1-877-542-2633
WORLD-CLASS INSTRUCTORS.
Young at heart? At Banff Sunshine Village we invite the kid in you to have fun as you learn to discover and improve your snow abilities. Our adult lessons offer programs for every level of skier or snowboarder, from the first timer to the extreme shredder.
NEED ASSISTANCE?
Our friendly staff is simply a phone call or email away! Not sure of your ability? Our ability chart is at located the bottom of this page.
LESSONS
Adult Private Lessons
Ages: 18+
Adult Private Lessons
Ages: 18+
Description
Improve your skills or explore the mountains with the attention of your very own instructor. You pick the theme and set the pace and your instructor will deliver a day of fun and adventure while you learn and develop new skills and tactics.
Instructor to Student ratio | One Hour: 1:2 | Two Hour, Half Day, or Full Day: 1:5
Lift Tickets or Rental Equipment are not included with Private Lessons but can be purchased separately.
Private Lessons - Ski
You will be able to select the time and add options on the booking page.
Private Lessons - Snowboard
You will be able to select the time and add options on the booking page.
Private Lessons | Day in the Dive
Ages: 18+
Private Lessons | Day in the Dive
Ages: 18+
Description
If conquering Delirium Dive is on your bucket list, then this lesson is for you! Dive into one of the world's most challenging runs with the guidance of one of our most seasoned pros.
With your pro you’ll be coached through the terrain. Expect to learn helpful tips on how to ski or ride extreme freeride zones.
The lesson includes Avalanche pack rental and can have up to 5 people of the same discipline and level. Please note that due to snow safety, Delirium Dive may close unexpectedly.
Dive Lessons - Ski
You will be able to select the time and add options on the booking page.
Dive Lessons - Snowboard
You will be able to select the time and add options on the booking page.
*Prices do not include GST
Group Lessons
Ages 13 to Adult
Group Lessons
Ages 13 to Adult
Description
Our Group Lessons can be purchased with a lift ticket add on and or rental equipment add on if required. Please chose one of our Adult/Teen Lift & Lesson, Rental & Lesson or Lift, Rental & Lesson package products for the pricing on these options.
Our Group Lessons are offered for guests aged 13+. The program is available for skiers or snowboarders of all ability levels (Never/Ever, Once or Twice, Green Runner, Blue Runner or Black Runner) (Level 1 - 5).
During high volume times teens may be placed in separate groups however unless there are minimum participants booked teens and adults will be in the same groups.
Program Times: Full Day | 10:30am to 3:30pm
Lunch break from 12:30pm – 1:30pm
Please note that you will need to pick your teen up at the meeting place at 12:30pm and then drop them back off at 1:30pm.
Half Day AM | 10:30am to 12:30pm
Half Day PM | 1:30pm to 3:30pm
Group Lessons - Ski
You will be able to select time and add-on options on the booking page.
Group Lessons - Snowboard
You will be able to select time and add-on options on the booking page.
First Timer Package
Ages 13 to Adult
First Timer Package
Ages 13 to Adult
Description
The First Timer Package is an all-inclusive full day lesson that includes a full day lift ticket and a full day of equipment rental for those who have never skied or snowboarded before. You will learn in a small group size for personal attention with a specialized learning zone with gentle terrain and easy lifts to help build confidence on the snow so you can discover a new sport in a positive and fun way. Teen and Adult groups may be combined if minimum numbers have not been reserved.
Full Day | 10:30 am - 3:30 pm
Includes full day lesson, lift pass and equipment rental.
You will be able to select the time and add options on the booking page.
*Prices do not include GST
Private Photo Session
Ages: No Age Limit
Private Photo Session
Ages: No Age Limit
Description
Take home the memory of you and yours carving up Canada’s Best Snow, and book a private 90 minute session with our on-mountain photographer. For just $250, our official Sunshine Photographer will ski around with you and capture your iconic Sunshine Moments. Included in the cost are 10 edited high resolution photos you’ll be able to use as you see fit. Our photo session can be booked as an add-on to a private lesson, or it can be booked independently. |
90 min Photo Session
$250
Call our sales desk 403-762-6560 for availability.
*Prices do not include GST
PROGRAMS
Adult
Spring Series Program
Ages: 18+
Adult
Spring Series Program
Ages: 18+
Description
Join some of Sunshine Village's top instructors and enjoy our fabulous spring conditions! Choose a Wednesday, Saturday or Sunday program and come out for 4-weeks of fun.
All abilities from beginner to expert are welcome to join. From basic skill development to tactical ski improvement in steeps, bumps, powder and carving we use a step-by-step approach. You will be ready to tackle anything this season after the four weeks!
DATES:
- 4 week Wednesdays: April 5th – May 3rd
4 week Saturdays: April 1st – April 29th- 4 week Sundays: April 2nd – April 30th
- (The program will skip Easter weekend: April 8, 9, & 12)
ADDTIONAL INFO:
Lessons run full day, from 10:00am to 3:30pm
Lunch break from 12:30pm to 1:30pm
Lunch, ticket, rental, and/or bus from Calgary add-ons available but not included.
You will be able to select the time and add options on the booking page.
*Prices do not include GST.
Adult Freeriders
4 Week Program
Ages: 18+
Adult Freeriders
4 Week Program
Ages: 18+
Description
Carve up thrills this winter, as you progress your ski and snowboard skills at Banff Sunshine Village. Discover new terrain as you develop new techniques to enjoy Canada’s Best Snow.
Our multi-week Freeriders programs are tailored to the group dynamic and will push you to be the skier of your dreams. Meet new “ski-friends” as you enjoy a full day of coaching on snow with your small group. At Sunshine, our multi week programs have a maximum of 8 participants.
DATES:
- 4 week Saturdays: January 7th - January 28th
- 4 week Sundays: January 8th - January 29th
- 4 week Wednesdays: January 4th - January 25th
ADDTIONAL INFO:
Lessons run full day from 10:00am to 3:30pm
Lunch break from 12:30pm to 1:30pm
Ticket, Lunch, Rental and Bus add-ons are available but not included
Online registration for Freeriders has now closed. Please contact our Ski & Snowboard School Sales Desk at 403-762-6560 for last minute availability. Our Sales Desk is open daily from 8:00am to 4:00pm.
Adult Freeriders
6 Week Program
Ages: 18+
Adult Freeriders
6 Week Program
Ages: 18+
Description
Carve up thrills this winter, as you progress your ski and snowboard skills at Banff Sunshine Village. Discover new terrain as you develop new techniques to enjoy Canada’s Best Snow.
Our multi-week Freeriders programs are tailored to the group dynamic and will push you to be the skier of your dreams. Meet new “ski-friends” as you enjoy a full day of coaching on snow with your small group. At Sunshine, our multi week programs have a maximum of 8 participants.
DATES:
- 6 week Saturdays: January 7th - February 11th
- 6 week Sundays: January 8th - February 12th
- 6 week Wednesdays: January 4th - February 8th
ADDTIONAL INFO:
Lessons run full day from 10:00am to 3:30pm
Lunch break from 12:30pm to 1:30pm
Ticket, Lunch, Rental and Bus add-ons are available but not included
Online registration for Freeriders has now closed. Please contact our Ski & Snowboard School Sales Desk at 403-762-6560 for last minute availability. Our Sales Desk is open daily from 8:00am to 4:00pm.
*Prices do not include GST.
Adult Freeriders
10 Week Program
Ages: 18+
Adult Freeriders
10 Week Program
Ages: 18+
Description
Carve up thrills this winter, as you progress your ski and snowboard skills at Banff Sunshine Village. Discover new terrain as you develop new techniques to enjoy Canada’s Best Snow.
Our multi-week Freeriders programs are tailored to the group dynamic and will push you to be the skier of your dreams. Meet new “ski-friends” as you enjoy a full day of coaching on snow with your small group. At Sunshine, our multi week programs have a maximum of 8 participants.
DATES:
- 10 week Saturdays: January 7th - March 18th
- 10 week Sundays: January 8th - March 19th
- 10 week Wednesdays: January 4th - March 15th
- *Skips Family Day Weekend February 18th/19th and Family Day week Februray 22nd
ADDTIONAL INFO:
Lessons run full day from 10:00am to 3:30pm
Lunch break from 12:30pm to 1:30pm
Ticket, Lunch, Rental and Bus add-ons are available but not included
Online registration for Freeriders has now closed. Please contact our Ski & Snowboard School Sales Desk at 403-762-6560 for last minute availability. Our Sales Desk is open daily from 8:00am to 4:00pm.
*Prices do not include GST.
Adult
Jump Start Program
Ages: 18+
Adult
Jump Start Program
Ages: 18+
Description
Join some of Sunshine Village's top instructors and get your season started on the right foot! Choose a Wednesday, Saturday or Sunday program and come out for 4-weeks of fun in small groups.
All abilities from beginner to expert are welcome to join. From basic skill development to tactical ski improvement in steeps, bumps, powder and carving we use a step-by-step approach. You will be ready to tackle anything this season after the four weeks!
DATES:
- 4 week Saturdays: November 19 – December 10
- 4 week Sundays: November 20 – December 11
- 4 week Wednesdays: November 16 – December 7
ADDTIONAL INFO:
Lessons run full day, from 10:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Lunch break from 12:30pm to 1:30pm
Ticket, Lunch, Rental and Bus add-ons available but not included.
See Important to Note section for all the details.
Online registration for Jumpstart 2022/23 has now closed. Please contact our Ski & Snowboard School Sales Desk at 403-762-6560 for last minute availability. Our Sales Desk is open daily from 8:00am to 4:00pm.
*Prices do not include GST.
Additional Information
What's Your Ability Level?
New to Snow
Where to Meet
Instructor Training
What's Your Ability Level?
BEGINNER LEVEL 1: NEVER EVER
You have never Skied or Snowboarded before. You're a bit nervous but want to learn how it's done. You want to start at the very beginning with a user-friendly, step-by-step progression.
BEGINNER LEVEL 2: ONCE OR TWICE
You have been out once or twice before but you still consider yourself to be a beginner and are still be a bit nervous. You might have trouble turning in both directions and controlling your speed, you may also need a refresher on how to get on the lift. You think it might be nice to start your lesson in the beginner area.
BEGINNER LEVEL 3: GREEN RUNNER
You have been up the lift before and you are becoming comfortable making turns on runs designated with a Green Circle. You are happy to start the lesson going straight up a chair lift. You would like to be able to try some easy blue runs but need to improve your skill level first.
INTERMEDIATE LEVEL 4: BLUE RUNNER
You can usually make controlled turns on runs designated with a blue square but you avoid moguls. You need to learn the skills required to be able to challenge some of the black diamond runs and maybe learn a bit about moguls.
EXPERT LEVEL 5: BLACK DIAMOND RUNNER
You look for runs designated with a black diamond but want to be able to do them with more style. You can get down the bumps and the steeps but need to learn how to keep your rhythm and speed under control.
EXPERT LEVEL 6: DOUBLE BLACK DIAMOND RUNNER*
You're very comfortable on your skis or snowboard and are looking for new ways to challenge yourself. You have room for some improvement in your technical skills but also need an introduction to some new lines on the mountain and some new tactics to help you "rip it up". *Double Black Diamond Runner can only be booked as a private lesson.
New to Snow
DEVELOP YOUR SKILLS AND DISCOVER THE BEST OF WINTER AT SUNSHINE
You don't have to be a kid to learn how to ski and snowboard and you can learn at every level of athletic ability. You want to make those first few trips to Sunshine Village memorable and fun-filled. Here's what you need to know:
EQUIPMENT
It's best to rent equipment before you buy and we have an excellent line of entry-level Salomon skis, snowboards, poles, and boots. You can also be fitted by a number of rental shops in Banff, Canmore and Calgary. Beginner skis tend to be flexible, putting the emphasis on ease rather than performance. Choose boots that provide a relaxed, comfortable fit.
THE SNOW SCHOOL
The quickest and safest way to get comfortable on the slopes is with Sunshine's award-winning, certified instructors. Group lessons are the least expensive, and you'll be grouped with new skiers and snowboarders, just like you.
START ON GENTLE RUNS
Green runs are a gentle way to build confidence and skill. If you are brand new, it's best to take a few practice runs on the Mighty Might carpet lift. Ride the Strawberry Express chair and try out our most popular beginner runs, Dell Valley and Rock Isle Road. When you're ready for longer green runs, head to nearby Standish, WaWa or Angel chairs, which are all accessible from the heart of the Village. There are also great beginner (green) runs off of the JackRabbit and Wolverine chairs. Remember to take it easy, and stop for the occasional rest. Most injuries occur near the end of the day, when skiers and boarders are getting fatigued.
BE SAFE!
A few common-sense rules to ensure you have a great time during your visit to Banff Sunshine
-Go at your own pace. Don't try challenging runs until you are ready
-Always wear a helmet and other protective gear
-If you're tired, take a break
-Get lessons; You'll learn faster and enjoy your visit more!
-Follow the Alpine Responsibility Code
Where to Meet
GROUP & PRIVATE LESSONS
All of our group and private lessons (excluding Tiny Tigers) meet out front of Mad Trappers Bar & Grill. You'll see signs that tell you which group to join, and your instructor will confirm that you're in the right spot. From there, you'll be off to the part of the mountain that is right for your skill level and learning objectives. It's also where you'll return to at the end of your lesson, so parents and friends can plan to meet up with you there. Please arrive 15 minutes in advance of your lesson so that we can get underway as quickly as possible and make the most of your time with our certified instructors.
TINY TIGERS
Tiny Tigers lessons meet at the fenced area next to the Village gondola station. It's a special area that is designed with the enjoyment and safety of our smallest guests in mind. Parents should allow a bit of extra time to get from the Snow School office to the Tiny Tigers area. Please arrive 15 minutes in advance of your lesson so that we can get underway as quickly as possible and make the most of your time with our certified instructors.
SNOW SCHOOL OFFICE
The main office for the Snow School is located at the entrance of Mad Trappers Bar & Grill. Registration and payment, as well as questions, comments and special requests, can be made in-person at this location. Please arrive 15 minutes in advance of your lesson so that we can get underway as quickly as possible and make the most of your time with our certified instructors.
Instructor Training
INSTRUCTOR TRAINING
Learn from the very best. Sunshine Village Ski & Snowboard School offers one of the strongest and most recognized programs in North America. The resort’s highly qualified instructors, who are also examiners, offer industry leading programs, designed to empower you with the training to become a certified instructor. Through the school's most successful 11 and 12 week intensive training programs, you can obtain the high level skills required to work in the ski/snowboard industry as a teaching pro.
The program provides the training necessary to achieve your Level 2 instructor certification. Sunshine Ski & Snowboard School have been running these industry respected and renowned programs for nearly a dozen years, with an impressive 90 percent pass rate. Further certifications include terrain park instructor and race coach training.
Check out one of these programs at the following links:
Snow Skool: www.snowskool.com/ski-instructor-courses/banff/12-...
Interested in just an instructor course? Use the following links to find out what is involved in the level 1/entry level course/ costs and dates.
Canadian Ski Instructors Alliance: www.snowpro.com
Canadian Association Of Snowboard Instructors: www.casi-acms.com
Canadian Ski Coach Federation: www.canskicoach.org