Learn to Ski and Ride Deals

Sugarbush knows that once a skier or rider gets the feel for sliding on snow, they’ll be hooked. Those looking to learn can try the First Timer Programs – multiple programs designed to introduce first-timers to skiing and riding. Graduates may receive a free season pass. Lessons focus on equipment fitting, getting comfortable with the gear, sliding on snow for the first time, making turns, and using lifts.

Ski Quechee is Vermont’s friendliest place to learn to take on the slopes and winter terrain, from skiing to snowboarding to Nordic skiing. For all skills and ages, fun and safety are always the top priority at Ski Quechee.

Lessons are offered whenever Ski Quechee is open (generally Friday through Sunday throughout peak ski season) with additional availability during holiday and vacation weeks. Be sure to check the hours of operation for information on specific dates.

Bolton Valley’s ski and ride program provides student-centered, guest-oriented, and outcome-based lessons that promote safety, fun, and learning. Lessons are the best way for beginners--both kids and adults--to be introduced to the sport. Advanced skiers and riders can take advantage of lessons to hone existing skills and acquire new ones.

Find the lesson that works best for you at Bolton Valley's Lesson page. 

For first-timers, Mad River Glen is the perfect introduction to skiing. Lessons with Mad River's knowledgeable instructors will teach the fundamentals of skiing with a focus on safety, confidence-building, and fun! Lessons Include a 2-hour semi-private lesson, 1-day rental equipment & lift ticket*

*Lift ticket offered at instructor's discretion based on skier's ability to safely navigate available terrain and conditions unassisted.

Bromley offers several instruction options to enhance the learn-to experience for any new- or first-time skier or rider. 

Mighty Moose Day Program: Ages 3-5. Lessons are either full-day with lunch or half-day and are offered on weekends and holidays. All ability levels welcome. (This program is SKI only)

KidsRule: Ages 6-12. Lessons are either full-day with lunch or half-day and are offered on weekends and holidays. All ability levels welcome (Ski and Snowboard)

First-Timer lesson package: Ages 13+. Lessons are 1.5 hours and include lesson, rentals, and lift ticket. This is for true first-timers only, anyone who has been on snow before should look into private lessons. (Ski and Snowboard)

Privates: Bromley offers a wide range of private ski and snowboard lessons depending on skill and ability. 

Stratton’s Seasonal Programs have been building skills, sportsmanship and camaraderie for more than 60 years with Olympians and national team members tracing their roots back to Stratton.

Skiers and riders can perfect their skills with a half-day group lesson (3 hours) that includes instruction, tickets, and rentals. Learn to Ski and Learn To Ride packages are available every day and include freshly tuned equipment, “Learning Zone” lift access, and a 1 hour lesson for $199.  

Smugglers’ Notch Resort is synonymous with kids and families--and that comes through with their specially designed kid-friendly programs and student-focused beginner lessons for first timers. 

Smuggs' Learn to Ski or Snowboard Experience* ($139/day) 7+ years of age is available daily for newcomers and includes:

•  a full day Morse Mountain lift ticket*
• a 2-hour beginner group lesson at 1:00pm*
• rental of skis or snowboard and a helmet* 

Three consecutive days is recommended, but not required. 

Vermont Resident Learn to Ski/Ride Package* ($99/day) includes a Morse Mountain Lift Ticket, rental equipment, and 2-hour group lesson. 

*Not available during Holiday Periods - December 24, 2023-January 1, 2024, January 13-15, 2024, February 17-25, 2024.

Snowsports University is Smuggs' specially designed kid-friendly program that divides age groups by small increments based on the learning capacity and developmental stages of children — with fun at the heart of every program. The all-day children's programs for ages 3-15 uses Flaik GPS as a way to capture on-mountain fun by tracking miles, vertical feet, and trails skied each day.

Skiers and snowboarders of all abilities – from the first day to the 50th season – can level up at Killington. Killington Snow Sports School focuses on progression, turning seemingly impossible goals into easily achievable steps. With a ski or snowboard program suited to your needs, you can get the most out of Killington, no matter your ability level. In their award-winning lesson programs you will refine your skills, gain confidence, and have fun on the mountain. Killington's team knows there’s always more to learn, whether it’s your first day on snow or your hundredth. The Killington Snow Sports School offers lessons for every level and age and a seasonal program to show you the best of East Coast skiing and riding.

NEW this year: Killington's Snow Play (ages 2-4) is a half-day program that introduces kids to the alpine environment through playing, exploration, and getting out and sliding on snow. Kids in snow play will enjoy a combination of indoor and outdoor play in Killington's kid-friendly play spaces, snack time, and access to ski and snowboard equipment and helmets.

ALL LESSONS & RENTALS MUST BE BOOKED ONLINE IN ADVANCE. 

Saskadena Six's Snow Sports School is one of the oldest continually operated schools in the nation. Each year S6 offers a range of private and semi-private ski and snowboard lessons, along with innovative specialty programs. Join the team and learn a new sport or improve on your existing skills on their varied-ability terrain. Saskadena's instructors are committed to consistently providing enjoyable recreation, a safe environment, and uniquely memorable experiences for every guest. 

Take advantage of beginner-friendly slopes at Saskadena Six with a stay & learn to ski package, including luxurious accommodations at the Woodstock Inn & Resort, a 2-hour private lesson, lift tickets for two, and two apres-ski cocktails.