Learning to Ski in Colorado and Utah

While it's possible to find excellent ski instruction at many ski resorts, the quality of instruction in Utah and Colorado is exceptional. In many cases, a Colorado or Utah ski instructor might be someone who has given up a well paying job in order to share their passion for the sport with those who have not yet discovered it. With that in mind, most resorts in these two states will have a variety of top quality ski instructors. However, the following resorts have separate learning areas for new students, as well as some excellent deals that are too good to pass up!

LovelandSkiSchool

Loveland is Colorado's best kept secret. It's far less commercial than other ski areas, and its atmosphere is friendly and congenial. If you are a new skier, you will love the separate beginner's area, and all skiers will love the free parking right by the slopes! For $64, you can purchase a lesson package that includes a 2and a half hour lesson, a lift ticket and equipment rental. Now here's the great news: If you purchase three full lesson packages you can get a free season's pass! Newcomer lessons are taught at Loveland Valley, and area specifically for beginners. For information, call 303-571-5880 extension 163.

CopperMountainSkiSchool

CopperMountain ski instructors live, eat and sleep skiing. Many of them spend their Tuesday nights attending skier movement analysis sessions to help them become better instructors. In fact, the SkiSchool at CopperMountain is so confident in their instructors teaching abilities, that they are pleased to offer some great values for their guests. The three-day level buster guarantees that by the third day, you will be skiing full green runs. If not, you get the fourth lesson for free! The three-day lesson plan costs $160-$180, depending on the season. If you decide that you love taking lessons at Copper Mountain, sign up for the Sunday Unlimited Lesson Plan. Most never-evers are taught at the Union Creek area of Copper Mountain. This area is separated from the more advanced ski trails, so beginners do not feel harassed by faster skiers zooming past them. For details, call 866-841-2481.

AltaSkiSchool

With no disrespect meant for snowboarders, many novice skiers will most likely fond it easier to learn to ski at skier only resorts. Luckily, Alta is not only an area exclusive to skiers; it has an award winning ski school. Ski Magazine voted the Alf EngenSkiSchool as one of the Top 10 Ski Schools in the Country. Lessons are taught in the Albion Lift area, which consists of predominantly green terrain. Lessons are $42 which includes lift tickets! For information, call (801) 359-1078extension 271.

DeerValley

When you're ready to splurge on a bit of elegance, check out DeerValley. Yes, it's expensive, and yes it's worth it. This skier-only resort limits the amount of lift tickets that it sells on a daily basis. Not only will you be learning without the distraction of snowboarders, the ski area will never be excessively crowded. There are a maximum of four students in each group. Three hour lessons run from 9 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. and cost $115. Be sure to check out the delicious buffet lunch bar at the Stein Eriksen Cafeteria!