We are proud to be the home of one of the first ski schools in the U.S., which has allowed us to share the love of skiing and riding with generations of guests. For many, getting into skiing or snowboarding can feel intimidating—where do you begin? What gear do you need? Which mountain should you choose? How do you even put the equipment on?!
But lessons aren’t just for beginners. In fact, lessons can be beneficial for skiers and riders of all ability levels—yes, even advanced skiers.
We recently chatted with Zach Kirchner, Cranmore’s new Snowsports Director, about why everyone can benefit from taking a lesson.
It’s never too late to get a ski lesson
It can be easy to feel like it’s “too late” to take a lesson, but that’s a myth. Lessons are for everyone—whether starting at age three or an adult looking to get into the sport for the first time. Taking a lesson with a trained ski or snowboard instructor can greatly improve your introduction to skiing or riding and help set you up for long-term success on the mountain.
It helps protect yourself and others on the mountain
Knowing how to stay in control, stop safely, and be aware of your surroundings are some of the most important skills to have before heading out on the mountain.
“Lessons reinforce the Skier Responsibility Code,” Kirchner said. “Instructors touch on key safety components throughout the lesson. They explain lift safety, make sure guests are on terrain they can manage, demonstrate skiing or riding in control, stopping in safe locations and looking uphill before starting down the trail again.”
It can elevate your overall mountain experience
A lesson can enhance your day in more ways than just improving technique. From connecting with someone passionate about snowsports to learning insider tips like their favorite trails, hidden gems around the mountain, or even the best spot for a bite to eat or après. Lessons can make your time on the mountain more enjoyable and memorable.
Your instructor can tailor the lesson to your needs
“When you take a lesson, the instructor can see what you’re doing and help you to make improvements,” Kirchner said. “The Instructors will go through a learning progression tailored to your ability and pace of improvement.”
Whether you’re in a private or group lesson, your instructor can provide direct, real-time feedback to help you continue building skills and confidence.
A positive first experience can help build lifelong skiers
No offense to your friends or significant other—but they may not be the best teachers. Learning from someone you know can sometimes lead to frustration and, in some cases, turn people away from ever wanting to step foot on the mountain again.
Taking a lesson introduces skiing or riding in a fun, supportive and encouraging environment that moves at your pace, helping create a positive first experience and a lifelong love for the sport.
Proper technique can help prevent bad habits
Continuing to take lessons over the years can help identify and correct bad habits that naturally develop over time.
“There will always be an instructor who knows something you don’t,” Kirchner explained. “I’ve been working on my own skiing for 23 years, and instructors, trainers and colleagues I’ve skied with have really helped improve my ability and comfort level on tougher terrain.”
Advanced skiers/riders can still benefit from an expert instructor
Even the highest-performing athletes in the world have coaches. Since we can’t always see ourselves skiing or riding, it’s easy for inefficient movement patterns to go unnoticed. Instructors can help bring you back to the basics to help you work on your techniques and efficiency on the mountain.
Lessons help you ski and ride with confidence
Confidence is key! When you are feeling confident with your skills and abilities, each run becomes more enjoyable.
“I would recommend that everyone take a lesson if you haven’t recently,” Kirchner said. “I feel better on steeps, in bump fields, and in ungroomed terrain that used to toss me around. I could ski it before, but now I feel like I’m really skiing it.”
Lessons can help you explore more of the mountain
“Lessons are a great way to get a feel for new terrain you may not have tried at your local mountain, or to get to know a mountain you’re visiting for the first time.”
Starting small and gradually working your way up to more advanced terrain can help build confidence on the mountain. Remember, this isn’t a race—you can take things at your own pace, especially when you’re just starting.
Terrain-Based Learning makes learning fun!
We use Terrain-Based Learning in our lessons which incorporates specific features built into the terrain to help guide new skiers and riders. It is used for gradual skill development while reducing the fear and stress of skiing around more advanced skiers and riders.
Whether you’re new to snowsports or ready to build skills, our ski and snowboard school makes learning easy and exciting! With lesson options for every age and ability level, there’s no better time to invest in your experience on the mountain.
Learn more about our kids lessons and adult lessons to find the perfect fit.