Ski & Snowboard Ability Charts

To ensure you are taking the appropriate lesson, use the following information to determine your ability level.

Level Description
1
First Time Skier
Never skied before. Or is not yet able to do a snowplow on a gentle slope.
2
Novice
Can do snowplow turns in control on gentle slopes. Prefer to ski at a slow pace. Green runs remain a bit of a challenge.
3
Comfortable Novice
Ability to link strong snowplow turns or wide stance parallel. Feel comfortable on green runs but rarely venture onto blue runs. May add poles at this level.
4
Intermediate
Able to ski parallel turns with pole plant. Can ski most blue runs, more advanced blues remain a challenge. Would like to explore more varied terrain.
5
Advanced
Able to ski strong parallel turns with a pole plant on all blue runs and easy black runs. Learning, short turns, off piste, moguls, powder and more difficult terrain.
6
Expert
Enjoy the challenge of skiing in control in all conditions and terrain and want to refine these skills.
Level Description
1
First Time Snowboarder
Never snowboarded before.
2
Novice
Able to slide and stop, both front-side, backside and attempting to link turns on gentle terrain.
3
Comfortable Novice
Able to link sweeping pivot turns on gentle green terrain and ready to venture onto green runs.
4
Intermediate
Can snowboard comfortably on all green runs and some blue runs. More difficult blue runs are sometimes a challenge. Would like to explore more varied terrain.
5
Advanced
Able to link turns on blue runs and easy black runs. Learning short turns, off piste terrain, small jumps, powder and difficult terrain.
6
Expert
Enjoy the challenge of snowboarding in control in all conditions and terrain and want to refine these skills.
Insider's Guide to Whistler

Best Whistler Runs by
Skier/Boarder Type

Tackle some of the best ski runs in North America at Whistler Blackcomb. See which ones our Insider recommends for you.

Winter skiing in Whistler British Columbia

Feel the Pull,
Push Your Boundaries

Go deeper in Whistler. Challenge yourself with endless terrain and fill your days with world-class recreation and outdoor activities.

Whistler Lodging Deals

Winter 2024/25 Packages
Book by November 15

Book your winter trip by November 15 and save up to 30% on lodging and up to 65% on lift tickets with the Whistler Blackcomb Day Pass.