You know that friend who's always talked about learning to ski or snowboard but never made the effort? Well, January is Learn to Ski and Snowboard Month, so now's the perfect time to give them a little nudge.

Whitefish Mountain Resort's Ski & Ride School offers tailored lessons for all ages and skill levels. Whether you're looking to learn the basics, shake off the rust or take your skiing ability to the next level, Snow Sports Director Magdalen Shale says there's no better time to connect with one of our friendly and knowledgeable instructors.

"Understanding people's goals and backgrounds really helps us tailor our teaching style to their individual learning styles, comfort levels and abilities," Shale said. "Whether you come from a warm or cold climate, you're a complete beginner or you already know the fundamentals of skiing, we can build a lesson that's right for you."

Private and group lessons are available to meet your logistical needs and personal learning style. Shale emphasizes that improving your technique is only part of the equation — snow sports are supposed to be fun, too — and that's why she recommends booking a half- or full-day lesson.

"More time with the guest generates a better learning outcome for them, and gives our instructors plenty of time to show you around," she said. "That can make the whole experience a lot more welcoming and less daunting if you're unfamiliar with our mountain!"

Keep reading for an overview of our lesson options!

First Time Lesson Package

One popular lesson option is our Toyota First Time Lesson Package, which includes one day of lessons and equipment rentals, as well as a beginner area lift ticket. Afterward, each participant receives a frequent skier card and discounts on lift tickets, rentals and additional lessons for the rest of the season. Available to guests 7 and older, this $89 package deal is the most fun and affordable way to get started on the slopes.

Kids

Kids ages 3-6 meet their instructors in a comfortable indoor setting at our Kids Center, where they are grouped by age and ability. Then they head out to the slopes to learn the basics and have some fun. At the end of the lesson, instructors provide a report card and help each child set goals for the next adventure. Day care for the little ones is available, too!

Juniors

Juniors ages 7-14 are grouped with peers who share their skiing and snowboarding goals. Young riders can learn the basics, improve their turning and stopping, or learn how to safely navigate a black-diamond line. The Ski & Ride School also offers one-on-one lessons for anyone who wants more facetime with the instructor.

Adults

Adults can participate in all kinds of lesson options. Many enjoy full-day group lessons! Shorter lessons aren't always enough time to get comfortable on the slopes, so why not make a day out of it? You can break for lunch with your lesson group, or meet up with friends or family before returning for the afternoon.

Adaptive

Our friends at DREAM Adaptive Recreation provide half- and full-day adaptive snow sports lessons for people with disabilities ages 5 and older! Check out DREAM's website for more information.

"As an instructor, it's extremely rewarding when we can teach family members at their own individual paces, and then they all get together later to show off what they've learned," Shale said. "They can divide and conquer the mountain and then enjoy it as a family. Isn't that ultimately the goal of a family vacation?"

The Ski & Ride School and Kids Center are located on the second floor of the Base Lodge. For more information or to book a lesson, visit the links below or call 406-862-2909. Lessons fill up fast, so book yours ahead of time for a hassle-free visit!