Ski/Snowboard School - Beginner Level Programs

Stop watching & start doing! Conquer more terrain and inhale more of Whistler's breathtaking scenery by increasing your skiing/riding confidence.

Whistler Blackcomb Beginner Programs

Should you be in a beginner program? Check your ability first!

If you've landed in the wrong spot, click here to see intermediate & advanced programs.

There are 4 beginner programs available for you to choose from: Private lessons, Learn to Ski or Ride, Super Group and Ski or Ride Esprit Guides.

1. Private Lessons

The ultimate mountain learning experience. You'll get lift line priority, ski or ride the best (and secret) terrain and one-on-one instruction to bring you to the next level. A private lesson is the fastest way to improve.

Available for both skiers and snowboarders for half day, full day or multiple days. Limited to a maximum of 5 people per class (split the cost of the lesson among your group). Recommended for level 2 - 6 skiers/riders.

2. Learn to Ski or Ride Lessons

You'll learn in a relaxed environment with other students of your same ability level. For the best first-time results, join the three-day program for a learning experience you will never forget.

There's no rush in the Learn-to-Ski/Ride program; take your time and gain the confidence you need before moving up.

• Lots of beginner friendly terrain
• Expanded learning zones with gated areas and easy lifts
• Special ski and board rentals
• Experienced pros who make learning a new sport non-intimidating and fun

Available for both skiers and snowboarders for half day or full day programs. Limited to a maximum of 8 people per class. Recommended for levels 1 - 3 only.

Prices range from $89 for half day lesson to $118 for a full day lesson.

*Add a lift ticket and gear rental to this lesson for a discounted extra charge.

3. Super Group Beginner

These are groups with a maximum of 3 students - enough to fill one high-speed chair. Travel at your own pace with two of your friends or join two other people of similar ability

You'll receive individual attention, one-on-one instruction, a unique social environment and instructors who are all long-term pros. Wednesday and Friday sessions include video analysis for alpine ski groups. Available for both skiers and riders in half day or full day lessons. Additional days may be purchased as well. Limited to a maximum of 3 people per class. Recommended for Levels 1 - 3. Prices range from $189 for half day lesson to $229 for a full day lesson. *Add a lift ticket and gear rental to this lesson for a discounted extra charge.

4. Ski or Ride Esprit Guides  

This is it. It's the longest running ski and snowboard program going and for good reason. There is no better way to explore both mountains than through the patented 'Improve While you Move' instructional methodology.

Ski or ride with the same instructor each day and build on your progress run to run. Your group will consist of people of similar ability who want to achieve the same goals. This program has added features which include: video analysis, a fun race, lift line priority and après receptions. Available for both skiers and riders with start days on Monday only for 3, 4 or 5 day programs. Limited to a maximum of 8 people per class. Recommended for levels 2 - 6. Prices start at $299 for three days.

 

Determine Your Ability Level

Adult Skiing	Ability Level	Adult Snowboarding
Never skied before. View beginner programs above.	1	Never ridden before. View beginner programs above.
Novice. Ridden a lift, can turn and stop under control. Prefer to ski at a slow pace. Green runs remain a bit of a challenge. View beginner programs above.	2	Novice. Able to slide and stop both front & backside. Attempting turns on green runs. View beginner programs above..
Novice/Intermediate. Feel at home on green runs but barely venture on to a blue run. View beginner programs above.	3	Novice/Intermediate. Able to link sweeping pivot turns on green runs, but rarely venture blue runs. View beginner programs above.
Intermediate. Can ski most blue runs; however, do with some reservations. My skis are parallel most of the time and I ski at moderate speed. View programs.	4	Intermediate. Comfortable linking turns on all green runs and easy blue runs. Ready for an introduction to the Terrain Park. View programs.
High Intermediate. Comfortable on blue runs. I might like to learn short turns and moguls, yet still improving my carving. View programs.	5	High Intermediate. Consistently linking turns on all blue runs and would like to explore more challenging terrain. View programs.
Advanced. Enjoy the challenges of skiing moguls, steeps and powder. View programs.	6	Advanced. Enjoy black runs and would like to be able to ride in all types of terrain and conditions. View programs.

 

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