Dulany at the Gondola by Steamboat Resorts

Located just steps from the Steamboat gondola right at the base, the aptly named Dulany at the Gondola is a convenient ski-in/walk out resort (bonus points for ski storage!). Elevators keep you from being completely wiped out by going up and down the stairs for forgotten goggles or gloves before you even get outside. And the concierge will be happy to assist with lift tickets and the all-important dinner reservations for those nights you’d rather leave the cooking to the pros. The resort is just fifty yards from the ski school, so toss the kids’ gear across your shoulder as they take off running toward their instructors. Once everyone’s situated, head for the gondola and map out your plan on the way up. Reclaim your little ones mid-afternoon, hit a few runs together, then make your way back to change for the newly remodeled hot tubs. Admire the spectacular mountain views while you vote on favorite runs and best “top secret” tree-skiing routes.

Spacious two- and three-bedroom condos are individually decorated, and comfortably sleep four to eight weary mountain conquerors. With floor plans ranging from 1300 to nearly 1800 square feet, you’ll have more than enough space for the kids’ blankets, toys and stuffed animals. All condos feature full kitchens with enough cupboards to hide the “good” snacks so they don’t mysteriously disappear the first day. The kitchen is stocked with everything you need to throw together your family favorites, and the market is within walking distance. Bring the kids along to help carry groceries (and to make sure no one’s favorite treat gets forgotten). When you arrive back at your condo after a day of skiing, line up those snowy boots, hats and gloves by the fireplace to dry while you watch GoPro video of the day’s funniest wipeouts. All condos have cable TVs with HBO and DVD players. Put one of the kids in charge of choosing movies, and another on concessions duty for a low-key night in. (Tomorrow’s another big day!)

The resort offers a private guest shuttle with service into town. Head to Lincoln Avenue for dining and shopping. A stop at the throwback Lyon’s Corner Drug Store is a can’t-miss. Milkshakes, sundaes and banana splits are a hit with both the kids and the grown-ups. Treat yourself with a massage, mani-pedi or facial at the Spa Salon. Or be a hero and surprise the kids with a stop at Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory. Sample the fudge, chocolate-dipped pretzels and chocolate-covered marshmallows. Or see who’s willing to take on The Monster Apple – a Granny Smith apple dipped in caramel, rolled in pecans and covered in chocolate. (Offer assistance when they give up a fourth of the way into it.) Summer opens up all kinds of additional possibilities, from hiking and biking, to horseback riding. Itching to play golf? Book a tee time at Rollingstone Ranch.