Your Family’s First Ski Trip: A Guide to Getting Started at Shawnee Mountain
Planning your family’s first ski trip usually comes with a few questions. What should everyone wear? Do you need your own equipment? What if you’ve never put on a pair of skis yourself?
A little preparation can make that first day feel much more manageable. At Shawnee Mountain, we’re here to help your family get started, learn something new, and enjoy spending time together on the snow. Here’s what to know before you head our way.
Make a Plan Before You Pack
Before your visit, take a look at lift tickets, rental equipment, and lesson options. Booking ahead gives you a chance to choose the right program for each family member and understand what’s included.
Our First Time Package includes an all-day lift ticket, rental equipment, and a one-hour group lesson. It’s available for skiers and snowboarders ages 6 and up, with adults and children grouped separately. Families with younger children can explore our Children’s Programs to find an appropriate option.
Before leaving home, check the weather, mountain conditions, and operating hours. Review your reservation details, too, so you know where to check in and when to arrive.
Dress for a Day Outside
Being warm and dry makes a big difference, especially when kids are trying something new. Dress in layers so you can adjust as the temperature and activity level change.
Start with a moisture-wicking base layer, add a warm middle layer, and finish with a waterproof or water-resistant winter jacket and snow pants. Leave the jeans at home—they can become wet and uncomfortable quickly.
A few essentials to pack:
- Waterproof gloves or mittens
- One pair of well-fitting ski socks per person
- Goggles and a properly fitted ski or snowboard helmet
- A neck warmer
- Sunscreen and lip balm
- Extra gloves, dry socks, and comfortable clothes for the ride home
Shawnee offers equipment and helmet rentals, but clothing and goggles are not available to rent. Double-check everyone’s bag before heading out.
Let Us Help With the Equipment
You don’t need to buy skis before finding out how much your family enjoys skiing. Renting gives everyone a chance to get started without purchasing their own setup.
Our ski rentals include skis, boots, and poles. Helmets are available as an add-on, while Children’s Program rentals include a helmet.
Take your time during the fitting process and tell the rental team if something feels uncomfortable. Ski boots will feel different from everyday shoes, and asking questions is part of getting ready.
Give Yourselves Time to Settle In
Trying to park, get everyone dressed, collect equipment, and find a lesson meeting spot can take longer than you expect.
Plan to arrive at least one hour before your lesson, following the instructions for your particular program. Allow extra time for travel and busy days so you can get settled without rushing.
Before lessons begin, make a restroom stop and make sure everyone has their gloves, goggles, and other essentials. A few minutes of preparation now can save a trip back to the lodge later.
Start With a Lesson and Celebrate Small Wins
Even if someone in the family already skis, a lesson gives first-timers dedicated time to work on the basics with an instructor.
Keep the first day’s goals simple: get comfortable in the equipment, practice stopping and turning, and build confidence on appropriate beginner terrain. Follow your instructor’s guidance about when you’re ready to try something new.
Everyone learns at a different pace. One child might be eager to keep practicing while another needs more reassurance. Celebrate each person’s progress without comparing them.
Leave Room for Breaks
A first ski trip doesn’t need to mean skiing every minute. Stop for water, lunch, and time to warm up. Check in with the kids before tired legs or cold hands turn into frustration.
Sometimes a break and a snack are just what everyone needs. Other times, finishing a little earlier leaves the family excited to return.
Your first visit is a chance to learn together, laugh together, and discover something you might want to do again next winter—or next weekend.
Ready to plan your family’s first day on the slopes? Explore our lessons, choose the right options for your family, and come make your first ski memories at Shawnee Mountain.
