Learn to Ski near Des Plaines, IL

Never skied before and wondering where to learn to ski near Des Plaines as an adult? You’re not alone. Many of the people who learn with us at Snowlike Studio are adults from Des Plaines, Park Ridge, Rosemont and Elk Grove Village who always wanted to ski, or who have a ski trip coming up with friends or family.

We’re about 20 minutes away, at 636 Remington Rd in Schaumburg. Lessons take place in our studio on ski and snowboard simulators, so you can learn the basics in private, before you set foot on a ski hill.

Adult beginner learning to ski on the ski simulator near Des Plaines, IL

Why adults learn faster here

Learning to ski as an adult on a busy slope can feel awkward. Kids zip past you, the lift line is long and the first fall hurts your pride more than your body. In our studio, it’s just you and your instructor:

  • Private lessons: no group, no audience, and the pace is set by you
  • Real equipment: real ski boots and real skis, on a moving training surface
  • Focused practice: more repetitions in an hour than you’d get in a morning on the bunny slope
  • No weather to deal with: no cold, no ice, no waiting for snow

Beginner lessons start on our beginner ski and snowboard simulator. You’ll learn to balance, slow down, stop and make your first turns.

Lessons that fit a work schedule

All lessons are by appointment, so you can book a time that works around your job. Choose a time online and come straight to the studio.

  • 1 participant: 60-minute private lesson, $135
  • 2 participants: 90-minute lesson, $200 (great for couples or friends at the same level)
  • 4- and 8-lesson packages, valid for 3 months

See Pricing & Booking for all options.

Adult skier on the ski simulator with a mountain on screen at Snowlike Studio

How many lessons does an adult need?

Everyone is different, but many adult beginners feel comfortable after 4 to 8 lessons. Your instructor will tell you honestly how you’re progressing and when you’re ready for the mountain. Read more in our article How Many Ski Lessons Do You Need to Learn to Ski?

Prefer snowboarding?

Snowboard lessons for adult beginners are available too. You’ll learn your stance, how to stand up, how to control speed and how to stop. See snowboard lessons.

Already ski? Keep your skills sharp

If you skied years ago, or you ski every season and want to improve, our advanced simulator lets you work on technique and carving in independent training sessions.

What your first adult lesson looks like

  • The first few minutes: you put on ski boots, the instructor checks the fit, and you learn how to stand on skis.
  • Balance: you practice your stance on the moving surface while the instructor adjusts the speed for you.
  • Slowing down and stopping: you learn the basic wedge, often called “pizza,” and practice it until it feels natural.
  • First turns: if you’re ready, you start shifting your weight to turn left and right.
  • The last minutes: your instructor explains what you did well and what to work on next time.

No one will rush you. If you need a break, take one. Most adults are surprised by how much they can do after just one lesson.

Snowboard Lessons near Des Plaines

Adults who would rather ride than ski can start with a private snowboard lesson. You will learn your stance, how to stand up, how to control speed and how to stop, with no group watching. See snowboard lessons and training or read about snowboard lessons near Chicago.

Getting here from Des Plaines

Snowlike Studio is at 636 Remington Rd, Unit C, Schaumburg, IL 60173, about 20 minutes from Des Plaines depending on traffic. Get directions on Google Maps. Arrive about 5 minutes early to sign the waiver, and wear long ski socks and athletic clothing. All equipment is provided at no extra cost.

Frequently asked questions

Am I too old to learn to ski?

No. Our lessons are for all ages and fitness levels. Your instructor adjusts the pace to you. If you have an injury or a health concern, check with your doctor first.

Do I need to be in shape?

You don’t need to be an athlete. Skiing uses your legs and core, and lessons on the simulator are a good way to build that strength step by step.

Can I come alone?

Yes. Most adult beginners book a private lesson for one.

What if I’ve skied once or twice before?

That’s very common. Your instructor will see where you are in the first few minutes and start from there.

Learn to Ski near Des Plaines This Season

It’s never too late to learn. Book your first lesson online and we’ll see you at the studio.

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