Frequently Asked Questions

I want to learn to ski. What do I do now?

The first thing you need to decide is which lesson or package is best for you.  If you have no experience skiing or snowboarding we suggest buying one of our first time skier/snowboarder packages.

Once you've decided which package or lesson is best for your experience level, give our friendly staff in the Snowsports School a call to reserve your lesson. You can reach the Snowsports School at (907) 790-2000 x211.

I don't have any gear. Are there rentals available at the Mountain?

Yes!  We have skis, snowboards, helmets, boots, and poles available for rent in our rental shop. For anyone new to the mountain, or anyone that hasn't been up in a while, we have gear that's designed for beginner and intermediate skiers and boarders.  If you're looking for something a little edgier check out our demo gear. 

Some snowsports school packages or programs include gear and/or lift tickets. Be sure to check with the snowsports school window when you arrive.  If you're just interested in renting gear check out our rates at the Eaglecrest Rental Shop page.

If you are considering Nordic skiing (AKA Cross-Country skiing!), the Eaglecrest Rental Shop does rent Classic skis but not Skate skis. 

I'm only interested in snowboarding. Are there separate classes for skiers and snowboarders?

Classes are split up according to skier or snowboarders, as well as by ability and in most cases age.  However, you do not need to sign up for a snowboard specific class.  We will place you with the best instructor for your equipment choice, all you have to do is pick the package.

What should I wear?

Clothing is a very important part of protecting yourself on the mountain. The conditions are cold, wet, snowy, foggy, sunny... basically unpredictable.  Be prepared for flexibility.

• Base/Bottom Layer- A tight synthetic or wool base layer (long underwear and base layer t-shirt).  Avoid cotton, synthetic fabrics are more efficient at wicking moisture from your skin. 
• Middle Insulating Layer-This is the bulk of your warmth, and may need to be multiple pieces of clothing.  Layering is key for spending time on the mountain.  Tops which zip allow for easy ventilation when you get hot, and easy cover up when you get cold. 
• Top Waterproof Layer- It may be frozen now, but 98.6 degrees will turn snow into water very quickly.  Be sure to protect yourself from moisture with a waterproof jacket or shell and some sort of waterproof protection for your pants (ski pants work best, in a pinch rain pants will do.. be sure to wear them over something warm).
• Socks-Preferably synthetic or wool fabric to wick sweat from your tootsies.  If possible wear the socks you'll ski in when you're fitting your boots.  If you're socks are too bulky for your boots they might hinder circulation to your feet, chilling them a quite a bit.  Bulky wool socks are fine, so long as they fit well in your boots.
• Gloves- Keep hands warm and dry.  Waterproof gloves if you have them.  Leather gloves can also be helpful.
• Hat/Helmet- Hats keep you warmer than any other article of clothing.  The majority of your body heat is lost through your head.  Keep ears and heads covered, a face mask will keep yur face warm, and keep you looking mysterious.   Helmets are a great option for skiers and riders.  They provide protection from the cold, and the occasional slips and falls.
• Goggles- Goggles protect your eyes from falling snow, from wind, and in some cases from the sun.  Find a pair of goggles that fit comfortably and offer you ample visibility.  Sunglasses are suitable for sunny days.  Goggles may not be necessary for your very first class.
• Sunscreen- It might seem silly to wear sunscreen during an Alaskan winter, but your skin will thank you.  Sunscreen not only protects your skin from UV rays, but moisturizes your skin from windburn and chapping. 

I already know how to ski but want to learn to snowboard.  Is the Triple Play Learners Pack a good option?

Yes!  It is a wonderful option for anyone who wants to learn something new, or grow more confident with the basic skills they already have. Even though you may be a proficient skier, you will want to start with the basics of snowboarding, and for that lessons are the best option.

I haven't skied in 6 years.  I'd like to start back up.  Should I take a class?

We highly recommend that lapsed skiers and riders have some sort of instruction before hitting the slopes.  Meeting with an instructor will give you a chance to review form that might have been lost while you were away from the snow and get aquainted with the mountain.

I've never seen a snowy mountain in my life.  However, I am incredibly brave and signed up for a ski lesson!  What should I expect?

If you've never set foot on skis before your first class might feel a little foreign and a little scary.  Don't worry!  Our instructors will take you through the entire process from learning what your gear is to riding a chairlift for the first time.  

During your first class you'll grow familiar with how to approach and carry your equipment.  You'll learn how to balance on your equipment, how to best use your body in coordination with your skis or board.  You'll learn, on a flat surface, how to maneuver your equipment on snowy surfaces, how to use gravity to your advantage, and how to begin controlling your speed. Depending on how quickly you master the basic skills- and our instructors have plenty of patience- you'll move on to controlling your body, gear, and speed when going down steeper hills. 

Instructors can help you find the pace where you learn best, and if you find yourself excelling ahead of the class our instructors can give you new skills to work on or tranfer you to a more advanced class.  If you require a little more time to master the mountain, don't stress and chill out: You can repeat exercises and basic classes as long as you'd like!  It's your mountain, it's your class.

What do the trail signs mean?

Check out www.snowlink.com for more information regarding trail sings. You can obtain an updated list of trail conditions and ratings on our website.

Chech out these resources:

For instructional skiing and snowboarding videos visit www.snowlink.com

Take a look at the national Learn to Ski and Snowboard website for videos, tips, and more information.

For information and reservations, call the Snowsports School at (907) 790-2000 x211.