LEARN TO SKi and snowboard
Contrary to popular belief, the sky isn’t the limit. In fact, it’s just the beginning. Sky Tavern’s Learn to Ski and Ride program is the oldest and largest nonprofit Learn-to-Ski program in the country. Since 1948, over 125,000 youth have learned to ski or ride at Sky Tavern — all under the guidance of adult volunteers.
For eight weeks each winter, Sky Tavern comes alive thanks to the parents and essential adult volunteers who make it all possible. From instructors on the slopes to parking lot greeters and cooks in the kitchen, these dedicated heroes create the magic behind the ear-to-ear smiles of every child who learns to ski or ride.
Programs run on weekends, with families choosing Saturday, Sunday, or both. Each youth participant enjoys a two-hour lesson in the morning, then spends the rest of the day practicing and showing off their growing skills and confidence.
Sky Tavern memberships are designed to be accessible and affordable—so every child has the chance to learn. The cost covers the entire season, and in many cases, is less than the price of a single lift ticket at a typical resort.
Unlike most mountains, Sky Tavern is a true member-driven training area — a community of volunteers dedicated to helping kids get outside, build confidence, and discover a lifelong love of the mountains.
*NOTE:
Youth + Adult Participation: There are no child drop-offs. All youth require a parent or guardian on the mountain for the entire duration. The only exception is "Bus Students". Adults are 18+ years.
Weather Closures: If the weather is not safe or there is not enough snow, that weekend of closure is pushed back into March.
YOUTH LEARN TO SKI AND SNOWBOARD PROGRAMS
For 2026, our age distribution between ski programs has changed for skiers. Take a look below. All youth programs require a parent or guardian to register as well. THERE ARE NO DROP-OFFS. Registration will NOT be approved until an adult is registered. The only exceptions are "Bus Students" and pre-approved 9 - 17 years old. Lessons are scheduled 9 AM - 11 AM on program weekends. Check-in starts at 8:45 AM.
AGES 4 TO 7
SkyKids
Sky Kids encompasses skiers at all levels, ages 4 - 7. Small learning groups are our goal, which demands the support of our volunteer instructors. Our tiny but mighty rippers learn the basics from trained volunteer instructors. Sky Tavern utilizes an interactive environment that allows kids to progress while ensuring learning remains fun!
At least one parent/guardian of the participating child must register/purchase “Instructor Learn to Ski/Ride Pass” or a “Certified Instructor Pass.”
AGES 4 TO 7
Grommets
For our youngest snowboarders, Grommets includes all levels, ages 4 - 7. Small learning groups are our goal, which demands the support of our volunteer instructors. Our adorable shredders are introduced to the basics in an engaging environment. Grommets utilize creative learning tools that allow them to learn the art of the turn to better explore the mountain.
At least one parent/guardian of the participating child must register/purchase “Instructor Learn to Ski/Ride Pass” or a “Certified Instructor Pass.”
JUNIOR SKI AND SNOWBOARD
AGES 8 TO 17
w/participating parents
Ski & snowboard programs for our youth & young adults, ages 8-17, include a two-hour lesson in the morning followed by free skiing for the remainder of the day.
Ski & snowboard programs for our youth & teens target all levels of skiers and riders, ages 8 -17. Participants are grouped by ability and age. Junior skiers and riders will be introduced to techniques focusing on improving control and gaining the confidence needed to explore the mountain. Skiers and riders are free to rip the mountain after their lesson. As a reminder, all parents and guardians must register and volunteer on the days their junior ski and snowboarders are on the mountain.
SKY TEEN AMBASSADORS
AGES 14 TO 17
The Sky Tavern Teen Ambassador program empowers teen rippers (ages 14 - 17) with volunteer opportunities to give back to the mountain, while developing leadership and communication skills. Sky Teen Ambassadors must be expert skiers and snowboarders who can make controlled turns on all terrain and snow conditions. To continue refining their skills, Ambassadors can participate in Junior Ski and Snowboard lessons throughout the season.
Ambassador assignments will vary daily based on the needs of the mountain. Ambassadors can expect a commitment of 2 - 4 hours per day. Assignments include the following: chairlift assistants for smaller riders, monitoring beginner zones, assisting race, assisting instructors in Sky Tavern Learn to Ski and Snowboard Programs, assisting coaches in the race terrain, assisting freestyle coaches with park maintenance, and more!
Sky Teen Ambassadors will also have the opportunity to participate in PSIA/AASI Junior Instructor Program. If you are interested please email Sky Tavern’s Learning Program Manager, Kristen Martin del Campo. Kristen@skytavern.com
bus student Program
Our Bus Student program is an independent membership pass for children ages 9 and up wishing to ride the bus to Sky Tavern from a local high school drop-off location, Wooster, or Reed High Schools. Bus students may attend one or both weekend days. Each bus ride is an additional charge and ride vouchers must be purchased online every Wednesday by 5 PM for the following weekend.
AGES 9+
Bus Student member
Please purchase the “Bus Child Learn to Ski/Ride Pass”
Passes for children, ages 9 and up, wishing to ride the bus to Sky Tavern from a drop-off location (Wooster & Reed) for one day of each program weekend. Each bus ride is an additional charge, and ride vouchers must be purchased online.
Age 18+
Bus Supervisor
Adults 18 years of age and older, who wish to ride the bus and VOLUNTEER as adult supervisors. The Bus Supervisor checks kids in each time they ride the bus.
A Sky Tavern Pass is required. This position fulfills the 2-hour volunteer requirement.
ADULT VOLUNTEER INSTRUCTOR
To keep our class sizes small and personal, we rely on dedicated volunteers like you! Sky Tavern offers a comprehensive training program designed to give you the knowledge, skills, and confidence to lead lessons. Many instructors find that their own skiing and riding improves through teaching. Afternoon clinics are also available to further your skills and support those interested in pursuing snowsports instructor certifications.
Your day begins with a short morning meeting with fellow instructors and program leads. Students check in between 8:30–8:45 AM, and lessons run from 9:00–11:00 AM. Your commitment helps keep Sky Tavern’s tradition of community-led learning strong, and we’re deeply grateful for your support!
For questions about instruction, please reach out to Kristen, our Learning Programs Manager, at Kristen@skytavern.com
Certified Instructor
Please purchase the “Certified Instructor or Team Coach” Pass. PSIA/AASI Must have a Certification Number. Must be current.
You know the drill! Thank you for being a Sky Tavern Instructor. Based on your certification level, experience, and preferences, you will be assigned to a specific learning program and lead lessons. Pre-season online, in-person, and on-snow training will be offered to ensure that you are prepared.
NON SKIING/RIDING VOLUNTEERS
Please purchase the “Volunteer Access Pass.”
Not interested in skiing or riding? You can still play a big role in your child’s learning experience at Sky Tavern! Parents and guardians are welcome to instruct beginner Sky Kids and Grommets without ever putting on ski or snowboard gear. Lessons also need support with student check-in, setting up and breaking down learning zones, and other behind-the-scenes help. Beyond lessons, the mountain has plenty of volunteer opportunities as well —your support keeps Sky Tavern thriving!
Non-certified Instructors
Please purchase the “Instructor Learn to Ski/Ride Pass.”
We can teach you to teach! Pre-season training will start in October and will include online training and in-person training. On snow training sessions will start as soon as the mountain opens. We will have additional training throughout the season to support your development as an instructor.