TIPS FOR YOUR VERY FIRST DAY ON THE SLOPES...

All Adult Learn to Ski and Snowboard and Ridge Runner and Ridge Rider packages at the Arizona Snowbowl are sold in the Rental Shop (SKIwee packages are in the Children's Center), so you’ll want to go there first (it’s located on the bottom floor of the Hart Prairie Lodge). Then, you’ll head for the Learn to Ski / Snowboard area, located north of the Hart Prairie Chairlift, to meet your instructor and fellow first-timers! Beginner classes start promptly at 10:00 AM and 1:00 PM.

We recommend you show up at least 1 hour before your lesson time for mid-week lessons and at least 2 hours before on weekends and holidays; this should get you through the Rental Shop with plenty of time before your lesson.

WHAT TO BRING AND WEAR

Arizona Snowbowl would like to ensure that all participants have a safe, fun, comfortable, and successful learning experience here on our slopes. The following information is for your safety and comfort.
Tips:

• Take an extra pair of dry socks to put on when you arrive at Snowbowl. It is a good idea to have dry socks just before you hit the slopes to be sure you have warm feet.
• Do not wear two pairs of socks, it will make your feet colder.
• Wool is GOOD, cotton is BAD, this includes all clothing items.
• It is very important to have pants and a top outer layer that are at least water resistant.
• Keep boots, gloves, helmets, and any other gear you wear in the car or bus where it’s heated, not in the trunk.
• Do not attach your lift ticket to your jacket in case the weather gets warm later. It should be attached to ski pants or ski bibs.
  
• It is a very good idea to eat a good breakfast; Snowbowl has breakfast available here including breakfast burritos, breakfast sandwiches, yogurt, cereal, fruit, etc.
  
• Bring sunscreen! Between 9,000ft and 11,500 ft the atmosphere is far thinner and sun burns happen quickly even in cloudy conditions.
  
• Be sure to have proper eye protection, this is extremely important. It is possible to suffer snow-blindness without protection.
  
• Keep hydrated throughout the day. Even if you feel cold, your body is using up lots of water by keeping you warm.
  
• Bring lots of snacks to stick in pockets and backpacks this can save the day when you’re feeling tired or worn out.
  
• We are at elevations between 9,000ft and 11,500ft. Some people feel the effects of elevation so it is important to take it easy and try to avoid getting in over your head.

REMEMBER: TAKE A LESSON!

We highly recommend that first-time skiers or snowboarders take a lesson with our Ski & Ride School. It is imperative to learn proper technique in order to prevent injury and make the sport more enjoyable. For more information, please click here.

The price of a Learn or Ski or Snowboard program is the same as the lift ticket and rental equipment - take a lesson and learn from our pros.

SKI APPAREL

Appropriate dress can make or break your day on the slopes. It is worth investing in a pair of waterproof ski pants, as jeans get wet and will allow you to get cold. It is best to dress in layers as temperatures can vary from day to day. A waterproof shell is your best bet for a jacket, with a fleece and under layers for additional warmth. The thinnest pair of cotton socks is essential in boot comfort, allowing for optimal circulation and boot fit. Additional comfort can be achieved by wearing highly breathable clothing specifically made for outdoor winter activities. Neck gators, hats and face masks are also highly recommended.

If you forgot your gloves, jacket or any other necessity, don't worry. We have Sport Shops located in both lodges. Please note that Snowbowl does not rent clothing or accessories.

Outer Layer Gear List:

• Waterproof gloves
• Waterproof or water resistant jacket (nylon, gore-tex)
  
• Waterproof or water resistant pants (nylon, gore-tex)
  
• Hat or Helmet for cold weather
  
• Hat or Helmet with sun protection (offering coverage for whole head not just baseball cap)
  
• Goggles (especially if it’s snowing)
  
• Gator (to protect face and neck)
  
• Shoes proper for walking in snow / puddles

 

Inner Layer Gear List:

*Cannot stress enough that jeans and any other cotton material are inappropriate for snowplay*

• Fleece or wool pants (long underwear)
  
• Fleece or wool sweater 2 layers
  
• Wool socks
  
• Extra clothing and socks to change into after snowplay

 

Other Stuff Gear List:

• Water
  
• Snacks
  
• Sunscreen
  
• Lunch $$
  
• Heat Treat Toe & Hand warmers