Ski lessons with a certified ski instructor put you on the fast track to skill improvement, but the cost of a lesson may leave a gap in your winter vacation budget. As of January, 2011, the larger resorts, such as Breckenridge in Colorado, charge a minimum of $120 for an adult group lesson. Fortunately, while unadvertised, inexpensive lessons do exist.
For Beginners
Ski resort managers, eager to entice novices to try the sport, offer affordable learn to ski packages, which include lessons, lift tickets and equipment rental. Some resorts up the ante by participating in Learn to Ski Month, which usually takes place in January. Designated resorts in 34 states offer free lessons during this period.
Smaller Resorts
The larger, more commercial resorts charge top dollar for their lift tickets and ski lessons. Smaller resorts, which often gear their services toward families and local skiers, charge less. The Loveland Ski Resort, located in Colorado, charges $80 for a full-day lesson, whereas Aspen charges $129.
Midweek And Multi-Day
Since most visitors crowd the ski areas on weekends and holidays, some resort managers offer midweek discounts on lifts, lodging and lessons. Okemo, located in Vermont, charges $50 for midweek morning lessons. Take off another 20 percent for multi-day midweek morning sessions. Some resorts provide value in their multi-day ski camps, which include lift tickets, lessons, some meals or snacks and discount lodging.
Lodging Packages
Resorts such as Sugarloaf Maine include free lessons if you stay at a property owned by the resort management company. While on-mountain lodging is usually more expensive, you might break even if the rate includes ski lessons.
Frequent Visitor Rewards
Some resort management companies, such as Vail Resorts, let you earn frequent visitor points, which convert to free lift tickets or ski lessons. Season pass holders also receive unadvertised specials, such as unlimited lessons on a specific day of the week, or substantial discounts during off-peak season.
Volunteering
If you are lucky enough to live within a reasonable driving distance of the resort, consider a volunteer position. Mountain ambassadors hand out trail maps and give tours of the resort. Most resorts require a 14-day commitment, which entitles you to a season pass and free or discounted ski lessons.
Off-Peak
While snow conditions are less than optimal in early and late season, ski schools sometimes offer substantial lesson discounts during this period. You might end up with a semi-private lesson at group rates. Early and late season lessons may have some unexpected benefits. Most resorts only have their ski school directors and instructor trainers working during this period, which allows you take lessons with instructors who are usually overbooked during peak season.
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