A group of kids and instructors sit in the snow with snowboards, smiling for a group photo. They wear helmets, goggles and colorful winter gear.
An adult ski instructor helps a student on the beginner slope, holding hands for balance. Other skiers are nearby practicing on the snow.
A ski instructor skis backwards while helping a young child balance on skis. Another adult wearing skis is right behind the child, helping support them as well. All are wearing helmets and winter gear, with snow-covered ground and trees in the background.
A group of adults take a ski lesson on a snowy slope, with two instructors in the foreground demonstrating skiing techniques while others watch nearby.
A ski instructor helps a young child in a colorful jacket stay balanced on the snow. They are both smiling under a clear blue sky.
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SnowSports Academy

Three Rivers offers downhill skiing, snowboarding and cross-country skiing lessons for all ages and abilities in the Twin Cities. Our SnowSports Academy instructors are among the best in the Midwest, using proven techniques to help students master winter sports.

From downhill and cross-country skiing or snowboarding to our terrain park development program, browse offerings and register online.

Register for SnowSports Academy

Hyland Hills Ski Area

Winter Recreation Area at Elm Creek

Downhill Ski & Snowboard Lessons

Three Rivers offers a variety of lessons and teams throughout the winter season for both downhill skiing and snowboarding.

Public Lessons

Public lesson registration for the 2025-26 season is now closed.

Public lessons are offered throughout the winter season for youth and adults, with most sessions being for three weeks. Students are evaluated on the first day and separated into groups by age and ability. 

All public lessons include a lift ticket. Read our lesson policies for more information on registration, instructions for the first lesson and weather closures.

Lessons at Hyland Hills

When available, register online at the links below or by phone at 763-559-6700.

When available, view all downhill ski and snowboard lessons at Hyland Hills or browse by lesson type:

You can also learn more about Hyland Hills.

Lessons at Elm Creek

When available, register online at the links below or by phone at 763-559-6700.

When available, view all downhill ski and snowboard lessons or browse by lesson type below:

You can also learn more about Elm Creek Winter Recreation Area.

Private Lessons

Private lesson registration for the 2025-26 season is now closed.

Learn at your own pace and realize your goals with personalized instruction through our private and semi-private lessons! Private lessons are available at both Hyland Hills and Elm Creek Winter Recreation Area. 

  • Private lessons for downhill skiing (ages 4+) and snowboarding (ages 5+) are 90 minutes and include a lift ticket.
  • Semi-private lessons have a limit of two people of similar age and ability. 

Scheduling is based on instructor availability.

Private Lessons at Hyland Hills

When available, for one-on-one lessons at Hyland Hills, register online or by phone at 763-694-7800, ext. 1.

When available, for semi-private lessons at Hyland Hills, register by phone at 763-694-7800, ext. 1.

Pricing

  • Private Lesson: $78
  • Additional person for a semi-private lesson*: $63
  • Discounted lesson equipment rental**: $19

*Semi-private lessons available for ages 6+ only.
**Available for purchase on the day of a private lesson.

Private Lesson Times at Hyland Hills

Downhill Ski

Mondays–Fridays (non-holidays): 1 PM, 3 PM or 5 PM
Weekends & Holidays: 9 AM, 11 AM, 1:15 PM or 3:15 PM

Snowboard

Weekends & Holidays: 9:15 AM, 11:15 AM, 1:30 PM or 3:30 PM

Private Lessons at Elm Creek

When available, for one-on-one lessons at Elm Creek, register online or by phone at 763-694-2050. 

When available, for semi-private lessons at Elm Creek, register by phone at 763-694-2050.

  • Private Lesson: $60
  • Additional person for a semi-private lesson: $42
  • Discounted lesson equipment rental: $10
  • Helmet rental: $7.50

Private Lesson Times at Elm Creek

Downhill Ski

Mondays–Fridays (non-holidays): 3 PM, 5 PM or 7 PM
Weekends & Holidays: 9 AM, 11 AM, 1 PM or 3 PM

Snowboard

Mondays–Fridays (non-holidays): 3 PM, 5 PM or 7 PM
Weekends & Holidays: 9:30 AM, 11:30 AM, 1:30 PM or 3:30 PM

Terrain Park Development Programs

Terrain park development program registration for the 2025-26 season is now closed.

The Winter Recreation Area at Elm Creek offers development programs for young, intermediate skiers and riders looking to advance their skills in the terrain park. 

These club-style, season-long lesson programs include an Elm Creek season pass and Elm Creek apparel.

When available, learn more about each program and register below:

Cross-Country Ski Lessons

Three Rivers offers classic cross-country, adapted cross-country and skate ski lessons for adults and children at least 6 years old. All youth under 18 must be accompanied by a participating adult.

Public Lessons

Public lesson registration for the 2025-26 season is now closed.

Three Rivers offers group lessons and clubs for adults and children, including adapted ski opportunities.

When available, view all cross-country ski lessons and clubs or browse by type:

Scheduling a Public Lesson

When available, you can sign up for public lessons using the links above or by calling us at 763-559-6700 during regular business hours:

  • Monday–Friday: 8 AM–4:30 PM
Private Lessons

Private lesson registration for the 2025-26 season is now closed.

Choose between classic or skate techniques for private cross-country ski lessons. Each lesson is 90 minutes long and will begin and end outdoors. 

Skiers must be at least 6 years old for classic lessons and at least 10 years old for skate ski lessons. 

In accordance with the Safe Sport Law, all participants ages 17 and under must be accompanied by another participating skier or onsite adult. Youth ages 11 and under must be accompanied by a participating adult skier.

Rates*

  • $70/one-on-one private lesson
  • $85/group of two
  • $100/group of three
  • $115/group of 4–6 people

*Equipment not included in lesson rates but can be paid for while booking your private lesson.

View rates and reservation information for classic and skate-style rentals.

Scheduling a Private Lesson

Requests for private lessons should be received at least seven days prior to your requested date. Lessons are not confirmed until payment has been received. 

When available, you can request private lessons using the online form or by calling us at 763-694-7718 during office hours:

  • Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays & Fridays: 9 AM–4:30 PM

Work Where You Play This Winter

Get great benefits, including a free season pass, competitive wages, a fast-paced environment, flexible hours and more. 

Check out our winter employment opportunities and apply today!

View Employment Opportunities
A child wearing a colorful snowsuit, helmet, and pink ski goggles is holding hands with an adult instructor in ski gear on a snowy slope during a ski lesson.

Other Questions? Contact Us

Have questions about about our skiing and snowboarding lesson programs? 

We're happy to answer them. Call Guest Services at 763-559-6700.