WELCOME TO POWDERHORN...
and the world of winter sports

In order to make your first visit to Powderhorn fun and enjoyable, we've added this link just for first time skiers and snowboarders. There's a lot of info here, so feel free to scan to get the highlights, or dig in to get the full scoop on your first day on the slopes!

BEFORE YOU GET HERE

Skiing and snowboarding can be strenuous activities, especially the first few days. The fitter you are the easier learning a new sport will be for you.

• A pre-season conditioning program can really make a difference in how quickly a beginner progresses.
• If you've never undertaken an exercise program we recommend you consult your doctor before embarking upon any kind of regimen.
• If you are adding to an existing fitness program then be sure to include exercises that will strengthen your trunk/abdominals, as well as your upper and lower legs. Cycling, or riding a stationary bicycle can produce excellent benefits for skiers and snowboarders.
• Don't forget to include stretching in your workout.

Powderhorn's base sits at 8,200 feet and our summit is at 9,850 feet, so the altitude can be an issue. Make sure that you are well hydrated upon arriving at the lodge (avoid diuretics such as coffee and sodas), and make sure to drink lots of water throughout the day.

WHAT TO BRING

From head to toe...

• Warm hat that covers your ears.
• Goggles with tinted lenses.
• Sunscreen-SPF 15 or higher.
• Base layer on the body--long underwear that is not made of cotton. Go for a synthetic fiber.
• Middle layer-fleece top or wool sweater, again avoid cotton.
• Lower Body-fleece or other warm layer
• Outer Layer--preferably water and windproof shell garments, with stuffing if you like. Jeans are a poor choice for snow sports because of their lack of wind and water resistance.
• Socks- bring at least two pair, one thin and one thick to customize your boot fit.
• Wool is the preferred material; avoid cotton at all costs.
• Gloves or Mittens-insulated and waterproof.

Optional Items:

• Baseball cap for warmer days
• Sunglasses
• Neck gaiter or scarf
• Hand and foot warmers (battery operated...neat, huh?)
• Water bottle

ONCE YOU GET HERE

Plan to arrive at least 1 1/2 hours before your lesson to allow time to sign up and get through the rental shop without having to rush. You might want to allow even more time during our busy holiday periods such as the week between Christmas and New Year's, Martin Luther King Day , and President's Day.

SIGNING UP FOR LESSONS

Upon arriving, head for the Main Lodge and enter underneath the big blue portico. The Rental Shop is immediately to your left upon entering, and the Ski School Desk is up the stairs directly in front of you and on the left. Proceed to the Ski School Desk where our professionals will get you signed up for your lesson. We highly recommend that all first time skiers and snowboarders take a full day lesson because two hours is just not enough time to master the skills required to ski and ride safely.

RENTING EQUIPMENT

After leaving the Ski School Desk, go back down the stairs toward the entrance and enter the Rental Shop. You don't need to stop at the register; proceed directly to the boot fitting areas. Give your paperwork to the boot technician and he or she will get your boots fitted correctly. Remember, you want the boots to fit snugly, but not too tight, without any painful areas. Also, make sure that your socks are pulled up so that they are smooth against your legs and that your pants can go over your boots to keep snow out. After fitting your boots, the technician will direct you to the ski or snowboard area where you will get your bindings adjusted for your height and weight. Adult skiers get poles, children skiers do not.

MEETING AREA FOR LESSONS

Once you have emerged from the rental shop, walk around the back of the lodge to the Ski and Snowboard School Meeting Area, which is in the picnic area at the base of the EZ Rider lift. You will find signs and instructors there to direct you to the proper area. Don't forget to attend to any personal needs prior to the lesson.

If you have any questions please feel free to call us at
(970) 268-5700
and we'll be happy to help you.