Women’s Ski Clinic at Stratton Mountain

You are never too old for a ski lesson, right? Wanting to learn to ski without fear I enrolled in the Women on snoW Camp at Stratton Mountain.

Even though I’ve been skiing for over 40 years I still skid and slide down the slopes in Vermont. I really want to ski comfortably and enjoy it — not just get down the mountain. I want to be that confident skier that can navigate turns on tough terrain. Oh, and my form always needs some work.

To Ski the East means you wear a certain badge of honor. You’ve likely edged your way down some icy trails and survived. On a good day, you might get some fresh snow or perhaps the snow guns have done their job and blanketed the trails overnight, but it will never be like skiing out west in Utah or Colorodo.

Stratton Women On snoW Ski Camp 

I was in for a surprise on the first day at Stratton when I met up with my group. We took our early morning runs on freshly groomed snow. I will admit, I am never first chair. I don’t usually see the corduroy. Clearly, I should think about getting first tracks more often because right off the bat skiing was so much more enjoyable. 

Stratton Mountain Ski Resort

My ski camp group was classified as solid blues, working on our form which perfectly defined where I want to be. I am not looking to ski double black diamonds, navigate the moguls or hit the terrain park. I was matched up with women who all had similar goals in mind. Skiing with this group made me feel really comfortable and excited to get out on the snow.

Women on Snow Ski Camp StrattonAfter an initial run to assess our ski level, our instructor Amy got down to business. She broke down the basics of skiing working step-by-step on each of the mechanics. We talked about stance, balance and feeling the snow underneath our skis. As the day progressed Amy moved on to our turns. She drew pictures in the snow depicting large arcs in the shape of a grapefruit to emphasize the curve we should strive for. We practiced learning to stop by turning up hill. We then worked on putting weight on our outside ski while carving out big and small loops. Eventually, we added in our poles linking together all that we had learned.

Lessons Learned

It was clear that in order to improve our technique it was important to focus on one thing at a time. I am not going to remember everything I was taught at the two-day camp but I know I will remember these key points going forward:

  • Nose over toes – this helps you to lean forward over your skis.
  • Belly button faces down the mountain – this keeps your body aligned properly.
  • Bend your knees – this increases your balance and forces you to lean forward in your boots.
  • Look up – this keeps you looking downhill, not down at the tips of your skis.
  • Tap and go – this helps you execute a proper pole plant in your turns.

Stratton Ski LessonsThis is not the first time I have taken lessons as an adult, nor will it be the last. I am often asked if I have ever tried snowboarding or want to try it. My response is always the same “my family says I shouldn’t, that I should just stick to what I know.” I am sticking to it. Not only do I know how to ski but I know am getting better all the time.

Stratton Women's Ski CampWhether you are first time skier or looking to improve your skills, the Stratton Women on snoW Camp will help you achieve that. The professional coaches and instructors make skiers of all abilities feel comfortable. This creates a learning environment that allows you to build on your personal strengths and sets you up for future success on the snow.

For more information about the ski camp check out these posts by the other All Mountain Mamas:

Disclosure: Program costs and accommodations were provided by the Stratton Mountain. I attended the camp thanks to my relationship with Ski Vermont and the All Mountain Mamas. No other compensation was received for this review. This post reflects the honest opinion of my experience without outside influence.

Photo Credits: Dana Freeman, Erica Houskeeper and Stratton Mountain

Commenting area

  1. I love seeing these types of programs. Women tend to do other sport activities in groups. It’s more fun and encouraging that way!

  2. An amazing group of women! I love the idea of a women only snow camp too. Fun. friendship and great powder.

  3. I LOVE this idea! I am a wimp in our powder snow and have never taken lessons as an adult. A woman’s ski camp sounds perfect to me! Surrounded by some fellow moms in the same boat all learning and improving together. Love it!! Mama Mountain Power!!

  4. Used to love to ski.
    I remember all the things you tap about in your “lesson”.
    Keep up the good work.
    Cheers

  5. This camp looks like great fun! It’s great to hone ski technique in such a supportive group of other women. You certainly had bluebird skies too – lovely.

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