First Time Skier & Riders
Your First Day on Snow Starts at Pico
The First Time Program is built for people who have never skied or snowboarded. One price covers a beginner lesson, beginner-specific rental gear, and a limited Bonanza Learning Area lift ticket. It's open to ages 7 and up and can be taken one time per sport.
Coming soon for winter 26/27
At a Glance
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Available: Saturdays and Sundays, plus daily during peak periods
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Ability: Designed for beginners
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Meeting location: Slopeside at the Pico base lodge
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Adult Learn to Ski/Ride (16+): 9:45 a.m. or 12:45 p.m. · 2-hour lesson · lunch not included
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Youth Learn to Ski/Ride (7–15): full day, 9:45 a.m.–3:00 p.m. · lunch included
*2026/27 Peak Dates: December 25, 2026 – January 3, 2027; January 16–18, 2027; February 13–15, 2027
2026/27 Rates
Each rate includes beginner-specific rental gear, your lesson, and a limited Bonanza Learning Area lift ticket.
| Adult, 16+ (Half Day) | Youth 7-15 (Full Day) | |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Starting at $163 | Starting at $183 |
| Day 2 | Starting at $272 | Starting at $302 |
Bring a Friend, Ski or Ride Free
This is the second way to book Learn to Ski/Ride. If you already ski or ride, register a friend or family member for the lesson and you'll get a free same-day lift ticket for yourself. Consider it your reward for bringing someone new to the sport.
Good to know
- Friend/family member must be a first-time skier or snowboarder, ages 7+
- Good for one 1-day lift ticket. Multi-day bookings: free ticket valid first day only
- Reservations required at least 2 days in advance. Book online or call 800-621-6867, mention "Bring a Friend"
- Cannot be combined with other offers or discounts
How the First Time Program Works
Our qualified instructors use proven teaching methods and beginner-specific equipment to get you comfortable on snow. You'll learn on the Bonanza Learning Area — gentle terrain made for first turns.
Every first-time lesson, which we call Learn to Ski/Ride, includes beginner-specific rental gear, the lesson itself, and a limited Bonanza Learning Area lift ticket. New to snow? Our first-timer Tips & Tricks help you prepare for your first day.
One Lesson, Two Ways to Book
There's one lesson, and two ways to book it. You can book Learn to Ski/Ride on its own, or book it with a Bring a Friend lift ticket. The lesson is the same either way; the second option simply adds a free same-day lift ticket for an experienced skier or rider who's introducing someone new.