As an adult who doesn't ski well, I wanted to do better by my own kids. I want them to learn not to be fearful of breaking their limbs while hurling down slippery slopes on long, awkward planks. So my husband and I have been testing out family friendly ski hills convenient to Toronto. After a successful two day education on the hills of Collingwood last year, this weekend we spent a day at Sir Sams in Haliburton, about two hours north of Toronto. Sir Sams - though dated and a little small - is a nice, family friendly ski option, especially if you would like to put your kids into a lesson and perhaps let them ski on their own.
For $45 each, my two children (ages 9 and 7) had private ski instruction for two hours. After that, they skied on their own for an hour and a half - completely within my site from inside the warm chalet - on a couple of the learning hills accessible by a covered magic carpet "tunnel," the first of its kind in Canada.
This was the perfect option for a lazy parent who wanted to sip coffee and read the Globe and Mail.
Don't expect much glitz at Sir Sams, but expect your kids to get some solid ski practice in a friendly and beautiful environment.
Also in the area: Moosewoods Ski Trails is near Sir Sams and offers outstanding classic and skate ski trails. Warming huts and toilets are located along the route.
Sir Sams is open year-round.
Also in the area is the popular Sir Sam's Inn and Waterspa, a beachfront spa inn on Eagle Lake