Snow Creek Ski Area
Snow Creek Ski Area
1 Snow Creek Dr.
Weston, MO
816.640.2200
Even when there’s not a lot of snow in Kansas City, you don’t have to drive to Colorado to enjoy a decent day of snow skiing. Weston’s Snow Creek is a short 45-minute to one-hour drive from downtown KC. And, if there is not enough “real” snow, they make plenty of it there.
Snow Creek appeals to a variety of skiers and snow boarders, but is an excellent spot to introduce your family to this invigorating winter sport. Before we had children, my husband and I thoroughly enjoyed skiing Colorado’s powder-covered slopes. While he still “won’t do” Weston, I found it to be a great place to get re-acquainted with my skis and to sharpen my skills. However, the biggest reward was watching my children enjoy learning to ski!
I waited until the youngest was five years old – the age when lessons become available at Snow Creek; my oldest was around seven. We didn’t need to buy anything for those first outings. I bundled them up in their sled riding clothes and took along extra layers in case they needed it. Their waterproof winter coats and gloves were perfect, and for once, they actually wore their stocking caps!
We loaded up my old skis, boots, and poles (remember those?), and rented their equipment at Snow Creek. I put them in a one-hour semi-private lesson (about $56). For beginners, the small group is well worth the reasonable expense. The kids can focus on their skills with an instructor who is able to closely guide them and re-direct as necessary. By the end of the first lesson, my average athletic kids were able to stand on their skis, turn, slow down, stop and ride the rope-tow lift – which, by the way, is not an easy task. I was thrilled and they were having fun! The “bunny slope” became an Olympic-level course, complete with the celebratory hand pump when they beat their sibling down the hill! Meanwhile, I headed up to the top of the 300’ mountain and relived my earlier skiing days! It was a great winter escape for all, complete with “tall tales” of daredevil antics during the ride home.
Things to Know Before You Go
Hours: Monday – Friday, 12 pm – 9 pm; Saturday, 9 am – 9 pm; Sunday, 9 am – 8 pm
Prices: Snow Pass with Rental, $61 for adults, $21 for children 6 & under, $40 for children 7-12.
For non-skiers, photographers & other invited guests, Snow Passes (without ski rental) $36 for adults, children 6 & under are FREE, $19 for children 7-12.
Sunday Family Night Special: Sunday, 4 pm – 8 pm (all ages), Snow Pass with Rental is $30 and includes equipment & lesson. For non-skiers, a Snow Pass is $26 for adults, $19 for children.
For additional details visit www.skisnowcreek.com. Their website is full of helpful tips for beginning skiers, including how to dress for a wide range of temperatures and conditions. There is also detailed information on lessons, which are offered for both children and adults.
Equipment Note: Snow Creek does not rent helmets, which are becoming widely used by skiers and snow boarders. These are available to rent at local ski rental shops, such as Flatlanders and Sitzmark. Don’t overlook this important safety precaution for all skiers!
Kathy Stump is a native Kansas Citian who enjoys sharing adventures with her husband and two children.