You can ask our kids what their favorite place is, and without a doubt, they will always say Snow Mountain Ranch. All of them. No matter what amazing places we bring them to, there is a magical recipe here that keeps bringing us back for more, year after year, season after season. This time around, we were able to take advantage of a buy 3 nights, get 1 free deal. Last time, the deal had brought the nicest lodge down to the price of the basic ones, but on this occasion, the cheaper ones were included in the deal. Indian Peaks was great because it had a microwave and fridge, making it easier to cook. This time, with no such amenities, we had to get creative to stay in Aspenbrook.
In addition to being at our favorite place, the recipe for fun was doubled when the Beintum family decided to join us, instafun for all of us. No matter where we are, we will always manage to have a ton of fun with these great friends! We decided to bring along our instapots to cook in the lodge. While I call a friend in alarm on almost every use, we were forced to be brave since the instapot really gave us our best shot at making meals. Some of our favorites included a chicken noodle dish,
a pepperoni pizza pasta,
meatball subs, and being able to heat up just about anything, such as cheddarwursts.
One of our favorite staff members even surprised us with a certificate for 4 large pizzas at the grill! What an awesome treat! Each night in the lodge also includes free breakfast for 2 in the Commons dining hall. Kids under 6 eat for free.
Even without much snow this year, we were able to enjoy a ton of activities! We brought cross country skis from home and spent every day on the amazing Nordic trails. The kids absolutely loved this, which was a dream to me! I could have skied all day!
Gavin managed to find a couple moose off in the distance too.
With hardly any snow and a closed down tubing hill,
we balanced it out with more outdoor fun,
roller skating,
ice skating,
swimming, outdoor snow Twister,
lots of games in the lodge common area,
moon gazing,
dodgeball,
and more.
Our good friend Steve took us on the highlight of our trip, a dogsled adventure with his precious team. We were amazed with how long they were able to pull us all around with such speed. We will certainly remember this forever!
We snuck in one more trip to the East Inlet Trail.
After a fun hike, we were able to spend some time with the R family at their lovely home,
Followed by pizza at the grill.
Gavin cracked me up by setting his alarm each morning we had wifi to finish his winter school challenge. I absolutely love that no matter what obstacle is placed in his way, he attacks it with more motivation. I wish we could all be more like him!
While we could have spent so much more time here, home was calling.
We managed to make a stop together with the Beintums at Chuck’s favorite hotel in Kearney, Nebraska, the Country Inn and Suites. More game play, swimming, an omelet bar, and fresh cookies ensued before our final stretch home.
Til next time SMR!
