FAQs
Please see responses to frequently asked questions about Salish Snow Sports. If you don't see your quesiton below, feel free to email us at salishsnowsports@gmail.com.
Who can sign up for the program?
Our program is open to youth ages 5–18 (grades K-12) of all skill levels—from complete beginners to experienced riders. We serve families living in East Jefferson County of Washington State and welcome kids who attend public and private schools, as well as homeschooled kids.
When does registration open?
Registration opens in September each year. Be sure to follow us on social media or sign up for email updates so you don’t miss out!
Where do the lessons take place?
Lessons are held at Stevens Pass Ski Resort, where participants receive professional instruction from trained ski and snowboard coaches.
Do you provide transportation?
Yes! Round-trip transportation to and from Chimacum High School is included in the program tuition.
What equipment is needed, and do you offer rentals?
Participants need skis or a snowboard, boots, a snow sports approved helmet, goggles, and warm outerwear. We offer discounted seasonal gear rentals through Stevens Pass Resort Rentals for families who require them for $230 per year. We also plan to host a seasonal clothing drive and swap event to ensure every kid has what they need to stay safe and warm. We are unable to offer a "gear swap" for all hardwear, including helmets, for liability reasons. There are other options for Seasonal Gear Rentals as well if you want to rent from other company, such as Kitsap Sports in Bremerton.
What about food?
Thanks to our generous sponsors, Salish Snow Sports provides sack lunches and snacks for all participants. Students are encouraged to bring a water bottle and are welcome to bring additional snacks or lunch if they’d like. Stevens Pass Resort also offers food for purchase, but it is a cashless facility—cards or digital payments only. We provide food to all kids to reduce any stigma around receiving a meal.
What if my child has never skied or snowboarded before?
No problem! We welcome beginners and provide a supportive, confidence-building environment for first-time skiers and riders.
How long is the program?
The full season includes six full-day trips on Saturdays to the mountain starting February 21 and ending on March 28th. This program is designed to run for 6 consecutive weekends. It is not a “pick-your-weeks” model — group pricing and minimum participant requirements depend on consistent attendance.
When does the season run?
The 2026 season runs from February 21 – March 28. These late-season dates were chosen for better daylight during travel, more reliable snowpack, and fewer storms that could disrupt the program. Although we can't exactly predict what the weather will bring, Stevens Pass grooms their runs daily, ensuring their season makes it into April each year.
What if my child has to miss a weekend?
We understand that families may need to miss a week or two. Kids are welcome to rejoin when able, but we cannot offer refunds since buses, instructors, and lift tickets are reserved and paid for in advance.
You offer lift tickets for six days, but what if we want to ski more?
Students may purchase a discounted Stevens Pass-only season pass for $322, valid all season. For additional multi-resort pass options (including Stevens Pass), please visit epicpass.com.
What does a typical day look like?
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6:00 AM: Depart Chimacum High School and head to the Kingston Ferry
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Ferry Ride: Bathroom break and snack time
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9:30 AM: Arrive at Stevens Pass and gear up
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10:00 AM – 12:00 PM: Two-hour group lessons
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12:00 – 12:45 PM: Lunch and rest
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1:00 – 3:30 PM: Free ski/snowboard time with chaperone check-ins
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4:00 PM: Depart the mountain
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7:00 PM: Return to Chimacum (dependent on traffic/ferry delays)
Families will be updated by text/email if delays occur.
Schedule subject to change due to ferry schedule and driving conditions
How can I contact my child in an emergency?
Cell phones do work at Stevens Pass. You’ll also be provided a list of adult chaperones with contact numbers before the season begins.
What should students bring on the bus?
We recommend books, magazines, a water bottle, snacks, a pillow, and a blanket. It’s a long ride, so comfort helps! It's also wise to bring a warm change of clothes for the ride home. Skis and snowboards will be stored in the bus cargo area. Boots, helmets, and outerwear should stay with the student.
Is there a student code of conduct for the bus?
Yes. We will host a mandatory family meeting in November to review trip expectations, emergency procedures, and the student code of conduct. All participants must sign this agreement to ensure a respectful and safe experience for all riders.
How does the $300 Family Bus Fee work?
The $300 fee covers one parent seat on the family bus for the full season. Parents are welcome to rotate who uses the seat each week (e.g., mom one weekend, dad the next), but it applies to one parent seat at a time.
Is there a fee to chaperone on the student ski bus?
No. Chaperones ride for free. Each bus has up to four volunteer chaperones, and they receive complimentary lift tickets for supporting the program with check-ins, safety, and supervision.
Can chaperones ski while at the mountain?
Yes! Chaperones are welcome to ski as long as their assigned responsibilities (such as head counts and safety checks) are fulfilled. Staying at the lodge is optional.
How can I help?
We welcome volunteers and chaperones! Email us at salishsnowsports@gmail.com to get involved. We’re also seeking community sponsors to help us keep tuition affordable.