If you're wondering where to go skiing with kids near the Bay Area, consider skipping Tahoe and checking out Dodge Ridge Mountain Resort instead. This well-loved family-run ski resort is located in Pinecrest, CA, in the Stanislaus National Forest.
What We Love About Dodge Ridge Mountain Resort:
Just a short drive away, under 3 hours, from the San Francisco Bay Area, you can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, snow tubing and snow play at Dodge Ridge. I felt like this resort offered affordable prices with fewer crowds. It's located in an area with plenty to do, but also offers opportunities to just relax and cozy up in your cabin.
Our Experience:
This was our first time taking the kids (ages 3 and 5) to a ski resort and I didn't want our experience to feel overwhelming and stressful. I had no idea where to go skiing with kids near the Bay Area, that wasn't Tahoe. I did a little research and discovered Dodge Ridge!
We opted for a cozy cabin in Mi-Wuk village and visited Dodge Ridge Mountain Resort twice during our 4 day stay in Tuolomne County. The first day was a Sunday of a holiday weekend, so while it was more crowded than usual, it still felt manageable. We weren't sure about skiing yet, so we opted to spend that day tubing and playing in the snow.
The second day we visited was a Tuesday and much less crowded. The kids felt curious about skiing so we decided to try it out! We stayed in the learning area designated for beginners, where they were able to comfortably practice skiing down a very small incline. We didn't use an instructor or take lessons, but the resort does offer that option, and I think next time we'll try that.
Details & Prices:
Tubing and snow play are only open during weekends (weather permitting). A 2 hour session of tubing costs $30 per person. There are height requirements for tubing as follows:
must be 42" or taller to tube alone.
If the child is 36" to 42" they must ride with an adult.
Any child under 36" can not tube, but can play in the snow area.
Dodge Ridge provides the tubes. You cannot bring your own.
Sleds are not permitted either.
Snow play is open on weekends only and you can get an all day pass for $25 per person. Ages 3 and under are free.
Skiing/ Boarding- kids 5 yrs and under ski for free, but ski rentals for kids will run you about $50 per child. Lessons are available for kids ages 4 yrs and up. We opted not to do lessons since it was our kids' first time ever putting ski's on and I wasn't sure if they'd even like it.
The resort also has a large indoor cafe and bar area where you can take a break and grab some food. There were plenty of food options like mac and cheese, chicken tenders, pizza, burgers and desserts.
Tips:
Download the Dodge Ridge App for updates on weather and other important information. They also do a great job posting updates in real-time on their instagram stories.
There isn't any cell service in the area but the Dodge Ridge Creekside Cafe has guest wifi. Many families used walkie talkie's to communicate, too.
Arrive early, especially if you would like to snow tube on a weekend because this sells out quickly and you can only buy tickets for tubing in person, on the day of.
Where to Stay:
There are many lodging options in the area. I'd recommend Pinecrest, Mi-Wuk Village or Twain Harte so you are close to Dodge Ridge Resort. We, personally, opted for an AirBnB.
What Else is There To Do in the Area:
Snow tubing and play at Leland Snow Play
Ice skating at The Long Barn Lodge
Trampoline gym at the Black Oak Casino ResortÂ
Twain Harte mini golfÂ
Heaven For Kids playground in SonoraÂ
RailTown 1897 historic park in JamestownÂ
If you're wondering where to go skiing with kids near the Bay Area, I recommend checking out Dodge Ridge Mountain Resort. It's in a beautiful area, but not too far, and is wonderful place for families to enjoy a quick getaway. We can't wait to go back!