First Timer to Life Timer

First Time to Life Timer
Ready to fall in love with skiing or snowboarding? Our First Timer to Life Timer program is your perfect introduction to the mountain lifestyle. Tailored specifically for true beginners ages 13 and up, this three-day package includes everything you need to get started: three two-hour group lessons, top-of-the-line rental equipment, a snow sports helmet and beginner-friendly lift access.

From learning how to buckle your boots to linking your very first turns, our supportive coaches will guide you every step of the way. Lessons are held at Lincoln Peak and build confidence through progression, with lift access expanding as your skills grow. Day one begins in our dedicated beginner terrain, with upgraded access included for days two and three.

As a special reward, if you complete the full program and it’s your first time on snow, you’ll earn a FREE Sugarbush Premium Season Pass, valid for the rest of the 24/25 winter season. Because once you start, we know you’ll want to keep going.

For more information, please call 802-583-6542 or email skiandrideschool@sugarbush.com.

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Important Information
Need to Know
Lessons do not include lift ticket (unless noted), rental equipment, or helmet unless otherwise specified.
Participants 14 and under must wear a properly fastened snow sports helmet.
All lessons begin at fixed times and will not be extended for late arrivals.
Please arrive at least 10 minutes early (45 minutes if renting gear).
Terrain use may include features such as moguls, glades, or park elements based on ability and lesson type.
If equipment malfunctions during a lesson, Sugarbush staff may authorize rentals.
In the event of a medical emergency, staff may call emergency services and arrange transport.
Transportation by resort shuttle or van may be used between resort locations.
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation Policy
Cancellations made prior to 72 hours of the start date will receive a refund, minus a $50 cancellation fee per order.
Cancellations made within 72 hours are non-refundable
There is no fee to change (reschedule) lessons prior to 72 hours of lesson start date
Changes made within 72 hours and at least by 4pm the day prior to lesson date will be charged a $50 rebooking fee per lesson
Day of changes are not permitted
If the resort is open for skiing/riding there are no refunds or cancellations due to weather, please plan accordingly.
For more information, please call 802-583-6542 or email skiandrideschool@sugarbush.com.
Helpful Information

Two Mountains, One Great Place to Learn
Sugarbush offers lessons at both Lincoln Peak and Mt. Ellen, just 4 miles apart. Daily instruction takes place at Lincoln Peak, whereas Mt. Ellen offers limited lesson availability. New this year is Tommy’s Toy, a beginner-friendly surface lift that makes learning at Ellen even more accessible.

At Lincoln Peak, the Schoolhouse and Farmhouse are conveniently located side by side in the base area. Kids check in at the Schoolhouse, while adults and teens start at the Farmhouse, which also houses rentals and lift tickets. At Mt. Ellen all lessons and programs are based out of the Mt Ellen Base Lodge, along with rentals and lift tickets.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Who are lessons for?

Lessons are available for skiers and riders of all ages and ability levels, whether it’s your first time on snow or you’re looking to level up your skills. From toddlers to teens to adults, we’ve got a program and coach for you.

What is the First Timer to Life Timer program?

Our award-winning First Timer to Life Timer program is designed just for you! It includes three days of lessons, rentals and lift tickets to help you get comfortable on snow. We also offer private and group lessons for first-timers of all ages.

What’s the difference between a private and group lesson?

Most lessons happen at Lincoln Peak, where the Schoolhouse (for kids) and Farmhouse (for teens and adults) are located side-by-side in the base area. Mt. Ellen, 4 miles away, offers limited lesson availability. New this year at Mt. Ellen: Tommy’s Toy, a surface lift ideal for beginners.

Do I need to reserve lessons in advance?

Yes! Advance reservations are highly recommended, especially during weekends and holiday periods. Lessons often sell out, book early to secure your preferred time and location.

Do lessons include rentals and a lift ticket?

It depends on the product. Some lessons (like First Timer to Life Timer) include rentals and tickets, while others may require them to be purchased separately. Each product page will outline exactly what’s included.

Do I need a helmet?

Helmets are required for all lesson participants ages 14 and under, and we strongly recommend them for everyone. Helmets are available to rent as part of your equipment package or on their own.

Where do lessons meet?

Schoolhouse Lessons: Meet outside the Schoolhouse building at Lincoln Peak

Adult/Teen Group & Private Lessons (Lincoln Peak): Meet slopeside outside The Farmhouse

Mt. Ellen Lessons: Meet slopeside near the base lodge and lift corral

Full check-in details will be provided in your confirmation email.

What level am I?

The level descriptions we use here at Sugarbush are a guide that enables the Ski & Ride School to better accommodate guests’ needs. If you have specific goals, please share them with the Ski & Ride School staff so they may better accommodate you needs. Lesson levels are as follows:

Level One
Skiers & Riders: “Never-Ever” – first time skiers and riders.

Level Two
Skiers: Can stop using a wedge (a/k/a “snowplow”).
Riders: Can skid on both toe-side and heel-side and can traverse.

Level Three
Skiers: Can make turns using a wedge.
Riders: Can turn in both directions.

Level Four
Skiers: Can link wedge turns, working on different turn shapes and sizes.
Riders: Can link turns, working on different turn shapes and sizes.

Level Five
Skiers: Using turn shape to control speed, beginning to match skis in open-stance parallel.
Riders: Using turn shape to control speed, beginning freestyle maneuvers.

Level Six
Skiers: Matching skis earlier in turns and using little wedge, more refined ability to control speed and direction, and venturing to easy off-piste terrain.
Riders: Linking shaped turns on most groomed terrain, venturing into terrain parks and off-piste.

Level Seven
Skiers: Parallel on all but the steepest groomed terrain, skiing off-piste, including bumps and trees.
Riders: Confident on all but the steepest groomed terrain, riding off-piste, and beginning to do tricks in the terrain park.

Level Eight
Skiers: Making dynamic parallel turns, skiing fall-line moguls and consistently skiing on all terrain types including the terrain park and NASTAR.
Riders: Making dynamic turns, riding on all terrain and in all snow conditions, and performing tricks in the terrain park.

Level Nine
Skiers & Riders: Confident, in balance and in control using refined technique in all conditions, on all terrain, all of the time. Principal technical focus is tactical and skill blending activities.

What should I wear to my lesson?

Dress in waterproof layers, bring gloves or mittens, goggles or sunglasses, and a helmet. Avoid cotton, it doesn’t keep you warm when wet!

Learn more about what to wear in our blog:
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