As we recently reported, one of the coolest trends in family travel is how ski resorts have been transforming themselves into summer destinations with family-friendly adventure parks. Last weekend, my family checked out the summer adventure park at Bromley Mountain, a ski mountain near the impeccably charming town of Manchester, Vermont. Highlights include an alpine slide, "big splash" waterslide, The Trampoline Thing, zipline, giant swing, mini golf, and space bikes. For little ones 6 and under, there's also a bounce house and bumper boats.

Likes: We loved being outdoors, active, and surrounded by gorgeous mountain scenery. The vibe was overwhelmingly laid-back and kid-friendly and the rides were exhilarating, with something for every age. We got in seven or eight runs down the alpine slide, which is a total blast for kids and grown-ups alike. (Kids 6 and under can ride double with an adult.) Another favorite was the double-raft waterslide. Go down once, you get a bit wet. Go down a dozen times, like we did, and you end up completely soaked.

Dislikes: The overpriced food, as in $4.75 for a hot dog. Bring a picnic.

Tip: At the bottom of the waterslide, there's a clutch of picnic tables with umbrellas that's a perfect place to set up camp and hang out. The kids can go up (via an easy "magic carpet" lift) and down as many times as they like while grown-ups get some downtime.

The damage: All-day passes are definitely the way to go, as you will make up the price after just a few rides on the alpine slide. On weekends, all-day passes cost $39 per person and $25 per child 6 and under. On weekdays, prices drop to $29 per person, and $20 per child 6 and under. The ticket spend for our family of five came to $188 with tax.

Best day to come: "Family Tuesdays," when everyone gets free ice cream!

Don't forget: A bathing suit and towel for the waterslide.  There are bathrooms and lockers in the lodge.