Skiing into Dartmouth Life: My First Ski Lesson at the Dartmouth Skiway
I hadn't been skiing in seven years, but coming to Dartmouth felt like the perfect opportunity to pick it back up. So, when I heard about the free ski lessons offered at the Dartmouth Skiway, I decided to give it a shot.
Arriving at the Skiway after a quick 20 minute free bus ride from campus, I was a little intimidated at first because everyone there seemed like they knew what they were doing. But my instructor, Grace, was super welcoming, patient, and made sure everyone, regardless of skill level, felt comfortable. By the end of the lesson, I wasn't just having fun — I was feeling confident about skiing again.
The Dartmouth Skiway, located just 20 minutes from campus, is one of the many gems of Dartmouth life. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a first-timer, the Skiway has something for everyone. First-year students even get discounts on season passes, making skiing more accessible. Ski lessons are offered by Dartmouth College's P.E. & Recreation Office and are completely free, and you can borrow all the equipment you need, so there's no need to spend hundreds of dollars buying your own gear. Plus, taking ski lessons also fulfills your PE credit!
One of the things I loved most about the free lesson was the sense of community. Whether you're a first-year learning to ski for the first time or a senior refining your downhill technique, these lessons bring together Dartmouth students of all levels to enjoy the magic of winter in New Hampshire.
If you love winter sports (or just want to try something new), skiing at Dartmouth is a must-do. For me, getting back on the slopes was the highlight of my winter term so far — and I can't wait to go again next weekend!