1. How safe is skiing?
Statistically, skiing is no more hazardous than bicycling or tennis. It used to be though, in the days of long, stiff wood skis, leather boots and non-release bindings. Now, with modern equipment such as shaped skis, high-support plastic boots and release bindings, skiing is much safer. For more information, check out this link to the Canadian Ski Patrol .

2. What will it Cost?
Skiing is not as expensive as you might think. Snow Valley offers excellent Family Lift & Rental Packs. Need a lesson, rental equipment and a lift ticket? Our Discover Skiing/Snowboarding Packages are just the ticket. Our "Start Anytime, Timed Tickets" are another great option, and allow you ski/snowboard as long as you like with the option to upgrade. As for clothing, you probably already have clothes which could double as a ski outfit.

3. How long will it take to be able to ski or snowboard?
During your first day, you'll learn how to turn, slow down, stop and ride the lifts. Generally if you are trying skiing for the first time, you should be able to do quite a bit on your first day. Snowboarding is a bit more difficult the first time. However, the learning curve is much easier after just a few tries. With Snow Valley's modern teaching methods, you can be past the beginner stage after three or four lessons.

4. Do I have to be in shape?
You don't have to be an athlete to ski. Today, modern equipment does most of the work for you. If you do some exercises before your first ski experience, you will enjoy it more. First of all, you'll learn faster, because you won't tire so easily during the learning process. You're going to fall down some while learning so you'll bounce back faster if you're in shape. Walking briskly, jogging, jumping rope, or stretching is best.

5. How can I find out the conditions before I go?
Visit our "snow conditions" report. It's done daily and gives you a summary of the temperatures, trails open, lifts running, weather conditions, and more. We update our reports every morning by the first light. We put our conditions report on our website, phone systems and with Ontario Travel Centers. You can also check road conditions directly from our website as well.

6. Should I take a Lesson?
Did someone teach you how to drive? Of course, it's the easiest way to learn the "rules of the road." Snow Valley offers a great Beginner Learning Center area with a wide, gentle slope two handle tows and one carpet lift. At the Ski School Bell, located just outside the Rental Shop, your Snow Pro will introduce himself and familiarize you with your equipment. During the first lesson you will learn how to walk, maneuver and control your skis/snowboard by turning, slowing down and stopping. When you are ready, the Snow Pro will show you how to ride the beginner lifts and will ski/ride down the beginner's slope with you. After your lesson you can continue practicing what you've already learned.

After you have mastered the fundamental skills of skiing/riding (turning, slowing down, stopping and riding a lift), you'll be able to explore other trails while you practice what you've learned. Keep to the "Easier trails which are marked with green circles. There will be signs so marked at the beginning of the trail.

7. What suggestions can you give me to get on or off a chair lift?
The basic rules are simple:

• Get on at designated areas only,
• Read the rules for each lift carefully before riding the lift,
• Remove pole straps from your wrists,
• Hold the poles point down before entering the loading area,
• Sit down properly and hold on to safety equipment,
• Lower the safety bar, and
• Listen to and obey the operators' instructions at all times.

On your way to the top:

• Keep the tips of your skis or snowboard up,
• Always keep long hair, hats and scarves secure to avoid entanglement,
• Remain seated and don't bounce or swing on the chair lift, and
• Never throw or drop anything from the lift.

When you've reached the top:

• Get off at designated areas only,
• Clear the unloading area immediately,
• Listen to and obey the operators instructions at all times,
• Report any problems or concerns to the lift operator right away.

Keep in mind that the operator is in charge of and responsible for the lift. That means the lift operator has full authority to remove anyone from the lift or tow who poses a safety risk to themselves or others.

A special note for parents: take an active role in making sure that the lift is appropriate for your child. Once you've made that decision, be sure your child is aware of what behavior is acceptable for all chair lifts, carpet or rope tow lifts.

8. When should I call "last run"?
Always think twice before making that "last run of the day." Skiing and snowboarding involve lots of physical exertion, and you'll be tired toward the end of the day. That's the time when concentration starts to slip and accidents occur. Think before you head for that last run, and if you're tired, pack it in for the day. That way you can be sure that you'll be able to enjoy another day of fun on the slopes.