Are you ready to hit the slopes and experience the thrill of snowboarding? Crystal Mountain offers an excellent introduction to the world of skiing and snowboarding, especially for beginners. Whether you're a complete novice or have had a few experiences, Crystal Mountain provides tailored programs to help you progress comfortably and confidently.
Getting Started with Beginner Snowboarding Lessons
Crystal Mountain’s Snowsports School is equipped to guide you through your first snowboarding experience. Here’s what you need to know to get started:
- Rental Equipment: Begin with beginner rental equipment designed for easy use and dependability. This gear is tailored to help you progress on groomed runs.
- Essential Gear: Ensure you have the right clothing and gear for the day’s weather. This includes:
- Base layers: Leggings/long underwear and a tight-fitted long-sleeve shirt.
- Waterproof or resistant pants and jacket.
- Waterproof or resistant gloves or mittens.
- Helmets: Helmets are REQUIRED for all lesson participants.
Lesson Details
Lessons are structured to provide a safe and effective learning environment. Here are some key details:
- Age Range: Children 13 and older go into Adult Group Lessons. We accept children ages 4 to 12-years-old for Kids Group Lessons.
- Lesson Times: Lessons begin at 11:00 AM.
- What's Included: The cost includes a lesson lift ticket, which is valid only during your lesson time.
- What's Not Included: Cost does not include equipment rental, so plan to complete a rental waiver if needed.
- Face Coverings: A CDC-approved mask or face covering is required during all lessons.
- Advance Purchase: Lessons must be purchased a minimum of 5 days in advance.
What to Expect During Your First Lesson
Crystal Mountain's Snowsports School ensures that every student receives personalized attention and guidance. Here’s what you can anticipate:
- Small Group Sizes: The average class size is 4 people for 4 to 6-year-olds and 6 people for 7 to 15-year-olds, creating a fun atmosphere with individual focus from the instructor.
- Structured Learning: Instructors will distance themselves but may be within six feet of participants at times. They will teach you the fundamentals and correct technique required for success.
- Skill Levels: Lessons are designed for various skill levels:
- Level 1: First time skier or snowboarder.
- Level 2: Can ride the carpet lifts but doesn't have chairlift experience.
- Level 3: Has chairlift experience and is able to turn/stop aggressively. Comfortable on all green runs and easy blues.
Drop-off and Pick-up
For kids' group lessons, drop-off and pick-up occur at the Kid’s Learning Center in the Cascade Lodge on level 3.
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- Morning/All Day Lesson Check-in/Drop-off: 8:00am-9:30am on weekends & holidays; 8:30am-9:30am on weekdays
- Afternoon Lesson Check-in/Drop-off: 12:00pm-12:30pm
- Morning Lesson Pick-up: 12:00pm
- Afternoon Lesson Pick-up: 3:00pm-4:00pm
Parents will receive a wristband for secure pick-up, and picture ID is required if the wristband is lost or forgotten.
Additional Programs and Activities
Crystal Mountain offers more than just beginner lessons. Enhance your experience with these options:
- NASTAR Course: Test your speed with a one-on-one private lesson, accessing the NASTAR course with certified race specialists.
- Events: From family-friendly gatherings to high-energy extravaganzas, Crystal Mountain’s events bring everyone together in unforgettable ways.
- Lodging: Stay slopeside at Crystal Mountain Hotels, mere steps from the Mt. Rainier Gondola and chairlift.
- Gondola Rides: A ride on the Mt. Rainier Gondola will take you over 2,400 vertical feet to the summit where you will find views of Mt. Rainier.
Don't forget to track your days at Crystal on the Ikon Pass App for a chance to win a 26/27 Season Ikon Pass or a $50 Crystal Mountain Gift Card!
Tips for a Successful First Lesson
To make the most of your snowboarding lesson, keep these tips in mind:
- Arrive Early: Arrive at the lesson meeting area by the Discovery Chair Lift with equipment ready to go by 9:45am for morning and all-day lessons, and by 12:45pm for afternoon lessons.
- Rentals: If you need rentals, we recommend arriving at the Rental Shop an hour before the meeting time.
- Layers: Wear a number of thinner, light layers as opposed to two thick layers to adjust to the weather.
- Stay Hydrated and Fed: Adventure Cubs and Crystal Kids include a short break for hot chocolate, a light snack and restroom use.
- Communicate Allergies: Please let us know if you or any of your lesson participants have any allergies or special needs in advance of your lesson or when you check in at the Lesson Meeting Area.
By following these guidelines, you'll be well-prepared to enjoy your first snowboarding lesson at Crystal Mountain!
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Quick Guide: What to Bring to Your Snowboarding Lesson
Here's a handy table summarizing what you need to bring for your snowboarding lesson:
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Lift Ticket/Season Pass | Required for all participants unless included in a lesson package. Kids under 6 may get a free ticket. |
| Snowboard Equipment | Snowboard, boots, and bindings. Can be rented or personal gear. |
| Helmet | REQUIRED for all lesson participants. Included with rental packages. |
| Appropriate Clothing | Waterproof/resistant pants and jacket, base layers, gloves/mittens, and high socks. |
| Face Covering | A CDC-approved mask or face covering is required during all lessons. |
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