January is Learn to Ski and Snowboard Month
January is officially Learn to Ski and Snowboard Month, a fantastic nationwide initiative designed to welcome beginners to the exhilarating world of winter sports. Hundreds of resorts throughout the United States and Canada roll out special beginner-friendly deals, making it the ideal time to learn to ski or snowboard without breaking the bank.
These programs typically include bundled packages with lessons, equipment rentals, and beginner lift tickets—often at discounted rates. Whether you’re an adult pursuing a long-held dream or a family introducing kids to the snow, certified instructors prioritize safety, fun, and confidence-building. You’ll start with basics like balancing, turning, and stopping (think “pizza” and “French fries” for skis), progressing on gentle, dedicated learning areas separated from advanced skiers.
Many resorts extend these offers beyond January or provide flexible vouchers usable throughout the season. It’s not just about savings—it’s about creating lifelong memories on the mountain.
Why Professional Lessons Are Essential
Deciding to learn to ski can feel daunting, but skipping structured lessons often leads to bad habits, frustration, or even injury. Friends or family might teach you informally, but they may lack the patience or expertise to explain techniques properly. Plus, they could unintentionally push you onto steeper terrain too soon.
Professional instructors are trained to assess your ability, correct form early, and match you with peers at the same level. Group lessons foster a supportive environment where everyone is falling and laughing together, turning nerves into excitement. Private sessions offer personalized feedback for faster improvement.
During Learn to Ski and Snowboard Month, these lessons become incredibly accessible and affordable, removing barriers for first-timers of all ages—from toddlers to seniors.
The History of Learn to Ski Month
This beloved initiative launched in 2009 with just a handful of participating resorts, aiming to grow participation in snow sports. It quickly expanded, introducing over a million newcomers to skiing and snowboarding by 2019 through coordinated January promotions.
Although the formal national program paused after 2019, the spirit lives on. Many resorts, regions, and organizations continue honoring January with dedicated beginner deals, packages, and events. Sites like learntoskiandsnowboard.org highlight participating venues, while regional efforts (like Ski Utah’s programs or Indy Pass options) keep the momentum going. The goal remains the same: make winter sports inclusive, fun, and approachable for everyone.
Top Beginner-Friendly Resorts Across North America
During Learn to Ski and Snowboard Month (and beyond), these resorts stand out for their excellent ski schools, gentle terrain, and welcoming programs. Many offer special January packages—always check their websites for current deals:
Buttermilk (Aspen Snowmass, Colorado)
Consistently ranked among the best places to learn to ski, Buttermilk features wide, groomed beginner slopes and a highly acclaimed ski school. It’s forgiving and scenic, with programs tailored for kids, adults, and families.
Copper Mountain (Colorado)
The mountain’s natural layout separates beginner areas from advanced terrain, reducing intimidation. Excellent group lessons, plus unique indoor training facilities, help build skills confidently.
View current Copper Mountain ski deals
Keystone (Colorado)
Family-centric with multiple dedicated learning zones and fun add-ons like themed activities. Keystone’s programs make it easy and enjoyable for all ages to learn to ski.
View current Keystone ski deals
Steamboat Springs (Colorado)
Renowned for “Champagne Powder” and patient, high-quality instruction. Age-specific kids’ programs ensure everyone progresses comfortably.
View current Steamboat ski deals
Purgatory Resort (Colorado)
Often voted a top beginner spot, with predictable gentle runs and strong instruction focused on progression in a relaxed atmosphere.
View current Purgatory ski deals
Park City (Utah)
One of North America’s largest resorts, offering abundant easy terrain and robust ski schools. Vast green runs provide plenty of space to practice without crowds.
View current Park City ski deals
Whistler Blackcomb (British Columbia, Canada)
The continent’s biggest ski area boasts extensive beginner zones and world-class facilities. Patient instructors and varied easy trails make it ideal for newcomers.
View current Whistler ski deals
Mont Tremblant (Quebec, Canada)
A charming European-style village with excellent ski schools on both mountain sides. Beginner-friendly slopes and a vibrant atmosphere add to the fun.
View current Mont Tremblant ski deals
Big White (British Columbia, Canada)
Known for consistent snow and family-oriented programs, with easy access to groomed trails perfect for learning powder basics.
View current Big White ski deals
These resorts frequently participate in beginner initiatives, offering bundled deals that include everything you need to get started. Search for local options or multi-resort passes like Indy or Epic for even more flexibility.
Get Started This January
There’s no better time than Learn to Ski and Snowboard Month to embrace the slopes. With affordable access, expert guidance, and welcoming communities, you’ll wonder why you waited so long. Bundle up, book a lesson, and discover the thrill of gliding through fresh snow—your winter adventure awaits!
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