Learn to Ski or Snowboard in the Poconos

A skiing and snowboarding expedition calls for a more strategic wardrobe than your average winter day out. Even in the sunshine, it’s chilly up on the peaks! Opt for waterproof outerwear including coat, snow pants and gloves that won’t get wet from the snow, and add multiple layers underneath for warmth. If you have your own goggles and helmet, be sure to bring them. Most ski resorts do have on-site ski and snow shops if you decide you need an extra layer of socks after you arrive. There’s no need to invest in your own gear if you’re just getting started; plan to rent your boots and board or skis and poles at the mountain. Each ski area offers top of the line equipment and staff expertise to help you find the right fit.  

Before you go, be sure to check for the latest weather information on our snow conditions page so you’ll know what temperatures and how much natural and man-made powder to expect. Want to skip a few lines? You can book your lift tickets and passes and even arrange your rentals online ahead of your trip.
 

Finding a mountain with beginner-friendly trails is important if you’re new to the slopes, and all six Poconos ski resorts feature great bunny hills as well as dedicated ski school and lesson center spaces (see next tip!).

Blue Mountain Resort located in Palmerton features the Valley School Triple, Frontier Alley and School Hill for first-timers. At Big Boulder Ski Area in Lake Harmony, you can use the easy on-off “magic carpet” conveyor on the ski school slopes, then graduate to the chairlift and take on the green Lower Sitzmark and Little Boulder runs. A triumvirate of Jack Frost Mountain trails in White Haven, Frosty, Powder Puff and Snowflake, are great for beginners.

The largest ski area in the Poconos, Camelback Mountain in Tannersville has multiple beginner-friendly slopes in the Sunbowl and Coolmor areas. Ski Big Bear at Masthope Mountain, the region's northernmost ski area, offers a series of six green circle trails winding down from the top, but the Little Bear lift and Snowbird trail are perfect for getting started. Find gentle slopes at the learning center at Shawnee Mountain & Ski Area, right next to the snow tubing park. Be sure to check each ski area’s website for the most up-to-date trail information!

Poconos ski and snowboard instructors are passionate about what they teach and experienced in preparing beginners for success on the slopes. From how to suit up properly to how to fall safely, let professionals guide you every step of the way. You'll find a wide variety of offerings for beginners, from children's programs to private lessons. See what a beginner ski lesson for adults looks like at Shawnee Mountain Ski Area: watch below as Pocono Television Host Brianna tries skiing for the first time.

Big Boulder Ski Area and Jack Frost Mountain offer ongoing Discovery Beginner Lessons that you can hop into anytime 9 a.m. to noon or 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., with Big Boulder offering night lessons from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. as well. Blue Mountain Resort has a four-week Winter Adventure Camp for children ages six to 14. If you're hoping to learn with other newbies you know, groups of three to 10 can sign up for Family & Friends Beginner Lessons at Camelback Mountain. Hone your skills and attend developmental classes including a travel team program at Shawnee Mountain & Ski Area.

Looking for snowboarding lessons? Watch kid reporter Zoey Gregory take a lesson at Ski Big Bear at Masthope Mountain and browse Poconos snowboarding options below.

Take your time practicing the basics on the beginner and novice trails! Concentrate on that slow and gentle turn so you can stay in control as you glide down the slopes. Don’t forget that learning how to stop is an important part of the process. For skiers, you’ll need to master the wedge. For snowboarders, perfect your balance, and focus on edge control. Remember that everyone learns at their own pace!

This winter could be the beginning of a new lifelong love of skiing and snowboarding: book that ski lesson in the Poconos! Take advantage of special savings on ski and stay packages. Browse local accommodations and delicious dining to plan a cozy apres ski evening after your day on the slopes, and explore even more winter adventures awaiting in the Pocono Mountains.