Afternoon Mountain Sessions
NEW! A flexible afternoon option for families who prefer a later start.
Afternoon Mountain Sessions is Sky Tavern’s new late‑day option for families who want a relaxed, flexible way to enjoy the mountain. With a later start, casual learning opportunities, fewer crowds, and an affordable price, it’s a welcoming way to ski and ride together at an easier pace.
Program Schedule
11:30 AM Parking opens to Afternoon Mountain Session members
12:00 PM – 4:00 PM Afternoon Mountain Session passes active
1:00 – 2:30 PM Guided learning opportunities available
Pricing
Child (ages 4+) $299
Adult $259
GUIDED LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES
Beginner Zone Stations
A supportive space designed for families with brand‑new skiers and riders. Instructors are available to help you guide your child from “never ever” to making their first turns on the carpet. Families learn together with simple tips, hands‑on guidance, and a welcoming pace.
Intro to Chairlift Terrain
For participants ready to move beyond the carpets, this session introduces the skills and confidence needed to explore chairlift terrain. Families learn how to navigate the easiest routes down and build comfort on new slopes
Chairlift Ride GrouP Rides
Skiers and snowboarders ride together and choose terrain that matches their comfort level. Groups explore the mountain at a relaxed pace, with instructors offering guidance, tips, tactics, and encouragement.
Ride Groups:
Green: Comfortable on green terrain, working on rounder turns for speed control (Ski/SB) and smaller wedges (Ski)
Blue: Comfortable on blue terrain, working on stronger turns on blue terrain (Ski/SB) and more parallel (Ski)
Black: Comfortable on black terrain, working on dynamic skiing and riding and exploring off the groomers
Morning lesson students may be invited to join when appropriate.
Adult PM Pass Programming
The PM Pass is designed as a shared family experience. Volunteering is required.
One parent/guardian is required to assist with afternoon programming on snow
A second parent/guardian is highly encouraged to support the learning opportunities on snow. Other volunteer positions are available off snow.
Parents/guardians are welcome to join their child’s group and support lead instructors with group flow, breaks, and general organization.
We can teach you to Teach and Guide! Training sessions included and offered both online and on snow pre-season!
Frequently Asked Questions
Learn to Ski and Ride Orientation Video. Watch to learn more!
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Parking is available for Afternoon Mountain Session members starting at 11:30 AM. Plan to boot up in the parking lot. Lift access for this membership starts at noon. Plan to check-in at 12:45 PM for your afternoon learning opportunity.
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Don't be late!
We are all volunteers. No one remains on the sidelines.
No sledding.
No snowballs.
If you use the lunch trays for sleds, prepare to wash dishes. (Fair warning!)
Your car is your lodge. Equipment stays out of the lodge except when using the tune room.
No alcohol during program hours.
Smoking is allowed in the lower parking lot only and not next to the fuel tanks.
No Parking in the upper lot without a parking pass.
No drop-offs. All kids require a parent or guardian on the mountain the entire time the child is here.
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Freeskiing before and after the Guided Learning Opportunities, 12 - 12:45 PM, 2:30 - 4 PM.
Guided Learning Opportunities (1-2:30 PM) to help skiers and riders progress and explore the mountain.
This membership is valid on Saturday and Sundays during program weekends, 8 weekends.
Volunteering is required!
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First and foremost, HELMETS are required for all members on the mountain. There are no exceptions.
Essential gear for skiers includes skis, ski boots, and poles (SkyKids does not use poles). Snowboarders require snowboard boots and a snowboard. Sky Tavern’s seasonal equipment rental program is a great resource for affordable gear rental.
Waterproof clothing and dressing in layers are key to staying warm and comfortable all day. A long base layer, ski pants, long-sleeve shirt, sweatshirt, waterproof jacket, and glove liners are suggested. Proper ski socks are warm and comfortable, and make it easier getting feet in and out of boots.
Sky Tavern has a tune room in the lodge where we adjust, fix, test, rent, and wax gear. Sometimes it costs a few dollars, but good gear makes for the best skiing and riding experience.
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This program typically begins in mid-January, operating on Saturdays and Sundays for eight weeks. This membership is valid from 12 to 4 PM. Check the Sky Tavern emails, website, and social media for operational updates.
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NO! There are no drop-offs. All parents or guardians must volunteer.
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One parent or guardian must assist with afternoon programming on snow to lead a learning opportunity or support a lead instructor. Pre-season training is required. Flexible training is available online and on snow. We can teach you to teach and guide!
A second parent or guardian can choose to support learning on snow or volunteer in the following positions:
Parking Lot
Carpet and Chairlift support
Kitchen
Lodge Monitor
Front Desk
Ambassador
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No! You can change it up and learn how every corner of the mountain operates.
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That’s okay! We have plenty of volunteer positions all over the mountain.
Tip: We have adult lessons, so there’s no excuse for not keeping up with the kids!
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When you sign up as an adult member, you and your family are welcome to attend Saturday, Sunday, or both days! The requirement is that your children must take their lessons each day, and the parent/adult volunteers each day.
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EVERYONE is required to be a member and wear a badge. If you bring a visitor, please see the front desk for a visitor pass. If you forget your badge, the front desk can issue a temporary badge. Everyone on the hill MUST be registered and display a badge. If you are concerned that someone may not be registered, ask them or ask an Ambassador to help. Safety first!
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All program dates are assumed GO unless a NO GO decision is made due to poor weather, road conditions, or other reasons. Check email, the website, and social media for updates during inclement weather. A No Go decision is typically made by 6:30 a.m.
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Enter the second driveway entrance (from Reno) and follow the directions for parking. Park close to each other! Our parking etiquette video explains everything you need to know!