Creating Life-Changing Mountain Moments: A New Blueprint for First-Timer Experiences
Even on a blustery rainy day they had a blast learning to snowboard with Vive Northwest!
What if one perfect day on the mountain could change a life?
That’s exactly what happened during a VIVE Northwest “learn-to-ride” event for first-time skiers and snowboarders. Despite torrential rain and high winds, the group showed up, geared up, and smiled through every soggy, exhilarating moment. It wasn’t the ideal bluebird day—but that’s what made it unforgettable.
In the Spring 2025 issue of the NSAA Journal, I explore how experiences like this don’t happen by accident—they’re intentionally crafted to elevate, connect, and inspire. My article, “Creating Life-Changing Experiences for Young People: The Power of Memorable Moments,” dives deep into how ski areas can intentionally design emotionally powerful, beginner-friendly moments that foster lifelong connections to the mountains.
Exploring snowboarding at your own pace at Ski Saint-Bruno, Quebec.
From VIVE’s inclusive programming to Ski Saint-Bruno’s beginner-first terrain design, to SOS Outreach’s mentorship model and Winter4Kids’ immersive youth programs, the article showcases real-world strategies that are transforming how we welcome newcomers to snow sports.
You’ll also find takeaways inspired by the Heath brothers’ Power of Moments framework and a practical best-practices guide for ski area teams ready to rethink the first-timer experience—from signage and staffing to snowplay and storytelling.
Whether you're a GM, snow school director, or program coordinator, this article will challenge you to view your mountain through the eyes of someone experiencing it for the first time—and inspire you to turn that moment into a memory.
👉 [Download and read the full article here]
Because when we help someone fall in love with the mountain, we build the future of our sport.
Join Me at the NSAA National Convention
If this story resonates with you, I hope you’ll join me at the NSAA National Convention in Marco Island, FL, May 11–14, where I’ll be leading two sessions on behalf of the Growth Committee. I’ll be joined by two inspiring leaders—Jorge Guzman, founder and CEO of VIVE Northwest, and Penny Paris, Director of Sports Education at Ski Saint-Bruno—who are redefining what it means to welcome the next generation to our mountains. Together, we’ll share powerful, practical strategies to help you create lasting connections with young people and turn first-timers into lifelong skiers and riders.
Now more than ever,
“Technology is Nothing without Humanity.”
Copyright (C) Dave Tragethon. All rights reserved. No part of this blog post may be used without written permission from the author.
