Build Skills and Confidence
Northstar's Ski and Snowboard School is the perfect choice for first-timers and beginners looking to learn how to ski or snowboard. Our school offers group lessons and private one-on-one instruction, allowing you to learn at your own pace in a fun and safe environment.
Learn Basic Skills
Learn foundational skills and mountain safety.
Build Confidence
Grow your confidence to take on green runs and beyond.
20% Off Group Lessons
Pass Holders save 20% off group lessons with Epic Mountain Rewards.
Featured Lesson:
Adult First Time/Beginner Full Day Group Lesson
Best for learning the fundamentals for your first time or second time on the mountain.
Make this a day to remember and start your ski or snowboard experience with fun, safety, and excitement! Our world-class Instructors have helped countless brand-new skiers like you discover the joy of the sport in a safe and exciting setting. Set yourself up for success with a full-day lesson!
Explore Lessons
As a first-timer or beginner eager to learn how to ski or snowboard, selecting the right lesson can make a significant difference in your experience. Learn more about the main lesson types to help you decide which is best for you.
Adult Group Lessons
Ages 15+ | Best for:
- Those who enjoy a social learning environment.
- Balanced mix of professional guidance and practice time.
- Great for general skill development and an introduction to skiing or snowboarding.
Child Group Lessons
Ages 7-14
- Focused on first-timer and beginner skills for ages 7+.
- Under 7: Placed in ability-based smaller groups.
Private Lessons
All Ages | Best for:
- Those who prefer one-on-one instruction.
- Perfect for quick progress and specific goals.
- Option to learn with family or friends (up to 6 participants).
Green Run Guarantee
Eligible Lessons: First Time or Beginner lessons only. Full day group lessons for children ages 7-14, and adults 15+
Redemption Details: If by the end of your third lesson you haven't advanced to the Green Run Guarantee terrain, simply inform your instructor. They'll help you schedule your complimentary fourth lesson to ensure you reach your skiing or snowboarding goals.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What ski and snowboard lesson offerings will you provide this year at your resorts?
We are pleased to offer a range of ski and snowboard programming including group lessons, private lessons, season-long programs, and specialty programs. Specific details can be found on our Ski and Snowboard School pages.
When will season long programs be available for enrollment?
Seasonal programs for the 2025-2026 season will be available for new participant registration starting the last week of August. Please note that early registration for some seasonal programs is granted to previous program participants. This may result in limited spots for new participants.
What is included with a ski or snowboard lesson?
Each lesson will include professional instruction from one of our instructors. If offered, full day children's group lessons will include lunch. Participants will be responsible for bringing or purchasing their own food in private lessons, group lessons for adults, and season long and specialty lessons for children unless specified in the program details.
Do lessons Include rentals and lift tickets?
As the standard, lessons do not include lift tickets or rentals. Please check lesson details to verify what is included in your lesson. Lift access (Epic Pass or lift ticket) and appropriate equipment are required to participate in all lessons.
While purchasing a group lesson, you can add-on lift tickets and rentals at a discounted rate. You may bring your own equipment. Passes are available to purchase here. Buy in advance and online for the best rates.
What should I bring to my lesson?
Weather conditions will vary and remember you will spend the day outside! We recommend dressing in layers including warm clothes, googles/sunglasses and sunscreen. Though they may be available in the resort's retail shop, the Ski & Snowboard School does not have these items available to borrow or rent.
All lesson participants are required to have a valid season pass or lift ticket, as well as ski or snowboard equipment. All minors must have a parent/guardian present at pick-up and drop-off. For complete details on what to bring and when to arrive, checkout our Know Before You Go page. More pre-arrival information will be sent to the email on file used to book your lesson.
What if I have special needs or requests, e.g. Drug or Food Allergies?
We do our best to accommodate dietary needs and offer different options when possible. When registering for child group lessons, you will have an opportunity either when booking or when checking in for the lessons to inform us of drug or food allergies. Severe allergy concerns or circumstances should be discussed with the school staff directly prior to your visit.
Parents of children with severe food allergies or dietary restrictions are strongly encouraged to send appropriate lunches and/or snacks with their children. Any food items that accompany a child to the lesson must be nut free.
Does my child need to be potty trained to participate in a lesson?
Yes, all children are required to be potty trained to participate in Ski and Snowboard School lessons.
Can and should I tip my instructor?
Gratuities for instructors are not a requirement but an appropriate and appreciated gesture. To tip via a credit card, please see us in person at any Ski and Snowboard School sales office and be prepared to provide the name of the instructor.
What is the cancellation and refund policy for Ski & Snowboard School lessons?
Changes or cancellations can ONLY be made in advance of your lesson date by contacting the Ski & Snowboard School conducting your lesson. A cancellation Fee will be assessed for a guest when they cancel either a Group or Private Lesson as follows:
- Any Ski & Snowboard School Product that is cancelled 48 hours or more prior to the lesson's start time will be issued a full refund.
- Any Ski & Snowboard School Product that is cancelled within 48 hours of the lesson’s start time will be charged the Cancellation Fee.
- For Ski & Snowboard School Products that contain one lesson day, the Cancellation Fee is 50% of the cost of the lesson.
- For Ski & Snowboard School Products that contain multiple lesson days, and a full Cancellation is required, the Cancellation Fee is 50% of the cost of the first lesson. All other days in a multiple lesson Ski & Ride School Product will be fully refunded.
- The resort will not cancel lessons due to weather if the resort itself is operational. For more detailed information on refunds and cancellations, including the policy for Seasonal or Season-Long Programs, please refer to the Terms of Sale.