Adult Ski & Snowboard
Professional instruction for every ability, from beginner to advanced.
Preparing for a great winter ahead.
Lift tickets, lessons and rentals for the 2026/27 season will become available for booking this fall. Add your email address below to be notified once products are loaded and available for purchase.
Located on Donner Summit in Lake Tahoe, Sugar Bowl's adult ski and snowboard lessons are designed for ages 13 and up, from first-time skiers to high intermediates. Our professional instructors help you build confidence, improve your technique, and enjoy more of the mountain—whether you're learning the basics or refining your skills.
Spend more time skiing and less time waiting. During your lesson, you'll enjoy access to the express lift line, maximizing your time on the slopes and giving you more opportunities to learn and practice.
Lessons often sell out on weekends and holidays. We recommend reserving online at least two days in advance. For last-minute availability, call (530) 426-9000, option 2, or check for walk-up lessons on the day of your visit.
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Our ski lessons are offered in four levels so you can join a group that’s tailored to your skill level: Level 1 (first time), Level 2 (beginner zone), Level 3 (low intermediate), Level 4 (high intermediate). Let’s decide which lesson is right for you.
Dialing in your outerwear will help you have a great day on the slopes. Conditions at Sugar Bowl range from blizzard days with gale-force winds to sunny spring T-shirt weather. Be prepared to dress for success in a variety of different weather scenarios.
Any month of the winter season can be a great time to ski or ride at Sugar Bowl. Here’s a little preview of the typical conditions we get throughout the season. Plus, check out what events we host throughout the season.
What Level Ski Lesson is Right for Me?
Our ski lessons are offered in FOUR fantastic levels so you can drop in with a group that’s tailored to your skill level.
- Level 1 (first time skiing)
- Level 2 (beginner zone)
- Level 3 (low intermediate)
- Level 4 (high intermediate)
Benefits to signing up for the right level ski lesson include:
- The content of the lesson will be catered to your current abilities
- You’ll be learning in a group with skiers of a similar level
- You’ll be taught by an instructor best suited to teach your level
Take a few moments to read through this handy breakdown to ensure you have chosen your level correctly. You’ll be set up for a great ski lesson at Sugar Bowl.
Level 1: I’m a First Time Skier
Green Circle Runs
Q: Have you ever skied before?
No? You are a Level 1 skier. Pretty simple, there is no need to read further until you return for more lessons on your path to becoming a lifetime skier/rider.
Yes? If you have skied before in the past few years, and you already know how to make a wedge turn, consider exploring Level 2 lessons instead.
More about Level 1
Booking a Level 1 lesson with one of our certified ski instructors will get you started in the right direction. The progress you can make with an hour of ski instruction can replace many days of figuring it out on your own. You’ll cover how ski equipment functions and learn foundational skills like turning and stopping. A Learn to Ski Package is the best way to get started and includes rentals, a lesson, and a lift ticket.
Level 2: I’ve skied before and I’m all about the wedge turn
Green Circle Runs
Q: Can you stop and change direction using a wedge?
Q: Do you use a wedge at any time during a turn?
Q: Do you prefer skiing green runs?
Q: Can you ride a chairlift?
If the skier above sounds like you, Level 2 is a great next lesson for you. If you are already transitioning to parallel turns, move ahead to Level 3.
More about Level 2
Mastering the wedge turn (otherwise known as the “pizza”) is a great first step towards learning to ski. You’ll be able to stop, turn, and generally get to where you need to go on the mountain. As your control and balance improves, you’ll be ready to start learning “parallel turns” and gain the skills to ski more advanced terrain in Level 3
Level 3: I can comfortably ski or ride green runs and want to move to blue runs.
Green Circle + Blue Square Runs
Q: Can you comfortably link parallel turns on green runs?
Q: Are you starting to work up to skiing some easy blue runs?
Q: Can you ski with poles?
If you have transitioned from wedge turns to parallel turns and you are starting to move from green terrain to blue terrain, keep progressing with a Level 3 lesson.
More about Level 3
If you’re skiing with parallel turns some or most of the time, you’ve made it into Level 3. You should feel confident on green circle runs and want to start mixing in some easier blue square terrain. It’s okay if your happy place is still green runs, but hopefully you are starting to feel that if you took your time, you would be confident controlling your skis on more advanced terrain.
Level 4: I can comfortably manage speed with the shape of turns on blue runs.
Blue Runs+
Q: Can you comfortably link a parallel turn on blue runs
Q: Are you starting to work up to skiing some easy black runs?
Q: Can you make dynamic turns skiing in parallel the whole time?
If you are confident making parallel turns on blue runs, Level 4 can provide helpful insight into taking your skiing to the next level.
More about Level 4
Don’t settle once you’ve transitioned to an intermediate. Sure, you may be able to ski the groomers comfortably, but can you do it with style? Skiing is a lifelong pursuit and Level 4 will help you fine tune your skills, break out of bad habits, and have you on your way to becoming an expert skier progressing to more black diamond terrain.
What to Wear Skiing & Snowboarding
Let’s Get Comfortable
Dialing in your outerwear and gear will help you have a great day on the slopes. Here is some insight on how you can prepare for your best day possible. Forget something? Stop by one of our retail stores at the Judah Lodge or the Village Lodge. We have just about everything you might need.
Sierra Weather
Our California winters run the full spectrum of Sierra weather. Conditions at Sugar Bowl range from blizzard days with gale-force winds to sunny spring T-shirt weather. Be prepared to dress for success in a variety of different weather scenarios.
Outerwear
Start with the basics: a wind & water resistant jacket and pants. As with all ski gear, there’s a wide range of price/quality in outerwear. You can kit yourself out with brand name Gore Tex, or there are plenty of budget friendly options out there. Some retailers even rent soft goods, so you don’t have to buy a full ski kit to get started.
Pro Outerwear Tip
The water resistant pants you choose should have a wide enough cuff to fit over your boot. This will prevent snow from getting into your boots. Try to choose jackets and pants with thigh/underarm vents if possible to help regulate your body temperature.
The Beauty Within: Layers!
Next, make a plan for your layers underneath. Non-cotton, sweat-wicking pieces of clothing will help keep you dry and comfortable. If it’s a sunny day and temps are above freezing, you may choose to simply go with a light pair of long underwear or yoga pants underneath your ski jacket and pants. If it’s a cloudy day or temps are below freezing, you may want to add additional layers, like a fleece or wool sweater.
Pro Layering Tip
if you are bundling up, try to choose some upper body layers that don’t all have hoods. Stacking too many hoods might make you feel like you’re in a straight jacket once you zip everything up!
Fingers and Toes
Socks
Your socks should follow the same rules as your layers— no cotton. If possible, choose a pair of ski-specific socks. Whatever you do, don’t be tempted to double up socks, it doesn’t help.
How can I keep my feet from getting cold?
Start with a high-quality pair of ski-specific socks. Look for a non-cotton, wicking pair of socks that fit slim to your foot without wrinkling or bunching. Next, if you’re wearing ski boots, you can unbuckle your boots as you walk across the parking lot or every time you ride lifts. This will help get the blood flowing through your feet while you aren’t using your boots for downhill performance. Just remember to rebuckle before you take your next run.
Gloves
While you probably don’t need to run out and buy a new pair of gloves just for skiing or riding, here are a couple considerations. It can be helpful to choose a glove with a synthetic exterior, like nylon, that has some kind of a water resistant layer. Choosing a glove with some insulation will help you stay warm in cold, wet conditions. Ski & ride-specific gloves will often have abrasion-resistant patches on the palm and fingertips for durability.
Pro Gloves Tip
It can be helpful to stash an extra pair of gloves in the car, even if they aren’t the ones you plan to ski in. If you have to put chains on before arriving at the mountain, you won’t want to get your gloves sopping wet before you even start your day. It can be nice to switch gloves midday or before your après activity.
Get your Head in the Game
Let’s protect your noggin! First, we always recommend a helmet. If you don’t want to purchase one, many retailers have helmets for rent. If you are taking a ski or board lesson at Sugar Bowl, we’ll include a complementary helmet rental.
Next, given our weather extremes in Tahoe, we highly recommend goggles over sunglasses. If it’s snowing, sunnies just don’t cut it. If it’s a bluebird day, the sun will be reflecting off the snow and you’ll want eye protection from all angles. Getting a sunburn on your eyeball is not a good look.
The third element you should plan for is a balaclava or neck gaiter. Depending on the temps, you may want a light stretchy neck gaiter for light sun and wind protection. If it’s really cold, you may choose a fleece neck warmer. Our go-to choice is typically the light stretchy neck gaiter. If it gets wet, it’s really easy to have an extra one stashed in your jacket (they are inexpensive and fold up really small!)
Pro-tip: How should my helmet fit?
Your helmet should be snug but not so tight that you can feel pressure on the sides of your head. A good test is to rock your head side-to-side / yes-and-no. If your helmet sloshes around, it’s too loose. If it’s giving you a headache, too tight. There are many different helmet types to accommodate different shaped heads. A good rule of thumb is to use a helmet that is 5 or less years old.
Pocket Essentials
How to Properly Wear your RFID Ticket
Seems simple right? Buy your ticket online, use the QR code to redeem it at a kiosk, then pop it in your jacket pocket… You’d be surprised how many people get stuck in the lift line because they’ve done it wrong! Here’s a couple things to remember (in additional to zipping your pocket up tight!)
- Choose a pocket on the left side of your jacket.
- Your ticket rides solo, not in your wallet or with a phone.
- Don’t punch a hole in your ticket
- Essentials for the other pockets: sunscreen, lip balm, medicine if needed, and a Cliff Bar or other light snack.
What’s the Best Time of Year to Visit?
Any month of the winter season can be a great time to ski or ride at Sugar Bowl. Here’s a little preview of the typical conditions we get throughout the season.
Sweet Tips
- Choose midweek/non-holidays if possible to take advantage of a more relaxed environment.
- If you want to ski & ride as much powder as possible this season, sign up for the powder planner email. We’ll email you when there’s a storm on the horizon so you can plan your trip.
Late-November through early-December
Every year is different, but sometimes early-season operations involve limited terrain until we get enough snow to open up additional areas. As more and more terrain opens for the season, skiers and rider go wild with stoke. After a long summer, we’re just excited to be back at it!
Events to look out for: Opening Day Celebration, Toys 4 Tots drive, Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, Royal Gorge Full Moon Snowshoe Tour
Late December
The holidays are typically our busiest time of the season— for good reason! Spending the holidays at Sugar Bowl is a great way to enjoy your time with friends and family. Let us show you what happens when you mix great skiing & riding with holiday cheer.
Events to look out for: Santa on the Slopes, Wine & Shop
January, February, and early March
Typically our snowiest & coldest times of year. These months are your best chance to score the “authentic winter experience.” i.e. sweet powder skiing. If you want to optimize your powder turns this season, sign up for the powder planner email. We’re always watching the weather and we’ll alert you when there is an upcoming storm so you can plan accordingly.
Events to look out for: Mac & Cheese Festival, Poker Run, Wine & Shop, Demo Days, Banked Slalom, Mardi Gras
Late-March & April
The springtime ski scene at Sugar Bowl is all about leaving your jacket in the car and seeking out great corn skiing in the warm California sun. With softer, more forgiving snow, it’s a great time to progress, whether that means learning a new trick in the park or trying skiing/riding for the first time. You can expect spirited après on the sundecks outside of both lodges. Driving to and from the mountains is typically simpler (but storms still do happen!) Look for late-season lift ticket specials in April.
Events to look out for: Mini-Pipe Meltdown, Tiki Pond Skim
More tools to help you plan your trip
Use these handy links to:
- Check the Weather
- Check Road Conditions
- See Current Conditions on the Mountain
- Read the Open Snow Tahoe Forecast
- Sign up for Powder Alerts
Whether you're trying skiing for the first time or looking to improve your technique, Sugar Bowl offers lesson options designed to help you progress. Choose the lesson that best fits your goals, schedule, and experience level.
Group Lesson Times
- Morning: 10:15 am to 12:15 pm
- Afternoon 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm Best Value!
Know Before You Go
- Guests renting equipment should arrive at least one hour prior to the lesson start time.
- Lessons will sell out most weekends and holidays. To ensure availability, reservations are strongly encouraged.
- Online reservations are available until two days prior to your lesson date. Within two days, guests are encouraged to call (530) 426-9000, option 2 to check on availability.
- Day-of, walk-up lessons are available based on instructor availability.
- For ages 13 and up: If a group lesson has fewer than two participants enrolled, it will be converted into a premium one-hour private lesson, charged at the group lesson rate.
- Lift ticket or season pass is required to participate in any lesson.
- View Cancellation Policy
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Questions or Reservation Assistance:Call (530) 426-9000, option 2 to speak with a Snowsports Reservations Specialist today. |
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Whether you're brand new to skiing or returning after years away, professional instruction helps you get more out of every day on the mountain.
- Learn proper technique from experienced instructors.
- Build confidence in a supportive environment.
- Progress faster with personalized coaching.
- Explore more terrain safely.
- Avoid developing bad habits.
- Spend more time skiing with express lift access during lessons.
Your lesson is designed to be fun, encouraging, and stress-free. Here's what you can expect on lesson day.
Arrive Early
Allow plenty of time for parking, rentals, and check-in before your lesson begins.
Meet Your Instructor
Adult lessons meet at the Snowsports School at Sugar Bowl's Main Lodge on Donner Summit.
Learn at Your Pace
Lessons are grouped by ability level so you can progress comfortably alongside skiers with similar experience.
Practice What You Learn
Your instructor will introduce new skills and help you build confidence through guided practice on terrain appropriate for your ability.
Sugar Bowl has been helping people discover the joy of skiing for generations. Located on historic Donner Summit in Lake Tahoe, our mountain combines approachable learning terrain with one of California's most authentic ski experiences.
Whether you're visiting from Sacramento, the San Francisco Bay Area, Reno, or beyond, Sugar Bowl offers convenient access, experienced instructors, and an atmosphere that makes learning enjoyable.
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Absolutely. Adult lessons are designed for first-time skiers through high intermediates, helping you build confidence and proper technique from your very first day.>
Not at all. Adults of all ages learn to ski every season. Our instructors tailor instruction to your goals, comfort level, and experience.>
Many adults find skiing easier to learn on their first day because each ski moves independently. Snowboarding often has a steeper initial learning curve but progresses quickly after the fundamentals.>
Selecting the right ability level helps ensure you has a fun, safe, and successful lesson experience. Choose the level that best matches your current skiing ability and confidence on the mountain.
Level 1 – First Time Skier
New to skiing? Learn the basics, including stopping, turning, and riding beginner terrain.
Level 2 – Beginner
You can stop, make wedge turns, ride a chairlift, and ski green runs comfortably.
Level 3 – Low Intermediate
You can make parallel turns on green runs and are starting to explore blue terrain.
Level 4 – High Intermediate
You can confidently ski blue runs with parallel turns and are working toward more advanced terrain.
Not sure? Choose the level that best matches your current ability. Our instructors can help place you in the right group on lesson day.
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Lesson packages vary. Some include lift tickets and rentals, while others are lesson only. Review the available packages when booking.>
Yes. Rental equipment can be added to many lesson packages, making it easy to arrive with everything you need.>
Dress in waterproof outerwear, warm layers, gloves, goggles or sunglasses, and waterproof winter boots. Helmets are strongly recommended.>
Adult lessons meet outside of the Main Lodge on the snow near the Flume Carpet, located to the north of Sugar Bowl's Main Lodge on Donner Summit in Lake Tahoe.>
If you need rentals, arrive approximately one hour before your lesson. This allows enough time for parking, equipment fitting, and check-in.>
Yes. Weekends and holidays frequently reach capacity, so advance reservations are highly recommended. Booking early will help secure your desired date and time for your lesson(s).>
Yes. Sugar Bowl is one of the best places in Lake Tahoe to learn to ski or snowboard. Our reimagined beginner learning area features expanded beginner terrain, a welcoming ski beach, and thoughtfully designed learning spaces that make it easier to build confidence from your very first day on snow. Combined with experienced instructors and progression-focused lessons, it's an environment designed to help new skiers and riders feel comfortable, progress quickly, and have fun.
CANCELLATION AND REFUND POLICY
Lift Tickets and Rentals
Unless you purchased Trip Flex, all purchases are final. Due to limited capacity, there are absolutely no returns, refunds, and products may not be transferred to another person or date. Please confirm your dates prior to completing your transaction. All tickets are subject to restrictions described in the product description and/or pick-up instructions. Your credit card will be charged for the amount shown, regardless of whether or not the purchased ticket(s) is/are used. We do not guarantee driving conditions, snow conditions, weather conditions, open terrain or number of lifts operating.
Lessons and Lesson/Lift Packages
All purchases are final. Due to limited capacity, there are no returns, refunds, and products may not be transferred to another person. All lessons, rentals & lift tickets are subject to restrictions described in the product description and/or pickup instructions. Lesson dates & times may be changed with no fee 7 days prior to arrival. Lesson dates & times may be changed with a $50 fee per person with notice given 3-6 days prior to arrival. No lesson date or time changes are permitted within 2 days prior to arrival. Please confirm your dates prior to completing your transaction. No refunds will be provided. Your credit card will be charged for the amount shown, regardless of whether or not the purchased product(s) is/are used. We do not guarantee driving conditions, snow conditions, weather conditions, open terrain or number of lifts operating. Trip Flex is not eligible for lesson products due to instructor scheduling.
Resort Closure
If the resort is closed on the date of your arrival due to weather or a closure related to Covid-19, your purchase will be refunded in full. Refunds will be applied back to the card used at the time of purchase. Resort Closure Refund does not apply if the resort is open in a reduced capacity due to wind & weather. Resort Closure Refund does not apply if guests are unable to visit due to road conditions or chain controls.
CHAIRLIFT CODE OF CONDUCT
It is our goal to create an environment that will increase your and/or your child's skills and enjoyment of the sports of skiing and snowboarding. In order to participate in these activities, skiers and riders, including children, commonly ride chairlifts to access the slopes. Children may ride chairlifts with adults, instructors or coaches. In certain circumstances, children may ride lifts without adults, instructors or coaches. Please note, Sugar Bowl recommends the use of the restraining bar. While there may be restraining bars on chairlifts, lowering the bar does not guarantee the safety of the passenger. Chairlift safety starts with you. Please share the following information with your child and repeat the lessons often:
- Pay Attention at all Times
- Be Respectful & Be Smart ñ No Horseplay
- Grab Outside of Chair as it Approaches
- Sit Firmly in Chair, Facing Forward
- If Not Properly Seated, Alert Lift Operator Immediately
- Say "Bar Down" as Bar is Lowered
- Don't Adjust Gear or Lean on Bar While Riding Chair
- Say "Bar Up" as Bar is Raised
- Clear Off-Ramp Area Immediately
- Obey Posted and Verbal Chairlift Instructions
SUGAR BOWL AND YOU ARE PARTNERS IN SAFETY!
ASSUMPTION OF RISK, RELEASE OF LIABILITY, INDEMNITY, AND CONSENT TO MEDICAL TREATMENT AGREEMENT
By signing this Agreement, I or my child(ren) (collectively, "I", "my" or "me") acknowledge that I will be participating in winter sports activities and/or other recreational activities, including but not limited to instruction in alpine skiing, Nordic skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, snow tubing, sleigh riding, snow play, sledding, and all other snow sports at Sugar Bowl and/or Royal Gorge (collectively, "the Activities"). I understand that my participation in the Activities poses inherent and other risks of INJURY and DEATH. The risks include, but are not limited to, falling, loss of control, collisions with other skiers or snowboarders, collisions with natural and man-made objects, including trees, rocks, fences, lift towers, snow making equipment, and over-snow vehicles. The risks also include variations in terrain and snow conditions, surface and subsurface snow conditions, bare spots, bumps, moguls, ice, stumps, forest growth and debris, erosion control devices, rocks, cliffs, steep terrain, avalanches, and traveling in the mountains. The risks further include those associated with participating in the Activities beyond the ski area boundary or designated trails and in the backcountry, which may pose additional hazards because such areas are not patrolled and are without avalanche control. Other risks include those associated with the use of the facilities, including mountain transportation, lifts, terrain parks, half pipes, and other park features, walking in lodges and parking lots, the possibility of becoming lost or separated from the class or instructor, and participating in lessons, races, and special events (collectively, "use of the facilities"). Despite these risks and all other risks, and TO THE FULLEST EXTENT ALLOWED BY LAW, I AGREE TO EXPRESSLY ASSUME ALL RISKS OF INJURY OR DEATH that might be associated with or arise out of my participation in the Activities or use of the facilities.
I understand that if I enter a terrain park, I must inspect the elements and terrain before skiing or riding over them to evaluate the risks and degree of difficulty before participating. Throughout the day snow conditions and terrain features will change. I am solely responsible for knowing and understanding my ability to encounter all terrain features. I am solely responsible for inspecting the features, and knowing and understanding my ability to encounter all terrain features prior to encountering them, regardless of whether an instructor or other class members may use the features.
In consideration for being permitted to participate in the Activities and to use the facilities, I AGREE TO RELEASE FROM ANY LEGAL LIABILITY AND AGREE NEVER TO SUE Sugar Bowl Corporation, the United States of America, Department of Agriculture, United States Forest Service, Royal Gorge, LLC, Truckee Donner Land Trust, special event organizers, sponsors, equipment manufacturers and suppliers, and all of their successors, heirs, assigns, directors, officers, partners, investors, shareholders, members, agents, employees, owners, landowners, parent and subsidiary companies, and affiliated companies (collectively herein, "Sugar Bowl") for injury or death resulting from my participation in the Activities or use of the facilities, regardless of the cause, including the alleged NEGLIGENCE of Sugar Bowl, including claims of negligent instruction. I further AGREE TO DEFEND, INDEMNIFY AND HOLD HARMLESS SUGAR BOWL for any claims, lawsuits, damages, attorney fees, costs or judgments arising out of my participation in the Activities or use of the facilities.
I UNDERSTAND THIS IS A RELEASE OF LIABILITY that will apply whenever I participate in the Activities or use of the facilities at Sugar Bowl and/or Royal Gorge. I understand that this RELEASE OF LIABILITY will prevent me, my child, or our heirs from filing suit or making any claim for damages in the event of injury or death from my participation in the Activities or use of the facilities. Additionally, in the event I file or my child or any legal representative files a claim or a lawsuit arising out of my participation in the Activities or the use of the facilities, I AGREE TO DEFEND, INDEMNIFY AND HOLD HARMLESS Sugar Bowl for any damages, attorney's fees, or costs arising out of such a claim or a lawsuit.
By executing this agreement, I declare under penalty of perjury that I am doing so only for myself and/or for persons who have authorized me to do so on their behalf. If I execute this document on behalf of another person, I am acting as the agent for that person, and my execution of the document expressly confirms that I have permission to agree to its terms on the other person's behalf, and that this Release of Liability and Indemnity Agreement is binding on that person. If I execute this document without the express permission of any other person, I understand and agree that I am committing fraud against Sugar Bowl. If the person on whose behalf I have executed this release brings a claim or lawsuit against Sugar Bowl, I agree to defend, indemnify and hold harmless Sugar Bowl as fully set forth herein. I acknowledge that Sugar Bowl and other participants may photograph or videotape the Activities and facilities. I agree that Sugar Bowl may use these recordings in any way including, but not limited to, for marketing purposes and as evidence in any litigation, without restriction and without compensation to me. In the event of a medical emergency, I authorize Sugar Bowl to provide emergency first aid treatment and/or refer treatment of my child to other medical practitioners. This care may be given under whatever conditions are necessary to preserve the life, limb or well-being of my child. I agree to pay all costs associated with any medical care and related transportation for the child and to indemnify and hold Sugar Bowl harmless for any costs incurred. I understand and agree that this agreement is severable and that if any clause is found to be invalid, the balance of the contract will remain in effect and will be valid and enforceable. I agree that any action involving the Activities, use of the facilities, or this agreement will be brought in the courts of Placer County, California. Any disputes will be subject to and determined under the laws of the State of California.
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