Lesson Guide

At Mad River Mountain we know that the better you get, the better it gets!  Whether you choose to Ski or Snowboard, we have the right learning program for you. Group, private and semi-private lessons are available for all ability levels, and a variety of lesson times ensure you’ll be able to join the lesson that’s convenient for you.

Lesson prices are listed below followed by a more detailed explanation of each type of lesson that Mad River Mountain offers. These prices, times, and programs are for ages 7 and older.

GROUP SKI AND SNOWBOARD LESSONS

Group lessons are offered at select times throughout the day  and are available for participants age 7 and older. Each group lesson is comprised of skiers or snowboarders of similar ability, beginner to advanced. This is a great way to have fun and meet new friends while improving your skills. 

*On weekends and holidays the 2:30pm and 6:30pm lesson times are designated for beginners only

PRIVATE LESSONS

Private lessons are open to all ages and ability levels. The one-on-one learning environment allows instruction to be  catered to your needs and abilities, offering the fastest path to learning. Private lessons are offered during all sessions and begin upon request.  Please inquire at the Guest Services office located inside the Administrative Building.

• You choose the skills you want to develop.
• You pick the terrain.
• You can even control the group size by inviting friends and family members to join you.
• Schedule your hourly sessions at your convenience.

THE NEVER EVER SKI PACKAGE- $80

This is the most practical way to spend your first days on the slopes. This discounted package includesyour lift ticket, one group lesson, and your choice of ski or snowboard equipment rental.  The Never Ever Ski package is only available weekends and holidays including December 17, 2011 – January 1, 2012, January 13 – 16, 2012, and February 17 – 20, 2012.

THE 50th ANNIVERSARY LEARN TO PACKAGE- $50

Celebrate our 50th season while learning to ski and ride with our new Midweek Learn to Package. This option is available for purchase Tuesday through Thursday, non-holiday, from 10am-4pm and includes your lift ticket, introductory lesson, and your choice of ski or snowboard equipment rental.

Not offered Dec. 19-22 & Dec 26-29, 2011; Jan 16 or  Feb 20, 2012.

KIDS ADVENTURE PLACE 

Adventure Place is offered to children ages 4-11 during weekends and holidays. This all-inclusive lift, lesson and rental program offers a full day rental and lift ticket with either a specialized two hour lesson or new for this season an all-day package that includes lunch. This program introduces your child to snow sports and jumpstarts their ability through the nurturing care of our Adventure Place Staff.

*Adventure Place programs are offered on these Holiday periods in addition to weekends: 
Daily December 17 - January 1, 2012, MLK January 13-16; and President's Day Weekend, February 17-20th.

FREESTYLE LESSONS

Want to progress your freestyle skiing or riding? Our Learning Center offers freestyle instruction through private, one-hour lessons.  See above for Private Lesson pricing and booking information.

ADAPTIVE INSTRUCTION PROGRAM

Adaptive Instruction is available for physically and mentally challenged children and adults. All programs are privately taught by specially trained Adaptive instructors through our partnership with TAASC. Pre-registration is required for all adaptive lessons. Contact 800-231-7669 ex.265 or visit taasc.org for more information

• Adaptive Program Price: $35
• By appointment only
• Includes lift ticket, instruction, and specialized equipment

COMMON QUESTIONS

WILL I NEED TO KNOW HOW TO USE A CHAIRLIFT?

Don't worry about it at this time.  Our instructors will teach you when the time is appropriate to board a chairlift.  (Plus it is super easy!)  All of our learning area slopes are outfitted with surface lifts or MAGIC CARPETS.  See how easy it is to learn just look at Phillip over there riding up one of our lifts.  

HOW SHOULD I PREPARE FOR A LESSON?

Allow yourself penty of time to get your lift tickets, rental equipment, and anything else before meeting at your scheduled time.

When you purchase your lift ticket, pick up a brochure with a trail map.  

Keep an open mind and enjoy your time on the slopes.  Skiing & snowboarding is as mental as learning golf.  It takes time but if you think you can do it you can do it.  

ARE LESSONS FOR BEGINNERS ONLY?

Of course not! Lessons are for anyone that is interested in becoming better at the sport. Even if you are already an expert, you can push the envelope! Come and test your abilities against one of our top guns in an advanced session. Whether it's steeps, bumps, carving, prevailing conditions, terrain park or trees, we've got people that can do it!

WHAT KIND OF RELEASE OR PERMISSION IS NEEDED FOR KIDS BEFORE ARRIVAL?

We do not require any signed releases for lessons or to purchase a lift ticket. In our rental department, renters are required to give us their correct height, weight, and ability level so that we can properly adjust the equipment to the person.