First Timers · Ski | Ride

FIRST TIME SKIERS & SNOWBOARDERS

Trying a new sport can be daunting, regardless of if you are 6 years old, 36 or 66. Here are some things to help make your first time fun and memorable.

First Timers | Things To Think About

You probably shouldn’t expect to conquer expert runs your first time on the slopes, but that doesn’t mean you have to stick to the beginner runs either.

Avoid borrowing skis or snowboards from others since they are typically setup based on that individuals height, weight and ability.

You should never find yourself alone on the slopes. Buddy up with at least one other person, make sure you choose ski buddies with an equal amount of experience.

The danger of going with a larger group of people is that they may push you to go on terrain you’re not comfortable with yet.

Plan Ahead

It’s always a good idea to check Mount Kato’s website to see the latest information on which runs & lifts are open; and to get current weather & snow conditions, all of which are available at mountkato.com/snow-report.

We now have lift tickets available online as well. Save time and money by purchasing your tickets beforehand at mountkato.com/tickets.

Familiarize yourself with our facilities at mountkato.com/trail-map. When you get here make sure you pickup a Mount Kato brochure which has a trail map and additional information about our services, features & upcoming events.

Downloadable Mount Kato brochures and maps are available, including: Our Main Brochure, Snowsports Brochure (ski school), Groups Brochure, Winter Trail Map, and Mountain Bike Trail Map.

What To Wear | Dress in Layers

Dressing appropriately is key to staying warm and dry. Don’t wear jeans or sweatpants, cotton absorbs water and loses its ability to insulate.

Choose a thin, wicking, thermal top and pants, made from synthetic materials like polypropylene. Wool is also a good option as it naturally regulates heat, wicks sweat and has antimicrobial properties. Wool also retains 80% of its heating properties when wet. Avoid cotton, it doesn’t have the wicking properties you’ll need on the slopes and loses it’s heating properties when wet. Wear only one pair of socks to keep your feet from sweating too much. Your socks should be thin but warm. If you’re renting boots, choose slightly thicker socks for comfort. Make sure they have padding to protect your shins when they press against your ski boots.

Layering allows you to accommodate your body’s constantly changing temperature. For example, dress your kids in polypropylene underwear (top and bottoms) which feels good next to the skin, dries quickly, absorbs sweat and keeps you warm. Your kids should also wear a turtleneck, sweater and waterproof jacket. When buying skiwear, look for fabric that is water and wind-resistant. Look for wind flaps to shield zippers, snug cuffs at wrists and ankles, collars that can be snuggled up to the chin and deep pockets. Be sure to buy your children quality clothing products.

A Jacket something roomy enough to comfortably accommodate your layers but not too loose or bulky. Make sure it’s a waterproof and properly insulated ski jacket – not a hoodie or a sweatshirt. Ski jackets use special fabrics, insulation and features to keep you warm. These include waterproof-breathable fabrics, heat-retaining insulation, and a powder skirt or closeable cuffs and hem. Pants, actual ski pants made for the slopes. They have an inner powder cuff that you slide over your boots to prevent snow from getting in. Your pants should fit well and allow you to move comfortably.

Make sure that they’re designed for skiing. Regular gloves won’t give you the protection you need. Ski gloves are thicker and have a rubber lining on the outside for easy grip. If you plan on skiing in a very cold climate and/or harsh terrain, buy gloves with wrist protection and a built-in inner glove.

Spend the extra money on high-quality goggles. They’ll protect you from snow blindness and help you to navigate cloudy conditions with few shadows. They’ll also protect you from flying debris that can get caught in your eyes.

A Neck Gaitor is a felt tube that you slip on your neck. Pull it over your mouth on especially cold days. Always keep the bottom of the gaiter under the collar of your ski jacket.

We have rental helmets here at Mount Kato. A hat will keep your head warm, but a helmet will protect you from head injuries. Make this a rule for any condition you could be skiing in. If you decide to purchase a helmet, they come in basic low-tech varieties or high-tech forms with headphones if you want to listen to music as you ski.

No matter what the conditions are on the slopes, this is a must. You can get a sunburn even if it’s cold and overcast. Opt for SPF 15-30, depending on how fair your skin is.

Many of the above mentioned items are available right here. Call ahead to ensure we have what you want in the size you need. (507)625-3363 Ask for The Tech Shop.

ONCE YOU ARRIVE AT MOUNT KATO

You can explore Mount Kato virtually right here on this interactive trail map. Just click on the map for more information about the trails and facilities.

Just a mile south of Mankato, Minnesota. Nestled in the valleys created by the confluence of the Le Sueur, Blue Earth, and Minnesota rivers, making great terrain for… skiing, snowboarding, tubing, & mountain biking

Mount Kato Features

Purchasing Lift Tickets & Tubing Passes

Lift Tickets, Equipment Rental Forms & Snow Tubing Passes are all available at the ticket windows on east side of the Guest Services Building. Tickets and Passses can also be purchased online.

Renting Equipment

After getting your rental form at the ticket windows you can make your way to the rental shop where our friendly staff will help you get fitted with the proper equipment for your age size & ability.

The Rental shop is located just east of the Chalet, two buildings down from The Guest Services office. Enter the rental bulding at the first door on the southwest corner of the rental building (the side facing the hill). There are counters available to fill out your rental forms. There is also a scale and ruler available to help those that don’t know their height or weight.

The rental staff will help fit your helmets and boots as well as adjust your skies and snowboards.

Taking Lessons

Mount Kato's Learning Center

Mount Kato's instructors are passionate about sharing their love for snowsports. Whether you're a first-timer or looking to refine your skills, our lessons will equip you with the knowledge and confidence to make the most of your time on the mountain.

Beginner Group Lesson

Free

Affordable Learning

Introductory Offer

Basic Skills

Group Fun

Progression Pathway

Equipment Rental Required

Limited Availability

Age Restrictions

Group Lesson

$40

Structured Learning

Social Experience

Group Interaction

Skill-Level Specific

Trained Instructors

Limited Availability

Flexible Scheduling

Customized Pace

Private Lesson

$75

Personalized Attention

Faster Progress

Customized Pace

Targeted Focus

Flexible Scheduling

Enhanced Confidence

Efficient Use of Time

Specialized Instruction

Series Lessons

Prices Vary

Consistent Progress

Building Confidence

Skill Refinement

Discounts Available

Goal-Oriented

Long-Term Commitment

Season Pass Options

Community Building

Tips For Parents

Learn and teach your child the "Responsibility Code” and how to apply it to the slopes.

Children’s instructors know how to teach kids, it’s their business. Then you’ll enjoy skiing with your kids and they will be proud to show you their skiing abilities. Ask about the number of kids in the class? What if your child gets cold? What if your child wants to stop skiing after one hour? An observance from a long-time skier is that when his daughter skied with him, she regressed, as opposed to skiing with her peers in a lesson. “She wanted to ski in-between my legs and fell down more often. We had fun with her being silly, but a lesson allowed her to focus on her skiing and she really excelled.” Although it is very unlikely that your child would get separated from the instructor, be sure your child has a trail map and is able to remember the instructor’s name.

For example, if the clothing layer next to their skin stays wet and they’re chilled, if they’re injured, have a problem with equipment or even if they’re simply worn out. Educate them that it’s alright to stop before the end of the day and breaks are fun.

For example, at the bottom of chairlift #2. The walkie talkies now available are convenient and a big hit on the slopes.

It’s a tremendous feeling to learn that your kids’ fondest childhood memories were of your family ski vacations and now skiing has become an important element in their lives. Your kids will be forever grateful to you when they become adults!

If you have any questions after reading this page, Mount Kato’s staff is here to help you. Give us a call at (507)625-3363

At Mount Kato, the safety of our guests and the longevity of our equipment are top priorities. Therefore, we have a strict policy regarding the use of rental equipment within our Terrain Parks. Rental equipment is NOT permitted in any Mount Kato Terrain Park.

We appreciate your cooperation in helping us maintain a safe and enjoyable environment for all Mount Kato visitors. If you are interested in exploring freestyle skiing or snowboarding, we encourage you to consider purchasing your own equipment designed for Terrain Park use and to seek instruction from our certified instructors.

Here's why this policy is in place:

Equipment Design and Durability:

Our rental skis and snowboards are designed for general recreational use and groomed trails. They are not built to withstand the stresses and impacts associated with Terrain Park features such as jumps, rails, and boxes. Using rental equipment in the park can lead to significant damage to the equipment, rendering it unusable for future renters and incurring costly repairs.

Safety of Beginners:

Terrain Parks present unique challenges and require a higher level of skill and experience. Many individuals using rental equipment are beginners who are still developing their fundamental skiing and snowboarding techniques. Allowing inexperienced individuals into Terrain Parks significantly increases the risk of accidents and injuries, both to themselves and to others in the park.

Incident Reduction:

By restricting rental equipment from Terrain Parks, we aim to greatly reduce the number of incidents involving beginner skiers and snowboarders who might inadvertently venture into or attempt features beyond their current ability level.

Visual Identification:

To help reinforce this policy, all Mount Kato rental skis and snowboards are clearly marked with "No Rentals In Parks" stickers. We ask all renters to respect these markings and understand that their rental equipment is not to be used within the designated Terrain Park areas.

At Mount Kato, your safety is our top priority. To ensure everyone has a fun and secure experience on the slopes, we strictly prohibit skiing and snowboarding outside of groomed areas. This policy is a crucial part of our safety program.

Here's why this policy is in place:

Unforeseen Hazards:

Ungroomed areas hide dangers like irregular terrain (deep snow, hidden rocks, stumps, uneven ground), obstacles (fallen trees, branches), and poor visibility, all of which can lead to falls and serious injuries.

The Dangers of Following Tracks:

Don't follow tracks into ungroomed areas; they may be from experts. This can lead to situations beyond your skill. Off-piste, you risk losing control on unpredictable snow, encountering cliffs or dense trees, and becoming disoriented without markers. Stay safe by skiing within your abilities on designated trails.

Rescue Challenges:

If an accident occurs outside of groomed areas, reaching you quickly can be significantly more challenging for our ski patrol. The time it takes to locate and assist an injured individual is greatly increased in ungroomed terrain, which can have serious consequences.

Impact on Natural Environment:

Skiing and snowboarding off-piste can damage fragile plant life and disturb wildlife habitats. Our commitment to responsible recreation includes protecting the natural beauty of Mount Kato for everyone to enjoy.

By staying on groomed trails, you're not only protecting yourself but also contributing to the safety and well-being of our entire ski community and the preservation of our natural environment. We appreciate your cooperation and look forward to seeing you safely enjoy Mount Kato's slopes!

At Mount Kato, we are committed to providing a safe, enjoyable, and private experience for all our guests. For these crucial reasons, the unauthorized operation or use of unmanned aerial systems (UAS), commonly known as drones, is strictly prohibited on or above Mount Kato property.

Here's why this policy is in place:

Safety of Guests and Staff:

Collision Risk: Inexperienced drone operation can lead to malfunctions, crashes, injuring skiers/staff, and damaging property like chairlifts or snowmaking equipment.
Interference with Operations: Drones can disrupt essential resort activities such as ski patrol, rescue efforts, or helicopter operations (less common at Mount Kato, but a general ski resort concern).
Distraction: Drones can distract guests, potentially causing accidents or near-misses on slopes.

Privacy Concerns:

Drones equipped with cameras can capture images and videos of guests and staff without their consent. This raises significant privacy concerns and can make individuals feel uncomfortable or observed while enjoying their time on the mountain. Mount Kato is dedicated to protecting the privacy of everyone on our property.

Regulatory and Legal Compliance:

FAA Regulations: All drone operations are subject to Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations. Operating a drone over people or property without proper authorization can lead to serious legal consequences for the operator and potentially for the resort.
Resort Jurisdiction: As private property, Mount Kato has the right to control activities on its premises, including drone use. Our policy ensures a safe and orderly environment for everyone.

Potential for Nuisance and Disturbance:

Noise Pollution: Drones can be noisy, disrupting the peaceful mountain experience that many guests seek.
Wildlife Disturbance: Drones can disturb wildlife, especially in natural areas adjacent to our groomed trails.

FIRST TIME SKIERS & SNOWBOARDERS

First Timers | Things To Think About

Plan Ahead

What To Wear | Dress in Layers

A Base Layer:

A Middle Layer:

An Outer Layer:

Ski Gloves:

Wear Goggles:

A Neck Gaiter:

Rent A Helmet:

Sun Screen:

Mount Kato Tech Shop:

ONCE YOU ARRIVE AT MOUNT KATO

Purchasing Lift Tickets & Tubing Passes

Renting Equipment

Taking Lessons

Beginner Group Lesson

Group Lesson

Private Lesson

Series Lessons

Tips For Parents

Know Your Responsibility Code

Dress in layers

Put your kids in ski school to get them on the right track.

Make sure your child knows when to stop skiing.

Make a meeting place if you get separated.

Starting your kids early, opens a world of adventure, fun, laughter and beautiful scenery unsurpassed, from many other sports and interests.