The Pocono Mountains are home to six amazing ski resorts, and host Deanna Fontanez brings you along to Jack Frost, part of the Jack Frost Big Boulder family. While she has skied before, this visit is about trying something new, snowboarding, and discovering why Jack Frost is a welcoming place for beginners and families.

Joined by her instructor, Ken Salmon, Deanna learns what makes snowboarding different from skiing. “I’d say the biggest adjustment would have to be having two feet on one board,” Ken explains. “Typically with skis, you have both feet kind of free. So, it could be a scary thing for people. But that’s probably by far the biggest change between the two.” He walked her through the fundamentals, starting with J-turns to build balance and control. “It’s going to help you get on and off the lift, and we’re going to get you comfortable on both edges, that way we’re able to effectively and smoothly and safely make it down the slope.”

Trying something new can be intimidating, especially for first-timers, but Ken emphasizes confidence from the start. “Confidence is key, right? If you’re not confident in your abilities and what you can do, you’re probably going to end up falling,” he says, adding that repetition helps skills click quickly.

Once on the mountain, Deanna finds that trusting the process makes all the difference. Snowboarding quickly feels less intimidating and far more fun, highlighting how the right instructors and learning environment can shape the experience for beginners.

That environment is what many visitors love most about Jack Frost. “I think the best thing about Jack Frost is the family vibe, the low crowd, the excellent snow and the views,” says Jared Klepacki, Senior Mountain Operations Manager. As part of the Jack Frost Big Boulder resort family, guests also enjoy added flexibility. “One ticket, two mountains,” Jared explains, allowing visitors to ski during the day at Jack Frost and enjoy night skiing at Big Boulder. Located just about two hours from major metropolitan areas, Jack Frost Big Boulder is an easy winter getaway. The mountain also offers a different layout than most. “What’s really unique is that it’s an upside-down mountain,” Jared says. “You’ll start your day at the top of the ski area, take in our breathtaking views, and then ski down to the bottom of the mountain, and get on the chairlift and take yourself back up to the top" 

Whether you ski, snowboard, or are trying winter sports for the very first time, the Pocono Mountains and the Jack Frost Big Boulder family offer something for everyone!