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ski lessons?

Our extended family is going to Fairbanks at the end of March for ~5 days in hopes of catching the aurora (lifetime bucket list for grandmother). Multiple people don't know how to ski / haven't skiied in decades including two young kids (4 and 7). Are there any nearby ski areas friendly to beginners and offer lessons? I'm not seeing a lot of info online.

Fairbanks is a fantastic destination for late winter skiing and also a great spot to see the aurora. While it’s not a huge ski resort area, there are options suitable for beginners and families with young children.

Ski areas near Fairbanks:

  • Moose Mountain Ski Area: About 20 minutes from Fairbanks, this local hill is ideal for beginners and families. They offer gentle slopes, a small terrain park, and lessons for both children and adults. Equipment rentals are available on site.
  • Chena Lakes Recreation Area: Known more for cross-country skiing, Chena Lakes has groomed trails suitable for beginners and kids. They sometimes offer group lessons and rentals, though it’s more of a cross-country experience than downhill.
  • Birch Hill Recreation Area: A bit farther north in Fairbanks, Birch Hill offers both cross-country and some downhill opportunities. Lessons and rentals can often be arranged through local clubs or community programs.

Tips for beginners and families:

  • Book lessons in advance, especially for children, as instructors can be limited.
  • Dress in layers and make sure kids have proper winter gear, including waterproof pants, gloves, and goggles.
  • Consider splitting your group: some can do skiing while others explore aurora viewing areas in the evening. Fairbanks has multiple guided aurora tours that are family-friendly.
  • Late March usually has good snow coverage, but check conditions before your trip, as some beginner slopes may have reduced hours later in the season.

Overall, Moose Mountain is the most beginner-friendly option for downhill skiing, while Chena Lakes and Birch Hill provide additional cross-country opportunities. Combining a day of skiing with aurora viewing in the evening can make for a memorable family experience.

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