Ski & Ride School

At Sugarbush Resort, our motto is “Be Better Here,” and our passionate coaches are dedicated to helping you do just that. Guided by the core principles of Safety, Fun & Learning, we’re here to support every skier and rider, from first-timers to experts looking to refine their skills on our legendary terrain. The Sugarbush Ski & Ride School is a certified member of the Professional Ski Instructors of America (PSIA) and the American Association of Snowboard Instructors (AASI), ensuring top-tier coaching for all ages and abilities. Let us help you build confidence, progress your skills, and create unforgettable mountain memories.

Ski & Snowboard Lessons

Available daily for all ages and ability levels, our ski and snowboard lessons are the fastest way to build skills and confidence. Private and group options make it easy to learn your way.

Ski & Snowboard Lessons

Winter Camps & Series

For intermediate to expert skiers and riders, ages kids to adults. These reoccurring programs focus on progression, precision and fun - with like-skilled, like-minded crews - without the full-season commitment.

Camps & Series

A little boy smiling at the camera wearing a helmet and bib that says micro blazer

Kids Seasonal Programs

All season long, for kids and teens ready to progress. These one- or two-day-a-week programs build skills, confidence and community through consistent coaching and plenty of chairlift laughs.

Seasonal Programs

An Instructor leading a group lesson on skis

First Timer to Life Timer

Sugarbush is one of the best places to be a first timer. With award-winning instruction, beginner-friendly terrain and a welcoming learning environment, it’s the perfect mountain to start your skiing or snowboarding journey. Whether you're stepping into boots for the first time or finally committing to those first turns, our programs are designed to build skills and confidence every step of the way.

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.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the difference between lessons, camps and seasonal programs?

Lessons are single-day sessions, offered as private or group experiences for all ages and levels.
Camps and Series are multi-day programs (like weeklong or once-a-week sessions) focused on specific age groups, skills or styles. Available for both kids and adults.
Seasonal Programs are for kids and teens and run all winter long and offer consistent coaching with the same group and instructor each, great for building skills and friendships over time.

I’ve never skied or snowboarded before. Where should I start?

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.

Where do lessons and programs take place?

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.

What age groups do you offer programs for?

We offer ski and snowboard programs for all ages, from toddlers taking their first turns to seasoned adult skiers and riders. Program availability varies by age, location, and ability, so be sure to check individual product pages for details.

For young skiers and riders our Schoolhouse programs at Lincoln Peak include:

Micro Bears (ages 3-4): A gentle introduction to skiing through play-based learning and one-on-one attention.
Mini Bears (ages 5-6): Small group instruction that builds confidence and foundational skills.
Sugar Bears (ages 7-12): A progression-focused program in a fun group environment designed to take young skiers to the next level.

We also offer children’s lessons at Mt. Ellen on weekends and peak dates, with limited availability. These are a great option for families based at that mountain.

For teens and adults, we offer:
Private Lessons (all disciplines, all abilities): Personalized instruction for skiers and riders looking to improve quickly and focus on specific goals.
Group Lessons (ski and snowboard): Designed for beginner and intermediate levels, these small group sessions provide a supportive environment for progression and confidence-building.

In addition to lessons, we offer:
Seasonal Programs for kids and teens: One or two days per weekend, all winter long, focused on skill development, consistency and fun.
Winter Camps and Series for kids, teens, and adults: Multi-day or weekly sessions that dive deeper into specific skills, terrain or styles of skiing and riding.

Are rentals and lift tickets included?

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.

How do I book?

We recommend reserving early, especially during peak periods and holiday weeks. All lessons, camps, and programs can be booked online through our website. For more information, please call 802-583-6542 or email skiandrideschool@sugarbush.com.

What should I wear?

Dress in waterproof layers, wear gloves or mittens, and don’t forget goggles or sunglasses. Helmets are highly recommended (and included with most rentals). No cotton please!

Want to learn more about what to wear? Check out our guide.
WHAT TO WEAR