First Timer's Guide
Welcome to the sport
New to skiing or snowboarding? You are in the right spot. This guide maximizes your learning, fun, and safety to ensure you have a successful first day at Schweitzer. It might seem overwhelming, but you’re opening the door to a lifetime of winter adventure. You’ve got this!
Schweitzer Difference
Our staff is here to help you excel! If you need assistance, have questions, or forgot something, we will do our best to help and are always down for a celebratory fist bump.
Our beginner terrain is near the Village, which means it’ll be a short walk and family members can watch the kids learn. Schweitzer’s beginner area has a roped off flat area and a gentle slope for your first turns. The beginner’s area is also below the Village level so you don’t have to get on a lift right away. The Magic Carpet (similar to a moving sidewalk you would see at an airport except you can keep your skis on and walk on to the moving carpet) serves the beginner’s area and brings you back up to your starting point.
With all these amenities, Schweitzer is the perfect place for your first turns!
Our beginner terrain is near the Village, which means it’ll be a short walk and family members can watch the kids learn. Schweitzer’s beginner area has a roped off flat area and a gentle slope for your first turns. The beginner’s area is also below the Village level so you don’t have to get on a lift right away. The Magic Carpet (similar to a moving sidewalk you would see at an airport except you can keep your skis on and walk on to the moving carpet) serves the beginner’s area and brings you back up to your starting point.
With all these amenities, Schweitzer is the perfect place for your first turns!
Beginner area is free to use
The Musical Carpet is free to use but be sure to grab your free ticket before heading over there. Once you are ready for more turns, just keep going down past the carpet and you will end up in more beginner terrain. Creekside Express requires a lift ticket, but if you plan to ski only this lift you can purchase a Lower Mountain Lift Ticket which is less than a Full Mountain Lift Ticket. Creekside Express is a high speed quad which will whisk you back up to the Village. High speed lifts are beginner friendly as they slow down for loading and unloading.
Tip 1: Dress for success
Dress in Layers
When you dress in layers it allows you the flexibility to add or remove them as you warm up from skiing or when the temps drop. Wicking materials will help regulate your comfort level allowing sweat to escape. You don’t have to have special clothing to ski, but your day will be more enjoyable if you do. Start with a thin base layer, thin fleece mid-layer, and waterproof jacket. If it gets colder, opt for thicker tech materials and add a puffy.
Helmet and Goggles
Helmets: A snow-specific helmet will keep you safer and warmer while riding. 60% of your heat escapes from your head. Schweitzer recommends everyone wear a helmet while on the slopes.
Goggles: A day on the slopes is generally more comfortable with the right goggles. They protect your eyes from wind, blowing snow, and sun. Goggles come with clear or light lenses for cloudy days and dark lens for sunny days. Most places do not rent goggles because they can get scratched easily, but helmets are available to rent in the Ski & Ride center.
Goggles: A day on the slopes is generally more comfortable with the right goggles. They protect your eyes from wind, blowing snow, and sun. Goggles come with clear or light lenses for cloudy days and dark lens for sunny days. Most places do not rent goggles because they can get scratched easily, but helmets are available to rent in the Ski & Ride center.
Gloves or Mittens?
They both work but make sure they are waterproof. In general, mittens are warmer but have less dexterity. While out on the slopes you will be holding poles or removing bindings, holding onto the chairlift, and getting up off the snow. Make sure they are not too tight, a little air space will help them stay warmer. When the temps dip, you can buy “hand warmers” to put in your gloves.
Accessories
Sunscreen & Lip Balm: Mountain sun is reflected off the snow and can be quite intense, so be sure to have SPF lip balm and sunscreen for those sunny days.
Neck Gaiter: When the wind blows and the temps drop, a neck gaiter or face tube will help keep you comfortable.
Hand Warmers: You can purchase single-use packets to help warm your hands. Open the packet, shake it, and add it to your pockets or gloves. These are reasonably priced and will stay warm for hours.
Tall Socks: One pair of light- or medium- weight socks works best for skiing, snowboarding, or snowshoeing. Avoid cotton, it dries slowly and often causes blisters. Some socks have wicking properties and keep your feet dry and comfortable. Wear dry socks with your boots and stash an extra pair in the locker for a midday refresh if you want to feel especially comfortable.
Skigee: A soft rubber wiper you can wear around your finger to wick the moisture or frost from your goggles without scratching lenses. This device is handy to have in challenging weather conditions.
Neck Gaiter: When the wind blows and the temps drop, a neck gaiter or face tube will help keep you comfortable.
Hand Warmers: You can purchase single-use packets to help warm your hands. Open the packet, shake it, and add it to your pockets or gloves. These are reasonably priced and will stay warm for hours.
Tall Socks: One pair of light- or medium- weight socks works best for skiing, snowboarding, or snowshoeing. Avoid cotton, it dries slowly and often causes blisters. Some socks have wicking properties and keep your feet dry and comfortable. Wear dry socks with your boots and stash an extra pair in the locker for a midday refresh if you want to feel especially comfortable.
Skigee: A soft rubber wiper you can wear around your finger to wick the moisture or frost from your goggles without scratching lenses. This device is handy to have in challenging weather conditions.
Tip 2: Use proper Gear
Rentals
Your first day will go smoother and safer when you use modern and properly fitting equipment. Modern snow equipment technology makes it easier to learn and turn. Old bindings can fail over time, and the proper fit will help you stay comfortable the entire day. Schweitzer rental techs will set you up for success. Plus, Schweitzer rentals come with Gear Check which means you won't have to carry equipment back to your car or room.
Arrive early
It’s easy to underestimate the time it takes to get from your place to the slopes. Navigating parking and shuttles, getting a locker and rental equipment, and signing up for lessons can take up to two hours during peak times. Avoid stress and set the alarm a little earlier. End up with extra time for stretches or coffee.
Get a locker first
Grab a locker first and stash the extra items. Your shoes, snacks, water, and extra items can be safely stored while freeing you up to enjoy the day. Temps are warmer indoors so trying on rental boots will be easier when you are not loaded down with extra items or getting overheated. Schweitzer day lockers are one cost, conveniently located, and allow you unlimited access throughout the day. First-time riders should avoid wearing a backpack. The less extra items you have, the more enjoyable your experience will be.
Use Gear Check
Schweitzer rentals come with free Gear Check, so you don’t have to carry your skis to the car or back home. Rental skis all look the same so Gear Check also avoids confusion so you won't accidentally end up with someone else’s skis.
Tip 3: learn from a pro
Lessons
Having a friend teach you how to ski or snowboard might sound like a fun way to start, but you will learn faster and safer with a trained instructor. They have the experience to maximize your day on the slopes and cater to your needs. Spend less time waiting in line and more time learning. When you take a lesson, you are allowed to use the lesson line and head straight to the lift.
Group or Private Lessons?
Group lessons are less expensive and still offer a fun way to learn. Instructors will group you with other skiers and riders of a similar age and ability, explain concepts to the group, and provide individual attention. You might also feel less pressure and enjoy meeting new people in a group lesson setting. On the other hand, Private Lessons provide individualized lesson plans to your preferred pace and learning style. Private Lessons can also include up to five people, so grab some friends and learn together.
What about the kiddos?
Looking for a place to take your children while you take a lesson? Drop them off at Schweitzer’s childcare or enroll them in their own lesson.
- Childcare only: 4 months to 6 years old. Head to the Children's Center.
- Group Lessons Child 4-6 years old head to the Children's Center. Children under four require a Private Lesson.
- Group Lessons Junior 6-13 Ski & Ride Center
- Group Lessons Adult 14+ Ski & Ride Center
- Private Lessons all ages.
- Childcare only: 4 months to 6 years old. Head to the Children's Center.
- Group Lessons Child 4-6 years old head to the Children's Center. Children under four require a Private Lesson.
- Group Lessons Junior 6-13 Ski & Ride Center
- Group Lessons Adult 14+ Ski & Ride Center
- Private Lessons all ages.
Tip 4: Make a Game Plan
Head to the website for the latest
Check the Snow Report page, weather forecasts, and trail maps prior to leaving the house so you know what to expect. This information will help you know what layers to bring, how much time to allow, and which trails are best to tackle.
Study the trail maps
Find trails that suit your ability. As a beginner, you should look for trails marked with a green circle. If it’s your first day, head to Musical Carpet and Creekside Express. Once you are comfortable with those trails, you can try trails marked with blue squares. Popular blues include Midway and Lower Gypsy.
Check the Snow Report page
Start your day with the Snow Report for important operation updates, current and forecasted weather, and trail statuses and conditions. Groomed trails have a smoother surface which makes learning easier.
Set a meeting time
Before you head to the lift, talk to your friends, and pick a meeting time and place. The Clock Tower is an excellent meeting place in the center of the Village, where both skiers and non-skiers have access.
Tip 5: Learn more about snow safety
Never Stop Learning
Whether you have been skiing for years or it's your first day riding, it's important to always be learning more about snow safety. Learn the Skier's Responsibility Code, follow policies, and ski with a buddy.
As a beginner, there is a lot more to cover. So take your time and dive into the links below prior to your first day on the slopes and set yourself up for a successful and safe time. Additionally, we have included contact information for any questions:
* (Emergencies and injuries) Schweitzer Ski Patrol: (208) 603-2173
* (General Inquiries) Contact Center: (833) 854-7669 or (208) 603-5542
As a beginner, there is a lot more to cover. So take your time and dive into the links below prior to your first day on the slopes and set yourself up for a successful and safe time. Additionally, we have included contact information for any questions:
* (Emergencies and injuries) Schweitzer Ski Patrol: (208) 603-2173
* (General Inquiries) Contact Center: (833) 854-7669 or (208) 603-5542
Ready to dive in?
Start planning your first day now.
More ways to enjoy the mountain
Scenic Lift Rides
Not quite ready to jump into skiing or snowboarding? That's ok! There are still plenty of ways to enjoy winter at Schweitzer. With a Scenic Foot Passenger Lift Ticket you can still head to the summit to soak in the views or have lunch at the Sky House. If this is your first time on a lift, pick a sunny, warmer day for the best experience. Weather can change quickly in the mountains so dress as if you are skiing. Be prepared with a hat, gloves, warm clothes, waterproof jacket and pants. Googles or glasses are also a good idea if the wind is blowing.
Snowshoe Adventures
Snowshoeing is a great way to enjoy the quiet side of Schweitzer. Head out on your own or sign up for several group tour options. The Nordic area has designated snowshoe trails and requires a trail pass which you can purchase online or at the ticket window. Head to the Activity Center to sign up for group tours including Summit Hikes, hikes to Picnic Point, and special sunset/full moon tours. Rentals are available onsite.
Snow Tubing
Fun for the entire family, snow tubing is a great way to slide down the mountain without having to ski. All the thrill, less spill. Schweitzer has two lanes so you can race your friends and a yurt so you can warm up or get snacks. Night tubing is also available most Fridays and Saturdays. Check the Hermit's Hollow page for all the details and schedules. Be sure to sign up in advance as time slots tend to fill up fast.
Cambium Spa
If snow adventure isn't your cup of tea or you are looking to relax after your time outside, Cambium Spa has you covered. Massage, yoga classes, HaloIR Sauna and more ways to rev up, reboot, or tune in. Located right in the Village. Check out all the spa offerings on the Cambium Spa page here.