Mountain Magic

Mountain Magic: The best way to learn guaranteed...Are you a first time Skier or Rider?                         
Gunstock invites all new skiers and riders to join the nationally recognized and award winning learn to ski or ride program - Mountain Magic.  Whether you are 6 or 106, your first day is magical.  This all-inclusive package offers Head BYS System rental skis or Burton LTR Boards, primetime lift tickets, and group instruction from patient, fun, and passionate instructors.  

The Mountain Magic program is for first-time skiers or snowboarders, ages 6 and up.

Program Specifics:

Three Day Package - for just $180 you get:
      - 3 Days of primetime lift tickets, with a two-hour group lesson on each day and ski or snowboard equipment rental each day.
      - Days can be used anytime in the current season.
      - At the completion of the third lesson your "Magic Card" entitles you to the following benefits: 

               · 50% off all subsequent group lessons during the current season.     

               · 50% off all rental equipment during the current season.    

               · $15 off any helmet from Mountainside Outfitters Retail & Demo Center.  

               · 20% off ski wear in the Mountainside Outfitters retail shop.        

               · Choice of either 50% off your primetime or night lift tickets purchased during the current season OR the purchase of a Primetime Season Pass valid to the end of the current season for just $149. 

Upgrade Package - complete your Mountain Magic experience:
Start with the first day for $90 and you get a primetime lift ticket (lower mountain only), with a two-hour group lesson and ski or snowboard equipment rental for the day.   Our passion for skiing and ridding will inspire you to add 2 more days for just $90.  You are still entitled to all of the benefits upon completion of the program!
 
Lesson Times:

*Leave extra time on busy holidays and weekends.

Before You Leave Home:
If you are reading this you are off to a great start.

1.       Read through the following sections that will help make your first visit enjoyable.

2.       Get directions to Gunstock Mountain Resort. (click here)

3.       Relax and get ready to make turns and have fun.

• Layer #1 - Base - Socks, thermal underwear, undershirt. Choose a synthetic material/ blend (avoid 100% cotton) that will wick moisture away from the body. Socks (1 Pair) should be thin and long enough to rise above the boot.
• Layer #2 - Insulating - Fleece or wool works very well as a middle layer.
• Layer #3 - Outer Layer - Gloves, Coat, Ski or Snow pants - Waterproof and wind resistant is the key.
• Headwear - 90% of our body heat escapes through our head. Helmets are recommended for both safety and warmth. Rentals are available or a good tight knit hat with a soft itch less headband will address warmth. For more information on helmets for you and your child visit http://www.lidsonkids.org/
• Frostbite Protection - cover up any exposed skin by using a neck warmer or better a product called a Belaclava will cover the top of the head as well as protect the face and neck. A belaclava also fits under a helmet or hat. 
• Eye protection - Goggles or sunglasses are essential to protect from reflection of the snow and blowing snow.
• UV Protection - Sun screen is essential while skiing or snowboarding as the sun is hitting you from above and below (the reflection from the snow).

• Just like going to the beach or the amusement park it is a good idea to bring extra clothes. If for nothing else than to change for après ski and/ or the ride home after a day of physical activity.
• A back pack or tote bag just like you would bring to the beach is helpful for carrying clothes and shoes from the car to the rental shop and finally to your meeting place in the lodge.

• Prepare for a day of movement outdoors. Eat some healthy meals and snacks prior to your visit, drink plenty of water on the days prior to your visit and have hearty/ healthy breakfast on the morning of your first visit to Gunstock Mountain Resort.

• Bathrooms are available on the lowest level of the main lodge.
• If you would like to drop people or gear off prior to parking, head for the 2 minute drop off zone.
• Once you have unloaded, head for the parking lot and look for our faithful parking lot attendants in neon green coats. These experts will guide you to a safe spot in one of our parking lots.
• Now you will head to the Welcome Center. As you cross the foot bridge heading toward the lodge look for the Green Awning over a set of double doors that says Welcome Center...and look for the Mountain Magic Logo in the window.

• You’ll need to complete a release form which can be found on the counter to your right or to the left as you enter the Welcome Center.  One form for each new skier or rider.  Minors will need a parent or guardian to sign the form. 
• Follow the queue to the next available Guest Services Representative who will complete the transaction and direct you to the rental shop.

• It is time to get your equipment so you can get on snow for the First Time!
• Access to the Ski & Snowboard Rental Shop through the back of the Welcome Center and down the staircase.
• As a Mountain Magic participant you will be moved quickly through the rental process...just identify yourself as a Mountain Magic participant when you see a rental shop employee.
• Once you have your equipment you will want to find a place in the lodge to get ready to get on snow.
• The best place for your skis/snowboard is in our Free Ski/Board check located in the Yurt.  After exiting the Rental Shop, head up the outside stairs just behind concrete wall. The Yurt is right in front of you.
• We have lockers and baskets available on the lower level of the Main Lodge.
• Bathrooms are also located on this level of the Main Lodge.
• Once you have stored your gear, added necessary layers, and put your boots on it is time to get on snow and meet your Learning Center Ski or Ride Pro.

• Retrieve you skis or board from the Free Ski/ Board check and head across the snow toward the Mountain Magic banners, located to the right of the Base Camp building.
• If you have some time before you lesson walk around in your boots and explore the base area of Gunstock. Walk past the Mountain Magic meeting place and look for the Wonder Carpet conveyor lift. This is where you will slide for the first time and  where you will make your first turns. Take a look at the Thrill Hill Tubing Park and make note of the chairlift just to the left of the tubing hill. This will likely be where you take your first chairlift ride on your new equipment. Moving around like this will help you get the feel for moving in ski/ board equipment.
• Once you meet your Pro tell him or her about you. Describe other activities you are involved in, describe your learning style. Anything you can tell your Pro about yourself will help her/ him relate the lesson to you personally which will make the learning process Fun and Easy.
• Relax, make turns, and have a Great Experience in Mountain Magic TM!