarah M. says
We just booked a ski trip for March Break in Quebec (a 7 hour drive for us). We are going with another family. My question is about snacks on the hill, what do you bring with you while on the slopes? What do you make for breakfast at the condo/chalet you rent? Do you get groceries delivered or just pick them up in the village?
Holly says
Can’t wait to see Part 2 of your trip, Shay! As for Q&A, I’m interested in getting your best tips/strategies for first-timers. What would you suggest for a family (little to no ski experience) embarking on a ski vacay for the very first time?
Laura says
As someone who doesn’t ski much, do you find park city easy to navigate the slopes? Is it crowded? We’re they requiring vaccination proof- how did you manage all of that?
Laura says
Where do you stay & how do you get around town with all that ski gear? Appreciate any tips & tricks
KELLY says
I would love to see posts on the things that Andrew wears also throughout the year! Thank you for sharing your family and the adventures.
Lizzie says
we are heading here next week!! I’m heading now to read your older posts, I know I’ve read but need a recap. Does 501 Main require reservations? Would you say that’s a good place for dinner? we have reservations at a couple other places already
Mix and Match Mama says
You can make reservations there, but we always walk in to have lunch! I’ve never had dinner there, but it looks yummy.
RR says
501 is our favorite place for lunch in PC, but I would try other places for dinner. Today is moving day for us from Salt Lake City to Wisconsin. ? I highly suggest trips to anywhere in Utah. It is beautiful anywhere you go.
Rockgirl says
How do you make sure that Ashby does not fall or get hit by other skiers or skaters?
Mix and Match Mama says
Well, this is totally a concern. We see her main surgeon multiple times of year and at our last visit (mid-December), he gave us his tips for keeping her safe. She wears certain garments under her ski clothes. Honestly though, just like everyone else, she could get hurt. He feels that since she’s lower to the ground and landing on soft snow (as opposed to ice skating), it’s not as risky as it might appear. We are not sure what the future holds for Ashby, so while she can, he encourages her to ski. As far as ice skating goes, she must hold on to the plastic blue thing…no questions about that.
Allison N says
We are headed there with my husband’s whole family in March! It will be our first time going since having kids. We have a 4 year old and 1 year old. We’ll have family to take turns watching the baby but I’m worried my 4 year old will be too timid and scared to do ski school since she’ll be by herself. Any tips or suggestions? Thanks! Love your pictures and I made notes of all the restaurants!
Mix and Match Mama says
I think those amazing ski instructors do a FABULOUS job making it FUN! They stop and build snowmen, drink cocoa, make snow angels and go inside to warm up. She might cry when you drop her off, but I really and truly see a ton of smiling kids when I pick up my girls.
Jamie says
That picture of your four kids on Main Street could be a postcard…so adorable!
Jenn says
Shay, I laughed out loud at your second day of skiing comment because I can totally relate. The last time I went (hopefully final time) I bent BOTH of my poles in half on the lift on the first trip up the mountain, which is a talent on its own. At one point I walked down a Blue trying to see out of my foggy goggles from crying. Some of us just aren’t meant to ski! 🙂
Debbra Weber says
My family went snow skiing every year when I was growing up (Colorado). Do you have a favorite or do you like to go somewhere different each time you go skiiing/boarding?
Keisha Dawson says
When you fly into Salt Lake, do you have to rent a car to get to Park City or is there a shuttle of some sort. I’m just wondering if renting a car is a must for a trip like this. Thanks!
Stephanie Long says
Stick with skiing and I am confident you’ll get really good at it and love it! I started skiing at 40 and I’m just average in athleticism and I’m tall (5’10”) which I think can make it a bit more challenging because your center of gravity is a bit higher (the taller you are the harder you fall?! Was my fear.) I really struggled for a few years and definitely had times where I cried (and cussed) out of frustration and fear – the entire first few seasons in fact. I cussed at my boyfriend so many times crying why, why, why did he take me down this death trap of a run?! I used to freak out about going down a blue run. But I kept going because I didn’t want to be left out of zipping down the slopes with my family. Lessons helped a lot. At one point about 4 seasons in things started to click and I felt more confident and starts having so much fun. Now I’m almost 50 and I LOVE skiing. I’ll go down any blue and some blacks. I love the accomplishment. I love the views from the top. I love the wind in my face. I love skiing with my daughter and boyfriend and our neighbor family who are all amazing skiers. I love that I can keep up with them and share in the fun, memories and exhilaration of a day on the mountain. I hope you stick with it! I know you’ll be a great skier! I know you’ll be super proud of your accomplishments as a skier. Your family will love skiing with you! Good luck Shay!! You got this!!
Alison says
I absolutely love your honesty about the family ski trip; that it’s not at all on the top of your list of enjoyable activities but that you still show up. I’d say you’re well ahead of some of us. Because sometimes I don’t even show up and I send the rest of my family on their way. ?
Jenny N says
It looks beautiful! My kids are grown, but when they were younger we skied many times at Park City & Deer Valley. It is such a chore getting ready and traveling for a ski vacation, but when you get there and see all of the snow it makes it all worth it. Especially being from Texas where we very rarely see snow.
Thank you for sharing!
Jessica Tribbett says
I think in past years you have also done some of the Colorado ski towns. Is there a reason Park City is your favorite? Any major differences? We are new-ish to living in the Denver area and heading to Vail in a couple weeks. Clearly we will do CO places due to convenience but curious if we should try to make it to Park City one year?
Jenn says
Hi looking for clothing, boot suggestions for tweens and teens. First time ski trip coming up next month.
Susy says
Bible study today:
Our ability to completely forgive someone and intentionally reopen our arms and heart to them is the height of being a partaken/sharer of God’s forgiveness of and grace for us.
Mix and Match Mama says
I love that, Susy!
Scarlett Spangler says
My husband is an avid snowboarder. Me? I’d much rather sit in the lodge with a drink and a book. He managed to convince me to try a few times- and I cried lol. So, I feel you there. I just really don’t see the appeal of these winter sports. It’s cold, it hurts, it requires so much equipment, etc. My poor hubby even bought me a board and boots… I said, “oh gosh, you still think this is going to happen, don’t you?” Sorry, not happening. ?
Michele says
I would like to plan a ski trip for my family. Why do you choose Park City over other destinations?
Heather Van Eck says
How do you go about finding a place to stay hotel vs. condo?
Rose says
We are going there for the first time in March. Did the little girls ski the whole time in a program or do they sometimes ski with the family?
Sumika says
I love reading your blog. It’s always positive vibes. Is it better to bring your boards/skis/boots/gear on the plane or send it to the hotel in advance? I’ve always done the latter in Japan where we use to live, but don’t know the norm in the states or what works best. Thanks!
Ciara says
Just got our three girls into skiing this year and are wanting to head to park city next New Years as well. So..,,Lots of questions for you!
1. Would love to know where your condo was located and how you booked it (air bnb or through a hotel?). Was it ski in/ski out? Easy to get to the slopes? Is their laundry in the unit? I really would love that so we can pack less!
2. Did you rent a car? Do we need one or is everything walkable?
3. What travel ski bags do to have? How many skis fit in one bag?
4. What helmets do you guys have?
5. Would love to know what you packed everyone!
Thanks in advance!!
Kelli Shinault says
Hi! Thank you for the post! My husband and I are traveling to Park City soon and was wondering if you have stayed in the Canyon Villages part? Why do you prefer the Mountain Village side? Thank you! Looked wonderful in the snow!
Mix and Match Mama says
Main Street 🙂
Ally says
Can you link your ski coat? Shopping for a new one!
Mix and Match Mama says
It’s like four or five years old! Sorry!!
Tana Bishop says
Would love to know places to stay in Park City area, ski in and out. Love a nice center village with both greens and blues and restaurants.
Jamie says
I am so relived I am not the only wife who sucks/cusses/despises skiing but is married to a man that thrives on a slope!
Jen says
I’m interested in your recommendations for base layers!! We all need them in our house (myself, husband and 6 year old boy.) we’re doing a 5 day ski trip in February which we’ve never done before and I need ALL the help and tricks!
M says
Ski lessons are expensive but necessary for kids. We thought we could teach our kids and quickly learned it’s almost impossible. Good luck with your son.
Carly Heideger says
Hey Shay, do you typically get travel insurance for your trips?
Mix and Match Mama says
For all of the trips I book here at my agency, I get the insurance 100% of the times, for domestic trips like this one, I often don’t.
Dee says
Looks like you forgot to visit the spa. Best spa around is at the St Regis Deer Valley. And I’ve tried them all. Get a hot poultice massage and biologique recherege facial and your trip is complete! You’re welcome for next year. ?
Megan says
Similar to your adoption posts, will you please post links to all of your ski trips at the bottom of your Q & A? 🙂
Mix and Match Mama says
That’s a great idea!!!
Liz Thorson says
Loved this post, Shay! Takes me back many yrs. to the many, many ski vacations and winter weekly ski school sessions for with our sons, now almost 33 and 37 1/2! So many fun memories!
StephC says
Shay – I completely understand about the skiing. Once my youngest got way faster than me, I stopped skiing. My hubby is sad about it, but it isn’t fun for me. They are welcome to go and have fun and I get the house to myself =)
Lindy says
So fun! You’re in my neck of the woods. Check out Female Foodie website — she has a great guide to restaurants in Park City!
https://www.femalefoodie.com/restaurant-reviews/park-city-restaurants/
ry says
hi! can andrew recommend a good jacket for snowboarding? want to get one for my hubby and would appreciate his recs. God bless your family!
Kim says
Hi! How do you recommend getting from Salt Lake City to Park City? Does all your gear fit in an SUV? Thanks for your help!
Becca Eltz says
Can you write about getting from the place you stay – to the chair lift. Does each person carry his/her own equipment? Do the skiers walk in ski boots or snow boots to the chairlift? How long is your walk (or ride)?
Tammy Rothe says
Hi Shay! Thank you for posting this. My family and I are heading to Park City in February for the first time. We hale from Connecticut. Needless to say, we are all very excited. My husband and my 9 year old ski so they are anxious to see how skiing in the west is different from skiing in the east. I myself tried to learn how to ski 3 years ago and I just couldn’t grasp it. Bummer! I wish I had learned in my younger years. I fell sooo many times I thought I would break a hip! I’m 52 years old in case you’re wondering. ?
I am very curious where you stayed and what restaurants you might recommend. Any tips would be much appreciated.
Happy New Years and I look forward to reading part 2.
Sincerely,
Tammy Rothe
Kate T says
Hi there,
I enjoyed your article. My situation is slightly different it’s just my daughter and I. But the luggage was so heavy for my board our boots helmets etc… quite an effort for two I cannot imagine the packing/ luggage effort for more than 2… but how fun and lucky to be a large family!
We went to park city for the first time this past week. I disliked where we stayed an Airbnb out of walking distance from the main street. Ubers/ Lyfts we’re not quick or easy to come by, and the buses/schedules were okay but not great towards end of day so is going back into park city was not going to happen after a day of boarding/skiing…
Can I ask you where y’all stayed? Recommendations that would easily put you next to the town lift ? How did y’all get around? Do you have to book restaurants out because we couldn’t get a resy ( could have been the peak holiday time). Also what is the sweet spot for total number of board/ski days per your family? I always think 3 but feel a bit bruised and sore after 2…
Thank you.
Rachel Kazmier says
As a veteran skier…..instead of lugging everyone’s stuff in one bag we all have our own ski bags. You can get them in Amazon. Boots go in the side. Helmet, pants, coats, goggles, gloves, and even base layers all fit in the middle. So much easier for everyone to have their own bag with their own gear! That way suitcases aren’t saved for important stuff like cute sweaters, cute boots, and such! It’s a skiers tip to keep gear in a purposeful gear bag!
Holly says
Did you find everything open or was some things like ski trails and shops closed due to the staffing shortage?