Ideal For Families

Mad River Mountain is a great place for families and it shows! In addition to great on-mountain programs, Mad River is a natural for family outings for a host of other reasons. The base lodge is on the same level as the parking lot, offering easy access for kids of all ages.

The terrain is perfectly suited for families with all of the trails meeting at the base area. The trail and lift configuration is also great for families with the Sundowner Triple Chair, which is perfect for beginners, the Four Star Express Quad Chair, the Mad River Chair, the NEW Momentum Triple Chair, as well as the Sugar Bush Chair that all bring skiers and riders to trails for the beginner to the advanced. We can’t leave out the Flight Deck Chair that allows easy access to the Terrain Park.

Mad River Mountain’s convenient location, in West Central Ohio, ensures a short trip in the car with minimal “Are we there, yet?” questions. Mad River is just 35-45 minutes from Columbus and about 1 hour from Dayton and Lima.

Kids and parents can ski, snowboard, take lessons, and snow tube. Mom and Dad can feel safe knowing that kids 4-12 years old can learn the basics in the Adventure Place for Kids Program.

The KIDS ZONE area features a slow-moving carpet lift to give beginner skiers a chance to get the feel of moving around on the snow before riding the larger lifts. Four other surface lifts are placed throughout the Kids Zone as well.

Mad River’s on-mountain food service is a great way for families to grab a snack or an entire meal. A cafeteria-style restaurant is located downstairs with hot dogs, hamburgers, salad, sandwiches, and nachos, while upstairs is The Loft with pizza and subs.

”Family Comfort Zone” markers are on trails that are easy and allow for everyone to find their “ski legs.” After you conquer the beginner area, Mad River has trails designed for you to hone your skills. The terrain on trails like Sundowner and Valley View is similar to the beginner area but is accessed by chair lifts which is the next step to become comfortable with after the beginner area.

Snow Pile for the wee ones! Even the toddlers, who may be too small to ski, can play in the snow. Just outside the Lodge is a special area for the little ones to build snowmen and more called the Snow Pile.

Mad River Mountain is the perfect “Get Away For The Day” place for families. With outstanding features and a relaxing and fun atmosphere, you can’t go wrong. Come out and play with us- "Winter's Here, Be a Part of It!"