January 2024 Is National Learn To Ski and Snowboard Month

It’s that time of year again, when new and beginner skiers can learn how to ski and snowboard. Through January, resorts across the U.S. and Canada participate in the National Learn To Ski & Snowboard Month. This event encourages new skiers to come to the mountains. The goal is to help people learn new skills while also having fun. Learning to ski can be intimidating, and many instructors consider that when teaching newbies. They want people to feel comfortable in their abilities and are dedicated to building their confidence.

National Learn to Ski and Snowboard Month occurs every January. Here’s what you need to know.

National Learn To Ski and Snowboard Month happens every January. Each year, you’ll find new and exciting events, deals, and more from participating resorts across the country. It’s the right time to get to one of your local resorts and share great memories with friends and family. This means good things for you because you can save money and hone in on your technique.

History of Learn to Ski and Snowboard Month

Learn to Ski and Snowboard Month began in 2009 with only a few participating resorts. Today, hundreds of resorts across the nation offer special programming specifically designed for those who have never strapped on a pair of ski or snowboard boots. Since its humble beginnings, more than half a million skiers and riders have taken their first lessons with learning programs offered in January.

The best thing about Learn to Ski and Snowboard Month is that learning doesn’t end in January. Although many packages kick off in January, some lessons are available to use all season long, and you get a lot for a little investment. Lesson packages range from a couple of hours to a few days, private to group lessons for all ages and many ability levels. Most programs include lessons, lift tickets, rentals, and some children’s programs include lunch. Current skiers and snowboarders can try a new sport or expand their expertise with advanced lessons.

January is a great time to learn to ski or snowboard, or improve your existing skillset. Even children as young as age 3 can become masters of pizza and French fries!

Why Should I Take a Ski Lesson?

It can seem like a lesson isn’t necessary if you’re going up with a more skilled skier, but we’d beg to differ! While you might have a friend who’s been skiing for several years, teaching a newcomer can make some people impatient. It also means that most of the time, that person will have to stick to small slopes and guide you. Some are probably okay with it, but then they miss out on the runs they prefer. That’s not to say they don’t want you to succeed or improve, but it gives them less time on the more challenging slopes.

Taking a ski lesson allows you to participate with other skiers still learning and makes you feel more at ease. Because while you can still try following your friends to other trails, you might end up way behind if you’re not ready to zip down the mountain. Trained instructors are happy to help you achieve your personal ski goals.

Where Should I Learn To Ski in Colorado?

There are lots of resorts around the country with ski schools that offer lessons regularly. Some are better than others, although all of them should be able to teach you the basics on some level. Are some ski schools better than others? Sure! Here are a few of our favorite Colorado ski resorts to learn to ski. (And of course there are deals for you.)

Arapahoe Basin

Arapahoe Basin has excellent half-day group and private lessons. Although known for its challenging terrain, the ski area has two gentle learning areas and a scenic beginner’s area so the whole family can enjoy the beautiful views from the slopes.

Aspen and Snowmass

The four ski resorts near Aspen (Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, Buttermilk, and Snowmass) have a variety of specialized ski school programs, including programs for preschoolers, teens, adults, and seniors. Our pick for first-timers is Buttermilk Mountain, home of the Winter X Games. While you may not be ready for the 20-plus-foot halfpipe at the resort, it’s widely regarded for having one of the best ski schools in the nation, especially for kids.

Here are our favorite Colorado ski resorts to learn to ski or snowboard.

Breckenridge

Breckenridge offers a combination of group and private lessons for adults and children of all skill levels and provides participants with extensive one-on-one tutoring with teachers. An authentic mountain resort town, there’s plenty to do in Breckenridge on and off the mountain. It’s a fantastic family ski destination!

Copper Mountain

Woodward at Copper Mountain offers a year-round indoor ski and snowboard camp. It has foam pits, trampolines, simulated snow, and more, allowing riders to test their skills before heading out. Do you want to get your feet under you before you play in the snow? This is your spot.

Keystone

Camp Keystone is more than just a children’s ski school. Of course, they learn to ski and snowboard, but they also participate in many other winter activities, including children’s nights, theme days, and other snow fun. Keystone might be the right call if you’re seeking an all-encompassing ski snow experience.

Monarch Mountain

Monarch has women-only ski and snowboard lessons. Take your skills to the next level in a fun, non-competitive environment. There are classes for various adventures: steep terrain, bumps and moguls, glades and trees, cruisers and carving, and free heeling. If you want to learn a specific skill, the ski school at Monarch is a great place to visit.

Steamboat Springs

Happy Camp at Steamboat Springs offers ski lessons for kids as young as 3. Lessons are divided by age, so your child can learn alongside their peers. This instructional program is designed to teach your child to ski and have fun in an age-appropriate setting with childcare in a safe, nurturing environment. Happy Camp’s ski lessons include lift access, lunch, and ski or snowboard equipment rental.

Sunlight Mountain

The Learn-to-Shine program at Sunlight Mountain near Glenwood Springs offers great-value fun. Book a package of three half-day lessons with a five-day ski pass and you can fully enjoy skiing the entire mountain once you’ve mastered pizza and French fries.

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