Winter weather brings dreams of playing in the snow for many children. One of the best family activities is skiing. However, skiing can be dangerous if the family members are not adequately trained. While we don’t want to scare anyone, we want to make sure that everyone has a safe and happy ski season. So, you will want to enroll your children in ski classes before taking them to the slopes. There are a few options available around Oregon.
Resort Lessons
If you are going to a ski resort, you can often get classes while on the property. However, some parents do not want to go to a resort if they live locally. We do understand this. We would like to offer parents information on local resorts with kid-friendly programming as well as resort-based lessons. We will detail whether the resort requires accommodations if it is known.
Mt. Ashland
This resort in Ashland, Oregon, is fun for everyone and can save families some cash. They offer free skiing for small children and senior citizens. Under six or over seventy qualify for this spectacular discount. Additionally, they have a Kid’s Club for the 4–12-year-old crowd. Local school district youth can also register for discounted ski and snowboard lessons. Lessons start at age four, and children over 13 are included in adult pricing. Contact Mt. Ashland for more details!
Hoodoo Mountain
Ski lessons for kids at this magical resort are available beginning at age five unless they participate in private lessons. All ages lessons are listed, but you will need to check with the resort at the earliest age your child can participate. For young children, daycare services are also available. Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to get your kids on the slopes.
Mt. Hood Ski Bowl
The Ski Bowl offers lessons in both group and private formats. Many resorts count the first lesson as level one, but Mt. Hood Ski Bowl Olympic Ski School starts students at level 0. Classes start at $74 each and move through level 3. Group lessons begin at age 8, but private lessons can be purchased for children as young as four. They also offer Mogul Busters Children’s Ski School. This program begins children as young as five with lessons. Preregistration for these classes is required.
Willamette Pass
Like other resorts, Willamette Pass prefers to teach children in private lessons. One thing to remember with this resort is that they do not allow groups until age ten at this time. This is primarily due to the current COVID conditions and may change with new developments. This resort is booking far in advance as well. Please check to see their offerings before going.
Copper Spur
Lessons at Copper Spur begin at age 7, but they are also more economical. These lessons start at $59 for two-hour beginner lessons. They do not take advance reservations for these lessons and require that they be purchased at their ticket window daily. They offer different amenities depending on the season, so this might be a great resort whether you are skiing or just relaxing.
Mt. Bachelor
Mt. Bachelor has programs for children and adults alike. They start their group lessons at six years old, but they also offer private lessons. Many resorts are opting to do this because young children need more one-to-one attention. Their classes are two hours long. When their daycare center is operational, they have special programs for ages 2 ½ and up. They are currently not in operation for daycare services.
Mt. Hood Meadows
Mount Hood Meadows is a beautiful ski area with something for everyone. They start with parent and me lessons for ages three to six as well as offering other programs for children older than six. Unlike other resorts, Mt. Hood Meadows does provide group lessons for children as young as four and guarantee a limit of a three to one child to instructor ratio. They also offer adaptive lessons for students with disabilities. There are some requirements for capabilities currently, so check with the school if you need these lessons as well.
Timberline
The Timberline Resort is located on Mt. Hood and offers lessons for children and adults. They require that young children currently attend group lessons at Summit Pass, but they may participate in private lessons at Timberline. The amenities at the resort may also appeal to parents, such as the dining options or the DVD collection, and books or games. You can ski all day and spend quality family time in the evening. Check out their offering when you plan to go.
Final Thoughts
Skiing with your family is a great way to bond and learn new skills. If you do not get to play in the snow much because of busy schedules, this is probably a great way to feed that need for cold weather fun and family shenanigans. Remember that all things you give kids do not have to be tangible. Sometimes the memories you make falling and getting back up on the slopes are better than any video game or bike could ever be! Test out your sea legs, and if you are an expert skier, consider taking up snowboarding to try something new. Show your kids that learning new skills can be fun and entertaining. Happy Skiing!
