Snowboarding Lessons: Are they worth it?

I am here to answer the big question – are snowboarding lessons worth it? Today, on mrsprofresh.com, I am sharing about my recent snowboarding lesson at Breckenridge to uncover my verdict.

Before sharing details about the experience, I must share that I’ve tried snowboarding at least twice before taking the lesson. The first time was pretty tough, I was incredibly sore and in pain from falling on my butt. The second time was better – a lot better. Less time falling and more time enjoying a faster pace – on the bunny hill. (The bunny hill is an easy slope for beginner skiers, or snowboarders.)

The reason I decided to book a lesson this time was because I was curious to know if it was something I should have considered a long time ago. (I was talked out of taking a class the first time so that’s why I never booked it.) Anyway, no one was going to hold me back this time, haha. I was very determined to form my own opinion whether snowboarding lessons were worth it or not.

About the Snowboarding Lesson at Breckenridge

I booked my class through Breckenridge.com – the name of the class was, Adult AM+PM Bundle Group Snowboard Lesson. This meant, it was a group class for both AM and PM sessions. The morning session was from 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and the afternoon session was from 12:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. You have one hour in between for a lunch break.

There are a few locations to choose from for the lesson, I ended up choosing Beaver Run. Also, to help things go smoother, I included a one day lift pass and the snowboarding gear rental whenever I booked my lesson. (The rental equipment included the snowboard, snowboarding boots, and helmet so be sure to pack/plan accordingly.)

The total for the lesson, lift pass, and gear was $293.

PARKING TIP: If you decide to book at Beaver Run, and you arrive early for the morning session, you should be able to park at the Beaver Run Resort & Conference Center (aka the Beaver Run Parking Lot). The address is 620 Village Rd, Breckenridge, CO 80424 and the cost to park was $35 for the day. (Since the class started at 9 a.m., I arrived around 8:15 a.m. and there was plenty of parking at that time.)

Was the lesson worth it?

Now to answer the big question – was the snowboarding lesson worth it?

Let’s just say that by the end of the class, I was able to:

Stop standing up without falling.
Control my speed. (I’m still a little afraid of going too fast.)
Work my way around people, especially if they were on the ground.
Go down the hill backwards (!!!!!!!) It is crazy to even type that, lol! I was so proud.
Film and snowboard at the same time – WILD.

Not to mention, my AM teachers, Peter and Robbin, taught us the basics about snowboarding like how to appropriately lay the snowboard on the ground if you’re resting. Or how to get up using your knees. It all sounds so simple yet those little lessons learned made a huge difference. So yes, the snowboarding lesson was totally worth it. In fact, I would take another one if I could because I didn’t learn how to turn.

Things to Know Before Your Lesson at Beaver Run

A few days before your lesson, you will receive an email from Vail Resorts with information about your upcoming ski/snowboard school lesson.
- They’ll provide information regarding parking, check-in directions, the rental equipment, etc.
If you book the morning session, don’t forget to arrive early! Again, the address to the Beaver Run Parking Lot is 620 Village Rd, Breckenridge, CO 80424.
The pickup location for the rental equipment is located at Breck Sports – Beaver Run. The address is 620 Village Rd, Breckenridge, CO 80424.
- Important Note: There are two Breck Sports locations that are directly across from each other (the address is the same) – one location is for skiers and the other is for snowboarders. This part wasn’t clear to me so ask if you are confused.
If you booked your class ahead of time, you don’t have to do anything but to get in line. The people assisting with the rental equipment should be able to find your reservation through their system.
After picking up the rental equipment, you will go to the area called “magic carpet learning area”. (Look for the area with flags – they mark the different levels such as beginner, novice, intermediate, etc.)
Once you see the “magic carpet learning area”, you’ll see a check-in stand. This is where you’ll check-in and pickup your lift pass.
Afterwards, you’ll go to your designated area (beginner, novice, intermediate, etc.) and wait for the class to start. If you are not sure which level you belong to, you can ask any of the instructors in blue. Also, be sure to get guidance from a snowboarding instructor if you’re snowboarding and vice versa.
If you need to use the restroom, don’t worry! There are restrooms near the Breck Sports store.
If you get thirsty, no worries because they have water stations throughout the area where you’ll be taking lessons.
The lift pass is good for the entire day. What does this mean? You can ride the lift once the lesson is over to continue practicing your skills.
And most importantly, have fun, make friends, laugh at yourself, and enjoy! Everyone sucks at first.

Patiently waiting for ski/snowboard lessons to begin. Cue the flags, this is where you'll meet (aka the magic carpet learning area). — Patiently waiting for ski/snowboard lessons to begin. Cue the flags, this is where you’ll meet (aka the magic carpet learning area).

This was the check-in stand for ski/snowboard school lessons. This was also where we picked up our lift pass.

Instructor Peter walking us over to a private area strictly for snowboarders.

Instructor Peter giving his class the best tips and tricks. (This was the private area strictly for those learning how to snowboard.)

Final Thoughts

After taking my first snowboarding lesson, I can confidently say I’ve graduated from the bunny hill! I couldn’t be happier with the results. Like I said, I would love to go back and take another class to improve my turning skills. My instructor, Peter, confirmed there are 12 levels total. Not that everyone needs to go through all 12 levels before enjoying the slopes, but I thought it was a cool fact to know. If there is a next time, and I’m interested in a second lesson, Peter said I would start at level 2 or 3. (Yes, they have a report card for you and all. Although, he wasn’t allowed to give us our report cards for whatever reason.)

Also, just FYI – I loved having Robbin as my morning instructor. Because she was a female, I think this helped me understand specific stances, or poses. She painted the photo better for me and made all the difference. Peter was great too, haha. Very patient and kind. At this time, you cannot pick your instructor’s gender, or request a specific instructor.

Well, this wraps up today’s post. I hope you found it helpful. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate on reaching out because I am always happy to help. You can send a message on Instagram or email sonia@mrsprofresh.com.