Lessons (2007/08 prices)

The ski/snowboard school is not only the place to get instruction (and that isn't a bad idea, given Jackson Hole's extreme terrain), but it is also the place to engage a knowledgeable mountain guide. Jackson Hole's nooks and crannies can best be enjoyed with someone who knows them. You can make reservations for any ski school program including mountain guides by calling (307) 739-2779 or (800) 450-0477.

Group lessons: Full-day lessons cost $100 for beginners and $110 for intermediates. A half-day lesson in the afternoon is $90 (beginner, with lift ticket) or $130 (intermediate, with lift ticket). Afternoon semi-private, three-person groups are $85. A class for advanced skiers and riders with a maximum of four students is $110. Jackson Hole has a special class, "Turn it Up," for those bored by the beginner trails but intimidated by the blues, for $110. A full-day Mountain Masters class costs $120 and PM Mountain Clincs cost $110. Jackson Hole offers packages for all these classes that include lift tickets and rentals.

First-timer package: Jackson Hole's Learn to Turn program is $100 and includes a guarantee that learners will be able to control speed and make turns after one day of lessons. Beginners can repeat these lessons for free until they "get it." For snowboarders, the resort offers Burton's innovative Learn-To-Ride program for $100.

Private lessons: Given most commonly in a three-hour morning lesson. Three morning hours cost $390 and three afternoon hours are $340 for up to five skiers. Early Tram Privates start at 8:30 a.m. with four hours costing $460; a full day is $585 (the same as hiring a backcountry guide). Reservations are recommended for all privates and a $25 per person reservation fee applies for the second through fifth person on all Early Tram Privates.

Special programs: There are many, such as instruction for the disabled (adaptive lessons questions are answered via a special adaptive hotline during the season), Steep & Deep ($890, four days, separate skiing, snowboarding and tele sessions), Backcountry Camp
($675, three-day program), and women ski and women snowboard programs ($890, four days). These multi-day camps include coaching, lifts, video, some meals and more. BUY YOUR CAMP ONLINE

Racing Programs: There's a NASTAR course off the Casper Bowl Triple Chair. A Ski & Race Camp is offered in December; call for details and prices.