Learn How To Snowboard In Seattle

By: JBTodd

Break Studios Contributing Writer

If you want to learn how to snowboard in Seattle, there are many instructors to choose from. Search for snowboard instructors near the Seattle area using the Internet, and set up a time for your first lesson. Crystal Mountain is a popular choice for snowboarding in the Seattle area, and takes about two hours by car. Also check out Stevens Pass, a mountain which is 78 miles east of Seattle. Both of these resorts have ski schools where you can learn how to snowboard. If you do not have a snowboard or any gear, you can right at the mountain. This way you can try snowboarding out to see if you like it, before you buy any expensive equipment.   

  1. Before you go to your first lesson, warm up. When you are going to snowboard in Seattle, even though you will not be attempting any hard slopes just yet, snowboarding can be physically demanding. Stretch out your leg muscles and warm up your ankles by jumping rope or doing some light jogging.
  2. Meet your instructor. Let him know if this is the first time you have tried to learn how to snowboard in Seattle. If you need rental equipment, he will tell you how to find the right sized gloves, helmet and snowboard so you can begin your lesson.
  3. Pay for the rental equipment if you do not have your own. Make sure everything fits, and head back to your instructor. He will probably have you loosen up first, and then begin to show you the basics of how to snowboard in Seattle. If you have a good center of gravity and sense of balance, you will have an easier time staying on your board once you hit the slopes.
  4. Go slow on your first run. When you snowboard in Seattle, the slopes may be a bit icy depending on the amount of fresh powder. Watch out for other snowboarders and skiers during your runs. You will get the hang of it after a few runs, and then you can try some more difficult slopes.
  5. As you get better, buy your own snowboarding gear. Rental fees are expensive, so if you intend to snowboard in Seattle on a regular basis you should buy a snowboard and winter gear. Check online for snowboard shops, and compare the prices before you buy. If you still need more lessons, you may be able to pay for several at once so you can get a discounted rate.
Posted on: Jul. 05, 2010