Lessons

Group lessons: Skiers and snowboarders levels 1–4 pay C$59 for a half-day lesson; C$89 for a full day. Levels 5–6 pay C$79 for a half day; C$89 for a full day.

First-timer package: The package, which includes a beginner lift pass, rentals and half-day group lesson (skiing, telemarking or snowboarding), costs C$69; a full day costs C$79. Fernie has an excellent learn-to-ski or -snowboard week package that we recommend to help first-timers feel comfortable with this adventurous mountain: Three-day programs start on Sunday or Thursday and include rentals, full lift pass and Ski Week lessons (see Special Programs below) for C$349; youth (13–17) pay C$319.

Private lessons: Skiing, snowboarding or telemarking lessons (three people maximum) cost C$229 for two hours; C$299 for three hours; C$499 for six hours (all day). An early-bird lesson for 1.5 hours that starts at 9 a.m. costs C$125; a two-hour late-day lesson costs $129.

Special Programs: Ski & Snowboard Weeks will help you rise to the challenge of the mountain and are highly recommended. The three-day program gives you the same instructor every day and includes a NASTAR race, video analysis and apres-ski reception. For ages 13 and older. Programs start Sunday and Thursday. A full-day program costs C$249.

First Tracks is an early-start program (7:45 a.m.) with lift line priority only available on days that have fresh powder, C$79 (lift ticket extra). Book the night before. Skiers and riders who are intermediates or better can hire a mountain guide for the day and get lift line priority too (minimum of two people per guide, ages 10 and older). Cost is C$99 per person.