Find out how to classify yourself to your instructor, and get your lessons started on the right foot. Knowing your level will help set the tone for your lesson, and kick your progression into high gear.

For your convenience, Mammoth provides a Ski & Snowboard School at each base lodge – Main, Canyon and Eagle. For our younger skiers and riders, we have a special area within Ski School called Mammoth Kids at each base lodge.

Always check to see which location you reserved your lesson at before arriving. Please arrive at the lesson area 5–10 minutes prior to your lesson start time with all of your equipment. This will allow us time to assess your ability level and ensure that you are placed in an appropriate class.

4 Miles Past The Village
Look for the colorful Ski/Snowboard School flags that denote each lesson type between the Panorama Gondola building and Discovery Express (Chair 11). Ski School supervisors typically wear a blue jacket and black pants and will help organize groups (instructors will be in blue pants).

Accessible Via The Village Gondola
Look for the colorful Ski/Snowboard School flags on the snow between the exit doors and the bottom of Chair 8. Ski School supervisors typically wear a blue jacket and black pants and will help organize groups (instructors will be in blue pants). Children ages 3–4 should meet inside Mammoth Kids Canyon Lodge on the second floor of the lodge.

Closest to Town by Juniper Springs Resort
Look for Ski/Snowboard School flags on the snow between the bottom of Eagle Express (Chair 15) and the parking lot. Ski School supervisors typically wear a blue jacket and black pants and will help organize groups (instructors will be in blue pants).

Do I need to book in advance?

Highly recommended. Popular instructors and lesson times book up fast. We recommend booking online or calling 800.MAMMOTH as soon as your plans are made, reserving tickets and rentals at the same time.

We recommend allowing at least an hour to get through the rental process and dress your children so they are prepared for their lesson. Rental shops open at 8:00 AM daily throughout the season, or you can pick up rental reservations between 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM the day prior. Aim to arrive 5–10 minutes prior to your lesson start time with all of your equipment. This will allow us time to assess your ability level and ensure that you are placed in an appropriately. Remember everything takes longer when it snows.

Helmets and eye protection (sunglasses or goggles) are required for all children ages 3–14 enrolled in Mammoth Ski and Snowboard School programs. Helmet rentals are available. For additional helmet safety information, visit NSAA's Lids on Kids website.

Lessons start promptly at the designated time. We recommend arriving at the rental shop at least 1 hour before lesson time in order for your children to be set up with equipment.

All kids need to be at least 3 years old, and must be potty trained – no diapers.

Kids ages 13–14 may feel more comfortable learning in adult or child-focused settings, depending on the individual. Parents may elect either Adult or Kid Group Lessons for this age range. Helmets and protective eyewear are required for anyone 14 and under, even while in adult group lessons. Adult Group Lessons have unaccompanied lunch time, and guests are not required to be signed out at the end of the lesson.

Required for All Ages

• Lesson ticket
• Lift Ticket or Pass
• Skis & Ski Boots or Snowboard & Boots
• A Great Attitude and Willingness to Learn!

Required for All Children 14 and Under

• Helmet
• Goggles or sunglasses (goggles highly recommended for stormy days)
• Gloves/mittens
  

Recommended

• Sunscreen
• Neck gaiter for cold or stormy days (strongly recommended)
• Cold-weather clothing (strongly recommended)
• Water-resistant pants & jackets
• Snacks

Highly recommended. Rentals are bookable online in advance and may be picked up from 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM the day prior, or starting at 8:00 AM the day of your reservation. Rentals must be picked up at the rental location indicated in your reservation.

Because Mammoth is located at a high elevation, weather conditions can vary in a short period of time and the sun can be harmful to your skin and body if you're not prepared. Layering is the best way to maximize your comfort if/when the weather shifts.

Avoid cotton fabrics, as they retain moisture from snow and perspiration. Start with a moisture-wicking inner layer (such as wool or silk) and add an insulating middle piece (such as a fleece, sweater or vest). Top off with a wind and water-resistant shell layer to protect you from the elements.

You may include up to 5 people in your 3 & 7-hour private lessons. 1-hour lessons have a maximum of two students. In the interest of safety, lessons are geared toward the lowest skill level, so it is advisable to arrange your lesson group with similar skill sets, and not combine adults and young children.

Can I have multiple ability levels and age groups in the same private lesson?
This is not generally recommended. If you choose to do so, the instructor will choose the terrain that is best suited to the needs of the least experienced guest. When booking your private lesson, the more you can tell us about the experience you're looking for, the better we will be able to pair you with the best instructor for your needs.

Can both skiers and snowboarders attend the same private lesson?
This is not generally recommended as it is very difficult for an instructor to teach snowboarding while wearing skis and vice versa. We can do our best to accommodate a private lesson for both disciplines so long as everyone is at an intermediate level or higher. Please contact us to let us know if you will have both skiers and snowboarders so that we can match your group with an appropriate instructor.

Can I split the private lesson time between multiple people?
Yes, your time with your private lesson instructor can be divided any way you like. For example, if you purchase a 3-hour private lesson, your instructor could spend an hour with your 7-year-old beginner and 2 with your 10-year-old intermediate.

As one of the leading ski and snowboard schools in the nation, it is our mission to provide you with an outstanding learning experience. If you're not completely satisfied with your lesson, please speak with a Ski & Snowboard School representative within 72 hours and we will offer you another lesson of equal value free of charge.

High altitude means less atmosphere to filter the sun. Be sure to apply sunscreen at least 30 minutes prior to hitting the slopes, then re-apply every 2–3 hours. Drink 10–16 ounces of fluid before hitting the slopes, and continue replenishing throughout the day. Focus on water and carbohydrate-replacing drinks. Modify caffeine and alcohol intake. Don’t forget to give yourself enough time and energy to last throughout the day. Visit our Safety & Conduct page for more information.

How are lunches managed for children's group lessons?
Our 5–7 & 8–14 year old group lessons include lunch, although locations and times do vary. For more information, please check in with your child's instructor at the start of the lesson. If your child has a food allergy or a specific diet, please pack a lunch for them.

WHAT IF THE LESSON GUEST IS SICK?
Stay home. Call 800.MAMMOTH or visit a ticket counter to reschedule.

DO I NEED A LIFT TICKET?
Yes, you must have a lift ticket to participate in any ski or snowboard lesson. Children 4 & under ski free, but must have a ticket or pass.

For all cancellations, please call 800.MAMMOTH or submit an online cancellation request.