How to Prepare for Your Lesson

Know Before You Go

Find details on where to go, when to arrive, and what to expect from your lesson.

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Drop Off and Pick Up Information

Jack Frost and Big Boulder are two separate base area locations. The lesson location, as selected at the time of booking, will be listed on your confirmation email. Details about parking and directions to the two base areas can be found below for reference.

Base Area Maps, Directions & Parking

At both locations, the check-in process follows the same steps. Note that if you arrive to lesson-check-in late, at the wrong base area or without your equipment, we may not be able to accommodate you in a lesson for that day.

Step 1:
Resort Arrival
  • On weekends, holidays, and heavy snow days our parking lots fill early.
  • Aim for an 8:00am arrival for the best parking opportunities and a more relaxing start to your experience if you are taking morning lessons.
Step 2:
Lesson Check-In
  • Children in group lessons do not need to collect rental equipment or lift tickets before check-in.
  • If your child requires rental equipment. arrive at least 60 minutes prior to lesson start time.
  • If you are bringing your own equipment, arrive 45 minutes prior to lesson start time.
  • All lessons require a valid lift ticket or season pass to participate.
Step 3:
Lesson Drop Off
  • Parents must stay with your child until the check-in procedure is complete, their gear is on and they have been connected with their instructor.
  • Confirm pick-up location and time with your instructor prior to leaving the area.
  • Please be sure your child has access to the restroom prior to drop-off to maximize lesson time.
Lesson Start and Pick-Up Times

Arrive for a timely pick-up of your child. Children will only be released to a designated adult. Pick-up time details can be subject to change.

All Child Group Lessons are 2 hours in length. Lesson times:

  • 10am - 12pm
  • 1pm - 3pm
  • 4pm - 6pm
 

Arrival Information

Jack Frost and Big Boulder are two separate base area locations. The lesson location, as selected at the time of booking, will be listed on your confirmation email. Details about parking and directions to the two base areas can be found below for reference.

Base Area Maps, Directions & Parking

At both locations, the check-in process follows the same steps. Note that if you arrive to lesson-check-in late, at the wrong base area or without your equipment, we may not be able to accommodate you in a lesson for that day.

Step 1:
Resort Arrival
  • On weekends, holidays, and heavy snow days our parking lots fill early.
  • Aim for an 8:00am arrival for the best parking opportunities and a more relaxing start to your experience if you are taking morning lessons.
Step 2:
Equipment Rental
  • if you are renting equipment from us, please allow 60 minutes for equipment fitting.
  • If you are bringing your own equipment skip this step.
Step 3:
Lesson Check-In
  • Arrive at the lessons check-in area 45 minutes before your lesson start time with your ski/snowboard equipment to allow time for check-in, guest experience support as needed, and meeting your instructor.
  • Look for our helpful Ski & Ride School employees to guide you from there.
  • All lessons require a valid lift ticket or season pass to participate. These can be purchased on-site, or picked up here if pre-purchased.
Lesson Times

All Adult Group Lessons are 2 hours in length.

  • 9am - 11am
  • 10am - 12pm
  • 1pm - 3pm
 

Arrival Information

Jack Frost and Big Boulder are two separate base area locations. The lesson location, as selected at the time of booking, will be listed on your confirmation email. Details about parking and directions to the two base areas can be found below for reference.

Base Area Maps, Directions & Parking

At both locations, the check-in process follows the same steps. Note that if you arrive to lesson-check-in late, at the wrong base area or without your equipment, we may not be able to accommodate you in a lesson for that day.

Step 1:
Resort Arrival
  • On weekends, holidays, and heavy snow days our parking lots fill early.
  • Aim for an 8:00am arrival for the best parking opportunities and a more relaxing start to your experience if your lesson begins in the morning.
Step 2:
Equipment Rental
  • If you are renting from us, please allow 60 minutes for equipment fitting.
  • If you are bringing your own equipment skip this step.
Step 3:
Lesson Check-In
  • Private Lessons meet at the Ski & Ride School lesson check-in desk.
  • Arrive at the lessons check-in area 45 minutes before your lesson start time with your ski/snowboard equipment to allow time for check-in, guest experience support as needed, and meeting your instructor.
  • All lessons require a valid lift ticket or season pass to participate. These can be purchased on-site, or picked up here if pre-purchased.
Lesson Times
  • Private Lessons are 2 hours long. See your confirmation email for your lesson start time and duration.
 
Group Ski Lesson at Jack Frost Big Boulder

What to Expect

  • All group lessons are sorted by sport, age, and ability level.
  • The instructor will determine lesson plans based on the group's ability level and goals.
  • All participants will explore terrain aligned to their ability level while practicing new techniques at their own pace.
  • For all lessons, the instructor will provide breaks as appropriate.
  • If your child brings snacks, please do not pack any that contain nuts.
  • Restroom breaks are built into the day, but all participants are encouraged to use the restroom prior to the lesson start time.

What You Need

Your comfort and safety is our number one priority, so review the following items to ensure you are fully equipped for your ski or snowboard lesson.

Resort Guest Purchasing a Lift Ticket at Steven's Pass
Lift Access

All guests must have a pass or a lift ticket to participate in a lesson. Best pricing is available online, in advance.

Lift Tickets

Passes

Employees with retail skiis in Northstar, CA.
Gear

Guests are welcome to bring their own ski or snowboard equipment. If renting, check the arrival details above to ensure enough time for pick up prior to your lesson.

Book Rentals
Close Up of Boy Smiling in Ski Helmet with Goggles
Helmets

A winter sport helmet is required for all lesson participants aged 14 and under, and 18 and under in designated children’s lessons. We strongly encourage helmet use for all ages. Helmets can be included along with a rental order or rented separately.

Family skiing in Kirkwood, CA.
Clothing & Accessories
Waterproof snow pants and gloves or mittens are strongly recommended to keep you warm and dry. Goggles protect your eyes from the cold air and block UV light.

Need Assistance?

Looking for help regarding your season pass, Epic Pass, or online account? Please use the Live Chat tool within your account or contact us at (970) 754-0005 to connect with an agent today. If your request is not time sensitive, please email us at seasonpass@vailresorts.com.

For inquiries specific to resort offerings such as lessons or general questions please reach out to the resort directly: