Snowsports FAQs

WHY SKI OR BOARD IN SCOTLAND?

• Skiing and snowboarding in Scotland is good value for money and you don't need a passport, costly travel insurance or foreign currency (unless you're visiting Scotland from overseas).
• Professional instruction and equipment hire is available at all centres - please book in advance.
• There is a wide choice of friendly local accommodation and things to see and do near each mountain centre if you're planning a short break or extended winter holiday.

HOW DO I GET STARTED?

• Do your research. Register for snow alerts, follow the Ski-Scotland Facebook page and keep up with the latest snow conditions. Always check the travel and weather reports before travelling.
• Find out more about the various ski passes available, from day to multiple day passes and the Ski-Scotland All Areas Season Ticket (available for a limited time only). 
• Book accommodation (if you need it) nearby.

HOW CAN I LEARN TO SKI OR BOARD IN SCOTLAND?

• If it's your first time on skis or a board, then it might be worth taking a lesson at a local artificial ski slope.
• When you're ready for the mountain, choose your snowsport centre. All centres have beginners' slopes with easy uplift.
• Contact the centre and book a beginners package. These include your lift pass, equipment and lessons. At Glenshee, you'll need to book these separately. 
• If you're taking a lesson, remember to arrive at the centre at least 1 hour before it's due to start.

CAN I BRING THE FAMILY?

• Absolutely! Wee ones will love it - most will find it easier than adults! The centres all offer gentle nursery areas, easy uplift, a range of lessons and child uplift passes.
• It is usually required for children who join a group lesson to be at least seven years old. This may vary so please check with the resort you're planning to visit.
• Some areas have special classes for very young kids (5 years and under), and even offer family tuition.
• Most centres also offer other snow activities, such as sledging, as a fun alternative for both the young and the young at heart!
• If you are hiring equipment for the wee ones, make sure you know your own and your kids' height, weight and shoe size - you'll get the gear quicker, and not hold up others.

HOW CAN I KEEP UP TO DATE WITH SNOW AND ROAD REPORTS?

The snow reports are updated by each ski centre during the season early morning, late afternoon, and more often as required. The live webcams show real time conditions. Please be aware that early in the season it's still dark in the early morning and therefore the snow conditions cannot be properly assessed until sunrise.

WHAT ARE THE SNOW CONDITIONS LIKE IN SCOTLAND?

The snow conditions in Scotland are unpredictable and unfortunately we can't always promise deep, powdery snow! The mountain centres do enjoy reasonable snow fall most years, so you can enjoy a great day out on the slopes when the conditions are favourable.

WHAT DO I NEED TO KNOW ABOUT SAFETY ON THE SLOPES?

• If you're not sure about conduct on the slopes, all centre's display the Skiers Code of Practice which should be observed. Ski patrollers are always happy to advise on safety matters.
• Accidents and minor injuries are dealt with by ski patrol at first aid posts on the mountain and the cost of first aid and/or mountain rescue is included in your lift pass.