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.
How long will it take to learn?
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.
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. Of course, if you have any concerns about your health you should check with your doctor.
How can I check snow 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 Snow Resort Association. You can also check road conditions directly from our website as well.
What will it cost?
Skiing is not as expensive as you might think. Our Start Anytime offer great value and convience. 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 to 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.
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. Lessons are offered with Discover Skiing / Snowboarding Packages.
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 marked at the beginning of the trail.
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.