Learn to Ski or Snowboard

First Timers and Beginners

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Build Skills and Confidence

Mad River Ski and Ride School is the perfect choice for first-timers and beginners looking to learn how to ski or snowboard. Our school offers group lessons and private one-on-one instruction, allowing you to learn at your own pace in a fun and safe environment.

Learn Basic Skills and Safety

Learn foundational skills and mountain safety.

Build Confidence

Learn new skills and grow your confidence to take on green runs and beyond.

20% Off Group Lessons

Pass Holders save 20% off group lessons with Epic Mountain Rewards.

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What To Expect

Learn what to expect during your resort visit when you take a first-timer or beginner lesson. Experience the excitement and joy of learning to ski or snowboard in a welcoming and supportive environment.

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Before Your Lesson

Prior to your arrival, you'll receive all the essential information you need, including details on where to park, when to arrive, and where to go. 

On the day of your lesson, you'll first pick up your rental gear and lift ticket or pass. Our friendly staff will be there to assist you and ensure you have everything you need, including the required lift access and gear.  

Once you're ready, head to your lesson location, where your instructor will meet you and start your lesson. 

If your child is taking a first timer lesson, you will receive specific instructions on drop off, pick up, and protocols for child safety. 
 

During Your Lesson

Your lesson is designed to be a fun and engaging introduction to the sport. Here’s what you can expect:

  • You will practice the basics of skiing or snowboarding, including how to balance, turn, and stop safely. Our instructors focus on building your confidence and skills progressively.
  • Typically, lessons are structured to gradually introduce new skills, starting with simple techniques and building up to more complex ones as you gain confidence.
  • There will be short breaks throughout the lesson to rest and hydrate. These breaks are also a great time to ask any questions and get personalized tips from your instructor. 

Taking a lesson is the best way to learn because you get professional guidance, immediate feedback, and a structured approach to learning. Our instructors are experienced and passionate about helping you improve while enjoying your time on the slopes.

 

After Your Lesson

After your lesson, the fun doesn’t stop! You can continue practicing your new skills and exploring the resort at your own pace. Our slopes offer a variety of terrain for beginners to continue learning and having fun. 

Enjoy the après-ski atmosphere with numerous dining options, cozy spots to relax, and activities to unwind after a day on the slopes. Don’t forget to visit our guest services if you have any questions or need additional information about your stay. 

We’re here to ensure your lesson is a memorable and enjoyable experience.
 

Featured Lesson:

Adult First Time/Beginner Group Lesson - 2Hour 10:00AM


Lessons are a wonderful way to get acclimated to skiing and riding or simply improve your skiing & riding technique. Our Ski & Snowboard School employs over 100 instructors and offers daily group lessons at designated times every day of the week.
Group lessons last two hours and are aimed at first time and beginner skiers and riders.

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Lesson Types

As a first-timer or beginner eager to learn how to ski or snowboard, selecting the right lesson can make a significant difference in your experience. Learn more about the main lesson types to help you decide which is best for you

Adult Ski Lesson at Crested Butte

Adult Group Lessons

Ages 15+ | Best for: 

  • Those who enjoy a social learning environment. 
  • Balanced mix of professional guidance and practice time. 
  • Great for general skill development and an introduction to skiing or snowboarding.
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Children's Snowboard Lesson at Vail

Child Group Lessons

Ages 7-14

  • Focused on first-timer and beginner skills for ages 7+. 
  • Under 7: Placed in ability-based smaller groups. 
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Adult Snowboard Lesson at Vail

Private Lessons

All Ages | Best for:

  • Those who prefer one-on-one instruction.
  • Perfect for quick progress and specific goals.
  • Option to learn with family or friends (up to 6 participants). 
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Discounted Lift Tickets & Rentals

Get discounts on your lift ticket and rentals when you book a group lesson. Our first-timer lesson packages will ensure you have all the essentials to hit the slopes with confidence.

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Back Bowl Scenery In Vail, Colorado.
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Adult Ski Lesson at Afton Alps , opens in a new window

First Timer Guide
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Discover our comprehensive guide for first-time skiers and snowboarders, covering everything you need to know to hit the slopes with confidence. Learn about essential gear and tips for a safe and enjoyable experience.
Learn More

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What ski and snowboard lesson offerings will you provide this year at your resorts?
We are pleased to offer a range of ski and snowboard programming including group lessons, private lessons as well as season-long programs and specialty programs. Specific lesson details can be found on our Ski and Ride School pages.

 

When will season long programs be available for enrollment?
Seasonal programs for the 2024-2025 season will be available for new participant registration starting the last week of August. Please note that early registration for some seasonal programs has been granted to previous program participants. This may result in limited spots for new participants.

 

What is included with a ski or snowboard lesson?
Each lesson will include professional instruction from one of our instructors. If offered, full day children's group lessons will include lunch. Participants will be responsible for bringing or purchasing their own food in private lessons, group lessons for adults, and season long and specialty lessons for children unless specified in the program details.

 

Do lessons Include rentals and lift tickets?
As the standard, lessons do not include lift tickets or rentals. These items must be purchased separately, and all lessons require a valid lift ticket or season pass to participate. While purchasing a group lesson, you can add-on lift tickets and rentals at a discounted rate. You may bring your own equipment. Passes are available to purchase here. Buy in advance and online for the best rates.

 

What should I bring to my lesson?
All lesson participants must have a valid season pass or lift ticket and ski or snowboard equipment. All minors must have a parent/guardian present at pick-up and drop-off. For complete details on what to bring and when to arrive, checkout our Know Before You Go page.

Weather conditions will vary and remember you will spend the day outside! We recommend dressing in layers, including warm clothes, googles/sunglasses and sunscreen. Though they may be available in the resort's retail shop, the Ski and Ride School does not have these items available to borrow or rent.  

 

What if I have special needs or requests, e.g. Drug or Food Allergies?
We do our best to accommodate dietary needs and offer different options when possible. When registering for child group lessons, you will have an opportunity either when booking or when checking in for the lessons to inform us of drug or food allergies. Severe allergy concerns or circumstances should be discussed with the school staff directly prior to your visit.

Parents of children with severe food allergies or dietary restrictions are strongly encouraged to send appropriate lunches and/or snacks with their children. Any food items that accompany a child to the lesson must be nut free.

 

Does my child need to be potty trained to participate in a lesson?
Yes, all children are required to be potty trained to participate in Ski and Ride School lessons.

 

Can and should I tip my instructor?
Gratuities for instructors are not a requirement but an appropriate and appreciated gesture. To tip via a credit card, please see us in person at any Ski and Ride School sales office and be prepared to provide the name of the instructor.

 

What is the cancellation and refund policy for Ski & Ride School lessons? 
Changes or cancellations can ONLY be made in advance of your lesson date by contacting the Ski & Ride School conducting your lesson. A cancellation Fee will be assessed for a guest when they cancel either a Group or Private Lesson as follows:

  • Any Ski & Ride School Product that is cancelled 48 hours or more prior to the lesson's start time will be issued a full refund.
  • Any Ski & Ride School Product that is cancelled within 48 hours of the lesson’s start time will be charged the Cancellation Fee.
  • For Ski & Ride School Products that contain one lesson day, the Cancellation Fee is 50% of the cost of the lesson.
  • For Ski & Ride School Products that contain multiple lesson days, and a full Cancellation is required, the Cancellation Fee is 50% of the cost of the first lesson. All other days in a multiple lesson Ski & Ride School Product will be fully refunded.
  • The resort will not cancel lessons due to weather if the resort itself is operational. For more detailed information on refunds and cancellations, including the policy for Seasonal or Season-Long Programs, please refer to the Terms of Sale.