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Ski & Snowboard Lessons

Group lessons, private instruction, kids' programs, and beginner packages

BBMR Ski & Ride School

Both Bear Mountain and Snow Summit are operated by Big Bear Mountain Resort (BBMR) and share a unified ski and snowboard school. Lessons are available at both mountains with certified instructors for all ages and abilities. Book online at bigbearmountainresort.com or call (909) 866-5766.

Lesson Programs

Group Lessons

  • • Duration: 2 hours
  • • Group Size: Up to 6–8 students
  • • Levels: First-timer, beginner, intermediate, advanced
  • • Ages: 7+ for group (younger kids in kids' programs)
  • • Includes: Lift access to learning terrain
  • • Best For: Budget-friendly intro or skill building

Private Lessons

  • • Duration: 2 or 4 hours
  • • Group Size: 1-on-1 or up to 5 friends/family
  • • Levels: All levels including expert coaching
  • • Ages: All ages (3+ with private instruction)
  • • Includes: Full mountain access with instructor
  • • Best For: Fast progression, personalized coaching, families

Kids' Programs

  • • Ages: 4–6 (Mini Riders) and 7–12 (Youth Programs)
  • • Duration: Half-day and full-day options
  • • Includes: Equipment rental, lift ticket, lunch (full day)
  • • Terrain: Dedicated learning areas with gentle slopes
  • • Instructors: Specially trained for kids, fun & games approach
  • • Best For: First-timers getting comfortable on snow

Beginner Packages

  • • Includes: Lift ticket + rental + 2-hr group lesson
  • • Equipment: Skis or snowboard, boots, helmet
  • • Terrain: Access to beginner lifts and learning zones
  • • Available: Both Bear Mountain and Snow Summit
  • • Book Online: Save $$ by booking ahead on BBMR site
  • • Best For: Never-evers getting everything in one package

Which Mountain for Lessons?

🏔️ Bear Mountain

  • • Best For: Intermediate+ riders, terrain park progression
  • • Beginner Terrain: 30% of 26 runs (~8 beginner runs)
  • • Learning Area: Dedicated beginner zone near base
  • • Vibe: More freestyle / park-oriented
  • • See Bear Mountain details →

⛷️ Snow Summit

  • • Best For: True beginners, families, all-mountain
  • • Beginner Terrain: 35% of 33 runs (~12 beginner runs)
  • • Learning Area: Large, gentle beginner zone with magic carpet
  • • Vibe: More family-friendly, classic ski experience
  • • See Snow Summit details →

Tips for Your First Lesson

✅ Do

  • • Book ahead: Online bookings are cheaper and guarantee your spot
  • • Arrive 45 min early: Get fitted for rentals before lesson starts
  • • Dress in layers: Waterproof jacket/pants, warm base layer, gloves, helmet
  • • Eat breakfast: You'll burn a lot of energy at altitude
  • • Wear sunscreen: UV is intense at 7,000+ feet even on cloudy days

❌ Don't

  • • Don't wear jeans: They get wet, cold, and heavy — wear waterproof pants
  • • Don't skip the lesson: Skipping = falling more + ruining the day
  • • Don't go too big too fast: Master the bunny hill before going up top
  • • Don't forget water: High altitude dehydrates you quickly
  • • Don't be late: Group lessons start on time and won't wait

📞 Ready to Book?

Call (909) 866-5766 or visit bigbearmountainresort.com to reserve your lesson. Online bookings often include discounts!