Members have the option of bringing their own lunch or purchasing from the resort cafeteria. At this point, most resorts have not finalized what their meal options may or may not be and whether the food will be prepackaged or freshly made.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Please select the appropriate set of Q&As
Teen & Youth Programs refers to Christmas, Saturday, Sunday & March Break programs
Wednesday Adult Getaways refers to both the full Wednesday program, and the Flex Pack
- TEEN + YOUTH PROGRAMS
- WEDNESDAY ADULT GETAWAYS
General FAQ's - Teen + Youth Programs
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What is Snowhawks Raven' teaching philosophy? +
Snowhawks Raven provides excellent skiing and snowboarding instruction in a safe and stimulating environment which promotes friendship, self esteem and physical fitness. We believe that all skiers and snowboarders, from beginners to most advanced, should be challenged to develop their skills, and to develop confidence to ski and/or snowboard in all types of conditions and over diverse terrain. We also believe that everyone can and should meet with success, so our instructors plan lessons carefully to select the proper terrain, set reasonable goals and structure the learning at a comfortable pace. Above all, we pay close attention to the individual needs of each member to ensure that they are learning, having fun and feeling comfortable with others and with themselves. -
What is our make-up policy? (Covid) +
Unfortunately there are no makeup days allowed this season due to Covid restrictions as bus seats are reserved and we cannot double up kids in seats. -
What if my son/daughter doesn’t like it? (Covid) +
We will do everything in our power to ensure that everyone has the best winter possible. If it means the director skis or boards with your son/daughter ourselves or if a group change will do the trick, we will do it!
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Contacting Us At The Hill - Teen + Youth Programs
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How do I reach my child in a family emergency? +
Mount St. Louis Program
- Heather's Cell: 416 473-5805
- Mt. St. Louis*: 877-835-2112
Blue Mountain Program
- Mitch's Cell: 416 565-5805
- Blue Mountain*: 877 445-0231 x6353
Christimas Holiday
- Mitch's Cell: 416 565-5805
Spring Break Camp | Mt. Tremblant
- Mitch's Cell: 416 565-5805
Spring Break Traveller
- Sheryl's Cell: 416 801-1504
- Heather's Cell: 416-473-5805
- Mt. St. Louis*: 877-835-2112
Please ask to leave a message for Snowhawks Raven directors, Mitch or Heather.
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Bus Questions - Teen + Youth Programs
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What kind of buses do we use? +
Snowhawks Raven uses only luxury coaches. All are equipped with washrooms, DVD's, and seat belts. Skis and snowboards are stored underneath the bus for safety. We have used Pacific Western as our company of choice for many years. They provide excellent service and their drivers are very courteous.
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What if my child won't be taking the bus? +
Please notify us in advance. Parents are welcome to drive their children to the hill, but it is imperative on their part to have their child there and ready to go by the proper time.
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How long are the bus rides? +
Travel time to Mount St. Louis is approximately one and a quarter hours and to Blue Mountain is approximately one hour and fifty minutes. The Mt. St. Louis, Christmas and Spring Traveller Programs visit Mt. St. Louis exclusively, whereas the Blue Mountain Program travels to Blue Mountain for all 8 sessions. In addition to highway travel time, the buses also follow a route within the city which may add up to a half hour depending on where one lives. Our objective is to be at the hill for 9:00 a.m. and leave the hills at 4:00 p.m.
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How does pick-up at the end of the day work? +
We ask that parents be on time when picking up their child at the end of the day. If a parent is late, either an instructor, chaperon or responsible adult will stay with the child, or in some instances a chaperon may take the child home with them (if the parent is very late). On occasion, the bus may have to wait with a child and this inconveniences parents down the line, so please be on time. If we have advance knowledge that a bus will be very late (say more than 30 minutes), we will post it on our facebook page or tweet it out.
It is the parents responsibility to be on time. Those who are late more than once might lose bus privileges with no refund. We do this as it is unfair to all the other parents further on the route who must wait or our "volunteer" parent chaperones who often have other committments upon return to the city.
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What bus company should we look for in the morning? +
We use a company called Pacific Western. Please note, however, that on occasion charter bus companies do 'borrow' buses from each other or there might be other organizations at the same location using the same bus company. This is why we ask that you please make note of the exact location we tell you to go to and as an extra precaution, please ask the supervisor on the bus if it is a Snowhawks Ravens' bus. One should also check with the supervisor that the bus is for their program… i.e. Mount St. Louis Traveller vs. Blue Mountain Traveller.
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Protocol for picking up a child at the hill. +
Occassionally parents or a family friend may have to pick up a member at the hill. The following protocol should be followed.
Common Queries and Questions
- Have the member provide a signed note to be given to the parent chaperone in the morning;
- The member should remove all personal items from the bus in the morning and put them in a locker inside the chalet;
- Choose a meeting area where the member should be at a designated time;
- If the member is being picked up at the end of the day then the bus is the best place to meet;
- Provide the member with the cell phone number to Heather and/or Mitch in the event of an emergency.
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How are buses supervised? (Covid) +
This year, our buses will be supervised by senior staff members who will be looking out for the safety of all and ensuring that our members are staying as socially distant as possible. Please also note that everyone riding the bus must wear a mask at all times.
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Can my son / daughter go up on one bus and return home on another? (Covid) +
Due to our limited capacity on account of Covid 19 and for contact tracing reasons, whatever bus your child goes up on is the bus they must come home on. No switching buses this year.
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What if I am late for the bus? (Covid) +
The buses will attempt to be as prompt as possible. Other than the first week, they will leave the designated stop at the times indicated. Should you miss the bus, unfortunately, on account of Covid and bus restrictions, you will have to drive your child directly to the hill and inform the director of your dilemma and ask the director to make sure your son/daughter goes home on the bus.
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How do the kids get from the bus to the hill? (Covid) +
The buses will let the kids off as close to the hill as possible. The kids will be given their lift ticket on the bus. They will get off the bus wearing their ski/snowboard boots and will then gather their skis or snowboard. On the older kids’ programs, our members will walk to the hill and either go directly to their lesson or to the ski and snowboard school meeting place. On account of Covid19, all kids will be required to carry their own skis and snowboards to the class meeting area.
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Instruction - Teen + Youth Programs
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Where does Snowhawks Raven get their instructors from? +
Approximately 90% of Snowhawks Ravens’ instructors are graduates of our Instructor-In-Training class. In that way, we are able to hire "insiders" that know our system well. Many hours of pre-season training, both dry land and on-hill, ensure that all staff are well versed in our expectations. In addition, ALL are certified by the Canadian Ski Instructors Alliance ("CSIA"), the Canadian Association of Snowboard Instructors ("CASI") and / or the Canadian Ski Coach's Federation ("CSCF"). Most importantly, Snowhawks Raven instructors understand that they are concurrently teaching a skill and ensuring the safety and enjoyment of all their class members. -
Can my son / daughter be in the same group as their friend? +
Most definitely, provided that they are similar enough in ability and speed. It is unfair to hold up a whole group for one who is not at the level of the others. It is also unfair to have one put into a slower group just so they can be with their friend. If we feel that the group is not homogeneous enough, we do reserve the right to make changes for the benefit of all. -
My son / daughter wants to learn to snowboard but I want them to perfect their ski skills first. +
The benefits of both sports are without question. In both cases, the kids are learning a skill, they are in a positive environment and they are having fun. Many kids want to learn snowboarding so why not let them! One may also consider our learn to snowboard options on our Christmas or Spring Break Traveller programs. Ultimately the kids will want to try snowboarding at some time and they will choose for themselves which they prefer. -
What if my son / daughter progresses quicker (or slower) than the rest of the class? +
We begin the year with the assumption that the groups are as homogeneous as possible in terms of ability and speed. In every group, someone has to be the quickest and someone has to be the slowest. The instructor will attempt to progress the class as a unit. Some kids may pick up a new skill quicker than others. Often the group will leap frog each other as the year progresses. In cases where one child progresses at a more rapid pace than the others, adjustments can be made and are made. -
Will my son / daughter receive extra attention if necessary? +
Absolutely! Occasionally, a member needs an extra confidence boost or just a little extra help to reach that next level. That’s what we’re there for! Having said that, parents should also be aware that our program is structured to be a "group environment". We simply are not equipped to provide private lessons for the whole season. Rarely, although it does happen, a child exhibits severe anxiety and cannot function in a group environment. Unfortunately, in these instances, we will suggest withdrawal from the program. -
Can my son / daughter do a mix of skiing, snowboarding? (Covid) +
Only on the Blue Mountain Traveller program we usually allow this but unfortunately this year, we will not be able to accomodate this program. -
Should my son / daughter get into freestyle skiing / snowboarding? (Covid) +
For this season only, we are not accepting any beginner freestyle skiers or snowboarders. -
Who has an all day lesson, who has an AM lesson and who has a PM lesson? (Covid) +
For this season only, we are just offering full day group lessons. Rest assured, the instructors will be sure to include alot of mileage and some free runs within a group environment.
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Equipment + Dress - Teen + Youth Programs
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Where should I get equipment? +
The number one ski & snowboard retailer in the GTA is Sporting Life. They've earned that reputation over years of satisfying their clients with their knowledge and customer service and no one stands behind their products like they do!
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What equipment should I get? +
Given that kids are always growing, there is probably no need to buy the best equipment possible. For youngsters, ask about the Junior Half-Back program. Sporting Life initiated this program and they are still the best! Most kids choosing to snowboard prefer a freestyle or free ride (all-mountain) board. Above all, buy something that fits well, is comfortable and is of an appropriate length, stiffness, etc. For members participating in freestyle skiing twin-tip ski's should be purchased.
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Are helmets necessary? +
YES - Helmets are mandatory for all members and staff.
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How should my son / daughter dress for the day? (Covid) +
All members must have face coverings for the bus, indoor use as well as the ski hill. Please note for outside use, a warmer face covering is required.
As always, the operative words are "Waterproof", "Layering" and "Breathable".
Under the helmet one should have a "hot hood" (balaclava) and perhaps a neck tube. For the torso a moisture wicking under garment, sweatshirt and waterproof ski/snowboard jacket works best. For the legs, again a pair of moisture wicking long john's (or sweats for really cold days) and a pair of waterpfoof insulated ski/snowboard pants. One pair of socks works better than two, and again these should be specific to skiing/snowboarding so as to wick the moisture away from the foot. All members should also wear proper goggles as they protect against the elements including the cold.
Hand warmers and toe warmers are a particularly good idea for cold days. Pack a pair and put them in your child's pocket so they can access them if necessary.
Also it is important to provide proper gloves or mitts for outdoor activity. Should be thermal and well insulated.
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How should one pack for the day? (Covid) +
The trick here is to make things as simple as possible for your son/daughter. A well-labelled ski or snowboard bag will not only protect the equipment underneath the bus, but they also make it easy on mom or dad at the pick-up location as there is less chance of taking the wrong poles, skis or board. Also, send with a small boot duffel bag and help us educate your son/daughter to put everything in it once they get back on the bus, ie. boots, goggles, gloves, neck tube, loose clothing, etc… lunches and snacks can also be stored in here. Please put names on everything!
Make sure your child knows to keep an indoor face mask in their jacket pocket so they will have it handy at all times.
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Lunches + Snacks: Nut Free Please - Teen + Youth Programs
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How does lunch work? (Covid) +
We are fortunate in that on all programs our kids have access to our exclusive lunch rooms which are closed to the public. This not only affords us space but also allows us to more closely control our environment, which is particularly important in our "Covid World". All children/teens will be required to eat with their groups so as to maintain their social cohort. We will also be limiting the number of kids per table. As well, lunches will be staggered. As the Fall progresses, we will be exploring the option, with our ski resort partners, of providing a prepackaged meal plan for all our members. This will not be finalized until late in the Fall. This season we will ask all members and staff to refrain from purchasing anything from the cafeteria directly. Those wishing to bring lunch from home will have the opportunity to bring their lunch from the bus and put it on a table in our lunch room. We ask parents to refrain from sending lunches containing nuts or nut-bi products and to make sure all lunch bags are labelled! For Christmas and Spring programs you may either send a lunch or your son/daughter can buy from the cafeteria. -
Do the kids have a mid morning or mid afternoon break? (Covid) +
Our younger members will regularly be asked if they have to use the washroom and the instructor will oblige the kids whenever necessary. Snack and warm up breaks will only be able to be accommodated based on Covid space capacity within the chalet. Parents might want to put a small snack into their child's pocket. On our older kids programs, the classes will stay out for the duration of their lesson period unless the weather requires otherwise and space allows within the capacity of the chalet. -
What about snacks for the ride home? (Covid) +
The kids on all programs are encouraged to bring drinks and nut free snacks for the bus ride home. Bottled water and / or juice packs are a particularly good idea. These should be brought from home and left on the bus for the day.
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General FAQ's - Wednesday Adult Getaways
-
What is Snowhawks Raven' teaching philosophy? +
Snowhawks Raven provides excellent skiing and snowboarding instruction in a safe and stimulating environment which promotes friendship, self esteem and physical fitness. We believe that all skiers and snowboarders, from beginners to most advanced, should be challenged to develop their skills, and to develop confidence to ski and/or snowboard in all types of conditions and over diverse terrain. We also believe that everyone can and should meet with success, so our instructors plan lessons carefully to select the proper terrain, set reasonable goals and structure the learning at a comfortable pace. Above all, we pay close attention to the individual needs of each member to ensure that they are learning, having fun and feeling comfortable with others and with themselves. -
If I registered for 4 Wednesdays and used them up, may I add a 5th or 6th? +
Yes, you may add days incrementally. There is a slight premium charged versus those who initially signed up for the full six. -
May I bring a guest? (Covid) +
Due to Covid19 and limited capcity on buses, we are unsure at this point whether we will have extra space for guests or not. Please check back with us in January. -
If I register for 4 out of 6 Wednesdays, do I need to book them in advance? (Covid) +
This season, due to Covid restrictions, we have to know in advance who exactly is on each bus each week. Members will have to book their days in advance. -
What is our make-up policy - Wednesdays? (Covid) +
If you anticipate missing one or more of your outings on the 4 or 6 Wednesday package, for whatever reason, you may bring your spouse or family member on a subsequent outing. Our feeling is that 4 out of 6 is sufficient flexibility and hence you may not have another member use your unused portion.
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Bus Questions - Wednesday Adult Getaways
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What kind of buses do we use? +
Snowhawks Raven uses only luxury coaches. All are equipped with washrooms, DVD's, and seat belts. Skis and snowboards are stored underneath the bus for safety. We have used Pacific Western as our company of choice for many years. They provide excellent service and their drivers are very courteous. -
How long are the bus rides and when do they depart and return? +
The Wednesday Adult Get-Away travels exclusively to hills in the Collingwood area and hence highway travel time is approximately two hours. We typically arrive at the hill for 9:45 a.m. and leave at 4:00 p.m. The typical day is therefore 7:45 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. -
What if I am late for the bus? +
The buses will attempt to be as prompt as possible. Other than the first week (where they will wait for 5 minutes), they will leave the designated stop at the times indicated. Our last stop is at the commuter parking lot at Hwy 400 & King Rd. Check the bus time and determine if you could make it there on time. Should you be unable to do so, your only option is to drive directly to the hill. -
What happens when we arrive at the hill? +
If you are very keen, you may have put your boots on as we approach the hill. In this case, we’ll get you your lift ticket quickly so you can enjoy a warm-up run or two. However, most prefer to change inside. Within about 20 minutes of arrival, groups will gather at our appointed meeting place with their instructors. -
Can I be on the same bus as a friend? (Covid) +
Yes. However, if your friend is on a different bus route, one of you would have to drive to a different stop to catch the other bus.
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Instruction - Wednesday Adult Getaways
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Where does Snowhawks Raven get their instructors from? +
All of our instructors are certified Level 3 or Level 4 by the Canadian Ski Instructors Alliance and /or the Canadian Association of Snowboard Instructors and most have taught with Snowhawks in excess of 10 years. They are chosen for their passion for teaching and for their commitment to the sport we all love. They are a highly certified team but more importantly – they enjoy watching our members improve and they know that we are all there to have FUN! -
Can I be in the same group as a friend or partner? +
Most definitely, provided that they are similar enough in ability and speed. It is unfair to hold up a whole group for one who is not at the level of the others. It is also unfair to have one put into a slower group just so they can be with their friend. If we feel that the group is not homogeneous enough, we do reserve the right to make changes for the benefit of all. Should this occur, there is still plenty of opportunity for free skiing or snowboarding with your friend in the afternoon. -
I haven’t skied in years! I’ve changed. The equipment has changed. Will there be a group for me? +
Definitely! You are not alone. Many Snowhawks Raven members enjoy returning to the sport after a long absence and they build both confidence and friendships by joining a small group of others in a similar situation. Working with a Snowhawks Raven instructor, everyone develops at a pace with which they feel comfortable, and there is always the possibility of starting slowly, then joining a quicker group once you rediscover your ski legs. -
I have never skied (or never snowboarded). Is it too late to get started? +
Of course not. Besides, look at the bright side… You have no bad habits! Working with an instructor from the start, your progress will surprise you, and it will only be limited by the number of Wednesdays you can free up for Getaways! And do feel free to contact us to discuss equipment and clothing considerations in the pre-season. -
Who has an all-day lesson, who has a half-day lesson? +
On the Wednesday Adult Getaway you’ll join a morning group and your instructor will guide you over the most suitable terrain of the various centres that we visit. Your instructor is available all day, so after lunch, you may continue with the group, or feel free to head out on your own to free ski or snowboard with a buddy. There are no additional costs involved. A "no lesson" option is also available if desired.
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Equipment + Dress - Wednesday Adult Getaways
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Where should I get equipment? +
Snowhawks Raven is sponsored by Sporting Life and anyone who has ever shopped there will tell you that their service is second to none. On top of that they will offer additional incentives to Snowhawks Raven members. Do be somewhat leery of second hand stores and ski/snowboard swaps. If you buy from those places, go with someone who knows equipment and make sure you pay close attention to the ski bindings. Snowhawks Raven Equipment Rental Program is available as well. You simply arrange for a personal fitting, pick up the equipment in the Fall, use it for the season, and then return it to us in the Spring. -
What equipment should I get? +
Technological advancements have rendered ski equipment so much more efficient than even five years ago...and much more comfortable too. Everyone is talking about "shaped" skis, but make sure to buy the right shape! There are different profiles and stiffness for skiers at different levels. If in doubt, work with a reputable retailer (such as Sporting Life), and do feel free to consult with Snowhawks Raven. When it comes to ski boots, go for comfort, and avoid the most common error - don’t buy boots that are too stiff! If you can’t flex them in the warm shop, you certainly won’t be able to flex them on the cold slopes. -
How should one pack for Wednesday? (Covid) +
Please ensure that you have your face covering for the bus which should be used for the change room and chalet in general. (a spare in your pocket would be a good idea) The trick here is to make things as simple as possible. A well-labelled ski or snowboard bag will protect the equipment underneath the bus and also make it easy on you at the pick-up location as there is less chance of taking the wrong poles, skis or board. Also, use a boot duffel bag to put everything in once you get back on the bus (ie. boots, goggles, gloves, neck tube/warmer, loose clothing, etc.).
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Lunches + Snacks - Wednesday Adult Getaways
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How does Wednesday lunch work? (Covid) +
Members have the option of bringing their own lunch or purchasing from the resort cafeteria. At this point, most resorts have not finalized what their meal options may or may not be and whether the food will be prepackaged or freshly made. -
Aprés Ski/Snowboard… Snowhawks Raven Tradition (Covid) +
Sadly, one of favorite Snowhawks traditions, our "Apres Ski" parties, might have to be put on hold for this year. Rest assured, if the opportunity presents itself to reinstate this end of the day tradition, we certainly will.
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