As one of the first-ever ski schools in the U.S., teaching folks how to ski and ride (and have a blast doing it) is right in our wheelhouse. We’ve continued to evolve our instruction through the years, and are proud to be the only resort in New Hampshire offering Terrain-Based Learning™ (TBL), the groundbreaking methodology that implements specific terrain elements to make leveling up easier than ever.
Check out some of our insider tips for getting started on your snowsports journey with Katie Saunders, Mount Washington Valley local and Cranmore’s former ski instructor. At 7, Saunders began skiing through the Eastern Slope Ski Club (ESSC) program, which has been making snowsports accessible to local kids for generations.
She started teaching at Cranmore in 2008 and now works as the Snowsports school administrator. With a lifetime of experience under her belt, she is one of our go-to experts on skiing and riding in the Valley.
WHERE TO BEGIN
According to Saunders, one of the most important things to do before even clicking into your skis is to arrive with the right attitude.
“Adults can be overthinkers, and often feel very nervous in the beginning,” Saunders said. “I remind people all the time: you’ve chosen to do this because it’s fun. Trust me, we wouldn’t all be out here in the cold if it wasn’t fun!”
Aside from coming in with an open mind, Saunders also said the most important thing in the beginning is getting used to the feeling of sliding across the snow.
“When you feel it—your body’s connection to the boots, to the snow, to the skis—suddenly you’ll think oh, that’s what she means. It all starts to click.”
WHAT TO BRING
The key to having a great day on the slopes is living by the Boy Scout motto: Be prepared.
Here’s our list of essentials:
- Gloves or mittens
Pro tip: Mittens are the warmer option!
Extra gloves, mittens and socks
Hand and toe warmers
Dress in layers
Skull cap
Vests
Sunblock
- Lots of water
You don’t always realize how dry it is out there, and staying hydrated will also keep you warmer.
SAFETY TIPS
One of the first steps in being a responsible skier and snowboarder is being prepared to stop at any time.
“Ski defensively,” Saunders said. “When you do stop, make sure you are on the side of the hill, leaving the center of the trail open for those coming from behind.”
It’s also important to master your control and speed in the Beginner’s Basin before getting on the big mountain.
“There’s no shame in going backwards and repeating something you’ve already learned, because that’s going to help you improve your whole technique and create good habits.”
Finally, we can’t overstate the importance of the Skier’s and Snowboarder’s Responsibility Code. Learn it, live it, love it:
Always stay in control. You must be able to stop or avoid people or objects.
People ahead or downhill of you have the right-of-way. You must avoid them.
Stop only where you are visible from above and do not restrict traffic.
Look uphill and avoid others before starting downhill or entering a trail.
You must prevent runaway equipment.
Read and obey all signs, warnings, and hazard markings.
Keep off closed trails and out of closed areas.
You must know how and be able to load, ride and unload lifts safely. If you need assistance, ask the lift attendant.
Do not use lifts or terrain when impaired by alcohol or drugs.
If you are involved in a collision or incident, share your contact information with each other and a ski area employee.
HOW TO MASTER TERRAIN-BASED LEARNING™ ZONES
Cranmore employs Terrain-Based Learning™ (TBL), meaning there are specific elements built into the terrain designed to guide new skiers and riders. Learn all about our TBL methodology here.
You can make the most of these progressive TBL zones by following this flow:
Start out with The Flats, where you’ll get comfortable with that sliding sensation and maintaining your balance while on skis or a snowboard.
Then head over to the Mini Pipe, and start focusing on flexing your ankles forward to control your speed and balance.
Next, check out the Rollers, which will give you a sense of how it feels to balance on bumpier terrain.
Now it’s time to go up the magic carpet and try out the First Turns element which, as you may expect, guides you through how proper turns should feel.
Finally, go down the Perfect Slope, where you’ll feel what it’s like to make your own turns for the first time. Once you’ve completed a few laps there, you’ll be ready to take the chairlift up C-More’s Double!
Now that you’ve got all the info, it’s time to jump right in! Book your lesson today.
