Northstar

Absolute beginners can opt for a special One-Day First Time package or a Three-Day Passport Package. Classes typically last two hours and include lessons, rental equipment, and lift passes.

Families of children aged 12 and under are well catered to with a range of options including Starkids (ages 6 to 12), Startykes (ages 4 to 6), and Minors' Camp (under 4).

There are various freebies that go with private lessons: free demos, free hot wax and exclusive ski school lift lane access. Lessons last one to six hours. Reservations are recommended and remember to book early for peak season.

If you want to experience the peace of the mountain, away from the crowds, take a Nordic Ski Lesson. With just the sound of silence you can wind and dip through 30 miles (50 km) of groomed trails that lead via snow-filled forests to spectacular views of the Sierra Nevada and Lake Tahoe. Lessons in all styles of Nordic skiing are offered. Lesson packages include trail pass, equipment rental and lesson. The Nordic Ski & Snowshoe Center is at mid-mountain just past the Ski & Snowboard School.