With the New Year, many of us are resolving to learn something new, and Arizona Snowbowl is making it easy for first-time skiers and snowboarders.
January marks the sixth annual Learn to Ski and Snowboard Month in the United States, and with natural and machine-made snow on the San Francisco Peaks, people of all ages are taking advantage of the winter sports opportunities available to them.
Through Arizona Snowbowl, the Quad Cities area and the rest of Arizona have had access to skiing and snowboarding for more than 75 years. But this month, outdoor enthusiasts can take advantage of January special pricing for Learn to Ski programs by visiting www.arizonasnowbowl.com.
The program is designed to teach the first-time skier or snowboarder the fundamentals of snow sports and mountain safety. The Learn to Ski package includes a Hart Prairie Beginner Area lift ticket, full day rental equipment, and a two-hour lesson.
Lessons start promptly at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. at the base of the Hart Prairie Lift. Participants are encouraged to arrive in their equipment and ready to go at least 15 minutes prior to their lesson time. Guests may register for the Learn to Ski Program in the Rental Shop.
To make sure everyone has a safe, fun, comfortable, and successful experience on the slopes, here are some tips:
What to Bring and Wear
Keep it warm and dry:
- Keep boots, gloves, helmets, and any other gear you wear in the car or bus where it’s heated, not in the trunk.
- 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.
- Wear shoes or boots that are appropriate for walking in snow and puddles.
Dress in layers:
- It is worth investing in a pair of waterproof ski pants, as jeans get wet and will make you cold.
- It is best to dress in layers as temperatures can vary throughout the day.
Inner Layers:
- Fleece or wool pants (long underwear) and a sweater (two layers) are a great choice.
- Wool socks will keep you warm through the day, although taking extra clothing and socks to change into after skiing/snowboarding is recommended.
Outer Layers:
- It is very important to have pants and a top outer layer that are at least water resistant. A waterproof or water resistant jacket and pants are your best bet for day-long warmth.
Sunscreen protection and lip balm:
- Bring and apply sunscreen! Arizona Snowbowl is situated at an elevation of between 9,000 feet and 11,500 feet. The atmosphere is far thinner than most of us are used to and sunburns happen quickly, even in cloudy conditions. Arizona Snowbowl’s Sports Shops carries sunscreen and lip balm for your convenience.
Head and Eyes Protection:
- Be sure to have proper eye protection. Sunglasses or goggles (especially if it’s snowing) are extremely important in cold weather.
- We recommend wearing a helmet for safety and to keep your head warm; and a gator will protect your face and neck.
Gloves or Mittens:
- Make sure your gloves or mittens have a waterproof, breathable shell and are well insulated. Mittens, along with hand and toe warmers, are usually better for those susceptible to cold hands and feet.
For Your Energy Level:
- It is a very good idea to eat a good breakfast. Snowbowl has breakfast available, including breakfast burritos, breakfast sandwiches, yogurt, cereal, etc.
- Bring plenty of water and drink it!
- Bring snacks to stick in pockets and backpacks. This can save the day when you’re feeling tired or worn out.
Finally, do not attach your lift ticket to your jacket, because you may take your jacket off as the day gets warmer. It should be attached to ski pants or ski bibs, easy for lift operators to see.
Arizona Snowbowl has the largest beginner ski terrain in the Southwest covering 50 acres, including two chairlifts and two surface conveyors. The conveyers act like moving sidewalks and take the intimidation out of getting on and off a chairlift.
Remember, some people feel the effects of the high elevation, so it is important to take it easy, be prepared and enjoy Learn to Ski and Snowboard Month! QCBN
Written by Jason Stratton, the marketing director at Arizona Snowbowl. For more information visit www.arizonasnowbowl.com.
Leave a Reply