Know Before You Go | Ski and Snowboard
Welcome to WinSport! We can't wait to welcome you to your ski or snowboard lesson. Here's what you need to know before you go.
Note: Weather-related cancellations
In the event of extreme weather, it may be necessary for WinSport to cancel a lesson. This decision will be based on a number of factors, including (but not limited to) temperature, wind chill, humidity, cloud cover and time of the lesson. Participants will be contacted by email in the event of a cancellation.
Before Your First Day
Waivers Are Required to Participate
It is critical that you complete your waivers in advance of arrival.
Please use the same e-mail address you used to book your lessons to sign in to complete your waiver.
IMPORTANT – WAIVERS REQUIRED
Participation in WinSport’s Snow School Programs, Lessons, and Camps (the “Program”) is subject to completion of WinSport’s Release of Liability, Waiver of Claims, Assumption of Risks and Indemnity Agreements (the “Waivers”) by each participant or their parent/legal guardian prior to the first day of the Program. PLEASE READ THESE WAIVERS CAREFULLY! By signing, you will waive or give up certain legal rights including the right to sue for negligence, breach of contract, or breach of the Occupiers’ Liability Act or claim compensation following an accident. In the event the Waivers are not completed, participation in the Program shall not be permitted and a refund will be provided.
The Waivers can be viewed and completed here
Do you have your own equipment for you ski/snowboard lesson? If so, ensure you check the following before arrival:
Boots & Bindings
Try the boots on to make sure they still fit! Poorly fitted boots can lead to a negative experience.
A couple of things to check for regarding how your boots/bindings fit together:
- If you are skiing, do your boots snap into your bindings securely?
- If you are snowboarding, are your boots snug when strapped in?
- Are your new boots too big for the bindings, with your toes hanging over the edge?
Check your Edges and Bases
Check both skis and snowboards for severe splits and cracks, or other severe damage. Equipment must be in quality condition to be of safe use.
Are you renting equipment for your lesson? Please complete the following before arrival:
Alpine Equipment Rental Waiver
Please allow a minimum of 45-60 minutes to pick up your rentals prior to your lesson.
Staying warm and dry during your lesson will make a big difference in your positive experience. Arrive wearing the following:
- Buff or face covering
- Goggles
- Base layers made of moisture-wicking fabric
- Winter jacket
- Waterproof snow pants
- Tall wool socks
- Gloves/mittens
- Neck warmer
- Snow Sports Helmet (Included in rental)
- Snowboard boots or ski boots (Included in rental)
- Snowboard or skis and poles (Included in rental)
Dress in layers so you can adjust your temperature for hill conditions and stay dry.
We recommend you arrive at the lesson check-in 30 minutes before your lesson starts (find the location below).
If you are renting equipment, please arrive at the rental department 45 - 60 minutes before your lesson start time.
For a smooth arrival please complete all forms in Steps 1 and 2 above at least 48 hours prior to your lesson.
When You Arrive
Parking is free at WinSport. Park in the parking lot of the Frank King Day Lodge located at the main entrance on Olympic Road SW.
We recommend arriving at least 30 minutes before your lesson. If you are renting equipment, please aim to be in the rentals department 45 - 60 minutes prior to your lesson.
A gate pass is required to access WinSport via the private West Track Service Road which connects the community of Cougar Ridge to our facilities. If you are in a registered program you may request a complementary gate pass at the time of check-in on your first day of programming.
When you are ready to start your lesson, head to the on-snow check-in area located between the beginner's area and the main parking lot outside the Day Lodge (next to the flags). There will be signage to help guide you to your destination.
See the maps below for specific check-in locations.
Please note: Guests are not permitted access onto snow to watch lessons. Guests are permitted to view the beginner ski/snowboard area from the flag court, located just east of the Frank King Day Lodge.
Hill access is restricted to hill users in lessons or with a valid lift ticket. All hill users are required to be in ski or snowboard equipment.
Parents with children in lessons often choose to relax in the Frank King Day Lodge Food Court or the EIGHTYEIGHT Bar & Grill, or take the time for a workout at the Performance Training Centre.
After your lesson
If you are interested in skiing/snowboarding before or after your lesson, head to Guest Services inside the Frank King Day Lodge to purchase a discounted lift ticket. Ensure you have a clear understanding of the Alpine Responsibility Code and can remain in control wherever you choose to ski or ride.