Beginner's Guide

If you are a beginner skier or snowboarder, we've got some helpful information to make your day at Gore a great experience! 

Before you hit the slopes.....

Skiing and snowboarding are physical activities, so make sure you get a good night's sleep before your day at the mountain. Drink plenty of water so you are well hydrated.  If you're planning your trip in advance, it will benefit you to do some light exercising to help get your body used to physical activity.   Of course, check with your doctor for any possible restrictions regarding exercise.  Even expert level skiers and riders can't ski themselves into shape, and benefit greatly by exercising regularly all year round.

What to wear......

Being outside in the winter is energizing.  But yes, it can be cold outside.  So make sure you dress appropriately.  Temperatures can vary considerably as you get further up the mountain to other trails and lifts. 

*Dress warmly by wearing layers of clothing.  You can always take off a layer if you're too hot.

*Mittens or gloves

*Helmet or hat

*Eye protection-Goggles are more protective than glasses

*Soft fleece neck warmers are comfortable and dry quickly if they get wet

*Water and wind repellent jacket or parka

*Water and wind repellent pants are also an essential

*Wear wicking fabrics which will dry quickly so if you do sweat, you won't get cold later from the damp clothing

*Wearing one pair of wool or polypropylene socks is best -DO NOT wear cotton socks - they'll get wet and stay wet in your boots

*Remember the sunscreen!

If you happen to forget something, our Retail Shop is likely to have what you need.

Obtain proper ski or snowboard equipment....

Avoid borrowing equiptment from your friends or family that could be outdated, unsafe, or not sized correctly for you. 

Rent equipment that is suited for your needs.   The Gore Mountain Rental Shop has the latest technology in beginner equipment.   Skis and boards are maintained for safety and tuned frequently to make learning easier for you.  Our rental shop is located in the Northwoods Lodge, along with our Learning Center, so you can get your equipment in the same building as your lift and lesson tickets, and walk right out the door to our beginner terrain, or upstairs to the Children's' Learning Center. 

Our rental shop staff is trained to fit you in your boots for the most comfort and performance.  A good fitting boot fits snugly, with no pressure points.  You should be able to wiggle your toes.  You should NOT be able to slide your foot foeward or backward, nor pull your heel up.  Make sure your pants are pulled out over your boots, not tucked inside.

Helpful Hint:  Wait until after you get your rental equipment and are ready to go outside before you put on your final layers of clothing. 

Frequently Asked Questions:

What time should I arrive? 

Getting to the mountain early is always a smart move.  The lifts open at 8:30am, but the Rental Shop and Snow Sports Center open at 8:00am.  The cafeteria is open at 7:30, so come up early for breakfast and coffee.  The lodges and services are busiest between 9:00 - 11:00am.  All morning lessons meet at 9:45am, both kids and adults, so plan at least 45 min to get your rental equipment and get out to your lesson. 

What time do lessons meet?

Adult group lessons meet at 9:45am and 1:15pm daily and also at 10:45am on weekends and holidays.

Where should I go first? 

Beginners should go to the Northwoods Lodge Learning Center first.   There you will be able to purchase your lift tickets, all lesson products, daycare and rentals in one convenient location.  From the Northwoods Lodge Learning Center you can walk out the door with your equipment to our base area with children already secured in our Kids Klub or Bear Cub Den daycare.

Where do I store my personal belongings while I am skiing or riding? 

The Base Lodge and Northwoods Lodge rental shop have coin-operated lockers.  You can also use our Bag Check in the Base Lodge's Tahawus Room.  It is open on weekends and holidays, and offers in/out access to your bag throughout the day for $5.

Should I take a lesson?

It is best to learn from a professional.   Our ski and snowboard instructors are highly trained to teach you the proper techniques, with learning styles best suited for you.  A lesson will help you learn quickly and efficiently, to make your day fun and successful.

What is the best age to start skiing or riding?  

We have lessons available for all ages.  Children's group lessons are for skiers and snowboarders ages 4 and above, and those younger can take a private lesson.  Whether you are 4 or 64, everyone learns at their own pace.  Our instructors are very student centered and will help you learn whatever your age.

Is it easier to learn to ski or to snowboard first?   

Whichever sport peaks your interest is the one you should learn.  They both are fun and exciting.  It's your choice!

Do I need a reservation to take a lesson? 

Reservations, although not required, are highly recommended for private lessons, Kids Klub, and specialty 1 and 2-day camps, as these programs will sometimes sell out.  Reservations are not necessary for adult group lessons.

What other services do you offer for when I'm not skiing?

There are a variety of Mountain Services at Gore to make the most of your time with us, such as different dining options, tubing, or massage. Check out our Mountain Services page for more information.

Kids Questions

            Questions you should ask when inquiring about our children's program.

Some things to consider when putting your child into a lesson:

Is your child comfortable around new adults?

Do they experience separation anxiety?

Do they participate in other group activities, such as daycare?

Do they play and share with other children?

Have they been exposed to snow and cold winter conditions?

Is your child able to use the bathroom without your assistance?

If you have their equipment at home, let them walk around in their boots to get used to them.  Also, let them wear their ski clothes - hat, goggles, gloves, and jacket - at home to get used to them.

What is the best age for children to start skiing/riding? 

Every child is different, some are ready at 4 and some not till 6 or 7. 

Will my child be supervised in Kids Klub? 

When you enroll in our all-day program or 2-hour lesson, they will be supervised.  We help them get ready to go outdoors to their lesson.  They are supervised during lunch, and outdoors during their lesson.   All day program participants can be dropped off as early as 8:30am and picked up by 4:00pm.   For 2-hour morning sessions, kids can be dropped off as early as 8:30 and picked up at noon.   For 2-hour afternoon sessions kids can be dropped off as early as 12:45, and picked up by 4:00pm.

Do you have daycare service? 

Gore Mountain offers daycare service daily for ages 6months - 6 years in the Bear Cub Den daycare.  Reservations are suggested by calling (518) 251-2411 x1010 but are not required.

Can my child take a private lesson? 

Private lessons are available daily for all ages.  For 3 & 4 year olds we offer a ½ hour private lesson - just long enough to keep them interested, but not tire them out.  When deciding on a lesson for your child, consider whether they learn better with one-on-one attention from an instructor, or in a group environment. 

How many children are in a Kids Klub lesson?  

Groups may be as many as 8, all of same ability level and like ages.  

What time do lessons meet? 

Kids Klub lessons meet at 9:45 and 1:15.  

Why should I make a reservation?

Kids Klub can and does sell out so, secure your childs' spot with an advance reservation.  If you're reserved, it avoids any wait in line, as we'll have all of your child's tickets and information ready in Kids Klub when you arrive.

What is included with lesson pricing, and what costs extra?  

Kids Klub Day of Fun includes lift ticket, lesson and lunch for $115, or $140 with rentals.  For 2 hour kids' lessons, lift ticket is included only for the duration of the lesson.   A lift ticket upgrade is available to purchase for $17 for ages 7-12 if your child wishes to ski/ride after their lesson or before.  6 and under ski and ride free daily.