Indy Learn to Turn

This was my first year back skiing in maybe 8-10 years, it has been a while. Not only has it been a long time, I was never a confident skier. I would stick to one trail (green) and most likely be the first one done for the day. Well, here I am in my 40's, an empty nester with a husband who’s favorite activity is skiing. I knew I was missing out on some fun and thought maybe if I got an Indy Pass and just practiced more I could be more confident and we could be out there enjoying winter together. Because being inside all winter is just no fun

When I purchased the pass the first thing Mike said to me was, you need a lesson, and it wasn’t going to be from him. In comes Learn to Turn. This was the first year they introduced this lesson package (for all ages) and I am glad I went for it. I wanted to share my experience, give you the pros and cons, and maybe a little advice, if you choose to accept.

Final lesson at Mt Abrams

The Indy Learn to Turn is for skiers or snowboarders. With the $189 price tag you get three lessons and rentals. We had a coupon and paid $149. Honestly this is the best deal out there to learn to ski. I took my lessons at three different spots. The price for each one would have been more than I paid for all three. Before you run out and purchase the Learn to Turn (which I think you should) read on for somethings to know and consider.

It is not every Indy mountain, just select resorts. For me being in New England there are enough that it made it worth it. I might do it again next year with a different mindset. What I wish I had paid attention to earlier on is some of the resorts only offer learn to turn on select dates. Like Waterville Valley I was excited to see them offer this, but I could only find Friday availability. Pats Peak another great mountain to learn, had all of January and February and some of December blacked out. By the time I realized Pat’s Peak was blacked out in December it was to late for me to start my season there.

Bolton Valley

My first lesson was at Tenney Mountain in Plymouth, NH. I was excited to be back. This spot was open when we were in college and I took a snowboarding class here my senior year, lets just say I am glad there were no cell phones back then and no evidence of that! With Tenney they recommend you have some knowledge of skiing before you come here to take a lesson. The other thing to know about Tenney is the top of the mountain has a nice gradual slope, while the closer you get to the bottom the steeper it gets. Lets just say this was something a little challenging for me as I might have face planted! But besides my face colliding with the mountain it was one of the best lessons I have ever had. Morgan was my instructor and I was glad she was my first ski instructor of the year. I took what she taught me to each ski day. Honestly this lesson, face plant and all, gave me more confidence to get out there again. The lesson was 2.5 hour and would have cost $175.

Tenney Mountain, first lesson in many years.

My second lesson was at Bolton Valley in Bolton Valley, VT. I was kind of nervous for this lesson. I didn’t know what to expect becuase I sat in the lodge last year when Mike skied and it just seemed like a hard mountain. Let me reassure anyone who is a newbie like me, there are challenging spots but this is a great spot to learn. On this day it was a small group lesson. With some people only have ever skied once or twice before. So we started at the basic level. I kind of always think it is nice to learn from the ground up. We spent some time on the magic carpet before hitting the chair lift. The thing about group lessons is you have to go at the pace of the newest skier, which as someone who wants to be safe all the time I appreciate. But wanting to get out of snowplow it can be hard to wait. I think Bolton Valley is one my personal favorite mountains, at least in the top three spots I visited this year. I loved how there is a beautiful green trail from the peak, yet they offer a variety of harder trails for those with more experience. They really do offer a great mix! Lesson was 2 hours and would have cost $199

Beautiful day at Bolton Valley Ski Resort. I am gearing up for my lesson.

My third and final lesson of the season almost didn’t happen. I took my last lesson March 14th which is kind of late in the ski season and a bit of risk, but it paid off. My last Learn to Turn was at Mt Abrams in Greenwood, ME. Each mountain has their own reservation system for Mt  Abrams they ask you to email them at least 48 hours in advance, and when I did they asked if I had skied before and what my level was. When I arrived to check in the instructor asked the other two people what their level was and where they were comfortable. They were new skiers. For one person, this was their 2nd time ever. So they split us up. I went with Mario straight to the chair lift. With what I had learned earlier, and been practicing since Tenney, Mario brought that to a new level I left that day wanting to take more runs and was just feeling more confident than before. I was even making some parallel moves by the end of the day. I would highly recommend coming here for lessons! Mt Abrams, like Bolton Valley has a good mix of terrain for a smaller mountain. I stayed on the learning side while Mike enjoyed the side of the mountain for the more experienced skier. 

Lesson was 1.5 hours and would have cost $109.

Peak of Bolton Valley

If you’re new or it has been a few years since you have skied/ snowboarded, check out the Indy Learn to Turn. My tips are- 

• Book your lessons earlier in the season

• Go to a variety of spots becuase each instructor brings a different style and can offer so much.

• Pay attention to the dates each mountain can offer the lesson as there can be blackout dates or only offered on select days

• Take a private lesson if they offer it. This worked for me early and late in the season.

• Take advantage of the rentals 

• Always wear a helmet 

• Some mountains give you an all day lift ticket to the entire mountain, while others give you a lift ticket to just the learning area.

If you’re looking to get back into skiing (or snowboarding) or try it for the first time, check out Indy Pass - Learn to Turn. It is a great opportunity to get out there and enjoy our winters! Happy Skiing! -G

Trail Etiquette 101: How to Avoid Being “That Person” While Skiing, Hiking, or Strolling the Beach

Whether I’m flying down a ski slope, trekking up a mountain, or simply walking on a sidewalk along the beach, I’ve seen my fair share of questionable trail behavior. And let’s face it — we’ve all had those moments where we accidentally break a rule or two. We’re all guilty of it but being aware of these unwritten rules might help you avoid doing it again.

Ragged Mountain

On the Slopes: Skiing and Snowboarding Etiquette

Ah, the mountain — my happy place. But just because we’re all bundled up doesn’t mean we can forget our manners. Here’s how to keep things smooth on the slopes

1.   Lift Line Diplomacy: You’re not merging onto the highway, so no aggressive line-cutting. Keep your crew together, fill the singles line if needed, and if you accidentally step on someone’s skis, offer a quick “oops, my bad!” instead of pretending you didn’t feel it.

2.  Downhill Has the Right of Way: Picture it: You’re gracefully carving turns (okay, maybe not gracefully), and suddenly someone barrels in like. Don’t be that moose. If someone’s ahead of you, give them space — no one likes a surprise tackle.

3.  Park it Responsibly: Need a breather? Pull over to the side of the trail. Stopping in the middle of a run is like parking your car in the middle of a rotary — legal in exactly zero states.

4.  Know Your Limits: If the sign says “Double Black Diamond,” it’s not a dare. It’s a warning. And trust me, your knees will thank you later.

5.  Lodge Etiquette: The lodge is for warming up, not for airing out your socks like you’re drying fish. Be kind, share the table space, and store your bags appropriately. 

Tuckerman Ravine Trail, Mount Washington

On the Trails: Hiking Etiquette

Hiking is my version of therapy — fresh air, good views, and just enough challenge to convince myself I deserve a post-hike burger. But even out in the wild, some rules apply

1.  Yield to the Uphill Warriors: Hiking uphill is basically nature’s version of a StairMaster. If someone is climbing while you’re cruising downhill, step aside and give them a break. Bonus points if you offer a breathless “you’re almost there!” even if they’re obviously not.

2.  Keep It Single File: I love a good trail chat, but blocking the entire path with your hiking buddies is a rookie move. Walk like a polite conga line, not a wall of defensive linemen.

3.  Leave No Trace: I get it — tossing a banana peel “for the animals” feels like a good deed. But unless squirrels have developed compost bins, it’s best to pack it out.

4.  Leash Your Adventure Pup: I’m all for bringing dogs along, but not everyone wants a surprise greeting from your muddy four-legged friend. And if your pup is the type who thinks squirrels are sworn enemies, maybe keep that leash tight.  Also be sure to take your bag of waste with you. No “I’ll grab it on the way back”!

5.  Music Manners: Singing to yourself on the trail? Totally fine. Blasting your playlist like it’s an impromptu forest rave? Not so much.  Let’s let the birds sing the songs, ok?

6. Don’t be a view hog: Everyone hikes the mountain for the view. Once you soak it in, maybe take a photo or seven, then step aside so any other hikers can also enjoy the views.

Charlestown Town Beach, RI

On the Sidewalk: Beach and Boardwalk Etiquette

Not every adventure is on a mountain. Sometimes it’s just a walk along the beach — enjoying the salt air, avoiding sunburn (in theory), and dodging rogue seagulls. But even on the boardwalk, there are a few unspoken rules

1.  Stick to Your Lane: Sidewalks work just like roads. Walk on the right, pass on the left. And no sudden stops! That scenic ocean view will still be there in three steps.

2.  Space Management: Walking four abreast on a sidewalk is a pet peeve of mine. Break it up. Other people would like to avoid doing an awkward sideways shuffle just to pass you. 

3.  Dog Etiquette (Yes, Again): I adore dogs, but the beach is not a choose-your-own-adventure zone. Keep your pup on a leash if required, and for the love of sandy feet, clean up after them.  Be sure to take it away too!

4.  Sunset Serenity: Watching the sunset is practically a sport in New England. If you’re lucky enough to catch one, savor it. And if you must narrate your every thought, maybe wait until the sun dips below the horizon.

Mount Osceola Summit

Whether I’m skiing down a powdery slope, conquering a new hiking trail, or even wandering along the beach with sand somehow already in my shoes, I try to remember one thing: good trail etiquette makes everything better.

A little courtesy goes a long way — and who knows? Maybe your kindness will inspire others to do the same. Plus, fewer angry glares from fellow adventurers? That’s always a win.

Now get out there, follow the rules, and may your trails be clear, your slopes be powdery, and your beach days be seagull-free!  

Which Ski Pass is Best for New England?

Do you enjoy skiing as much as I do?  Ever wonder if a season pass to a specific mountain is worth it?  Is it worth buying the big mountain passes like the Ikon Pass or the Epic Pass?  How about that Indy Pass that I’m always talking about?  How do you go about choosing which one is best for you?  Unless you have a favorite mountain that is practically in your backyard, the choice can be complicated!  The right pass depends on how often you ski, your budget, and the locations you plan on skiing that year.  Spring and Summer are usually the best time to purchase the following year’s pass, so here is a little info to help you decide which ski pass is best for you as a New Englander.

Black Mountain of Maine - Indy Pass

Before getting started, there are some questions you need to consider.  Realistically, how often are you going to ski?  It really only makes sense if you plan on utilizing a pass on vacation or plan on going somewhere specific a bunch of times in the season.  If you aren’t sure that you can commit to many days on the mountain, buying day passes ahead of time online might be your best option. What is your budget?  The key is to look at how expensive it would be to go on that trip if you had to pay out of pocket?  For the most part, resorts have a pricing model that incentivizes some sort of pass to keep you loyal to that mountain or family of mountains.  Usually getting the price per-ski-day down to under the “window” price takes less than a full week now.  Many of the lower tier passes allow you to get your per-ski-day price down even further.

Saddleback Mountain - Indy Pass

Indy Pass (2 days at each resort, 25% off a third day): Berkshire East, Big Moose, Big Rock Mountain, Black Mountain of Maine, Black Mountain (NH), Bolton Valley Resort, Bousquet Mountain, Camden Snow Bowl, Cannon Mountain, Catamount Mountain Resort, Dartmouth Skiway, Jay Peak Resort, Lost Valley, Magic Mountain, Middlebury Snowbowl, Mohawk Mountain, Mt. Abram, Pat’s Peak, Ragged Mountain, Saddleback Mountain, Saskandena Six Ski Area, Waterville Valley Resort, Whaleback Mountain, plus several cross country skiing areas!  There are also several “Allied” resorts which offer 50% discount off the window ticket price.

Pros:  

• The price for this is affordable.

• Great for exploring smaller mountains that have a certain local vibe.

• Less crowded resorts, but still some decent size resorts in there.

• Best for skiers who like variety and want to avoid corporate resorts, the crowds and price tag that goes along with all that.

• There are a lot of mountains to chose from for New England.

Cons:

• Limited to 2 days at each resort.

• No really big name mountains included.

• Most of the mountains have some sort of blackout dates, but not all!

Sunday River - Ikon Pass

Ikon Pass:  Unlimited Access at Stratton and Sugarbush.  7 days at each at Killington, Loon, Sunday River, & Sugarloaf plus some of the largest resorts around the US.

Pros: 

• Some of the biggest resorts on the east.

• Also good at some of the largest resorts in the West if you are traveling outside of New England.  

• There are several different level passes available to purchase. The example above is for the most expensive, highest level pass. Passes with less days per resort are available at lower rates.

• Over 50 destinations in the US including Aspen, Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, Snowbird, and Alta.  

Cons:

• Limited number of days, no unlimited pass available.

• Bigger mountains usually means bigger crowds.

• Expensive unless you fully utilize it.

Wildcat Mountain - Epic Pass

Epic Pass: Mount Sunapee, Stowe, Okemo, Mount Snow, Attitash, Wildcat, & Crotched Mountain.

Pros:  

• Different levels of passes available.

• 20% Discounts off food, lodging, rentals, heli-skiing, summer activities, and group lessons.

• Discounted tickets for friends.

• Epic Coverage is included - Refunds for job loss, injury & illness.

• Over 30 destinations across the US including Vail, Breckenridge, Heavenly, and Park City.

• 26 European Partner Resorts.

Cons:

• Limited number of days, no unlimited pass available.

• Biggest mountains usually means biggest crowds.

• Crowd management and employee tensions have become a concern at some Vail owned resorts.

• Expensive unless you fully utilize it.

Gunstock Mountain - Season Passes

Local Resort-Specific Season Pass:  One pass good at one mountain for the whole season.  Sometimes the pass is good at another affiliated resort, but it’s usually resort specific.  For details on this, visit the website of the resort you want to become a season pass holder.

Pros:

• Usually unlimited skiing/riding for that one specific resort.

• Season Passholder discounts in the lodge and ski shop.

• Great if you have either a favorite mountain, or a mountain that is very close to you.

Cons: 

• Limited to one resort.  

• Can be quite expensive.

• You need to go a lot to make it worth it.

Black Mountain (NH) - Indy Pass

Personally, I have over an hour drive to any ski mountain regardless, so I enjoy traveling and utilizing the Indy Pass.  There are 6 resorts on the pass within a 2 hour drive or so, and I have found some affordable lodging options to make the further resorts like Saddleback and Jay Peak manageable.  Both are fantastic independently owned mountains.  They are well worth the trip from anywhere in New England. I have skied some of the larger resorts that are on Ikon and Epic out West and they are some of my favorite ski trips ever, but for me, I can’t justify spending the money on either pass based on where I live, my budget, and the type of mountain I like to ski, but that’s just me!  When I plan my next trip out West, I might consider either Epic or Ikon depending on where I end up going. There is a pass out there for anyone who plans on skiing a lot in the winter.  See you on the slopes!