Smugglers' Notch Snow Sport University

"It's all smiles and frozen noses"

During our visit to Smugg’s, our kids (four; ages 4-11) had the opportunity to enroll in the all-day ski and snowboard camps.

Our eldest was enrolled in The Adventure Squad snowboarding camp, while our 9 year old chose The Notch Squad ski camp. Both groups met outside at clearly marked meet-up spots at the base of the mountain, just past the Village center. At drop-off, parents hand in paperwork for each child (one slip per child; basically like a field trip permission slip but with more details) and are able to ask any questions prior to leaving their child(ren) with their instructors. Our two girls were just as giddy about getting the day started as the other kids in their group. The kids began introducing themselves to each other right away, which was our cue to slip out (lest we embarrass them with our weird, parental attachment).

Our 4 and 6 year olds were given the opportunity to stay together in their snowboarding camp, a great relief to Mama Rycerz (who is prone to child-induced paranoia). Upon check-in at the Meeting House, we were guided to a specific check-in table to turn in their papers before escorting our children to their respective “camp counselor”. The check-in point also served as a sort of Guest Services desk; many parents had questions about pick up times and what their kids would be doing throughout the day.  Never fear; Dave is there with all the answers you seek.  Dave and his coworkers also possess a rare trait: they are visibly HAPPY. Each child is warmly greeted with a smile and encouraging words like “Are you excited for camp today?” Our little ones were soon busy with the Mega Blocks at their table (each table is designated for a specific group) while Papa Rycerz and I introduced ourselves to their instructor, Ashley.

During their respective  camps, the kids were instructed on how to ski/snowboard (Smugg’s offers Burton and Head gear), played games, had a hearty lunch of “yummy pas-ta!” and ended the day with a comedic science show put on in the Meeting House. The younger kids were treated to a tractor ride around the resort, which our 4 year old described as “the funnest ride ever in the world”.

At pick up, we encountered a few snafu’s:  our  9 year old’s ski camp was dismissed to the pick-up spot, but when I arrived, their instructor had gone to watch another group of kids. No instructor or staff member took his place, but there were plenty of staff in the general vicinity of the kids. Just to be on the safe side, I remained with the group until all the parents showed up. I also noticed that we had to remove a GPS device from my daughter’s leg, but wasn’t given any explanation as to what the device’s purpose was or why it was necessary.

Papa Rycerz and I spent some time trying to locate our eldest’s camp group before heading into the Meeting House (other staff members suggested we try there). It made me a little panicky, not knowing exactly where my child was, but the staff members we encountered were all so relaxed and happy, it rubbed off on me. Everyone was confident that their group was OK and we must have had a miscommunication. Turns out they were correct; she was with her group sipping hot coco when  we arrived at the Meeting House. Her instructor, Andrew L., was happy to recall the day with me and suggested that Eldest was ready for some private lessons. He gave me all the information on how to request private lessons as well. Andrew also handed us a red card, which was what the GPS devices were for. Parents can log on to www.flaik.com and see a re-play of their child’s day, stats included. (Instructor Ashley also gave us cards for our littlest ones and had to endure some tears over their departure – a true sign of a job well done! Our kids did NOT want to leave!)

Upon check-out, each parent should have been given a card to hand to the door monitor in order to leave with their child. We were not given a card for our 9 year old, but after proving our identity to Dave, we were given a card at the check-out point. While the process might be viewed as time-consuming to some, I was relieved that staff cared about the safety of the kids so much that we’d have to produce identification and answer some questions in order to leave with a child.

I heartily recommend Smuggler’s Notch to any family who wants to get the most out of their vacation time. All four of our children are still wearing their Smugg’s Pass on their coats and beam when recalling their experiences to friends and family.

I should also mention that Smugg’s has programs suitable for those with special needs and is rolling out a new program for Autistic children. I had the opportunity to observe several instructors working with special needs kids and let me tell you – it is nothing short of inspiring. I’m excited to see other parents try out these programs, and hear about their experiences!

*Disclosure: This review is based on a complimentary stay at Smuggler’s Notch Resort. I received no other compensation and the business owner did not state any requirements that I express a particular point of view.