Cross-Country Ski Lesson Levels

Classic and Skate Ski Levels

There are 5 levels for classic and skate technique. Below are explanations of each level to help you decide which one you’re in. Don’t stress about figuring out your level too much, though. When you're riding the bus up to the resort, you'll be able to chat with one of the instructors to make sure you’re enrolled in the right level. 

For more information on lessons, see the FAQ page first. If your question is not answered, you can email xcskischool@hpsc.ca

Classic 1/Skate 1

• I am brand new to skiing or have only been on skis once or twice a long time ago.
• I feel uncomfortable on skis – my balance is very unsteady. I fall often.
• I don’t even want to think about hills!

• I am not able to attend the three consecutive sessions of Classic Beginners Series. (see below)

• I would like to be able to ski safely and enjoy a beginner trails.

• Note:  Usually people spend one or two lessons at this level. It is meant as a very introductory lesson that covers skiing on a flat terrain, gentle hills, and builds confidence to handle beginner trails all in one lesson.

Classic 2/Skate 2

• I feel uncomfortable or unsteady at times
• I am steady and don't usually fall on flat terrain.
• I am still learning the basic techniques.
• I feel like I am shuffling or walking on skis. In classic, my skis don't leave the ground, and in skate, I am always on the inside edges. 
• I get very little glide when I ski.
• I am still hesitant on gentle hills.

Classic 3/Skate 3

• I understand the basic techniques.
  
• I feel comfortable moving on skis, but my skiing still feels choppy.
  
• I get some glide (rather than shuffling or walking on skis). On classic, my skis sometimes leave the snow, but I hear my skis slapping behind me when they return to the snow. On skate, I can land on a flat ski occasionally. 
  
• I can get myself up and down gentle to moderate hills.

Classic 4/Skate 4

• My skiing feels more fluid.
  
• I can glide with all my weight on one ski some of the time. On classic, I don't hear my ski slapping behind me as much (although it still happens occasionally). On skate, I can land on a flat ski more consistently with better glide.
  
• I feel comfortable on intermediate trails.
• I can get myself up and down most hills, although still hesitant on the steep ones.

Classic 5/Skate 5

• My skiing feels fluid.
  
• I can glide with all my weight on one ski most of the time for both classic and skate. My classic skiing is quiet (i.e., I don't hear my skis slapping behind me) and I can glide with good balance in skate skiing.
  
• I am comfortable on all the trails and most hills.
  
• I think I’m ready to spend time refining the more advanced techniques and learning transitions between techniques to be more efficient on the trail.
  
  

Special Programming

In addition to our regular lessons, we offer special clinics or programs designed to help skiers of all levels develop their skills. These programs are all about helping you progress at your own pace, so you can ski efficiently and with confidence. When you register for trips online, you can select one of these options below as your lesson choice. 

Classic Beginners’ SeriesIf you're new to cross-country skiing or have only tried it a couple of times, this 3-part classic ski series is the perfect way to start off the season! You'll spend three Saturdays in January mastering the essentials with the same friendly instructors and a fun group of fellow newbies. We'll ditch the fear and focus on:

• Hills: Conquer those gentle slopes with confidence.
• Flats: Get a smooth, efficient glide on open terrain.
• Handling Easy Trails: Build your confidence, coordination and balance to ski Ontario's great XC trail systems!

This course is all about safe skiing and developing those core skills you need to enjoy the trails. Since consistency is key to getting good, you must be able to commit to attending all three dates in the series:  January 3, 10 and 17, 2026. 

Hills for Beginners & Intermediate (L1-3):  Getting up and down hills can be scary, but it's an essential skill! To help you develop your skills and confidence, we offer special clinics that focus only on hills, usually at resorts where there are good size hills to practice your skills.

Trail Handling for Intermediate Skiers (Level 3+):  These special clinics are for students who have some familiarity with basic techniques in either skate or classic (whichever one is offered). Skiing to the trail conditions and your abilities is key to skiing more efficiently and faster, so this clinic works on how to transition between techniques to get the most of out of your skiing.

Tips & Tricks for Intermediate Skiers (Level 3+):  If you’re looking to take your skiing skills to the next level, we’ve got you covered! We offer 15-minute one-on-one sessions where you can work on whatever you want or the instructor can pick a skill based on your assessment. You’ll register online when you sign up for the trip and on the day, we’ll let you know what time and where to meet for your 15-minute lesson. If you’re keen for some instruction but don’t want to spend all morning in a lesson, this is perfect for you!

Instructor Candidate Training (Level 5+):  If you’re interested in becoming a ski instructor, we have a great program for you. The HPSC Instructor Candidate Training program is a great first step. You can practice your skills while also learning practical teaching techniques as you prepare for the Canadian Association of Nordic Ski Instructors (CANSI) Level I certification course. The program delivers a combination of ski improvement and practical teaching techniques incorporating up-to-date CANSI methodology. It's a great way to give back to the club and share your love of skiing.

Ready to take the plunge? Email us at xcskischool@hpsc.ca to learn more about any of our programs. We can’t wait to help you become a better skier!