Ski School
One of the best in the Midwest!
Afton Alps makes it easy and affordable to learn to ski/board, or to improve your ability and have fun doing it all season long! Choose from any of these great programs:
Adult Programs
Youth Ski/Ride Programs
Development Teams
USSA Alpine Club
Youth Holiday Camp
Women's College Programs
Instructor Training
Determine Your Ability
Daily Lesson Rate & Hours
| 10am, 11:30am, 1pm, 3pm, 5pm & 6:30pm |
| Group lesson (skiers 6 & up, boarders 7 & up) | $20 per hour |
| Private Lesson (reservations recommended) | $45 per hour |
| Each additional person (private lesson) | $30 per hour |
| Premier Private Lesson* (reserve 3 days in advance) | $65 per hour |
| Each additional person (premier private lesson) | $45 per hour |
*Guarantees an instructor with Level II or III certification, reservations required 3 days in advance.
Daily Complimentary** 1 hour beginner lesson
**Free Beginner Lesson (ages 10+) Available at daily lesson times with purchase of full price lift ticket and full price rental package.
Click here for a pdf of the application form for ski and ride programs.
Adult Programs
Adult Masters
Intermediate to expert adult skiers, levels 4-6.
Mondays 7pm-9pm
Beginning December 7, $125.
Adult Masters is for the skier with some experience who is looking to make progress over the course of the winter, or for the more advanced skier who is looking to fine-tune what they already know. You will learn to ski better in all conditions, get out of your comfort zone and learn to manage terrain with different turn shapes at different speeds. This is a great program for the skier looking to gear up before making a trip out west. Every instructor who works in the Adult Masters program is PSIA level II certified or higher.
Men That Want To Turn
Beginner to expert adult skiers, all levels.
4 Sundays, 10:30am-1:30pm, starting January 10.
$100 lesson only or $235 with lift ticket option.
Whether you have been skiing for a while or are just beginning, this program is for you. Our professional staff can guide you in learning the skills and techniques that will improve your skiing ability and efficiency. In addtion, the program will have a day of video analysis and a free equipment clinic.
Adult Race
Adult skiers; intermediate to expert, levels 4-6.
Sundays 1pm-3pm or Mondays 7pm-9pm.
8 weeks beginning December 6 or 7, $135.
If you are an intermediate to advanced skier looking for a new challenge on the hill, then racing may be what you are looking for. If you are a Masters, Nastar or League racer and you would like to get more time in the gates, this may also be perfect. If you have never raced before, our coaches will teach you beginning tactics and techniques to help you meet your goals. Allow our coaches to help improve your times. Our coaches will give you as much or as little feedback as you would like. Courses will be set based on the needs of the group.
Advanced Race
Adult skiers; expert with race experience.
Sundays 9:30am-noon. 6 weeks beginning January 3, $145.
Our Advanced Race program is designed for the serious racer who is looking to cut time by learning and practicing new techniques and tactics, as well as continuing to work on what they already know. If Ski Racing is more than just a change of pace, then this program will fit your needs. Meet and network with other racers who take their sport as seriously as you do. There will be opportunities to race in both Slalom and Giant Slalom courses.
Midwest Race League
Register by Oct 31st to receive early buy discounts.
Now offering Giant Slalom, Slalom, and a new family league. Join a league . . . A great way to meet exciting people who like to have fun. Form a new team or we will put you on a team. Leagues start the week of January 3rd. Seven weeks of league plus Grand Race Weekend event. For all abilities. Weekly awards and door prizes. Nastar format. Call for more information or check www.aftonalps.com
Ski & Ride Simplified
GREAT VALUE, ONLY $89.95
Age 13+, levels 1-3. Offered every night at 5pm & 6:30pm
This is the program to fit the lives and pocketbooks of the busy family, designed for the beginner to advanced-beginner skier or rider. When you sign up for Ski and Ride Simplified, you receive a swipe card valid for three lift tickets (after 4:30pm any day), three ski or snowboard rentals and three 1-hour lessons.
Each card is valid for one person only and is non-transferable. Each card can only
be scanned one time per day. This is an instructional program, daily lift ticket
issued only at the Ski & Ride school desk.
Youth Ski/Ride Programs
Mountain Rookies
Kids ages 4-12 ski and 8-12 snowboard. level 1-3.
available saturdays, sundays and holidays, 10-noon and 1:30-3:30pm
4 & 5 year old skiers must have a paid lift ticket to participate in all ski & ride
youth programs.
| OPTIONS | 2-Hr | Full day |
| A. Lift, Rental & Lesson | $55 | $80 |
| B. Lift & Lesson | $45 | $70 |
| C. Lesson Only (season pass holders) | $25 | $45 |
| Same-Day Lesson Only* | $25 | $45 |
| Llift tickets & rentals must be purchased seperately at Ski & Ride School in the Meadows Available on a first come, first-served basis only. | ||
Designed for youth skiers and riders beginner to intermediate who would like to enjoy a day of winter fun! Your child will be grouped with an Afton Alps Ski and Ride School instructor and other students of similar ability and age. Students have the option to register for one day or several; with a two-hour (half day) or five-hour (full day w/ lunch) option. classes are available at your child’s pace and your family’s convenience.
Pre-registration and pre-payment are required at least one week in advance of enrollment date to receive a discounted rate. We reserve the right to limit class sizes to those who have pre-registered.
Mountain Explorers
Kids ages 6-15 ski and 8-15 snowboard.level 1-6. avail. sat or sun, 10-12:30am or 1:30-4pm, full-day 10am-3:30pm and 2-day, Tues or Thurs, 5-7:30pm. (See chart below.)
This program is designed for the family who would like to gain from the benefit of a
multi-week learning experience. it is also perfect for the Mountain Rookie who is
looking to take the next step as a young skier or rider. Students will build relationships
with kids of similar ability and age as they explore Afton Alps. for your convenience
Saturday or Sunday classes are available as either 2.5 hour (half day w/snack) or 5.5
hour (full day w/lunch) options. Midweek 2.5 hour Tuesday or Thursday evening classes
are also available to fit your schedule.
Pre-registration & pre-payment are required at least one week in advance of session
enrollment date.
To ensure that your child receives the full benefit of the learning experience, Afton Alps closes on-site check-in and same-day registration for Mountain Rookies & Explorers 30 minutes prior to class time.
Mountain Explorers Options and Schedule
Development Teams
Afton's introductory competition program focuses on fun first and consists of practices and four events against other local ski or snowboard areas. Participants are required to purchase lift tickets at other ski and snowboard resorts. Transportation is not provided to races or competitions. Race times may be earlier than practice times. Lift ticket is required and we encourage the season pass with this program
Click here for the Alpine Development Team website
Mountain D-Teams - ALPINE
Kids ages 6-18; intermediate to advanced skiers, levels 3-6.
Saturdays 10am-3pm OR Sundays 12pm-4pm
$295 Dec. - Feb. beginning Sat, Dec 5 or Sun, Dec 6
$370 Sat & Tues pm or Sun & Tues pm
(Tuesday PM practice option at an additional charge.)
This race program for kids is designed to be a fun way to learn what it takes to be an alpine ski racer. It is also a great way for kids already involved in other race programs to get more gate time and coaching. Kids have the opportunity to take their solid skiing skills to a new level. Kids will learn race techniques and tactics and build upon the skills they already have in an environment that promotes fun. First participants should have strong skiing skills, but no race experience is necessary.*
*For All D-teams: The D-Team Programs will compete against other local areas four times per season. Transportation to other ski areas is not provided. Race times may be earlier than practice times. Lift ticket or season pass is required in addition to program fee.
Mountain D-Teams - FREESTYLE
Kids ages 8-18; intermediate to advanced skiers, levels 3-6.
Sundays 1pm to 3:30pm and Thursdays 6:30pm - 8:30pm
$295 Dec. - Feb. beginning Dec 6
This program welcomes all intermediate to advanced skiers. For those who are just beginning, the program teaches students the primary skills it takes to go off jumps and grind rails. For the more experienced free-stylist, the focus becomes on being more technically sound in the air, learning new and more difficult tricks, and having more style in the air and on the rails. Skills like skiing switch will become second nature to the students, so twin-tip skis are highly recommended, although not required. Video analysis of skiers and end-of-year highlight DVD included.*
*For All D-teams: The D-Team Programs will compete against other local areas four times per season. Transportation to other ski areas is not provided. Race times may be earlier than practice times. Lift ticket or season pass is required in addition to program fee.
Mountain D-Teams - SNOWBOARD
Kids ages 8-18; intermediate to advanced riders, levels 3-6.
Sundays 1pm to 3:30pm and Thursdays 6:30pm - 8:30pm
$295 Dec. - Feb. beginning Dec 6
For the snowboarder who wants to ride the terrain park, in a fun group environment. Our coaches will show younger riders, or riders new to the park, the proper way to ride and land in the terrain park. Older or more experienced park riders will benefit from coaches teaching them new tricks, new approaches to the same tricks or better lines to take on multiple features. We offer something for everyone who wants to get better in the park. Each participant must have strong riding skills, but no park experience is necessary.*
*For All D-teams: The D-Team Programs will compete against other local areas four times per season. Transportation to other ski areas is not provided. Race times may be earlier than practice times. Lift ticket or season pass is required in addition to program fee.
Click here for an explanation of the USSA plans :
USSA Alpine Club
Creating Ski Racers
Ages 8-18
Download Team Afton Brochure (pdf file)
Click here to visit Team Afton USSA
Team Afton loves ski racing. Ski racing teaches valuable lessons in a
unique way. Our mission is to help you succeed, whether you are a
beginning racer, a high school racer or an international competitor. We
provide a comprehensive program designed to help athletes of all abilities
achieve their racing goals. Our staff is one of the most highly certi-
fied in the Midwest. Head Coach Tony Olin is internationally certified;
(400). Tony Olin was awarded, 2007 Outstanding Coach – US Ski Association
Central Division. Team Afton has produced 5 US Ski Team
members, most recently Tague Thorson and Jake Lund. Many started
out as D-team members. Team Afton gets results-qualifying many of its
members to annual Jr. Olympics and Nationals competitions.
For the ski racer that wants to take it to the next level. A United States
Ski Association Racing Program (USSA). Call USSA 651-436-7652 or
for a brochure call 651-436-5245.
For more information visit: www.teamafton.com
Youth Holiday Camp
Join us for two camps of fun over your holiday break!
Open to skiers ages 6-17, snowboarders ages 7-17.
Ability Levels 3-6.
2 Day Camp. Classes Tue & Wed, 9:30 am to 12:30 pm.
CAMP 1: Dec 22 & 23
CAMP 2: Dec 29 & 30
$55 per camp or $100 including lift ticket.*
Tele Camp NEW!
Open to beginner & intermediate tele skiers,
ages 18+. Led by a certified Nordic instructor.
3 Day Camp. Classes from 10am to noon.
CAMP 1: Sundays, Dec 6, 13, 20.
CAMP 2: Thursdays, Feb 11,18,25.
$200 per camp, including lift ticket.*
Bump Camp NEW!
Open to beginner & intermediate tele skiers,
ages 18+. Led by a level III certified instructor.
2 Day Camp. Classes from 10am to 1pm.
Sat & Sun, February 27 & 28
$200 including lift ticket.*
*Rentals purchased separately
Women's College Programs
Women's Racing Lesson
Adult women skiers; intermediate to expert skiers, level 4-6.
Sundays 1:30pm-3:30pm.
5 Sundays starting Sunday, January 3rd.
$150 lesson only or $320 with lift-ticket.
If you are a lady and would like to learn how to race or expand your skills join this program. Our coaches will instruct you in a non intimidating atmosphere where you can go at your own speed and comfort level. The program will work on good edging and turning skills, along with tactics, and versatility in a race course with a twist of fun. Including in the cost will be a week of video analysis and free Nastar racing. Come experience the fun and thrill of racing with other ladies.
Women's Ski College
Open to adult women skiers, all levels.
Thursdays, 10am-1pm or Sundays, 10am-1pm.
Beginning Sunday, January 3 or Thursday, January 7.
The January 3 & 7 session will have extended hours,
9:30am-1:30pm. We encourage the Thursday program
participants to purchase the Midweek Season Pass.
5 Week Program
$125 lesson only, $295 lesson with Sunday lift-ticket.
8 Week Program
$195 lesson only, $465 lesson with Sunday lift-ticket.
(We encourage the Sunday program participants to purchase
a season pass.)
This unique program is for women; taught by women. It’s the perfect choice whether you are an intermediate skier looking to improve skills and build confidence, or an expert skier eager to conquer a black diamond run or the dynamics of a racecourse. Join us for either 5 or 8 weeks of fun and develop lasting relationships with like-minded women.
Space is Limited; you must register at least one week in advance.
Women's Snowboard College
Open to adult women snowboarders, all levels.
5 weeks beginning Sunday, January 3, 10 am to 1 pm.
The January 3 session will have extended hours, 9:30am-1:30pm.
$125 lesson only, $295 lesson with Sunday lift ticket.
Taught by women, for women of all abilities who want to learn to snowboard, improve upon existing skills or just build more confidence. Afton Alps makes sure you have the opportunity to ride with friendly female coaches and receive the individual attention you deserve in a fun and supportive environment. Whether you have never been on a snowboard before or you wish to take on more challenging terrain, join us to see why women drive from all over the region to be a part of this program.
New this year! Register with a friend and recieve one free class upon completion of the Women's College program! Ask for details when registering.
Space is Limited; you must register at least one week in advance.
Instructor Training (Adult & Junior) - Registration Form
LEARN TO TEACH SKIING & SNOWBOARDING
Apprentice Instructors Training
Experience the thrill of taking someone who has never skied or snowboarded to a place they never thought imaginable! Watch as the person you are teaching excels at a new sport! Join the best Ski and Ride School staff in the Midwest. Come to a two day, two night audition. Our clinicians will evaluate your skiing or riding and your teaching. No experience necessary. Upon completion of the 4 days, a hiring recommendation will be made.
Clinic Dates: Tues, Dec 1 from 6pm-9pm (meeting/paperwork).
Thurs, Dec 3 from 6pm-9pm (on snow).
Sat, Dec 5 and Sun, Dec 6 from 8am-1:30pm (on snow).
Informational meeting Sunday,Oct 25 at 10am.
Registration required.
Junior Apprentice Instructor Training
Are you a junior looking for a great way to make some money while you’re in school, or looking for a first job? The Ski and Ride School of Afton Alps hires Jr. Instructors ages 14-17 to teach skiing and snowboarding in our kids programs. The Junior Instructor Training Program is designed to teach would-be Junior Instructors the fundamentals of teaching, while at the same time help you make progress in your own skiing or riding. This six-day program includes ongoing evaluations followed by a hiring recommendation.
Saturday and Sunday Dec 5, 6, 12, 13, 19 and 20 from
10:30am-2:30pm
$85 program fee includes lift tickets.
Program fee will be applied towards the purchase of jacket if you are hired.
Registration required.
Click here for a pdf of the application form for ski and ride programs.
Determine Your Ability
Level 1 Skiing & Snowboarding
Lets Get Started! We will show you the basics of skiing or snowboarding. Balance while in motion and learning to move around and stop.
Level 2 Skiing & Snowboarding
Learn to turn! Turns are introduced and you will learn to control your speed using the shape of the turn. Now you are ready to use the conveyor and explore green terrain.
Level 3 Skiing & Snowboarding
Linking Turns! You will learn how to use both feet & legs to link turns together and explore different turn shapes. Riding the chair lift opens new terrain possibilities to you at Afton Alps.
Level 4
Skiing - We will begin to explore some of the Blue runs. You are a more confident and comfortable skier who is beginning to match your skis parallel.
Snowboarding - You are a more confident and comfortable rider who is beginning to explore some of the blue runs. You are beginning to carve your turns & trying some basic tricks.
Level 5
Skiing - You are exploring more challenging blue terrain. Your parallel turns are improving and you are using more dynamic movements.
Snowboarding - You are a more dynamic rider on blue terrain who is carving more than skidding. Your surface tricks are improving & you are beginning to get more air.
Level 6 Skiing & Snowboarding
Experience what Afton has to offer: bumps, carving, racing or the terrain park. We will challenge your skills, giving you the ability to experience the thrill of skiing and snowboarding.
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