Four skiers in the learning zone with the village in the background
Category
Lessons
Sports
Ski
Snowboard
Age
Youth
Adult
Level
First Timer

Beginner Ski and Snowboard Group Lessons

These programs offer a great introduction to skiing and snowboarding for anyone age 13 and older who is new to winter sports.

Lessons are available seven days a week at Sun Peaks, with full day or two-hour options. There is a maximum of three students per group. 

Don't have equipment or a lift pass yet? Rentals and lift tickets are available to add-on with your lesson. The Learning Zone Lift Ticket includes access to Learning Zone Carpet, Village Carpet, Village Platter and 1 Ride on Sundance or Sunburst chair.

Please note: all guests must have a lift ticket to access any lifts, including the Learning Zone.

Is This Lesson Right for You?

First Timers who have never tried skiing or snowboarding before.

Book Ski and Snowboard Lessons Online

First Timers
 

Full Day: First Timers 2025-26 
Ages13 years old and up
Lesson Details (4 Instructional Hours)

9:00am to 3:30pm
$135

Package Savings
Book 3 and save 5% 
Book 5 and save 10%

Book Online

Contact Sports School to apply discounts. Discounted rates apply to lessons booked per person in a single transaction. 

Full Day Lesson Schedule9:00am to 11:00am
Break 11:00am to 1:30pm 
1:30pm to 3:30pm
Add-ons

Lift Ticket Add-on (learning zone access) 
$35.25

Rental Add-on
$36

Listed rates apply to lessons only. Equipment rentals and lift tickets are not included, but may be purchased as add-ons at the time of booking. A $6.00 damage waiver is included in listed rental prices. Lift ticket rates exclude a $5.00 Mountain Card fee. All rates are in Canadian dollars and subject to applicable taxes. Lessons are non-transferable.

 

Two-Hours: First Timers 2025-26
Ages13 years old and up
Lesson Details (2 Hour Lesson)

9:00am to 11:00am
$119

11:00am to 1:00pm
$111

1:30pm to 3:30pm
$72.50

Package Savings
Book 3 and save 5% 
Book 5 and save 10%

 Book Online

Contact Sports School to apply discounts. Discounted rates apply to lessons booked per person in a single transaction. 

Add-ons

Lift Ticket Add-on (learning zone access) 
$35.25

Rental Add-on
$36

Listed rates apply to lessons only. Equipment rentals and lift tickets are not included, but may be purchased as add-ons at the time of booking. A $6.00 damage waiver is included in listed rental prices. Lift ticket rates exclude a $5.00 Mountain Card fee. All rates are in Canadian dollars and subject to applicable taxes. Lessons are non-transferable.

TIPS FOR YOUR FIRST LESSON

SNOW SPORTS SCHOOL LOCATION

The Sports School sales desk and Guest Service are located in the Village Day Lodge at the base of the Sunburst and Sundance chairlifts. This is where you check-in for lessons and can pick-up your rental equipment and lift tickets (the rental shop is next to the Snow Sports School for a one stop shop).

WHERE DO LESSONS START?

The meeting area for all lessons is just around the corner from the Sports School office and right at the base of our beginner area.

WHAT SHOULD I WEAR?

Due to ever-changing conditions, we recommend dressing in layers;

  • Thermal long underwear or tights as a base layer is recommended.

  • Socks should be a wool/polyester blend and not too bulky, one pair of socks is sufficient.

  • Outer layer should be water and wind resistant. If your outer layer is not insulated, add extra layers underneath for warmth.

  • Wool and polyester/fleece blends are warmer and drier than cotton.

  • A warm hat is necessary on cold days; on warmer days (above 0°C) a headband or cap are sufficient. We recommend the use of helmets but it is not mandatory.

  • Gloves or mittens are essential.

  • Wear goggles to protect your eyes on snowy and/or windy days.

  • Sunscreen is strongly recommended for sunny days.

BEGINNER TERRAIN

Sun Peaks has some of the best beginner terrain anywhere; from our beginner-only area to Gentle Giant, followed by Homesteader, we offer a fantastic progression that allows beginners to progress easily and quickly. Our various carpets and surface lifts are well adapted and easy to use.

EQUIPMENT

Our 'Learn to Ski/Snowboard" packages include skis and snowboards specially designed for beginners, which tend to be shorter and more flexible, putting the emphasis on ease rather than performance.

  • Ski and snowboard boots should provide a relaxed and comfortable fit, designed to feel snug when done up providing foot stability. Remember, ski socks are preferable and one pair is sufficient.

  • Ski poles are useful for balance and rhythm while skiing, learning with poles is a good idea.

SAFETY TIPS

  • Always wear a helmet and other protective gear.

  • Remember to take it easy, and stop for the occasional rest.

  • Stay hydrated throughout the day.

  • Follow the Alpine Responsibility Code.

  • Take a lesson to ensure a safe and fun learning environment.

For more information please visit the Sports School sales desk located in the Village Day Lodge or contact us by phone or email.

Contact us
HoursSeptember 29 to November 21, 2025, Daily, 9:00am to 4:00pm
November 22, 2025 to April 6, 2026, Daily, 8:00am to 4:30pm
PhoneLocal: 250.578.5474
Toll Free in North America: 1.800.807.3257
Emailsportschool@sunpeaksresort.com

IMPORTANCE OF ADVANCE RESERVATIONS

We strongly recommend booking in advance to ensure availability and to guarantee you get the lesson you want.

BOOKING AND PAYMENT POLICIES

  • All lesson reservations must be paid in full at the time of booking.
  • Rental vouchers, equipment and/or lift tickets must be picked up in advance of lessons. Please allow enough time in order to be on schedule for your lesson.
  • Any schedule changes/cancellations with more than 24 hours' notice of your reserved lesson will incur a $15 administration fee.
  • No refunds will be issued for cancellations inside 24 hours of your reservation, however, we would be happy to reschedule the lesson (if possible) for a $30 administration fee per lesson.
  • No refunds will be issued for missed lessons.
  • All rates are in Canadian dollars and applicable taxes are added and noted on booking confirmations.
  • Dates, times and prices may be subject to change without notice.
  • Some restrictions may apply.

 

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Tickets purchased on the same day of use are subject to full-price rates.

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Sports School FAQ’s

Why are age categories for ski and snowboard lessons fixed?

Age categories ensure lessons are tailored to kids’ physical, cognitive, and social development, promoting safety, effective learning, and a comfortable group dynamic, regardless of individual ski levels.

  • Developmental Differences: Age categories are designed based on developmental milestones in motor skills, coordination, and physical abilities. This ensures kids are taught appropriately for their stage of growth.
  • Safety Concerns: Placing younger children in older groups may increase their risk of injury, as older groups often progress to more challenging terrain.
  • Instructional Effectiveness: Lessons are tailored to the cognitive and social abilities of each age group, promoting effective learning and engagement.
  • Peer Learning: Children learn better and feel more comfortable in a group with peers of the same age, which helps foster confidence and enjoyment.
  • Ski Level ≠ Readiness: Even if a child is advanced for their age, their physical stamina and ability to handle the pace of older groups may not align.
  • By keeping children in the appropriate age category, we can ensure a safer, more enjoyable, and effective learning experience for everyone.

What if I never got a confirmation email?

Email sportschool@sunpeaksresort.com to enquire about your booking. 

What kind of equipment do I need?

  • Skiers will need ski boots, skis, and poles. Snowboarders will need snowboard boots and a snowboard. Our rentals department can fit you with equipment suited to your height, weight, and ability. Helmets are available for rent, and kids' helmets are included with all rental packages that include lessons.
  • Sun Peaks offers rental skis and snowboards designed for all ability levels. When renting, simply let the technician know your ski or snowboard level, and they'll assist in selecting the right equipment for you.

Do I need to purchase a lift-ticket?

To access any of the lifts, including the learning zone, all guests must have either a lift ticket or a season pass.

How many people are in each group lesson?

Group lessons have a 3:1 or a 5:1 student-to-instructor ratio. Tot lessons have a 1:1 student-to-instructor ratio.

Will I be able to pick my instructor?

For group lessons, instructor requests cannot be guaranteed. However, for private lessons, we will assign an instructor based on availability.

What are the benefits of a private lesson?

Private lessons offer guests the full attention of an instructor, with no distractions from other participants. These lessons are tailored to your pace and focus on your specific needs and goals. There is no set structure, making it an ideal option for those who haven’t skied in a while and would like a refresher on technique. For example, you could focus on improving technique on a blue run before moving on to more challenging black runs.

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