BEGINNERS  START  HERE

If it's your first time heading out to the snowy slopes and we have some helpful tips and information to get you started.
​Check out our videos and links that will help you to know what to expect when you first head out to Pine Knob.

Arriving at the Resort

When you arrive there are a few things you may need to do before getting out on the slopes:
  • Schedule Lesson FIRST at the Ski School Desk
  • Purchase Lift Ticket and Rental Form
  • Get Rental Equipment
  • Get Geared Up
  • Meet Instructor back at the Ski School Desk
  • Head Out for Fun!

Renting Equipment

The process of renting equipment at Pine Knob is easy. Check out our videos and blog posts about equipment and what to expect as a beginner.

Lift Tickets

Lift tickets are required for quests and are necessary to gain access to the ski hill and all the various types of lifts.

Getting Uphill

Pine Knob has lifts for different levels and abilities of skiing and snowboarding. Beginners will start with the Wonder Carpet, move on to the Tow Rope, and when they have the right skills, they will move on to the Chairlift.

Get Started with Safety and Fun

Make your experience on the slopes safe and fun with a certified Pine Knob Ski or Snowboard instructor. Make the most of your experience, gain confidence, and have fun faster with our lessons and programs.

Reinforce Good Habits

Continuing with lessons and programs helps students to reinforce good habits and make progress on the slopes. ​Fresh air and exercise contribute to healthy habits.

Friends and Community

One of the best parts of learning to ski and snowboard is making new friends, enjoying fun events, and having a blast during the winter months.

F.A.Q.s for Beginners

Q. Which is easier, snowboarding or skiing?
A. Skiing is generally easier to learn but harder to master. A new skier will be stopping and making easy turns on beginner terrain by the end of their first lesson. Snowboarding will usually take a few times out to get the hang of stops and turns, but then progress is quick

Q. Should I take lessons?
A. Yes. Your recreation time is valuable. A professional ski or snowboard instructor will help you to acquire the skills necessary to have a great day on the slopes. They also instill a lifelong passion for the sport. Kids in the student program are required to take lessons in order to participate in the reduced rate after school program. We feel that they have more fun when they are more skilled at their sport, and more importantly they are safer. Guests who are not in the student program are highly encouraged to take lessons, especially their first time out.

Q. What should I wear?
A. Both skiers and snowboarders should wear: one pair of synthetic ski or snowboard socks, long johns or fleece pants with nylon windproof snow pants. A synthetic blend turtleneck or long sleeve shirt with a sweater or fleece over it and a waterproof parka are best. Gloves or mittens should be waterproof and be able to stand the abuse of a tow rope. Mittens are generally warmer than gloves. A hat is better than earmuffs or a headband and we highly encourage everyone to wear a helmet. New snowboarders should also wear wrist guards. Skiers and Snowboarders should dress in layers so they can shed clothing if they become overheated. This happens often to new snowboarders.

Remember Pine Knob has rental helmets that are easily adjustable to fit a wide range of sizes.

Get 6 Skiing or Snowboarding Lessons for the Price of 5


​​Give the gift of skiing or snowboarding or enjoy some savings for yourself. Our 6 for 5 Lesson Deal is a wonderful gift idea for a child, boyfriend, wife, parent - pick anyone in your life who should be hitting the slopes with you.
​Inquire at the Ski School Desk for all your options.