Independent Instruction: What You Need to Know

Last updated: March 6, 2026

The Short Version

Not every ski resort allows independent instruction. Many major resorts in the US operate on federal land (US Forest Service) under exclusive commercial permits. Teaching for money at these resorts without authorization is prohibited and can result in fines or lifetime bans.

SlopeBuds is a platform that connects instructors with students. We do not employ instructors or guarantee that independent instruction is permitted at any specific resort. It is the instructor's responsibility to verify that they are authorized to teach at their chosen resort.

Where Independent Instruction Is Typically Allowed

Independent instruction is generally possible at:

  • Independently owned resorts on private land — These resorts set their own policies and many welcome third-party instructors.
  • Community-owned resorts — Resorts operated by local governments or homeowner associations (e.g., Diamond Peak in Incline Village, NV).
  • Resorts with concession or revenue-sharing programs — Some resorts formally partner with independent ski schools (e.g., Powderpigs and Webbski at The Summit at Snoqualmie).

Featured Independent-Friendly Resorts

Here are some of the resorts where independent instruction is welcome. These are independently owned, community-operated, or have a history of partnering with outside ski schools.

Lake Tahoe

Diamond Peak (community-owned), Tahoe Donner (private land), Granlibakken (home of Snow Schoolers since 2017), Donner Ski Ranch (family-owned), Boreal, Soda Springs, Sugar Bowl, and Mt. Rose.

Seattle / Washington

The Summit at Snoqualmie (Powderpigs and Webbski have taught here since the 1960s), White Pass (family-owned), Mission Ridge, and Bluewood.

Colorado

Loveland (family-owned since the 1940s), Monarch Mountain, Wolf Creek, and Sunlight Mountain.

Northeast

Mad River Glen (skier co-op), Cannon Mountain (state-owned), Smugglers' Notch, Jay Peak, Bolton Valley, Bromley Mountain, and Pats Peak.

Other West

Beaver Mountain, UT (family-owned since 1945), Powder Mountain, UT, Bogus Basin, ID, and Bridger Bowl, MT.

Recommendations for Instructors

  1. Check if your resort allows independent instruction before creating a listing.
  2. Consider teaching at independently owned or community-owned resorts where policies are more flexible.
  3. If you want to teach at a larger resort, look into whether they offer concession programs or partnerships for outside instructors.
  4. Carry appropriate liability insurance regardless of where you teach.

Questions?

If you have questions about resort policies or independent instruction, feel free to contact us.