The Ski Moms Podcast

Ski Portillo Chile, Part 2: Why This Boutique Ski Resort Feels So Different

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/1882919/fan_mail/new] Inside the Portillo, Chile ski experience—from daily life and family-friendly lodging to what makes this independent resort so unique. And for our Ski Moms community, there’s a little added bonus: Enjoy 10% off your stay for bookings between June 20 and August 1 by emailing reservations@skiportillo.com [reservations@skiportillo.com] and mentioning SKIMOMS. Last week, we covered how to plan a trip to Portillo. In this episode, we’re getting to the heart of it: what makes this iconic Chilean ski resort feel so different once you arrive. We’re joined by Ellen Guidara, who serves on the board of Portillo and previously led its marketing. From arriving as a young ski instructor after Middlebury to returning after an 11-year career at Disney, Ellen brings a rare, personal perspective on the resort’s evolution and enduring magic. Recorded over tea at Portillo, this conversation explores the rhythm, traditions, and intentional choices that define the experience—from shared tables and afternoon tea to remaining independent in a world of mega passes. If you’re curious about what keeps families coming back year after year, this episode brings that feeling to life. In This Episode: *  Why Portillo has stayed independent (no Epic or Ikon)  *  The all-inclusive rhythm that makes the week feel effortless  *  How shared meals and traditions create real community  *  Family weeks vs. August’s more social energy  *  The realities of running a remote ski resort in the Andes  Planning a Trip? We’re partnering with Portillo this month to share more tips, guides, and behind-the-scenes. Follow along on Instagram @theskimoms and subscribe to the newsletter for more. If your child lives for trail time and is constantly pushing limits on two wheels, we’ve found the summer experience that checks every box. Woodward PA’s Mountain Bike Camp is redefining what an action sports camp can be — blending epic adventure with professional coaching and a whole lot of fresh air. Ski Moms can save $150 off summer camp. Use code skimoms www.woodwardpa.com/summer-camps/moun [https://www.woodwardpa.com/summer-camps/mountain-bike/] Opening June 20, Portillo Chile is one of the most iconic ski destinations in the world—gorgeous, uncrowded, and incredibly easy for families since everything’s right on-site. Ski Moms listeners get 10% off stays from June 20 to August 1. Email reservations@skiportillo.com and mention SKIMOMS. Celebrate your love of the laid-back ski life. Shop cozy gear made for the mellow skier:  👉 Shop the Slow Skier’s Club [https://skimomsfunshop.myshopify.com/] Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/1882919/support] Keep up with the Latest from the Ski Moms! Website: www.theskimoms.co [https://www.theskimoms.co/] Ski Moms Discount Page: https://www.theskimoms.co/discounts [https://skimomsfun.com/discounts] Ski Moms Ski Rental Homes [https://www.skimomfamilyrentals.com/] Join the 13,000+ Ski Moms Facebook Group [https://www.facebook.com/groups/728592790937875] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theskimoms/ [https://www.instagram.com/theskimoms/] Send us an email and let us know what guests and topics you’d like to hear next! Sarah@skimomsfun.com [Sarah@skimomsfun.com] Nicole@skimomsfun.com [Nicole@skimomsfun.com]

Planning a Summer Ski Trip to Portillo: What to Know Before You Go

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/1882919/fan_mail/new] If a summer ski trip has ever been on your list, this is your sign to seriously consider Portillo, Chile. In this episode, we’re breaking down everything you need to know to plan a Portillo summer ski trip—from when to go (their season kicks off June 20), to how the all-inclusive, ski-in/ski-out experience works, to why it’s one of the easiest international ski trips you can do with kids. We talk through what makes Portillo so unique (think: no crowds, stunning Andes views, and a true unplugged feel), what a typical day looks like, and how to decide if it’s the right fit for your family—or for a moms’ getaway. And for our Ski Moms community, there’s a special perk: you’ll receive 10% off your stay for bookings between June 20 and August 1. Just email reservations@skiportillo.com and mention SKIMOMS to access the savings. If you’ve been craving a ski trip that feels a little more special—and a lot more memorable—this is one to consider. If your child lives for trail time and is constantly pushing limits on two wheels, we’ve found the summer experience that checks every box. Woodward PA’s Mountain Bike Camp is redefining what an action sports camp can be — blending epic adventure with professional coaching and a whole lot of fresh air. Ski Moms can save $150 off summer camp. Use code skimoms www.woodwardpa.com/summer-camps/moun [https://www.woodwardpa.com/summer-camps/mountain-bike/] Opening June 20, Portillo Chile is one of the most iconic ski destinations in the world—gorgeous, uncrowded, and incredibly easy for families since everything’s right on-site. Ski Moms listeners get 10% off stays from June 20 to August 1. Email reservations@skiportillo.com and mention SKIMOMS. Celebrate your love of the laid-back ski life. Shop cozy gear made for the mellow skier:  👉 Shop the Slow Skier’s Club [https://skimomsfunshop.myshopify.com/] Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/1882919/support] Keep up with the Latest from the Ski Moms! Website: www.theskimoms.co [https://www.theskimoms.co/] Ski Moms Discount Page: https://www.theskimoms.co/discounts [https://skimomsfun.com/discounts] Ski Moms Ski Rental Homes [https://www.skimomfamilyrentals.com/] Join the 13,000+ Ski Moms Facebook Group [https://www.facebook.com/groups/728592790937875] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theskimoms/ [https://www.instagram.com/theskimoms/] Send us an email and let us know what guests and topics you’d like to hear next! Sarah@skimomsfun.com [Sarah@skimomsfun.com] Nicole@skimomsfun.com [Nicole@skimomsfun.com]

Colorado Family Skiing: Loveland Ski Area's Affordable Mountain Experience

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/1882919/fan_mail/new] In this episode The Ski Moms welcome Sage McCririck, marketing and events manager at Loveland Ski Area [https://skiloveland.com/] in Colorado, as the resort approaches its 90th anniversary. Sage shares her three-generation family connection to the mountain, where her father, ski photographer Flip McCririck , taught her to ski and she now teaches her own daughter. Located just 52 miles from Denver, Loveland offers two base areas: the Basin with challenging Continental Divide terrain, and the Valley with beginner slopes and affordable $50 adult/$30 kids tickets [https://skiloveland.com/lift-tickets/]. This independent, family-owned resort prioritizes accessibility with dynamic pricing, Indy Pass partnership, and creative packages. Sage shares insider tips including the convenient Valley base area, unique on-mountain BBQ grills, and special events like the 35th annual Mountaintop Matrimony on Valentine's Day and live music every weekend March through May. April is the sweet spot for visiting with fresh snow, sunshine, live music, and lower prices after April 6th. Loveland maintains its old-school community vibe while offering over six months of quality skiing from early November through early May. Resources:  * Loveland Website [https://skiloveland.com/]  Loveland on Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/lovelandskiarea] Loveland Instagram [https://instagram.com/lovelandskiarea] * Locatio If your child lives for trail time and is constantly pushing limits on two wheels, we’ve found the summer experience that checks every box. Woodward PA’s Mountain Bike Camp is redefining what an action sports camp can be — blending epic adventure with professional coaching and a whole lot of fresh air. Ski Moms can save $150 off summer camp. Use code skimoms www.woodwardpa.com/summer-camps/moun [https://www.woodwardpa.com/summer-camps/mountain-bike/] Opening June 20, Portillo Chile is one of the most iconic ski destinations in the world—gorgeous, uncrowded, and incredibly easy for families since everything’s right on-site. Ski Moms listeners get 10% off stays from June 20 to August 1. Email reservations@skiportillo.com and mention SKIMOMS. Spring family fun in Ulster County: * Earth Fest at the Ashokan Center/April 19 * Kingston Point Beach for the Hudson Valley Kite Festival /May 17,  * Hudson Valley Faerie Festival/May 30  For more ways to get outside together this spring, head to VisitUlsterCountyNY.com [http://visitulstercountyny.com] and start planning your spring getaway. Celebrate your love of the laid-back ski life. Shop cozy gear made for the mellow skier:  👉 Shop the Slow Skier’s Club [https://skimomsfunshop.myshopify.com/] Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/1882919/support] Keep up with the Latest from the Ski Moms! Website: www.theskimoms.co [https://www.theskimoms.co/] Ski Moms Discount Page: https://www.theskimoms.co/discounts [https://skimomsfun.com/discounts] Ski Moms Ski Rental Homes [https://www.skimomfamilyrentals.com/] Join the 13,000+ Ski Moms Facebook Group [https://www.facebook.com/groups/728592790937875] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theskimoms/ [https://www.instagram.com/theskimoms/] Send us an email and let us know what guests and topics you’d like to hear next! Sarah@skimomsfun.com [Sarah@skimomsfun.com] Nicole@skimomsfun.com [Nicole@skimomsfun.com]

Spring Skiing in Banff: Why Sunshine Village Is the Best Late-Season Family Ski Trip

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/1882919/fan_mail/new] The Ski Moms welcome back Kendra Scurfield (Chief Marketing Officer at Banff Sunshine Village, author, and mom) to share why spring skiing in Banff is a hidden gem for families. They explore what sets Sunshine Village apart—from its high elevation and consistent late-season snowfall to its sunny, celebratory spring atmosphere with longer days, soft snow, and lively après. The conversation covers practical planning tips, including flying into Calgary, choosing between staying in Banff or at the ski-in/ski-out Sunshine Mountain Lodge, and how to prepare for spring conditions with smart layering, extra gear for kids, hydration, and sun protection. Kendra also explains why spring is ideal for progression, with softer snow and warmer temps helping both kids and adults build confidence. They highlight family-friendly terrain, childcare and lessons starting at 18 months, and opportunities for moms to push their own skiing—from groomers to more advanced terrain. Off the slopes, they share what makes spring at Sunshine so fun, from outdoor dining and ski boot dance parties to themed weekends and the iconic Slush Cup. This episode is full of inspiration and practical advice for families looking to extend their ski season and embrace the ease and joy of spring skiing in the Canadian Rockies. Resources: Instagram: @kendrasonia [https://www.instagram.com/kendrasonia] www.skibanff.com [https://www.skibanff.com/] www.skibig3. If your child lives for trail time and is constantly pushing limits on two wheels, we’ve found the summer experience that checks every box. Woodward PA’s Mountain Bike Camp is redefining what an action sports camp can be — blending epic adventure with professional coaching and a whole lot of fresh air. Ski Moms can save $150 off summer camp. Use code skimoms www.woodwardpa.com/summer-camps/moun [https://www.woodwardpa.com/summer-camps/mountain-bike/] Opening June 20, Portillo Chile is one of the most iconic ski destinations in the world—gorgeous, uncrowded, and incredibly easy for families since everything’s right on-site. Ski Moms listeners get 10% off stays from June 20 to August 1. Email reservations@skiportillo.com and mention SKIMOMS. Spring family fun in Ulster County: * Earth Fest at the Ashokan Center/April 19 * Kingston Point Beach for the Hudson Valley Kite Festival /May 17,  * Hudson Valley Faerie Festival/May 30  For more ways to get outside together this spring, head to VisitUlsterCountyNY.com [http://visitulstercountyny.com] and start planning your spring getaway. Celebrate your love of the laid-back ski life. Shop cozy gear made for the mellow skier:  👉 Shop the Slow Skier’s Club [https://skimomsfunshop.myshopify.com/] Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/1882919/support] Keep up with the Latest from the Ski Moms! Website: www.theskimoms.co [https://www.theskimoms.co/] Ski Moms Discount Page: https://www.theskimoms.co/discounts [https://skimomsfun.com/discounts] Ski Moms Ski Rental Homes [https://www.skimomfamilyrentals.com/] Join the 13,000+ Ski Moms Facebook Group [https://www.facebook.com/groups/728592790937875] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theskimoms/ [https://www.instagram.com/theskimoms/] Send us an email and let us know what guests and topics you’d like to hear next! Sarah@skimomsfun.com [Sarah@skimomsfun.com] Nicole@skimomsfun.com [Nicole@skimomsfun.com]

Crystal Mountain Ski Resort: Complete Family Guide to Northern Michigan Skiing

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/1882919/fan_mail/new] The Ski Moms celebrate Crystal Mountain' [https://www.crystalmountain.com/]s 70th anniversary with Karen Thor (COO, 32 years at the resort) and Brittany Primeau (Director of Communications and new mom). They explore Crystal's evolution from Buck Hills community ski area to today's master-planned four-season resort village with 1,500 acres. Karen and Brittany share their ski origin stories and discuss the family-owned Petritz legacy that created a destination where families can park once and access everything on foot or by shuttle, from ski-in/ski-out accommodations to the LEED-certified spa [https://www.crystalmountain.com/spa-wellness/crystal-spa/crystal-spa].  The conversation covers practical planning tips including getting fitted for rentals the night before, booking lessons for ages 3 to "retired, not tired," and using the Nanny McSki program for full-day childcare on the slopes. Crystal features terrain for all levels with magic carpets, a backyard teaching area, and night skiing Tuesday through Saturday. Beyond winter, they highlight year-round activities including two championship golf courses (home to the Michigan Women's Open for 20+ years), the Crystal Coaster Alpine Slide (Michigan's only alpine slide), Michigan Legacy Art Park, and the resort's role as a base camp for exploring Northern Michigan attractions like Sleeping Bear Dunes and Traverse City. Resources: * Website: www.crystalmountain [https://www.crystalmountain.com] If your child lives for trail time and is constantly pushing limits on two wheels, we’ve found the summer experience that checks every box. Woodward PA’s Mountain Bike Camp is redefining what an action sports camp can be — blending epic adventure with professional coaching and a whole lot of fresh air. Ski Moms can save $150 off summer camp. Use code skimoms www.woodwardpa.com/summer-camps/moun [https://www.woodwardpa.com/summer-camps/mountain-bike/] Opening June 20, Portillo Chile is one of the most iconic ski destinations in the world—gorgeous, uncrowded, and incredibly easy for families since everything’s right on-site. Ski Moms listeners get 10% off stays from June 20 to August 1. Email reservations@skiportillo.com and mention SKIMOMS. Spring family fun in Ulster County: * Earth Fest at the Ashokan Center/April 19 * Kingston Point Beach for the Hudson Valley Kite Festival /May 17,  * Hudson Valley Faerie Festival/May 30  For more ways to get outside together this spring, head to VisitUlsterCountyNY.com [http://visitulstercountyny.com] and start planning your spring getaway. Celebrate your love of the laid-back ski life. Shop cozy gear made for the mellow skier:  👉 Shop the Slow Skier’s Club [https://skimomsfunshop.myshopify.com/] Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/1882919/support] Keep up with the Latest from the Ski Moms! Website: www.theskimoms.co [https://www.theskimoms.co/] Ski Moms Discount Page: https://www.theskimoms.co/discounts [https://skimomsfun.com/discounts] Ski Moms Ski Rental Homes [https://www.skimomfamilyrentals.com/] Join the 13,000+ Ski Moms Facebook Group [https://www.facebook.com/groups/728592790937875] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theskimoms/ [https://www.instagram.com/theskimoms/] Send us an email and let us know what guests and topics you’d like to hear next! Sarah@skimomsfun.com [Sarah@skimomsfun.com] Nicole@skimomsfun.com [Nicole@skimomsfun.com]