How to Pick a Ski Camp

A ski camp is a great way to improve on skis or a snowboard in a short period of time, with daily instruction and lots of practice time. There are ski camps for any level, though some are devoted to those interested in the competitive arena. Pick a ski camp for your level and needs.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Decide on the time of year for ski camp. You can find ski camps for any time, even summer, especially in the mountains of Canada's British Columbia province, South America or Europe.

2. Find ski camps online or by asking a ski school operator at your local facility. For competitive skiers or snowboarders, the team coach likely also has suggestions.

3. Set out goals for the camp experience. A goal of improving confidence and ability on higher mountains for a novice skier or boarder is different from learning to do advanced jumps or moguls.

4. Examine the individual programs offered at the ski camp. A good camp has details about its program and the goals for the skier or boarder within each one.

5. Look at the qualifications of the staff. Some ski camps are run by former Olympic skiers who put their names behind their programs and people. Make sure the staff has both teaching experience at your level and a good teacher-to-pupil ratio.

6. Think about snow conditions for the time of year you choose. A camp in the fall means snow gets softer by the end of the day, for instance.

Tips & Warnings

• Ski and snowboard camps aren't just for children. Many have adult programs as well.
• Examine the rates and compare among camps. While some may be more expensive, you want to compare location, staff expertise, meals and housing.
• Plan ahead on international camps, and make sure you have the right travel documents.

Resources

• Mount Hood is a well-known ski camp.
• The North American Ski Training Center concentrates on programs for competition.

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