Finding a Great Fit in a Colorado Private Ski Instructor
Skiing is not an intuitive sport. Though many people grow up in resort and mountain culture, the process of learning to ski takes time, patience, and a great deal of courage. For most, lessons are essential to learning and practicing ski safety and technique. Even the most advanced skiers may benefit from a one-on-one session with an experienced mountain guide.
Private lessons are an appropriate and responsible choice for many skiers. If you find yourself consistently held back by slower learners, a private lesson will allow you to excel. Conversely, if you prefer to take your time with a new skill—this is a high-risk sport, after all—a private instructor will provide the space and confidence to learn at your own pace.
Great for Beginner and Expert Skills
In our opinion, beginner and advanced skiers will benefit most from private ski instruction. If you consider yourself to be an experienced but intermediate skier or boarder, a group lesson will likely provide the skills and instruction you need. Moreover, while ski school lessons are offered at nearly every ski area in Colorado, they differ dramatically in price, quality, and availability. These lessons will often allow for an included or discounted lift ticket, so it’s important to make the decision to take a lesson prior to purchasing your passes. Additionally, vacationers and season pass holders alike should check for special deals on lessons, packages, and lift tickets before purchasing—many Colorado resorts have special discounted days and weekends.
Below, we have compiled information on private ski instruction available in Colorado—from independent and freelance instructors to availability at mountain resorts. Decisions should be made based on income, skill, and schedule availability; you don’t want to sign up for a several-weeks-long program if you’re only at a resort for a few days, and those looking to develop their skills over a season may be interested in private ski school. If you have questions about private ski instructors in Colorado, we have the answers.
Freelance and Independent Ski Instructors
Though the most accessible private ski instructors in Colorado work through resorts, a number of experienced skiers prefer to go the independent or freelance route. Many talented skiers choose to instruct ski lessons independently in order to set their own rates, determine their own schedules, and gain worldwide exposure. Though these instructors are often slightly more expensive than those offered at resorts, they often have more knowledge and experience.
Furthermore, booking an independent private lesson instructor will allow for a certain amount of flexibility. Kevin Foote, a PSIA-certified instructor, provides independent private lessons for families and small groups, offering local knowledge and commentary one might not receive with a resort instructor.
Skiers soliciting private lessons can conduct their own research, but several online resources exist to aid the process. CoachUp works to connect freelance and independent instructors with skiers and riders. The site works with your proposed budget, ability, and availability to find a perfect match.
At a Resort
Ski resorts often the most affordable, flexible, and widely available private ski instruction. This is a great option for families and individuals spending a concentrated amount of time at a resort—whether you’re in the area for a week or hold a season pass, utilizing the same instructor over a period of time will allow skiers and riders to develop a relationship with both the mountain and the instructor. Additionally, season pass holders may be eligible for discounted ski school or private instruction, and these lessons may include discounted rental gear. Once you have chosen your resort destination, be sure to check online for any additional savings you may get.
Arapahoe Basin Ski Area—A two-hour private lesson is $210 and can accommodate up to four people. Reservations must be booked over the phone and at least 24 hours in advance.
Aspen/Snowmass—A half day lesson is available for $665 and can accommodate up to six people. Save $50 when you book seven days in advance.
Beaver Creek—A half day private lesson costs $739 and can accommodate up to six people. Save $34 when you book online.
Breckenridge—A half day private lesson costs $679 and can accommodate up to six people. Save $44 when you book online.
Cooper—A two-hour private lesson is $159 and can accommodate a single person.
Copper Mountain Resort—A half day private lesson costs $459 and can accommodate up to four guests.
Crested Butte Mountain Resort—A half day private lessons costs $475 and must be scheduled at least 48 hours in advance.
Echo Mountain—A two-hour private lesson costs $100 and must be booked at least 48 hours in advance.
Eldora Mountain Resort—A two-hour private lesson costs $219 and must be reserved via phone and in advance.
Keystone—A 3-hour private lesson costs $599 and can accommodate up to six people.
Loveland—A two-hour private lesson costs $135 and can accommodate up to four participants.
Powderhorn—A two-hour private lesson costs $130 and must be reserved at least 24 hours in advance.
Purgatory—A two-hour private lesson costs $255. Save $15 when you book online.
Ski Granby Ranch—A half day private lesson costs $279 and must be booked via telephone at 888-850-4615.
Steamboat—A half day private lesson costs $469. Save $20 when you book in advance online.
Sunlight Mountain Resort—A two-hour private lesson costs $175 and must be booked via telephone at 970-947-5142.
Telluride —A half day private lesson costs $490 and can accommodate up to five students.
Vail—A three-hour private lesson costs $739 and can accommodate up to six participants. Save $34 when you book online and in advance.
Winter Park Resort —A half day private lesson costs $479 and can accommodate up to five people.
Wolf Creek Ski Area—A half day private lesson costs $425 and must be scheduled by telephone at 970-264-5639.