Beginner ski lesson at Swampy Lake trailhead.
A beginner clinic for those who have skied about 5 times. A chance to have your current skills evaluated and then we will work on the most important missing ingredients. This should not be your first time out ever. You should have the gear mentioned below and have used it before. We will watch you ski short distances and note which skills you need to improve on most. Then work on those. It is likely that the group will have similar needs. Topics could include getting moving and stopping on flat snow and slight hills. How to use your poles. And, yes, how to get up when you fall. We can even talk about clothing choices.
Meet at 10:00 am Wednesday morning at the Swampy Sno-Park at my silver Subaru Outback with a Yakima roof box. I know that the car description doesn't narrow it down too much in Bend. I will be on the east side of the parking lot. That means before you drive past the restrooms. I will wear a blue jacket. Plan on putting our skis on at the kiosk at 10:15am.
This is not a tour and we will not be moving a lot. That means bring extra clothes.
The plan is to finish at 12:30pm. I encourage you to consider skiing a bit after the lesson to practice what you have learned.
What to bring: Skis should be designed for touring, and be adequate for the type of trip and terrain likely to be encountered. In general, skis should have a no-wax pattern for grip and metal edges for control on ice or hard pack conditions. Minimum width at the tip of the ski should be at least 62mm. Wider skis will provide better stability in more difficult conditions.
Boots should be over the ankle for support and control, and compatible with the bindings on the skis.
Poles should have large baskets so they don’t sink too deeply in soft snow. Adjustable poles are good for varying terrain conditions.
Skis, boots and poles designed exclusively for skiing on machine groomed tracks are not recommended.
Ten Essentials
Proper winter clothing for insulation and protection from wind and rain. Dress in layers. No cotton!
Water and snacks. Snacks are often eaten outside. Bring food that can be easily eaten quickly in case it is cold.
Number of participants: 4 students total. If the event is full, join the waitlist as we may expand with additional coaches if there is demand.
Dogs are not allowed on this trip.
Trip Leader Contact: Dennis Krakow
Please contact me if your plans change and you cannot attend.
