Tahoe Donner: The Best Place to Begin

Tahoe Donner Downhill Ski Resort is the best place in the Tahoe region for family fun and learning. Our affordable lessons are designed for all levels, including kids as young as 3! Adults can hone their skills in a private or group lesson with a fun, friendly and professional instructor. Whatever your level, come discover why Tahoe Donner Downhill is the best place to begin!


Reservations and Cancellations

Lessons will likely sell out. Reservations are recommended weeks in advance for peak dates and at least 72 hours in advance for other dates.

Please visit our cancellation policy.


Helmet Policy

Tahoe Donner requires all students under age 13 to wear an approved snowsports helmet when taking a lesson. We also recommend helmets for all our patrons. Helmets are available for daily rental and purchase.

Required Items for Lessons:

  • Snowsports Helmets
  • Eye Protection (goggles or sunglasses with lenses appropriate for light conditions)
  • Gloves
  • Appropriate clothing

Helpful Hints + Check-in Details

  • Pre-purchase lessons online.
  • Children must be potty-trained and able to use the bathroom independently. Pull-ups are not allowed.
  • IF YOUR CHILD DOES NOT NEED RENTAL GEAR FOR THEIR LESSON, please first check-in at Guest Services or the drop box to pick up your ticket. Then proceed up the outdoor stairs to drop off your child at the ski school indoor learning center (access door off of the patio). Morning lessons can drop off as early as 9AM.  Afternoon lessons can drop off 30 minutes prior to their lesson start time.
  • IF YOUR CHILD NEEDS RENTAL GEAR, please check-in at Guest Services a minimum of 1 hour prior to your lesson start time on weekdays and 2 hours prior to your lesson start time on weekends and holidays. Once your child has been fitted with their gear, proceed up the outdoor stairs to drop off your child at the kids ski school indoor learning center (access door off of the patio). Morning lessons can drop off your child as early as 9AM. Afternoon lessons can drop off your child 30 minutes prior to their lesson start time. Any family who is taking a lesson will have access to an expedited rental process. 
  • For Private Lessons and Adult Lessons (ages 13+), plan to be at the “Instructor Meet Up” sign 10 minutes before your lesson starts. If rental equipment is needed, arrive at least one hour before your lesson (two hours on weekends and holidays) to ensure enough time to be properly fitted and ready before instruction begins.
  • Please keep in mind that ski lessons are physically demanding. Your child must be willing to ski without parental interference. We recommend a hearty breakfast to start the day.
  • Be sure to wear appropriate clothing for skiing and riding. REQUIRED ITEMS FOR LESSONS: gloves, eye protection and snowsports helmet (helmets are available with optional rental packages). Other essentials include a jacket and snowpants. This will help make their first experience great!
  • A parent/guardian must remain at Tahoe Donner Downhill Ski Resort throughout the entire lesson. Parents may not leave the facility while their children are taking lessons.
  • Ask questions! Our staff is here to help and will do everything possible to make your day on the slopes a memorable one.