6 Super Ski Schools in Calgary

People fly in from all over the world to enjoy the mountains that we have at our doorsteps. So before the weather outside turns frightful, we're signing our kids up for lessons at these fantastic ski resorts and Nordic facilities close to Calgary. Here's what you need to know about each one.

You can't beat the location of this ski hill situated smack dab in northwest Calgary. Dropping off the tykes (three years and older) within the city limits means we're able to grab a java or run errands during their lessons. Score!

A bit of a longer drive gets you to Sunshine Village where a ten-week Freerider program introduces children three-years and older the basics of skiing and snowboarding. One-off daily programs and three day camps are also on tap. What's particularly great about Sunshine is Tiny Tigers Day Care takes babes as soon as they're 19-months old. Ski date, anyone?

Tots carve their way down the slopes during two-hour and four-hour lessons or weekly junior programs. Tubing and night skiing are hugely popular and fun ideas for a birthday party as well.

Home to Canada's biathlon and cross country ski teams, good luck not running into an Olympian here. The JackRabbit Program is for children 4 to 10-years old and gets them up to speed on the basics of classic and skate skiing. Individual and family cross country lessons can also be arranged to suit your schedule. Did we mention there's also an outdoor skating rink and toboggan hill?

Known as Calgary's learning mountain, this is the closest ski hill to the city. Mini Monsters aged three to four years can terrorize the slopes with 6 week and 12 week private instruction classes. Kids five years and up can take three week, six week or twelve week classes through Telus Winter Sports School. Daycare options are available.

The preferred destination of Bow Valley residents, Louise is the great equalizer, with a green run available from every chairlift. Besides the stellar runs, you'll find a traditional race club and regular classes. Families appreciate the alternative programming, plus there are options for full day or half day lessons.