
Lessons
Elevate your skills on snow with lessons for every level.
Private Lessons
Kids Group Lessons
Adult Group Lessons
New This Season
Powder Pathway
Never skied or snowboarded? Powder Pathway is made for you. Exclusively for first-timers, this new Powder Mountain program brings lessons, gear, and a Season Pass together in one package. Start with Year One, then keep building your skills in Years Two and Three.

How can I make ski and snowboard school reservations?
Where can I rent gear?
Powder Mountain offers gear rentals at two of our lodges, but only the Timberline Pro Shop has the entire rental fleet.
Timberline Lodge Pro Shop: The Timberline Pro Shop offers rentals and repair services. Both Sport and Performance rental equipment can be found here.
Sundown Center: The Sundown Ski Shop is located in the night skiing area of the Sundown Center. Featured in the rental shop are Sport rentals from Salomon skis and Burton snowboards. It is the closest rental center to the Ski & Snowboard School.
Types of Rentals:
Sport:
Sport skis and snowboards are chosen for beginner and intermediate riders, providing the perfect balance of value and quality. Ideal for those taking lessons or new to the sport, these options ensure a great start on the slopes.
Performance:
Performance skis and snowboards are for advanced riders. Our selection of high-performance brands and models curated by the Powder Mountain Pro Shop staff will have you ready for any terrain difficulty or conditions.
- Available ski brands include: Atomic, Rossignol, Black Crows, Blizzard, DPS, Stokli, WNDR, and Zag.
- Available snowboard brands include: Arbor, Capita, Cardiff, GNU, LibTech, Never Summer, Roxy, Salomon, Spring Break, and WNDR
*Powder Mountain does NOT rent ski boots only.
What ability level am I?
- First-time: you've never skied or snowboarded, or it's been many years.
- Beginner: you can stop and turn on gentle green runs and are learning to link turns.
- Intermediate: you link turns confidently on green and blue runs, ride the lifts comfortably, and are working on speed control and variety of terrain.
If you're between levels, choose the lower one. Your instructor can adjust, and it's better to feel comfortable than overwhelmed.
Not sure? We'll help you choose.
Should I learn to ski or snowboard first?
Both are great. The best choice is the one you're most excited about.
Skiing is often easier on day one because you're upright, have two legs independent from each other, and can stop and control speed more quickly, but it can take longer to progress to more advanced terrain.
Snowboarding usually has a steeper learning curve for the first day or two, with more falls, then tends to progress quickly.
Choose based on what looks most fun to you.
What's the difference between private and group lessons, and which is right for me?
Group lessons put you with other skiers or snowboarders of a similar age and ability. They're a fun, social, and affordable way to learn. Private lessons give you a dedicated instructor who tailors the day to your pace and goals.
Choose a group if you're a first-timer or want a budget-friendly option.
Choose private if you want faster progress, have a family with mixed abilities, or want to work on something specific like bumps, powder, or steeper terrain.
Is it possible for family members or friends to be in the same group lesson?
Is Powder Mountain a good place for beginners to learn to ski or snowboard?
Yes. Powder Mountain does not accept mega passes and limits daily lift tickets so the slopes stay uncrowded all season.
For new skiers and riders, that means room to practice turns, try new things, and build confidence without dodging other people or waiting in long lift lines. Our instructors can focus on your progress instead of navigating traffic.
Can I book a Night Lesson, and what's different about it?
Yes. We offer night first-time group lessons for ages 7-12 and for ages 13 and up, which include a lift ticket and rentals. We also offer Private Lessons during Night Skiing for all ages, 5+. Night Lessons are the most cost-effective way to receive instruction from one of our pros.
Where do I meet my instructor, and what time should I arrive?
Meet at the Sundown Center. Arrive at least 30 minutes before your lesson start time, and allow extra time if you're renting gear or need to park and shuttle to Sundown. Look for instructors in bright orange. Your confirmation email will include specific details.
What should I wear and bring?
- Moisture-wicking base layer (avoid cotton)
- Insulating mid layer, such as fleece
- Waterproof jacket and pants
- Waterproof gloves or mittens
- One pair of warm, thin ski socks (not multiple pairs)
- Goggles or sunglasses, and a helmet
- Sunscreen and lip balm, since sun at elevation is strong
- Water and a snack if you like
Dress in layers so you can adjust as you warm up.
What if I'm running late?
Should I stay on the mountain during my child's lesson?
You're welcome to ski, relax, or grab food while your child is in lessons. Please stay reachable, and provide your correct cell number at check-in in case of an emergency.
How long until I can ride the chairlift and go on real runs?
Many first-time skiers are riding the lift and skiing easy green runs by the end of their first lesson. Snowboarders often need a second day to feel comfortable. Progress varies with age, fitness, conditions, and how much you practice. Taking a second lesson or spending more time on the beginner terrain will speed things up.
What happens if it snows or the weather is bad?
Powder Mountain gets a lot of snow, and lessons take place rain, snow, or shine. Dress for the conditions. If severe weather closes the mountain or key lifts, we'll contact you about rescheduling or a refund.
What if my child has food allergies or special needs?
Please tell us about any allergies, medical conditions, or special needs when you book or at check-in. For severe allergies or special circumstances, contact us before your visit so we can plan ahead.
How many students are in a group lesson?
We keep group lessons small so every student gets attention from their instructor. Group sizes are generally up to 6 students. Class sizes may vary by program and day.










