A Family Day at Cannonsburg Ski Area
Cannonsburg Ski Area in Belmont, MI, is one of our favorite places to enjoy the snow! With its proximity to Grand Rapids, it is easy to take a trip out there for the afternoon and practice snowboarding with our kids. While there is so much to share about our time at Cannonsburg, I really want to focus on what we have learned that has helped us manage the logistics of getting to Cannonsburg and ensure we all enjoy our time there together!
Watching people ski at Cannonsburg Ski Area
Overview
Location: Cannonsburg Ski Area, 6800 Cannonsburg Rd NE, Belmont, MI 49306
Duration: Varies (Usually 1-4 Hours)
Ages: All Ages (It’s never too early or too late to learn!)
Website: https://cannonsburg.com/
Personal Experience and Thoughts
Getting There
Packing for a day snowboarding (or skiing) can feel overwhelming, especially with little kids. After lots of trial and error, we have developed a system that works well for us, and might be helpful for you too!
Reusable Tote: We pack all the kids’ snow gear (snow bibs, hats, neck gaiters, mittens, etc.) in a tote to bring to the lodge with us.
Pre-Warmed Gear: Gloves and boots get hand and toe warmers at home, ensuring the kids stay warm from the start.
Backpack for the Hill: This holds extra layers, mittens, snacks, and drinks—our essentials for keeping the day smooth.
We also have the kids wear their snowboarding boots in the vehicle. This way we don’t have to change shoes in the cold parking lot or carry shoes with us to the lodge! We also pack comfy shoes for the ride home and keep them in the car.
Arrival
When we arrive at Cannonsburg, my husband and I divide up the various tasks that need to be done before we can get to the hill.
My husband gears up and takes the snowboards to the ski racks near the lifts.
I put the kids’ helmets and goggles on their heads (less to carry!) and grab the tote of snow clothes and backpack. Then, the kids and I head to get their lift tickets.
After this, my husband and I regroup and each takes a kid to use the restroom before getting into all our snow gear. Trust me. It is way easier to manage bathroom breaks without all the layers.
Finally we get in our snow gear and head out!
This system minimizes chaos and gets everyone outside quickly and comfortably.
On the Slopes
We’re teaching our kids to snowboard, which has been such a rewarding family experience. While skill-building is important, we try to prioritize three things:
Playing a game of “Simon Says” to get reacquainted with our boards.
Food: I check after every run to see if the kids need a snack or water. With all the excitement, they often don’t realize they’re hungry or thirsty until it’s too late!
Warmth: Fingers and toes get cold fastest, so we are constantly checking to make sure they are comfortable.
Fun: It’s all about enjoying the activity together! We made a game where the kids earn points for each run and redeem them for fun rewards like water bottle stickers, hot chocolate, or french fries in the lodge.
If your kids are new to snowboarding, start slow and keep things lighthearted. At least for us, it’s about the time together as a family and getting out and doing something fun. The skills will follow!
Pro Tips
Clothing:
Snowbibs will prevent a meltdown! When kids inevitably fall, you don’t want snow going up their backs and making them cold.
Hand and toe warmers are lifesavers.
Pack an extra set of gloves just in case the first pair gets wet.
Balaclavas are a must! They work really well under helmets to help keep faces warm, and prevent snow from going down your jacket! This was a game-changer for our youngest!
Lift Tickets
Kids 6 and Under are Free: This is such a great deal! It allows us to go for just an hour or two without feeling pressured to stay all day.
Punch Cards: Older kids and parents can purchase punch cards for discounted visits.
Sunday Night Discounts: Cannonsburg offers super affordable tickets on Sunday nights, which include a group lesson—perfect for beginners.
Bathrooms
Restrooms are located on both ends of the lodge.
Pro Tip: use the bathroom before putting on snow layers—it’s much easier to manage!
Food and Drinks
There are two food options inside the lodge!
Pack a thermos of hot chocolate and mini marshmallows for quick, on-the-hill warm-ups without trekking back to the lodge.
Shoulder rider with Dad after a big afternoon!
Other Activities
Cannonsburg isn’t just about skiing and snowboarding! They offer tubing, which my daughter and I plan to try for a mommy-daughter date soon.
There’s also a preschool program featuring winter sledding, adventure hikes, and games. My daughter and I had fun watching a group of kids this past weekend pretend they were in the Olympics and running through obstacle courses!
Recap
Cannonsburg Ski Area is one of our family’s favorite spots for a snowy adventure! Its proximity to Grand Rapids makes it easy to plan an afternoon trip, and the variety of activities means there’s something for everyone.
The variety of ticket options, like free lift tickets for kids under 6, punch cards for regular visitors, and Sunday night discounts with group lessons, make it an accessible and budget-friendly choice for families. Plus, with tubing and programs for preschoolers, there’s so much more to explore beyond the slopes.
If you’re looking for a winter destination full of fun, adventure, and great family memories, Cannonsburg Ski Area should be on your list!