LESSONS

SKI & SNOWBOARD LESSONS

                  Winter Break Camp and January Learn To Camp: Registration Starts November 1, 2024 at 9:00am 

 February Learn To Camp: Registration Starts December 1, 2024 at 9:00am

NEW For 2024-2025 January and February Continuing Skiing and Boarding Camps 

Private and Group Lessons: Start Date: December 16 – Available for Booking Dec 3, 2024!

 

We take pride in having a large diverse family of instructors at Tyrol Basin. All instructors go through an extensive hiring process and are trained by our professional ski/snowboard trainers. We have both ski and snowboard instructors who have worked hard to achieve Level 1, Level 2, and at the most upper level – Level 3 Professionally Certified. We also have instructors who are certified in Children’s Instruction, Freestyle Instruction, and Adaptive Instruction. Take a lesson with one of our pros today! 

 

NEW THIS SEASON We are excited to have an occupational therapist on our Ski School staff.  Laura is skilled at working with kids of all abilities with varying diagnoses including Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, Down Syndrome, Sensory Processing Difficulties, and Learning Difficulties. If you or your child  want to ski but need some additional assistance or modifications, please email school@tyrolbasin.com and get ready for a winter of fun! (Available Thursdays)

LESSONS ARE RELEASED 2 WEEKS IN ADVANCE FROM THE CURRENT DAY!

LESSON BOOKING DIRECTIONS:

    1. Select the date you would like your lesson
    2. Find appropriate lesson type
    3. Select appropriate discipline (skiing or snowboarding)
    4. Fill out all of the information and payment
    5. Check your confirmation email to ensure everything is correct

Lesson reservations are first-come first-serve and are strongly recommended.
To obtain the most optimal lesson plan, confirm your ability level in the chart below.

All participants MUST have a signed liability form prior to starting lesson.

While gratuity is not included in lesson pricing, tipping your instructor is a great way to say,
“Thank you” for an awesome lesson!

-If you are having any trouble please call (608-437-4135 ex.2)

* Tyrol Basin may, at any time under its sole discretion, change the hours/pricing set forth below. The hours/pricing are alterable under circumstantial variables including, but not limited to: experience, new information, changes in process requirements, local and state legislature, and the availability of resources. 

Lesson Schedule

Tyrol Basin Snow School lesson season start and end time varies based on the hours and operations set forth by Tyrol Basin:

**The Snow School will be closed for lessons on the 25th of December**

Early Season Dates and Times:

  • Tuesday’s and Friday’s @5:30pm
  • Saturday’s and Sunday’s @9:30am, 11:30am, 1:30pm, 3:30pm

Regular Season Dates and Times: 

  • Monday-Friday @11:30pm, 1:30pm, 3:30pm, 5:30pm
  • Saturday and Sunday @9:30am, 11:30am, 1:30pm, 3:30pm

Lesson season usually runs from early-mid December until mid March

* Tyrol Basin may, at any time under its sole discretion, change the hours/pricing set forth below. The hours/pricing are alterable under circumstantial variables including, but not limited to: experience, new information, changes in process requirements, local and state legislature, and the availability of resources. 
Private Lessons: All Levels, Ages 4+

This lesson is 1 on 1 with a professional instructor. Starting with your goals as the lesson foundation, our instructors will take you through a series of exercises and tasks to move you toward better turns, more stability, and more confidence. Whether you’re a “never-ever”, looking to improve your skill set, or seeking freestyle or race training, our instructors will take you to the next level in a private lesson. If you are interested in setting up lessons for a participant under the age of 3, please contact Snow School directly so that accommodations can be made prior to the lesson. Thank you.

All lessons are 90 minutes and include a lift ticket and rental for the duration of the lesson!

Pricing:
  • With Baseline Instructor:  $89.00 (add additional student for $69.00)
  • With a Certified Instructor: $99.00 (add additional student for $79.00)
  • With an Advanced Certified Instructor: $109.00 (add additional student for $89.00)
Child Group Lessons: All Levels, Ages 4 -12

Looking for a fun and exciting way for your child to try out skiing/snowboarding? Enroll in a single, 90-minute child group class today! This lesson is for children ages 4 – 12 of beginner to intermediate ski & snowboard ability level. Children are grouped by age and ability level upon reservation.

All lessons are 90 minutes and include a lift ticket and rental for the duration of the lesson!

Pricing:
  • $64.00/student
Adult Group Lessons: Beginner Level Only, Age 13+

Welcome aboard! This is a group lesson for teens and adults age 13+ who have never downhill skied or snowboarded before. At this level, you will learn to use your equipment, get around on the flat, and familiarize yourself with sliding on snow for the first time. This class will start from the very basic fundamentals of skiing/snowboarding, beginning with boot work, and eventually learning how to stop and make your first turns. This class will not ride the chairlift and only allows students who have never had the equipment on their feet before.

All lessons are 90 minutes and include a lift ticket and rental for the duration of the lesson!

Pricing:
  • $44.00/student
Lesson Camps & Programs

:–**WINTER BREAK CAMP AND JANUARY LEARN TO PROGRAM REGISTRATION OPENS NOVEMBER 1ST, FEBRUARY LEARN TO PROGRAM REGISTRATION OPENS DECEMBER 1ST**

Winter Break Camp

Our Winter Break Camp is for children ages 4 – 15 of beginner to intermediate ski & snowboard ability level. This is a 3-day camp that runs over the holiday break designed to keep kiddos busy and having fun on the snow! In this program, children will play games and activities based on their current ability level. Each session is 90 minutes long and includes a lift ticket and equipment rental for the duration of the lesson!

Dates for 2024-2025 Season:

  • Dec 29,30,31 
  • 9:30 – 11 am Learn To Camp Ages 4-15 
  • 11:30-1 pm am Continuing To Learn Camp Ages 6-15 

Pricing:

  • $289 (Does not include Season pass) 

Learn to Ski & Snowboard Program                                                                                               

        **** If you have been enrolled in Learn to before you will not be allowed to enroll in Learn to again. You MUST enroll in Continuing To Learn. ****

The “Learn-to Ski & Snowboard Program” is designed for children ages 4 – 15 who are beginner to intermediate skiers & snowboarders. This is a weekly, month long program (one session per week, 4 sessions in total) that runs in both the months of January and February. In this program, children will learn how to use their equipment and familiarize themselves with the sport of skiing & snowboarding through a course of activities, games, and drills. Each session is 90 minutes long and includes a lift ticket and equipment rental for the duration of the lesson! Upon completion of this program, participants will receive a season pass so they can become life-long enthusiasts with us!

Dates for 2024-2025 Season:

  • Dates : January: Mon, Wed, Thursday 5:30pm Sundays 9:30am        February Mon, Wed, Thursday 5:30pm Sundays 9:30am
  • Price: January – $429 and February $389 ( Price includes a season pass upon completion of the program Season pass can be purchased anytime ahead of program start for an additional fee) 

Continuing to Ski & Snowboard Program

The “Continuing to Ski & Snowboard Program” is designed for children ages 4 – 15 who are  intermediate skiers & snowboarders and looking to take there skills to the next level. This is a weekly, month long program (one session per week, 4 sessions in total) that runs in both the months of January and February. In this program, children will learn how to use their advance there skills and take themselves to a near expert level in the sport of skiing & snowboarding through a course of activities, games, and drills. Each session is 90 minutes long and includes a lift ticket and equipment rental for the duration of the lesson! Upon completion of this program, participants will receive a season pass so they can become life-long enthusiasts with us!

Dates for 2024-2025 Season:

  • Dates :January: Mon, Wed, Thursday 5:30pm Sundays 9:30am        February Mon, Wed, Thursday 5:30pm Sundays 9:30am
  • Price: January – $459 and February $419 ( Price includes a season pass upon completion of the program Season pass can be purchased anytime ahead of program start for an additional fee) 

Freestyle Team Program

Our Freestyle Team Program is for intermediate to advance ski & snowboard students. This is an eight-week program, that will meet twice a week on Sundays at 1:30pm and Thursdays at 5:30pm. Not only will participants learn new and improve existing freestyle techniques, they will have the opportunity to show off their skills and compete to win prizes! Each session is 90 minutes long – students are required to have their own equipment and season pass or lift ticket.

  • $350
  • Schedule January and February ( Starts Jan 9th Ends Feb 23rd)
    • Sunday at 1:30pm
    • Thursday at 5:30pm
INSTRUCTIONS ON HOW TO SIGN UP FOR THE FREESTYLE TEAM & FEBRUARY LEARN TO SKI/SNOWBOARD PROGRAM
  1. KNOW PARTICIPANT AGE
    (Freestyle Team Program: 10-18 years old)
    (February Learn-To: Sunday 4-15 years old, Monday 4-15 years old, Wednesday & Thursday 4-15 years old)
  2. CHOOSE THE LESSON DATE
    (Freestyle Team Program: Sunday, Jan. 7)
    (February Learn-To: Sundays, Feb. 4, Mondays, Feb. 5, Wednesdays, Feb. 7, Thursdays, Feb. 8)
  3. IN THE TYPE, CHOOSE SKI OR SNOWBOARD
  4. CHOOSE THE LESSON SLOT AND FILL OUT THE INFO
  5. WHEN YOU ARE ALL DONE, PLEASE REVIEW YOUR CONFIRMATION EMAIL TO ENSURE YOU CHOSE THE RIGHT PROGRAM!

Lesson reservations are first-come first-serve and are strongly recommended.
To obtain the most optimal lesson plan, confirm your ability level in the chart below.

All participants MUST have a signed liability form prior to starting lesson.

Reschedule/ Refund Policy

Our Learn-to Programs are multi-lesson programs that have set group lessons at specific, predetermined dates and times. If you are unable to attend we must be notified 30 days before the first of the month. (January Program Notification Deadline: December 3) (February Program Notification Deadline: January 4). If you contact us past the deadline, the program is non-refundable and is unable to be rescheduled. 

Because attendance is tracked, and accurate numbers are needed for each session, if you are unable to attend a single lesson within the multi-date program due to sickness, inclement weather, etc. We must be notified by email or phone call before your scheduled lesson time. The only time when rescheduling would be allowed is if Tyrol Basin closes for dangerously cold weather.

ABILITY LEVEL

SKI

LEVEL
ABILITY
LESSON OUTLINE
0
I have never skied before.
Welcome to skiing! In this level, you will learn to use your equipment, get around on the flat, and familiarize yourself with sliding on snow for the first time.
1
I have skied before, but am still working on my fundamentals. I am working toward being able to stop and change the direction of my skis so that I can navigate beginner slopes.
Welcome back! The goal of this level is to learn how to stop using a snowplough and to make a slight direction change/turn.
2
I am able to confidently perform a snowplough or, as we like to call it, "pizza," to control my speed. I am able to perform a slight direction change and am working toward making basic, linked turns.
In this level, the goal is to improve your basic turns using a snowplough. This will allow you to control your speed, avoid obstacles, and go where you want to go!
3
I can confidently make basic, linked turns on beginner terrain. I have ridden the chairlift or am confident enough to try it. I am working toward edging, parallel skiing, and attacking steeper slopes.
It's time to ride the chairlift! If you have not yet been introduced to the chairlift, you will be here. In this level, the goal is to turn with your skiis in parallel position. This will reduce strain on your legs and allow you to ski faster with more control.
4
I can confidently ski parallel and am comfortable on most, if not all, terrain. I am looking for advanced skill progression or possibly freestyle training.
In this level, the goal is to become comfortable skiing all terrain with ease. Your instructor will take you all around the mountain - challenging your speed control and movement patterns. What you improve on in this level is dependent on your objectives.

SNOWBOARD

LEVEL
ABILITY
LESSON OUTLINE
0
I have never snowboarded before.
Welcome to snowboarding! In this level, you will learn to use your equipment, get around on the flat, and familiarize yourself with sliding on snow for the first time.
1
I have snowboarded before, but am still working on my fundamentals. I am working toward being able to use the edges of my snowboard so that I can navigate beginner slopes.
Welcome back! The goal of this level is to improve on using your edges so that you can control your speed and make a slight direction change/traverse across the hill.
2
I am able to confidently use either my heel-side edge, toe-side edge, or both to control my speed. I am able to perform a side-slip or traverse, and am working toward making basic, linked turns.
It's time to turn! In this level, the goal is to become confident with both heel and toe-side basic turns, making it easier to avoid obstacles and ride where you want to go. Here, you will focus on linking single turns together so that you can ride fluidly down the slopes.
3
I can confidently make basic, linked turns on beginner terrain. I have ridden the chairlift or am confident enough to try it. I am working toward making dynamic turns, carving, and riding steeper slopes.
It's time to ride the chairlift! If you have not yet been introduced to the chairlift, you will be here. In this level, the goal is to make carved turns and attack steeper slopes. You may also start to ride easy terrain, "switch," and learn fundamental freestyle maneuvers.
4
I can confidently carve down most, if not all, terrain. I am looking for advanced skill progression or possibly freestyle training.
In this level, the goal is to strengthen your riding to the point of riding all terrain with ease. Your instructor will take you all around the mountain - challenging your speed control and movement patterns. What you improve on in this level is dependent on your objectives.

FAQs

For Parents

Which should my child learn first, skiing or snowboarding?
For children, we recommend trying whichever one they are more excited about. A positive attitude and some joy can go a long way with a child, even if the physicality isn’t quite there. With kiddos, their bodies and brains are resilient and can get up just as easily from a tumble on skis or a snowboard. Try out whichever one they want, and if you have to switch, no worries!

What is a good age to start children skiing/snowboarding? How do I know my child is ready to learn to ski/snowboard?
As soon as they can walk, talk (some), and follow directions they are ready! They must also be fully potty trained in order to take lessons with us. We have taught children as young as 1.5 years-old successfully how to ski and snowboard! Many parents feel that their child is physically advanced/coordinated for their age. This may help your child be successful, but what is better is if they are cognitively advanced (meaning they can listen and understand directions from their instructor).

Where do I (the parent) go during the lesson?
Anywhere but “in the lesson with the child.” We have plenty of outdoor and indoor seating areas where you can “watch from a distance” and are “out of sight, out of mind” for the child. When parents hover and try to “be in the lesson” it gets in the way of our instructor’s ability to teach the child. Please respect the boundary and trust our instructors to take your child and teach them what you’re paying them to do! If your child has separation anxiety, our instructors are trained to handle this. If there are tears, they are trained to handle this too. Simply make sure you are in a known location to the instructor, and walk away. If the situation escalates beyond the instructors ability to handle it, the instructor or someone from our management team will find you. Until then, try not to worry about it. We find that children do the best and progress the fastest when their parents allow them to be independent.

How can I motivate my child to want to ski/snowboard?
If your child was not born with ski boots in their crib and are not the most apt to learn, we recommend first picking a time for their first experience when the weather is optimal. Then, bring them out and simply expose them to snow. You don’t necessarily need to enroll them in a lesson off the bat, but just renting some small skis and having them walk around in the beginner area is a good way to test the waters. Bonus points for parents who push their kiddos up the hill and let them slide down–you guys are all stars! If you use reward, pair it with something they know already, like sledding, making snow angels, or building a snowman, it can make for a really enjoyable experience when they do take their first lesson!

What is the difference between Baseline, Certified and Advanced Certified?

We pride ourselves on having a diverse family of instructors at Tyrol Basin, all with different skill sets unique to their own experience. All of our instructors go through an extensive hiring process and are trained by our professional ski/snowboard trainers. Once they complete our “instructor academy” they earn their keep by teaching beginner lessons. Most of our instructors have done the extra work to become “professionally certified.” This means, they have more experience teaching and have a larger skill set to share with their students, thus we upsell lessons with them. We have instructors on both the ski and snowboard side who are Level 1, Level 2, and at the most upper level – Level 3 Professionally Certified. Any instructor that has their level 1 certification is considered a “Certified Instructor”. The instructors that have expanded their knowledge and have gotten more certifications or specialty certifications are considered an “Advanced Certified Instructor”.  This includes certification in Children’s Instruction, Freestyle Instruction, and Adaptive Instruction. Take a lesson with one of our pros today!

How do I request an instructor?
Enter your instructor’s name in the request section when booking a lesson! We will do our very best to pair you with that instructor; however, we cannot guarantee that they are working on the day that you book.

My child has special needs, what should I do?
We love working with kiddos who have special needs and gifts! We just like to know about beforehand so we can plan for the very best learning experience for your child. We even have instructors who specialize in adaptive lessons! Email Hannah at school@tyrolbasin.com prior to signing up your kiddo and we will find the best instructor match for your child to make sure it’s an enjoyable and successful experience!

My child wants to be in the class with his/her sibling or friend…how do I coordinate this?
Booking a semi private lesson is the only way we can ensure that they will be together. Simply booking a group lesson or signing them up for the same lesson program cannot guarantee it as we have hundreds of students a day and we can’t manage everyone’s pairing requests. This means your child and their friend will have their own private instructor, without any other students in the class. Bear in mind that we can only put your child with their friend if they are the same ability level for safety reasons.

How do I know what ability level to sign my child up for?
Easy! Take a look at our ability chart above, in the “reserve lessons” section of our page! If you don’t remember where your child left off last season, try to remember these key progression milestones: Could they stop? Could they change direction in control? Did they ride the chairlift?

Is my child ready for the chairlift?
If your child is able to make controlled turns and stops constantly on green and blue terrain, as well as is able to navigate more diverse terrain, then they are ready. Many parents stand at the bottom of the beginner area feeling anxious after their child makes their first “stop” or “breaking wedge” because they feel that signifies readiness for the chairlift. Our instructors are professionally trained to know when children are ready to go up the chairlift, and they will decide when it is appropriate, and most importantly, safe to do so.

Something to note always when considering your child’s ability level are the weather conditions. If your child ended their previous lesson on the chairlift, that doesn’t necessarily mean they will start there on their next lesson. For example, if the conditions are too icy, foggy, or dangerous, the instructors will keep children on more suitable terrain.

How do you pair up children in group lessons?
We first pair children by ability level. We then pair them by age. Children that are in group classes together will be relatively the same ability level and will be on the same step of their progression during their lesson together. We then take children who are the same ability level and match them by those that are closest in age. For example, a 4 year-old could be paired with a 6 year-old, but never with a 12 year-old.

Can I sign up a child younger than four years old for a group lesson, program or camp?
Unfortunately not. However, you can sign your child up for a private lesson. Curriculum for our group lessons is geared toward children who are able to follow directions, retain information, have patience while waiting their turn, have an appropriate attention span, have the ability to process information, be able to link new learned skills together, have self awareness, and have the maturity to interact with both teachers and fellow students. Our Snow School management team has an educational background in Child Psychology and Developmental Psychology, are parents themselves and feel, after years of experience, as though children younger than 4 years-old do best in private lessons, rather than group lessons. If you have a child who you feel is advanced for their age and would succeed in the group setting, you are welcome to sign them up for a skills test to see if they are ready.

How many lessons does it take until my child/ myself can go independently?
This depends on the person. For young children, it may take multiple lessons and even a couple seasons of muscle development before they can ski/snowboard independently down the hill. For the fastest progression–we always recommend private lessons (one on one with an instructor) because the lesson is 100% catered toward you and your progression; whereas in a group lesson, there are other students in the class that the instructor gives attention to. On average, between 4-5 lessons covers a good amount of time with fundamentals so that you can go venture out on your own (this is of course never guaranteed and depends on individual progression).

How do you handle ability splits within a group class?
An “ability split” is when two or more students within a group glass have differing ability levels. We always try our best to ensure this doesn’t happen but sometimes it’s inevitable. For example, if a parent signed their child up to be in a class that rides the chairlift, but then it turns out that the child isn’t quite ready, but the others in the class are, a problem is presented. On one end, we can’t hold the other students who are ready back, but on the other hand safety has to be our number one priority. If possible, we try to move children into another class that fits their ability level during the lesson. If not possible, our instructors are trained to handle this, but know that we will always put safety first and never put a student in a dangerous situation.

My child/ myself seem to be at a plateau in ability level. How do I get to the next level?
A private lesson would be the best way to reach that next level.  1:1 instruction to work on movement analysis and figure out what the next step that is personalized for you/your child is the quickest way to get over the hump and keep on going!

What are your class ratios, i.e., student:instructor?
This always depends on the ability level. If the students are more independent and need less attention to make it down the hill, the ratios go up. For children 5 and under, we try to always have a 2:1 student to instructor ratio. For children 6-12 we try to keep a 4:1 student to instructor ratio. If you are concerned about ratios and your child not receiving enough attention/supervision from their instructor, book them a private lesson instead.

What are the benefits of private lessons?
I like to say, there aren’t many disadvantages to private lessons. If you want the fastest possible progression, you can’t go wrong spending a little extra money to ensure the lesson is completely catered toward you and all of the instructor’s attention is on you. If you are concerned about your child not getting enough attention in a group class or not being able to focus with other children around, go with a private lesson! If you really want to accelerate quickly, take a lesson with one of our upper level instructors!

Are Tips Required?

We do not require tips for our lessons, but it is a great way to thank your instructor for their hard work!

Can I get the season pass that comes with the Learn-To Program early?
Yes, there will be a $50.00 charge to get your season pass early. You may do so in-house only at the school desk, whenever you’d like to activate their season pass.

My child is interested in learning freestyle or advanced training, what should I do?
Sign up for a private lesson with one of our Freestyle instructors! We have plenty of them who love to share their passion with others! We will start small, in the progression park, always making sure safety is our number one priority.

How/when do I pick up my child’s season pass that comes with the Learn-To Program?
Season passes can be picked up on the LAST lesson day of the Learn-To-Program. This can be picked up at the school desk.

Do you offer make-up sessions for programs or camps if we are unable to attend?
No, we do not offer make-up sessions for any lesson if you are unable to attend. We have a set amount of instructors per session and we simply can’t accommodate everyone’s schedule, which is why the dates of the sessions are posted prior to registering so you can make sure your schedule is clear. In the event that we, Tyrol Basin, cancel a session due to weather, etc. we do offer a make-up date.

For First-Timers

Is skiing easier to learn, or is snowboarding?
We often hear, “skiing is easier to learn, but harder to master..whereas snowboarding is the opposite.” This is true for many adults, as skiing is anatomically easier at first (since we walk facing forward and not sideways (like on a snowboard). We believe both are equally challenging and with the right attitude and a smile when you fall down (because you will), either can be accomplished enjoyably. 

Do you have to be “in shape” to learn how to ski/snowboard?
No, but it certainly helps. Skiing and snowboarding are great ways to exercise over the winter months when most people are stuck indoors. You don’t have to be overly in shape or athletic, but it will work in your favor for sure. Both sports can be hard on your body, and if you’re carrying extra weight, you may want to be extra careful as to not strain your knees, ankles, hips, back, etc. 

What should I bring with me/ my child for their first lesson? What should I wear to my lesson?
Make sure you dress appropriately for the weather! 90 minutes on the snow is longer than it seems if you’re cold/wet. We always recommend wearing warm socks, warm/waterproof gloves, waterproof snow pants/jacket, and a hat. It can never hurt to bring extra pairs of gloves, socks, etc. This is especially important to note for children as they may go through multiple pairs of gloves in one day. Throwing in something warm to change into for the drive home and some blankets can never hurt as well. 

What is the “correct” way to dress in layers?
The number one mistake that new skiers/snowboarders make is not layering correctly–starting with their socks! Yes, their socks. If your child/your feet always get cold, chances are you’re not wearing the right socks. NEVER wear more than one pair of socks. Why? Because doubling up and then cramming your feet into tight ski/snowboard boots creates uncomfortable pressure points, cutting off circulation in weird places! You’re better off wearing one pair of thick socks than two pairs of thin ones. If you have merino wool socks, or anything that’s moisture wicking, you get bonus points for those!

It’s always good to wear a “next to skin” layer on top and on bottom. This is often called a “base layer” or “long underwear” and serves as something that wicks moisture away from you, keeping you dry and warm. You can then choose your “mid layer” based on the weather. If it’s a cold day, you may want to wear a fleece, sweater/sweatshirt, or down jacket over this. Your “outer layer” should be something that is waterproof/wind resistant. This will keep you warm and dry from the elements. If you don’t own snow pants and you are trying out snowboarding for the first time, you may want to invest in some since you spend a lot of down time sitting on the snow. No one likes spending the drive home wearing wet jeans!

Are rentals/tickets included in lessons? 
Yes, rentals and tickets are included for the duration of the lesson ONLY. If you would like to keep skiing/snowboarding after the lesson is over, or before it begins, see below. 

Do you offer family lessons? 
Yes, in the form of a semi-private lesson! This will guarantee that you will all be together and have your own private instructor!

What if my child/ myself want to continue skiing/snowboarding after the lesson is over?
In order to keep your rental equipment and lift ticket you can pay an extension fee for the ticket and rental equipment. This extension can be taken care of at a ticket window or at the school desk!

How do I cancel/reschedule a reservation?
You must call us no less than 24 hours before the start of your scheduled lesson. We do not issue refunds, however we will give you the ability to reschedule with us. 

How early should I show up for my lesson? 
At least 40 minutes. You will need to allow sufficient time to park your vehicle, rent equipment, gear up and check in! If you are signed up for a group lesson and do not present at your meeting place at the start of your lesson, the instructor will begin the lesson without out as to not inconvenience the other students. You may not join the lesson late as it’s not fair to the other students who were on time to have the instructor stop to catch you up. If you have a private lesson and show up late, the instructor can still proceed, but will not go over 90 minutes from the time the lesson was scheduled to start.  

Where do I check in for lessons? 
Present your receipt from your pre-purchased lesson to the school desk and they will print your ticket and direct you to rentals, should you need equipment. See below for the next step..

Where do I meet my instructor?
Check our television screen outside the school, it will have your name, your instructor’s name, and a meeting location number on it! You will then find that number in our beginner area, near the flags, and meet your instructor!

Do you ever close due to weather?
We get far too many calls asking if we are going to be closed after a snow storm! We are a Ski/Snowboard Resort..hello?! We live for fresh snow! The only time we will close is if the temperatures are too low/unsafe for us to feel confident putting people on chairlifts. This rarely happens, and if you are concerned about it, feel free to give us a call!

Is it customary to tip your ski /snowboard instructor? 
Yes, if you feel your instructor did an outstanding job with your lesson, feel free to show your appreciation with a tip. Instructors are part of the service industry and appreciate the gesture. 

Do you offer walk-in lessons?
Yes, but on a very limited basis. We can never guarantee walk-ins, but oftentimes a student will cancel and we will have an opening. Never show up expecting to receive a lesson without having a reservation!

When do lessons begin/end each season?
This is entirely weather dependent. We will start lessons as soon as the resort is open and our beginner areas are accessible. This is usually around Thanksgiving. Lessons will end as soon as the snow melts and prevents our beginner areas from being open, this is usually mid-end of March.

What are the benefits of private lessons?
I like to say, there aren’t many disadvantages to private lessons. If you want the fastest possible progression, you can’t go wrong spending a little extra money to ensure the lesson is completely catered toward you and all of the instructor’s attention is on you. If you are concerned about your child not getting enough attention in a group class or not being able to focus with other children around, go with a private lesson! If you really want to accelerate quickly, take a lesson with one of our upper level instructors!

About Instructors

What is the difference between Baseline, Certified and Advanced Certified?

We pride ourselves on having a diverse family of instructors at Tyrol Basin, all with different skill sets unique to their own experience. All of our instructors go through an extensive hiring process and are trained by our professional ski/snowboard trainers. Once they complete our “instructor academy” they earn their keep by teaching beginner lessons. Most of our instructors have done the extra work to become “professionally certified.” This means, they have more experience teaching and have a larger skill set to share with their students, thus we upsell lessons with them. We have instructors on both the ski and snowboard side who are Level 1, Level 2, and at the most upper level – Level 3 Professionally Certified. Any instructor that has their level 1 certification is considered a “Certified Instructor”. The instructors that have expanded their knowledge and have gotten more certifications or specialty certifications are considered an “Advanced Certified Instructor”.  This includes certification in Children’s Instruction, Freestyle Instruction, and Adaptive Instruction. Take a lesson with one of our pros today!

How do I request an instructor?
Enter your instructor’s name in the request section when booking a lesson! We will do our very best to pair you with that instructor; however, we cannot guarantee that they are working on the day that you book.

About Equipment

How do you measure children’s gear?
With children growing so quickly, skiing and snowboarding can become expensive sports quickly! We recommend that if you have multiple children, taking advantage of the hand-me-down system if you don’t want to buy new gear every year! If your child is a beginner, make sure you check out a size chart online before purchasing their gear. Gear is measured based on height, weight, and ability level. If you want to purchase gear that’s a little big for your child so it will last them multiple seasons, that’s fine, just make sure it’s not so big that it sacrifices their ability to enjoy the sport!

Do you mount skis/snowboards and do repairs/tune-ups?
Yes we do. It doesn’t need to be scheduled, but don’t expect us to be able to do it for you the day you want to get out on the slopes. We recommend dropping your gear off and picking it up at a later time.

I don’t want to rent gear, where should I buy it?
Our Ski Patrol puts on an annual Ski/Snowboard Resale event where we sell new and gently used gear. This event usually takes place on the third or fourth Sunday in October and is held at Tyrol Basin. There are also local ski shops that we recommend such as: Fontana, Play it Again Sports, and Focus Boardshop.

Do you rent outerwear; such as gloves, snow pants, goggles, etc.?
We do not rent these items, but we do sell it for a reasonable price in our Snowthings Retail Shop!

Can I borrow from the lost & found if I forgot/don’t have an item I need?
Unfortunately not as we try to do everything we can to prevent the spread of germs, as well as to return gear to its rightful owner.