Exploring the snowy landscapes of Breckenridge with your little ones in tow and introducing them to the joy of skiing or snowboarding is not just about creating lifelong memories but instilling a love for the mountains. We’ll explore tips, lessons, and beginner-friendly areas at Breckenridge Resort to make your kids’ first runs a memorable and enjoyable experience.
Prepare for the Adventure
Before hitting the slopes, ensure your little snow enthusiasts are geared up for success. At Breckenridge Ski and Sport, we’ll make sure your kids are prepared with the right-sized kids rentals and gear.
We offer kids ski rentals from HEAD and Salomon and Kids snowboards from HEAD. Our kids HEAD Supershape skis are shorter, allowing for optimum control, while the Salomon QST Jr skis are slightly longer, offering increased flexibility. Kids ski packages come with skis, boots, a helmet, and poles if desired.
Our kids snowboard fleet includes HEAD Flex 4D boards. With a flexible center and optimum support, this board makes it easy for young riders to gain confidence on the mountain. Kids snowboard packages include the board, boots, bindings, and a helmet.
It is also important to make sure your kids are fitted with the correct clothing and outerwear in addition to ski and snowboard gear. Don’t forget to check the weather forecast, dress your kids in layers, and equip them with winter essentials like gloves, warm layers, and goggles.
Enroll in a Lesson
Breckenridge Resort takes pride in its comprehensive ski and snowboard school, catering specifically to young learners. Enrolling your children in lessons tailored to their age group ensures they receive instruction in a fun and engaging environment.
From storytelling techniques to games that build skills, these lessons create an environment where kids feel both safe and excited to learn. The instructors use innovative techniques and a variety of terrain specifically designed for beginner skiers and snowboarders.
Explore Breckenridge Beginner Terrain
Breckenridge Resort offers several different areas with beginner terrain perfect for kids just learning.
Peak 8 Base Area: The Peak 8 Base Area is a hub of beginner-friendly slopes, making it an ideal starting point for your little ones. With gentle gradients and wide-open spaces, kids can practice their turns and build confidence.
The Four O’Clock Trail: Once kids have gotten comfortable in learning areas or through lessons, the Four O’Clock trail is a great option for kids able to undertake an increased challenge. Accessed from Peak 8, it represents the longest run at Breckenridge, spanning 3.5 miles of groomed blue-to-green terrain.
Peak 9: Peak 9 also offers a premier learning area, with dedicated zones and beginner slopes designed to nurture skills and confidence. This mountain is also a great place for kids and beginners to get started on easier green trails. The Quicksilver Superchair lift offers access to several shorter green runs, including Silverthorne, Frontier, and Lower Lehman.
Discover all of Breckenridge’s trails on the trail map.
Create a Positive Experience
- Patience is Key: Understand that learning a new winter sport is a process, and each child progresses at their own pace. Patience and encouragement go a long way in fostering a positive experience.
- Celebrate Small Wins: Whether it’s completing their first turn or making it down a gentle slope without a tumble, celebrate every small achievement. Positive reinforcement helps build confidence and a sense of accomplishment.
- Make It Fun: Infuse an element of play into their learning experience. Incorporate games, challenges, and perhaps a friendly family race down the bunny slope. The more enjoyable the experience, the more eager they’ll be to return to the slopes.
Emphasize Safety
- Helmets and Protective Gear: Prioritize safety by ensuring your kids are equipped with helmets and other protective gear. Set an example by wearing your own gear, emphasizing the importance of safety on the slopes. At Breckenridge Ski & Sport, all of our rentals come with helmets!
- Know the Code: Teach your kids the Skier Responsibility Code – a set of guidelines that promote safe and enjoyable skiing and snowboarding. Understanding and practicing the code fosters a culture of respect and responsibility on the slopes.
Encourage an Appreciation for the Mountains
The ultimate goal is not just to get your kids started on the slopes but to cultivate a lifelong love for the mountains and winter sports. Share stories of your own experiences, explore different areas of the resort, and make winter adventures a family tradition that spans generations.
The journey of introducing your kids to skiing or snowboarding in Breckenridge is a delightful adventure filled with laughter, learning, and family bonding. By following these tips, your kids are sure to get excited about their first skiing experience and look forward to many more to come. Ready to also hit the slopes at another Summit County resort? Check out our guides to skiing at Copper Mountain and Keystone.