Getting on the slopes or out on the ice can be intimidating for first-timers as much as experienced enthusiasts, depending on the terrain. But with colder temps likely to dominate the forecast for months to come, it’s beneficial to find activities best enjoyed outdoors to prevent being stuck inside until spring arrives. The following winter sport professionals in Wisconsin are excellent resources for acquiring—or improving—one’s skiing, snowboarding, ice skating or ice fishing skills.
Locations vary
WI Women Fish is offering ice fishing lessons and species-specific guided trips. The group has women with years of ice fishing experience offering to mentor new anglers during their water clinics. The guided trips can give anglers the opportunity to catch a jumbo perch from Green Bay, a trophy white fish from Sturgeon Bay or nice walleyes and crappies from the Petenwell Flowage. Additional learning opportunities are available every day via the members-only forum where women learn from each other in a safe, non-judgmental place.
Wausau
Granite Peak is excited to roll out its new program You, Me & Ski, starting in January 2022, which will provide in-person support for parents to teach their preschool-age kiddos how to ski. The ski area has also extended its Little Legends camp to include December, January and February. This program is specifically for local kids to learn the fundamentals of skiing and foster a life-long passion for the sport.
Dresser
The skiing/snowboarding school is one of a few facilities within the state that provides adaptive lessons for learners who have a variety of access needs. It has three-track, four-track, mono-ski, bi-ski and other devices that can be used by individuals who have visual impairment and/or have a physical disability. Half-day or full-day sessions can be scheduled any day of the week upon request.
Cornerstone Community Ice Center
Ashwaubenon
All Skate is a low-cost, learn-to-skate program offered annually by this ice arena that is also a local nonprofit. Each session is for children aged 4 to 10 and runs for six weeks. Once skaters have progressed from beginner status to the advanced group, instructors indicate whether a child should consider pursuing figure skating, hockey or speed skating for continued instruction. Skate rentals for lessons are affordably priced at the center too. The cost for students is $2 per class or $12 for the full session.
Mount Horeb
This popular ski locale has certified staff to teach snowboarding and skiing for children and adults of varying experience levels, which makes it a fantastic option for families who want to be able to enjoy the same activity together. In each lesson, instructors incorporate foundational movements such as basic turns, boot work, gliding and exiting the chairlift. Plus, clear goals are established for each participant in order for progress to be adequately assessed before attempting to master more difficult techniques.