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Welcome to The Ernie Blake Snowsports School!

VOTED #1 SKI SCHOOL IN NORTH AMERICA BY USA TODAY

Our expert coaches are here to ignite your passion for snowsports, share our rich traditions of stewardship and inclusiveness, and inspire a deep, lasting connection with our breathtaking mountains. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to take your skills to the next level, we’re here to make your Taos experience nothing short of extraordinary.

Snowboard instructor teaching a group of adult beginner snowboarders at Taos Ski Valley

FIRST TIMER'S GUIDE

Ready to try skiing or snowboarding? Our First Time Lessons are designed just for you, helping you build confidence and skills to take on any mountain.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE YOUR LESSON

  • Dress Appropriately: Wear warm, waterproof layers, plus a helmet, goggles, and gloves.
  • Children’s Rentals: Rentals are included with children's lessons and will be ready after check-in at the Rio Hondo Learning Center.
  • Adult Rentals: The First Timer Package includes lift tickets and rentals. Pick up your equipment at Taos Sports the night before to make your morning smoother.
  • Arrival Information: You will receive a pre-arrival email 72 hours prior to your visit with specific information of check-in times, where to go, and more. But, here's a sneak peek of what you will find in that email:

    • Arrive Early: We recommend arriving at least an hour before your lesson.
    • Lesson Locations:

      • Adults: Snowsports Office (right of Lift 1).
      • Children: Snowsports Office or Rio Hondo Learning Center (depending on the season).
  • Check out our village map to find these location.

CHILDREN'S LESSONS

We make learning to ski and snowboard fun, safe, and exciting for kids ages 3–13. Whether it’s their first time or they’re refining their skills, our lessons build confidence through expert instruction and age-appropriate learning. With lift tickets and rentals included, just show up and let the fun begin.

  • Children enrolling in Snowsports Lessons must be able to use the restroom independently without the use of pull-ups or diapers.
  • Please arrive early. It's recommended that you arrive no later than 8:15AM to check in at the Rio Hondo Learning Center, get rentals, and be geared up by the lesson start time.
  • If your child is not on snow, booted up, and ready to ski/ride within 15 minutes of the designated start time, we will have to reschedule your lesson.

  • At least one parent/guardian must be onsite for the duration of a child's lesson in case of emergency.
  • Kids lesson packages include coaching, a lift ticket, rental gear including boots, a helmet, skis or a snowboard, and lunch or a morning snack.
  • All children participating in lessons need to bring their own goggles or sunglasses, waterproof gloves/mittens, waterproof pants, a waterproof jacket, and tall non-cotton socks.
  • The prices shown above are standard lesson pricing. Discounts may be available when booking more than 72 hours before your visit. Prices may be higher during busier times like the Christmas holiday.

Have Questions?

Check out our FAQ page for answers on what you need to bring, success tips, and so much more.

TAOS SKI VALLEY CHILDCARE

Planning a ski day without the little ones? Our childcare team provides a safe, fun, and engaging environment so you can hit the slopes with peace of mind.

ADULT LESSONS

Have Questions?

Check out our FAQ page for answers on which what you need to bring, success tips, and so much more.

GUIDES & PRIVATE LESSONS

Private lessons are available by reservation. Lift tickets and rentals are not included and must be purchased separately.

SKI WEEKS

Lift tickets and rentals are purchased separately for all Ski Week programs.

Snowsports instructor listening excitedly to students at Taos Ski Valley.

Have A Question?

Want to book a lesson?

Call Central Reservations at 800.776.1111

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Looking for lesssons taught in other languages?

Our team of skilled coaches is ready to provide lessons, with most sessions conducted in English. We may also be able to accommodate requests for other languages in a private lesson setting, subject to availability. For more details and availability, call 575.776.5918

Have other questions?

Check out our Frequently Asked Questions page for helpful information like tips for successful children's lessons, best time to arrive, and more!