The 5 Best Ski/Snowboard Instructors Around Aspen

On the slopes of Aspen and Snowmass, instruction is more than learning how to link turns—it’s where confidence, mountain awareness, and flow begin. A great instructor reads the snow, the mood, and the student, shaping technique to match the moment. The Best of Aspen, Snowmass and Basalt contest highlighted individuals who bring patience, humor, and deep mountain experience into every lesson. These instructors help skiers and riders move from uncertainty to ease, building skills that make the mountain feel like home.

Kristine Petrandis

Kristine Petrandis is known for an instructional style that blends clarity, warmth, and smooth technical refinement. Working across the terrain of Aspen’s mountains, she tailors each lesson to the skier in front of her—whether it’s a child learning to stop for the first time or an adult working toward confident carving. Students often note how she makes progress feel natural rather than forced, guiding them to understand not just how to move, but why movement works. With Kristine, skiing becomes intuitive and enjoyable, built one well-timed tip at a time.

Erik Obermeyer | Snowmass Mountain Lodging

Erik Obermeyer brings an easygoing, grounded energy to instruction, helping skiers and riders relax into new skills. Working primarily in Snowmass, he supports students in finding balance, rhythm, and confidence across varied terrain. His approach focuses on the fundamentals—stance, weight transfer, and awareness—while keeping the tone upbeat and supportive. Lessons with Erik often feel like being guided by a friend who knows the mountain well and wants you to feel comfortable navigating it too.

Jereme Leafe | Aspen Skiing Company

Jereme Leafe combines deep mountain experience with a thoughtful, detail-oriented coaching style. He’s skilled at identifying subtle adjustments that unlock ease and control, helping students refine turns and technique in real time. Jereme’s instruction is equally suited to those progressing from intermediate terrain and to more advanced skiers looking to sharpen performance. His patience and clear communication make progression feel achievable and enjoyable.

Lily Wood | Aspen Skiing Co

Lily Wood brings enthusiasm and clear movement analysis to her lessons, supporting students through both the mental and physical sides of skiing. She’s known for offering direction that builds confidence, especially for those who may feel hesitant or overwhelmed by the mountain environment. Lily helps skiers slow down, breathe, and find their footing—literally and figuratively—making skiing feel accessible and empowering.

Shayna Yellon | Aspen Snowmass Ski Resort

Shayna Yellon approaches instruction with a focus on positive reinforcement and steady progression. Her lessons center on helping students develop control and awareness across different snow conditions and slopes. Whether teaching children, adults, or families, Shayna creates an encouraging environment where improvement happens naturally. The experience feels personal, supportive, and grounded in an understanding of how people learn best when they feel comfortable.

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