Lessons & Beginner Guide


Lesson’s for the ’24-’25 season are now available to purchase.

 

We offer lessons for skiers and snowboarders of all ages and levels, whether you’re a first-timer on the slopes or a pro looking to elevate your skills. All programs have limited capacity and may sell out. Please plan ahead and book your lessons early!

 

Curious about taking lessons? Learn more about how they can help you have a more enjoyable time on the slopes.

 

For additional information call 610-641-1319 or email [email protected].

All lessons are nonrefundable, unless Bear Creek is closed or Bear Creek cancels the lesson.

Private Ski And Snowboard Lessons 2024-25

Enjoy exclusive personal instruction from one of our professional ski and snowboard instructors. Whether you are a first-timer new to the sport or looking to advance to the next level, a Private lesson is the perfect way to maximize your experience. Our Private lessons are designed as student-centered, guest-oriented lessons that promote safety, fun, and learning.

All children under the age of 8 years old will be required to ride the lift with an instructor.

A $25 fee will be charged for any Private lesson that needs to be rescheduled.

Young Children’s Private Lessons

These young children’s private lessons are taught by professional children’s instructors. Children 4 and 5 years old must have a one-on-one lesson. Not recommended for children under 4.

Cost: $136

  • 1-hour lesson available at 10am and 1pm daily
  • Ages 4-5 years old

All children under the ages of 5 receive a complimentary extended day lift ticket valid until 9pm (ticket is not transferable). Lesson does not include rental equipment. Must have a one-on-one lesson. Will be accompanied by an instructor while on chairlift.

Children’s Private Lessons

These children’s private lessons are taught by professional children’s instructors.

cost: $230

  • Ages 6 & 7 years old
  • 2-hour lesson available at 10am, 1pm, and 6pm daily

Lesson does not include rental equipment or lift tickets.

Regular Private lessons

Individual Private Lesson offering exclusive one-on-one instruction. The individual Private Lesson is available for students 8 years old to adults.

Cost: $230

  • 2-hour in individual Private Lesson
  • Available at 10am, 1pm, and 6pm daily
  • $95 for each additional student in the lesson (maximum of 3 students per lesson)
Lesson does not include rental equipment or lift tickets.

Unless otherwise noted, lesson does not include a lift ticket or rental equipment. All lessons are non-refundable unless Bear Creek is closed for the day.

If the lesson time you are looking for is not available, please call 610-641-1319 for the most up- to- date availability.

 

To purchase your date and time, be sure and select Ski/Snowboard Private Lessons under Category, Choose All Ages and 1 Day and then pick your date and time.

Learn to Ski or Ride Package 2024-25

Learn to Ski or Ride Package 2024-25

Cost: $133/package (Weekdays/Non-Holiday), $195/package (Weekends/Holidays), $71/Lesson only (does not include lift ticket or rental equipment)

An introduction to the world of winter sports! Led by a certified instructor, this 2-hour group lesson package provides all the equipment you need, including skis or a snowboard, a helmet, and boots. Throughout the lesson, multiple stations will help you gain the proper techniques and safety tips. You’ll be ready to graduate to the slopes with confidence!

After completing your lesson, stop at the Snowsports School Sales desk to receive a coupon for 50% off a Private lesson for your next visit!

  • Includes a 2-hour group lesson for ages 8 and up
  • Available everyday at 10 am, 1 pm, and 6 pm
  • Includes a Beginner lift ticket*, lesson, and rental equipment (helmet is included)
  • *15+ Groups: All groups must adhere to group guidelines to be eligible for group rate. Please call 610-641-7180 or email [email protected] for large group reservations.

*Lift ticket limited to the magic carpet and E-lift only!

Please arrive at least 1 hour prior to your lesson to ensure enough time to receive your tickets/rental items. This program is only applicable to complete beginner skiers and riders. Must be 8 years old or older to participate. Package is for single user: non-transferable and non-refundable. All lessons are non-refundable unless Bear Creek is closed for the day.

 

To purchase your date and time, be sure and select Ski/Snowboard Group Lessons under Category, Choose All Ages and 1 Day and then pick your date and time.

 

 

Women's Clinics 2024-25

These popular and innovative clinics are designed for women and taught by our top instructors. Learn in small, well-matched groups with coaches who know how to create a fun and supportive environment.

 

Reservations are required. For reservations or additional information call 610-641-1319.

Women’s First-Timer Clinics

Cost: $325

  • A two-day introductory clinic held on consecutive Tuesdays.
  • Dates:  Jan. 14 and 21 from 9:30am-3:30pm daily
  • A complimentary Extended Day Ticket allows you to ski until 9pm.

Includes extended-day lift ticket, lesson, and rental equipment for two days. All lessons are non-refundable unless Bear Creek is closed for the day.

To purchase your date, be sure and select Ski/Snowboard Private Lessons under Category, Choose All Ages and 1 Day and then pick your date.

 

 

Thursday Women’s Focus Group

Cost: $409 for lift/lesson package (4 days)

  • Not for first time skiers. Must be able to link turns and stop on at least green terrain
  • Four-day women’s clinic with flexible dates
  • Pick any four of the following Thursdays: Jan. 16, 23, 30, Feb. 6, 13
  • Clinic runs from 9:30am-3:30pm daily
  • A complimentary Extended Day Ticket allows you to ski until 9pm
  • Are four days not enough? Add a day for $75. (must purchase 4-day package to add additional days)

Includes extended-day lift ticket and lesson for four days. This clinic is not designed for first-time skiers. All lessons are non-refundable unless Bear Creek is closed for the day.

 

To purchase your date, be sure and select Ski/Snowboard Private Lessons under Category, Choose All Ages and 1 Day and then pick your date.

New! Women’s Weekend Workshop (Ski & Snowboard)

Cost: $209 (3 weeks of lessons only)

Whether you are looking to get more comfortable with your skiing/riding or want to challenge yourself to conquer everything Bear Creek has to offer this program is for you!

  • Not for first time skiers. Must be able to link turns and stop on at least green terrain
  • January session offered on Saturday Jan. 4, 11, & 25
  • February session offered on Sunday Feb. 2, 9, & 23
  • Clinic runs from 1 pm to 3 pm daily

Includes lessons only, Does not include a lift ticket or rental equipment. This clinic is not designed for first-time skiers. All lessons are non-refundable unless Bear Creek is closed for the day. No classes will be held on Martin Luther King weekend (Jan.18 & 19) or President’s weekend (Feb. 15 & 16).

 

To purchase your date, be sure and select Ski/Snowboard Private Lessons under Category, Choose All Ages and 1 Day and then Select either January 4th or February 2nd.

Children's Group Lessons 2024-25

Bear Creek Polar Bear Club 2024-25

Cost: $251 3-week session (lesson only does not include lift ticket or rental equipment), $144 add unlimited lift ticket (3 weeks), $120 add rental equipment (3 weeks)

Our winter club welcomes young skiers and snowboarders ages 8 to 15, regardless of level. Students will receive two hours of small-group on-snow instruction based on their ability. They will stay with the same small groups throughout all three sessions. Some groups will work on freestyle fundamentals and explore our beginner park features. If rental equipment is purchased, it will be pre-set and ready to go when you arrive at check-in. 

Check-in is located on the plaza in front of the school. You may register your child for any three consecutive weekend sessions, either on Saturday or Sunday/morning or afternoon. Sessions are held from 10am-12pm (morning) or 1-3pm (afternoon). Children can be registered for multiple sessions. Reservations are required.

 

Session 1 – Saturday (morning 10 to 12) Jan. 4, 11, & 25 or (afternoon 1 to 3) Jan. 4, 11, & 25      Reserve Now

Session 2 – Sunday (morning 10 to 12) Jan. 5, 12, & 26 or (afternoon 1 to 3) Jan. 5, 12, & 26     Reserve Now

Session 3 – Saturday (morning 10 to 12) Feb. 1, 8, & 22 or (afternoon 1 to 3) Feb. 1, 8, & 22      Reserve Now

Session 4 – Sunday (morning 10 to 12) Feb. 2, 9 & 23 or (afternoon 1 to 3) Feb. 2, 9, & 23       Reserve Now

**No classes will be held on Martin Luther King weekend (Jan.18 & 19) or President’s weekend (Feb. 15 & 16).

Available Add-Ons

  • $251 3-week session (Lesson only does not include lift ticket or rental equipment)
  • $144 Add Unlimited Lift Ticket (3 weeks)
  • $120 Add Rental Equipment (3 weeks)

Lessons do not include lift ticket or rental equipment. All lessons are non-refundable. If Bear Creek is closed for the day a make-up date will be scheduled.  A skiing/snowboarding helmet is required to participate in the program.

Tuesday Night Youth Series 2024-25

Cost: $228 for six-week series (lesson only)

This six-week lesson series for both skiers and snowboarders is designed to refine existing skills and explore new terrain while developing well-rounded skiers and riders. Some groups will work on freestyle fundamentals and explore our beginner park features. This is also a great series for first-time skiers and riders to acquire a solid foundation from the beginning.

Advanced reservations are required.

  • Series for skiers and snowboarders of all abilities age 8-15
  • Tuesdays 6:30pm-8:00pm
  • Series dates: Jan. 7, 14, 21, 28, Feb. 4, 11

Available Add-Ons

  • $210 Add Evening Lift Tickets (valid all six weeks, must be purchased along with the lesson)
  • $180 Add Evening Rental Equipment (valid all six weeks, must be purchased along with the lesson)

Lessons do not include lift ticket or rental equipment. All lessons are non-refundable. If Bear Creek is closed for the day a make-up date will be scheduled. A Skiing/snowboarding helmet is required to participate.

 

To make your purchase, be sure and select Ski/Snowboard Group Lessons under Category, Choose All Ages and 1 Day and then go to January 7th to make your purchase.

Youth Development & Racing Program 2024-25

This seven-week program is designed to build solid fundamentals and strong all-terrain skiing skills that will allow young skiers to pursue whatever avenue of skiing expression they desire—recreational, competitive, or professional. Our goal is to build a lifelong love of the sport and to develop well-rounded skiers through a diverse combination of free-skiing, skill-development drills, and tactical gate training. Participants will have the opportunity to compete in NASTAR and special non-sanctioned Slalom and Giant Slalom races at Bear Creek as a part of this program. For registration information call 610-641-7157 or email [email protected]

Cost: $1,049

  • Program for intermediate or better skiers and racers ages 7-15

  • Saturdays and Sundays from 10am-noon and 1-3pm*
  • Weekends of Jan. 4 & 5, Jan. 11 & 12, Jan. 25 & 26, Feb. 1 & 2, Feb. 8 & 9, Feb.22 & 23, Mar. 1 & 2

Participants will need to purchase a season pass

 

*On some days, when races are scheduled, we will need to adjust the start/end times of the program. A complete schedule will be provided prior to the first weekend of the program.

*All lessons are non-refundable unless Bear Creek is closed for the day.

Adult Ski Programs 2024-25

Mountain Mastery Parents Program 2024-25

cost: $262 for 5-session program. $523 for 10-session program (clinic only, does not include lift ticket)

This five-weekend program is specifically designed for skiing parents. Coached by top-level trainers (the same folks who train our instructors), this family-focused series develops technical and tactical mastery while also teaching parents how to successfully shape the skiing skills of their children

  • This program is intended for parents with intermediate or advanced skiing skills
  • Saturdays: Jan. 11, 25 Feb. 1, 8, 22 from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm
  • Sundays: Jan. 12, 26 Feb. 2, 9, 23 from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm
  • Available as a five-session program (Sat. or Sun.) or a ten-session program (Sat. and Sun.)

*Reservations are required. This program has a limited capacity and may sell out. For reservations or additional information call 610-641-1319.

Clinic does not include lift ticket or rental equipment. All lessons are non-refundable unless Bear Creek is closed for the day.

 

 

To purchase your date, be sure and select Ski/Snowboard Private Lessons under Category, Choose All Ages and 1 Day and then Select either January 11th or January 12th.

Beginner Guides:

Just starting out? Check out some of our beginner guides and videos to get ready for your time on the slopes! 

PSIA Beginner Guide to Skiing

Pt 1: Learn About Ski Gear

See how skis work, learn what socks to wear, see how to put on your boots and skis, and watch how to carry your skis. 

 

Pt 2: Basic Movements on Snow

These basic movements will indicate how to get around on your skis, pick your ski pole up, & stand up from a seated position.

 

Pt 3: Getting Around on Skis

See how to turn your skis, how to stop on your skis, and how to get on and off a chairlift.

 

PSIA Beginner Guide to Snowboarding

 

Pt 1: Learn About Snowboard Gear

Find out how a snowboard functions, learn what socks you should wear, watch how to put on your boots & snowboard, and find out how to carry a snowboard.

 

Pt 2: Basic Movements on Snow

Learn how to get around on your snowboard, watch how to get up from a sitting position, and see how to move uphill.

 

Pt 3: Getting Around on a Snowboard

Watch how to stop on a snowboard, how to turn, and how to get on and off a chairlift.

24-25 Instructor Training Course:

The Bear Creek Snowsports School is looking for outgoing, friendly, guest centered skiers and snowboarders interested in joining our team of enthusiastic instructors.

  • The two-day Instructor Training Course (ITC) will be held November 9 & 10 and will consist of indoor/outdoor training, team building and evaluation.
  • The fee for the course is $25

Requirements

  • All candidates must be intermediate or better skiers/riders to become instructors
  • Associate Ski Instructor positions are available to 14 and 15 year olds.
  • Anyone 16 years old and up should apply as Ski Instructors or Snowboard Instructors.
  • Top candidates will be offered an instructor’s position at the conclusion of the ITC and will participate in paid training the first weekend Bear Creek opens for the season.
  • Please visit the careers link to complete an employment application and we will email you for an interview. · Please contact Susan Smoll at [email protected] if you have questions.

Apply Now

Resort Holidays

December 24, 2024 through January 1, 2025; January 20th, 2025; and February 17, 2025.

Need a Lift Ticket or Season Pass?

 

At Bear Creek, we offer extended day and evening lift tickets for youth and adult. We also offer discounted pricing for select guests in our community. We also offer a variety of season passes for all ages. Click below to view our pricing.

 

 

FAQs

  • Dress in layers. Weather conditions tend to change throughout the day
  • Wear waterproof or water-resistant clothing whenever possible
  • Wear only one pair of warm wool or synthetic socks that come up at least to mid-calf. They should extend above the top of your ski or snowboard boots. (Cotton socks are not recommended.) Do not tuck your pants into your boots
  • Wear gloves or mittens. (Wool gloves or mittens are not recommended)
  • Snow jackets and snow pants are great for extra insulation as well as wind/water protection
  • Bear Creek recommends that skiers and snowboarders wear helmets (you can rent helmets at Bear Creek). However, if you choose not to wear a helmet, be sure to bring a warm hat
  • Wear sunscreen, and don’t forget goggles or sunglasses for eye protection.
  • Bear Creek offers plenty of free parking. There is a loading/unloading area immediately in front of the plaza near the rental shop and ticket windows. Complimentary shuttle service from the parking lots is available on weekends and holidays.
  • First, stopat the ticket windows, located just off the lower parking lot at the front of the plaza, to purchase your lift tickets, rental tickets, Discovery lift/lesson/rental packages, or snowtubing tickets. Attach your tickets to your jacket or outerwear. (If you arrive with a group, the group leader should proceed to the Group Sales office located in the Rental Building on the side by the parking lot.)
  • If you are renting equipment, you can proceed across the plaza to the rental shop after purchasing your rental or lift/lesson/rental package tickets. Minors must have the signature of a parent or guardian in order to rent equipment. (Releases can be downloaded here.)
  • If you are enrolled in a Discovery lesson or a Youth Discovery lesson, you can proceed to the Discovery teaching area located at the base of the mountain (just off the plaza) after receiving your rentals. The Discovery area is open from 10am-12:30PM, 1:30-4pm and 6pm-8:30pm daily. You may enter and begin your lesson anytime during open hours.

Boots: You will receive your boots first. The rental technician will use your street shoe size to assure that you get the proper fit. Your boots should feel quite snug around your foot, but not too tight. Once your boots are buckled or closed, you should be able to wiggle your toes, but your heel should not move excessively when you pull up. If your boots feel too loose or too tight, please let the technician know to receive a different size.

 

Skis: Bindings mounted on top of your skis hold your boots to the skis. Your bindings will be adjusted according to your weight, height, age, and ability level. You will also be issued ski poles. You should select poles that put your elbow at about a 90 degree angle with the pole planted in the snow. 

 

To step into your skis, place the ledge on the front of your boot under the front part of the binding or “toe piece,” then line up your heel with the back of the binding, or “heel cup,” and press down with the heel of the boot. To remove your skis, simply press down on the lever located at the back of your bindings with your ski pole tip and lift up on the heel of your boot.

 

Snowboards: Our technicians will choose the right snowboard for you based on your weight, height, and ability level. They will also use this information to set the position of your bindings, which hold your boots onto your snowboard. Bear Creek uses only strap-in bindings, which contain two straps and a high backplate to secure your feet to the snowboard. These bindings offer good control and comfort.

Whether on the slopes or in the parks, we want everyone to have a safe and enjoyable snow sports experience. Please respect all of our guests and team members, and help us to maintain a friendly, courteous, and relaxing atmosphere.

Please review our safety tips here.