First Timer's Guide - The First Lesson
You're properly dressed, you've got the right package, and your
rental equipment is ready to go - now is when the fun really
starts! In the next hour or so, you'll learn all of the basic
skills that you need to get started on a lifetime of skiing or
snowboarding fun!
you will learn is how to put on your skis or
snowboard and how to move around on the flat. This will give you a
chance to get to know your equipment and get the feel for sliding
around. You will also learn how to climb up the hill and turn
yourself around while standing still. All of these skills are
presented in a very flat area with a "runout". A runout helps you
stop yourself while you are learning.
Next you will learn to slide straight down the hill. Unless you
are an ice skater or in-line skater, your brain has been programmed
to believe that sliding across the ground while standing up is, as
a rule, something to be avoided. It takes a few runs down the hill
before your brain figures out that it is not only OK, but a lot of
fun.
You'll also be introduced to the moving carpet lift. This is the
easiest way up the mountain. The moving carpet is just like the
conveyer lifts you will find in airports. You will simpy stand on
the carpet and it will move you slowly a short distance up the
hill. From this point you will get a better idea of what it feels
like to slide down the hill.
Once you have mastered "straight runs", you will be taught how
to turn your skis. Turning offers two benefits - it allows you to
avoid things you do not wish to meet up close, and it allows you to
stop whenever you want - both commendable goals. Your rental skis
were designed to turn easily so you'll be happily turning in no
time. Once you get to the point that you can go where you want to
go and stop yourself with confidence, it is time for your first
lift ride.
If you have ever sat on a porch swing, you have mastered the art
of loading and riding a chairlift. As you slide out onto the
loading area, the chair will come up behind you. When the chair
touches the back of your legs, simply sit down and enjoy the ride.
There is a safety bar that you pull down in front of you for the
ride, please use it. At the top of the lift, you will see signs
instructing you to raise the safety bar and prepare to unload. The
snow will gradually come up to meet your skis. When you get to the
"Unload Here" sign, stand up, lean slightly forward and slide
straight down the ramp. Your instructor will give you instructions
on where to meet.
You still may feel a bit awkward, but you have to remember that
all things good take time and practice. Snowsports can be a very
social, exciting, fun, and rewarding activity in the winter months.
If you have any questions, comments or concerns, please be sure to
share them with your instuctor. All of our instructors are PSIA
(Professional Ski Instructors of America) and AASI (American
Association of Snowboard Instructors) certified, and their main
goal is to share with you their love of the sport.
After your lesson, your instructor will remind you of the
Mountain Passport Offer. This is a great way to continue your
snowsports experience at a really great savings. Again, here is the
deal...
Please Note: You may only enjoy the amazing benefits of this
program once in your lifetime...if you have had the privilege of
owning a Mountain Passport in a previous season, you are not
eligible for another one. Sorry, some things are just too good to
do more than once!!
This is an exclusive beginner's only card loaded with discounts!
For $45*, your Mountain Passport Card will entitle you
to:
- A free All Mountain Package, good your very next visit - a $109
value
- 40% off all lift and rental equipment each visit for the rest
of the season
- FREE class lessons each visit for the rest of the season
- This card is valid for the same discounts at all three resorts
- Liberty Mountain, Whitetail Mountain and Ski Roundtop!
- * The Mountain Passport is available for $45 when purchased the
same day that the First Class lesson is taken. The Mountain
Passport may be purchased for $55 up to one week after the First
Class lesson was taken. Ask your instructor for details.