Ski School a Must
Unless you are an experienced, skilled skier, taking a ski or snowboard lesson is always a good idea and for beginners it is essential to learning the basics of either sport. Beginners should learn the basics from a professional, not a well-meaning friend. Attempting to ski or snowboard with little or no instruction increases your risk of injury and can result in an unfavorable or disappointing first experience.
Taking several lessons with a certified instructor who is familiar with the mountain can be rewarding for the novice as well as those who wish to brush up on their skills. Every resort offers a variety of programs and packages tailored to ski levels. You can find adult packages, kids programs, private lessons, camps, and masters programs for more advanced skiers and riders.
Some resorts offer more specific programs such as Alpine Meadow's "For Women, By Women" which includes three full days of skiing with the resort's top female instructors, video analysis, advice on choosing and fitting equipment, lunch, and apres ski fun.
There are plenty of resort value packages, particularly this late in the season. Many offer rental gear, lessons, and a day-lift ticket. These kinds of offers provide the beginner with all the necessary tools to learn at introductory prices. A list of Colorado ski schools is provided by OntheSnow.com at: http://www.onthesnow.com/news/a/4429/