Beginners Guide
PREPARATION IS KEY
To make your first skiing trip easy, we have put together some great tips to help you on your way.- Dressing For The Weather
- Rental Equipment Tips
- Paoli Peaks' Helmet Policy
- Storing Your Personal Belongings
- Take A Lesson
- Know "Your Responsibility Code"
- Using Paoli Peaks' Lifts Guide
DRESSING FOR THE WEATHER
Paoli Peaks offers you a great chance to enjoy the outdoors and the secret to a fun time in the snow is having the right clothing. You'll want to keep warm, dry and comfortable your first day on the snow.
Dress in Layers
Layering for skiing or riding allows you to accommodate your bodies constantly changing temperature. Generally, layering is divided into three areas:
- Wicking layer (polypropylene underwear - top and bottoms) - "wicks," or moves, moisture away from your skin and dries quickly.
- Insulating layer (wool, fleece, sweater) - keeps heat in and cold out.
- Weather Protection - Repels water from snow and sleet, and blocks the wind while letting perspiration evaporate (both jacket and pants). Choose a lightweight garment that is made of waterproof, breathable material. There are several synthetic materials on the market and available at outdoor sports stores. When buying skiwear, look for fabric that is water and wind-resistant. Look for wind flaps to shield zippers, snug cuffs at wrists and ankles, collars that can be snuggled up to the chin and drawstrings that can be adjusted for comfort and keep wind out. Be sure to buy quality skiing clothing and products.
Hats or Headbands for Skiing or Snowboarding
Usually made of fleece or wool, a good skiing hat combined with a neck warmer or gaitor will retain 80% of your body's heat, keeping you warm and toasty even on the coldest days on the Paoli Peaks ski slopes.
Gloves or Mittens for Skiing or Snowboarding
Waterproof, breathable shell and well insulated. Mittens are usually better for those susceptible to cold hands. Don't forget to get yourself some hand and toe warmers available in the Pro Shop in in the lodge.
Socks for Skiing or Snowboarding
One (1) pair of light to medium weight works best for skiing and riding. If the sock is too thick or if you're wearing too many, it could make your boots too tight, reducing circulation, which causes cold feet. It's also a good idea to change into fresh socks before putting your boots on. Damp socks worn on the trip to the ski area will quickly become cold and uncomfortable.
Don't have your own winter clothing? No worries! The Pro Shop rents jackets, snow pants/bibs. They also sell gloves, hats, goggles, and many more winter apparel.
Eye Protection
Have sunglasses and goggles with you. Skiing and snowboarding is a lot more fun when you can see!
Sunscreen and Lip Balm
Protect yourself from the strong rays of the sun. The sun reflects off the snow and is stronger than you think, even on cloudy days! Keep lip balm in a pocket and apply often while skiing. There's no reason to be cold during your Paoli Peaks skiing experience, and with a little preparation and the proper clothing and accessories, you won't be.
The Pro Shop is located in the lodge and features all of the apparel and accessories you need to enjoy your day on the slopes.
RENTAL EQUIPMENT
The Paoli Peaks Rental Shop is located on the lower level, to the left of the Main Ticket Windows. Your snow pass, lesson packages, ski/snowboard rentals, boot rentals, and helmet rentals must be purchased first at the Main Ticket Windows.
Tip: Don't get dressed to ski or ride when you need rental equipment. Follow these steps:
1) Get equipment.
2) Layer Up - Put on final layers of clothing - this way you won't be so hot when trying on boots.
3) Store personal belongings.
To get the right boot fit, be sure to wear the proper socks. The boot should fit like a snug hiking boot with no pressure points. Be sure that your pants are not tucked into the boot.
Prepare to arrive early enough to get equipment and sign up for lessons (1 to 2 hours before the lesson is an adequate amount of time to get skiing equipment and ready for your ski or snowboard lesson).
How To Use Your Ski or Snowboard Bindings
- Always clean all snow, ice, and dirt from your boots, skis, and snowboards before stepping into the binding.
- To open the binding, depress rear lever with ski pole, or ski boot.
- Step in toe first. Be sure to clean the snow off of the boot sole first.
- Step down. Heel will close automatically.
- To exit the binding, depress rear lever with boot, ski, or pole.
- Step out. The binding is now ready for re-entry.
- Do not change the binding settings. If you feel that they are not working properly, bring them back to the shop for assistance.
- Avoid walking, skiing, or snowboarding through water or mud. Water, mud, and dirt can affect your bindings making release more difficult.
While you are skiing or snowboarding, keep your boots properly closed. This allows the boot to support you properly and helps to keep your feet dry.
If you have any questions, please ask for assistance. We want to make your Paoli Peaks skiing and snowboarding experience as enjoyable as possible.
PAOLI PEAKS HELMET POLICY
Paoli Peaks recommends helmets as a consideration for skiing and boarding participants and parents.
Paoli Peaks supports individual and parental rights to choose to wear a helmet or not while skiing. We encourage parents and others to educate themselves about the benefits and limitations of helmets while skiing. Paoli Peaks promotes responsible skiing and snowboarding behavior as the key to long-term slope safety. Follow Your Responsibility Code.
For more information on helmets, visit the NSAA web site Lids on Kids (http://www.lidsonkids.org)
Helmets can be rented from our Main Ticket Windows --> $10, or purchased at our Pro Shop.
STORING YOUR PERSONAL BELONGINGS
Not sure where you can keep your belongings while out on the slopes? Don't you worry, because we have many coin-operated lockers available for you. Lockers are approximately 12in wide x 16in deep x 16in tall; big enough for a small duffel bag. Each time the locker is used, you will be required to insert $0.75 (quarters only). We recommend that you store your items in a locker or in your vehicle. Paoli Peaks is not responsible for any item(s) left unattended. We ask that no items be stored on top of, next to, or underneath the restaurant tables (includes shoes, jackets, gloves, bags, coolers,etc.)
Please Note: Tables inside the lodge are reserved for restaurant patrons. Outside or personal food/drinks, including coolers, are not allowed in the dinning areas of the lodge. Personal food/drinks can be enjoyed on the deck or in the Picnic room. View a picture of our lockers.
TAKE A LESSON
Learn to ski and snowboard at Paoli Peaks! Ski and Snowboarding instruction helps the beginner and benefits skiers and snowboarders of all abilities. Like anything, you'll improve the most when you receive some guidance. The best way to become a good skier or snowboarder is to take a lesson from a qualified instructor. At Paoli Peaks, we offer a variety of lesson types, fit for all abilities and ages. Take a look below at the different lessons available...
Our philosophy is to have fun while learning or improving your skiing or snowboarding skills. Eat a hearty meal before lessons, and for the most possible fun, bring along a friend and learn together!
The Discovery Zone - Beginner Lesson (Ages 7+)
This lesson is geared for beginners; designed so that the students can move through the skiing stations at their own pace, whether it be 3 hours or 1 hour. Everyone learns at a different rate and this beginner lesson allows the student the time he or she needs to master the skills needed to ski on a beginner slope.
The Discovery Beginner Lesson is an ongoing lesson so that you may join at any time during the day. Currently, the Discovery Zone is available on Weekends and Holidays from 9:00am to 4:30pm.
Group Lessons (Ages 7+)
Group Lessons are available for the Beginner, Intermediate, or Advanced skiers/snowboarders 7 days a week. Students are divided according to their age and skiing ability into different groups. Keep in mind, that because of this, you may not be grouped with any or all of the party that you are with.
Beginner Lessons will be directed to the Discovery Zone when it is operating. At all other times, beginner lessons will follow the 1 hour Group Lesson Schedule.
Private Lesson (Any Age)
A Private Lesson is a 1 hour-long lesson with just you and the ski/snowboard instructor. You can also get semi-private lessons with you and up to 3 friends or relatives with one instructor. Private and Semi-Private Lessons can be purchased at the Main Ticket Windows and are scheduled based on the availability of instructors for that day. At this time, reservations cannot be made in advance.
Snow Monsters (Ages 5-12)
Snow Monsters makes learning the basics and the more advanced elements of winter sports for kids easy and fun! Classes are divided by students ages and abilities, and safety always comes first.
The Snow Monster program is available Weekends and Holidays, including Holiday Week, MLK Monday, and President's Day Monday. Each day, 2 sessions are available: 9:30am-12:30pm and 1:30-4:30pm. Snow Monster Lesson packages are available for purchase at the Main Ticket Window. Registration is open 1 hour prior to start of session. Online Reservations coming soon!
Adaptive Lessons (Ages 5+)
Paoli Peaks offers adaptive lessons for all people with disabilities who wish to learn to ski or snowboard. It is recommended that the student consult their physician or physical therapist before registering.
Lessons can be purchased at the Main Ticket Windows along with snow passes and rental equipment. In order to provide the best experience possible, appointments are required 3 days in advance. You may make an appointment by calling (812) 723-4696 ext.232 or emailing snowsports@paolipeaks.com.
During your skiing or snowboarding lesson be active, open, and positive to learn. Ask questions. Our instructors want you to get the most out of your lesson. Don't be afraid to go first. Let them know how you like to learn.
The key to successful skiing/snowboarding is control. To have it, you must be aware of your technique, the terrain, and the skiers/snowboarders around you. Be aware of the snow conditions and how they can change. As conditions turn firm, the skiing gets hard and fast. Begin a run slowly.
We hope you enjoy your time at Paoli Peaks in much as we do!
YOUR RESPONSIBILITY CODE
Follow the Responsibility Code, the seven safety rules of the slopes:
- Always stay in control and be able to stop or avoid other people or objects.
- People ahead of you have the right of way. It is your responsibility to avoid them.
- You must not stop where you obstruct a trail or are not visible from above.
- Whenever starting downhill or merging into a trail, look uphill and yield to others.
- Always use devices to help prevent run away equipment.
- Observe all posted signs and warnings. Keep off closed trails and out of closed areas.
- Prior to using any lift, you must have the knowledge and ability to load, ride, and unload safely.
Know The Code. It's Your Responsibility
This is only a partial list. Always be alert and safety conscious when on the ski hill. Officially endorsed by the NATIONAL SKI AREAS ASSOCIATION
USING PAOLI PEAKS' LIFTS
At first, ski lifts can be intimidating contraptions, but you will quickly master them.
CARPET LIFTS - are a great way to get up the hill. You just stand on the carpet and enjoy the gentle ride.
DOUBLES, TRIPLES, & QUAD CHAIR LIFTS - Ski chairs, two, three, or four-seaters, mounted on a cable, move continuously up the slopes.Here are some tips on riding a Chairlift:
- Skiers need to take the straps off their wrists. Snowboarders need to have a leash attached before boarding the lift.
- Outside guests hold poles in inside hand. Middle guests hold poles in either hand.
- Outside guests look over outside shoulder and grasp bail as it approaches. Middle guests should grasp back of chair as it approaches. Sit down as the chair reaches you.
- Once the chair has left the platform, sit back and enjoy the ride. Do not bounce or swing during the ride. Take care not to drop gloves, poles, or litter. Should you lose something, note the number of the next tower for orientation.
- When getting off, you will see the sign warning of unload area. Raise the tips of your skis so they don't catch as you approach the platform. As your skis touch the snow, stand up and push yourself off the chair with your free hand.
- Move quickly away from moving chair and keep unloading area clear. Brake once you are well clear of your companions.
TRAIL MARKING SYMBOLS AND TRAIL MAP
Take a few minutes to check out the ski lifts and the trails marked on the trail map. The colored symbols next to the trails indicate the difficulty of the trail. You will also find them on posted signs on the mountain.
Before you ride a lift, make sure the trail symbols off of that lift fit your ability. If you have any questions or need directions, go talk to a lift attendant or anyone in a Paoli Peaks uniform.
If you find yourself on a slope that exceeds your ability level, always leave your skis/snowboard on and side step down the slope.
LOCAL LODGING OPTIONS
Paoli Peaks is a day lodge, which means we do not offer overnight accommodations. We have, however, partnered with many local accommodations. Surrounding Paoli Peaks are many lodging options: Hotels, Motels, Resorts, Cabins, Bed & Breakfasts, and camping. To view a complete list of lodging partners, click here. Any lodging facility listed on our website has Paoli Peaks coupons to offer. Some facilities offer overnight stays and Paoli Peaks lift ticket packages. Those are marked with a red banner at the top of the facilities photo.
