Ski Tips & FAQ

We find that first-time skiers and riders often have similar questions. We provide this information to help you enjoy your ski or snowboard experience.

Snowsports Questions & Answers

Where is Wintergreen Resort?
Wintergreen Resort is located 45 miles southwest of Charlottesville, VA. Click here for directions.

What should I wear?
Skiing and snowboarding take place in the outdoors on snow. Bring clothes that are waterproof or at least water resistant. Jeans are not the best choice for an outer layer, but can be worn with a waterproof shell over them.

Always dress in layers so you can add or remove as the day progresses. The gloves you wear should also be waterproof or water resistant. Since we lose up to 20% of our heat through our head, a hat will help keep you warm.

For your feet, one pair of thin socks is all that is needed - too many socks will restrict circulation and affect boot fit. Wool or acrylic socks are better than cotton athletic socks, but make sure the socks are long so they will extend up above your ski boot. Ski and snowboard boots are made with insulation and will keep your feet warm.

Snow is typically made at night, but sometimes we must utilize daytime snowmaking to ensure the best surfaces. For this reason goggles are strongly recommended.

Anything else I should bring?
Don't forget sunglasses, lip balm and sunscreen. The sun is very strong at high altitudes and reflects off a snow-white background.

You may want to bring money in case you get hungry and want to get a burger, pizza or snacks. Also, it's a good idea to bring a camera to record your day on the slopes!

Where do I go when I arrive?
Once you arrive at Wintergreen, proceed to the ticket windows at the middle level of the Skyline Pavilion Ski Center where you will purchase your ticket. From the ticket window, proceed directly to the rental shop where our staff will assist you in fitting for equipment. In the rental shop, you will find restrooms, changing rooms, locker rentals, and basket rentals. A basket rental allows unlimited access to your belongings all day.

Once you have completed these steps and are ready to hit the slopes, proceed out the rear of the rental shop where you will select poles from the pole barn. If you have already purchased a private lesson, the next step is to find the ski instructors stationed on the snow outside of the rental shop who will guide you to the lesson area. 

Why should I take a lesson?
The best way to improve your skiing or riding, no matter what your level, is to take a lesson. Not only will you become a better skier or rider, but you will enjoy the sport much more. At Wintergreen, our professionally trained staff teaches thousands of lessons a year and our teaching terrain will allow you to learn in a safe environment.

Once you have mastered the basic skills you will have access the main slope from the learning area.

But don't stop at just one lesson! Wintergreen offers programs and lessons for any level - from group lessons for beginners to private lessons for the more advanced. Special clinics are available through the Wintergreen Snowsports School, while the Treehouse offers lessons and programs especially for children.

Why should I rent my equipment on the mountain?
Renting snowsports equipment when you get to the mountain is more convenient than renting at home or on the way. If there is a problem, we can fix it or exchange your equipment for something that works better. Unfortunately, we cannot provide much help with outside equipment. 

What is my responsibility as a safe skier or snowboarder?
Snowsports can be enjoyed in many ways. At ski areas you may see people using alpine, snowboard, telemark, cross country, or other specialized ski equipment, such as that used by disabled or other skiers. Regardless of how you decide to enjoy the slopes, always show courtesy to others and be aware that there are elements of risk in snowsports that common sense and personal awareness can help reduce. Click here for the Skier Responsibility Code.

Other tips and etiquette:

• Clanking your skis or boards together while on the ski lift can result in an injury to someone below you, you may even find yourself or your equipment falling from the lift, not to mention the snow that might be falling on the skiers and snowboarders below you isn't nice.
• When entering any lift line, be sure that you are attentive and ready to follow the maze and load properly. If you are skiing or boarding alone, check for singles lanes so you can be paired with other folks. This is a great way to meet people!
• Sit back all the way in your chair and use the safety bar when available.
• Many lift lines have mazes that funnel into one loading area. Access typically alternates from one line or side to the next. Pay attention to posted signs and resort employees for direction.
• When you unload the lift, be sure to move away from the unloading zone quickly. You don't want to be in the way of other skiers unloading the lift.
• Have your RFID lift pass on you.