What is a typical trip schedule?
Members are usually picked up between 7:15 and 8:00 a.m. We arrive at the area around 9:30 a.m. and are on the hill by 10:00 a.m. Buses load at 3:30 p.m. for the trip home, which puts us back in town between 5:00 p.m. and 5:45 p.m.
Do bus times change, and how will I know?
Yes, pick-up and drop-off times do change! They depend on bus routes, weekly reservations, and which direction we’re heading from the Twin Cities. Bus times are listed on your event invitation, reservation confirmation, our website, and our voicemail system. Bus times are updated each week for the coming trips.
Are buses paired differently each week?
Yes. Routes and reservations vary, so bus stop pairings can change each week. Check the website for specific event information.
Where are the bus stops?
Blizzard offers about 20 bus stops throughout the Twin Cities metro area. There’s sure to be one near you! If not, let us know. With at least 30 members we will consider adding your favorite location!
Bus stop list >>
Where are bus times listed for each trip?
Bus times are listed on your event invitation and reservation confirmation. You can also find bus times on the website under the trip information.
What is a “No-Show” Fee?
If you make a reservation and then miss the trip without canceling your reservation, you will be charged a No-Show Fee. This fee covers busing and administrative expenses and is necessary to keep costs low for all members. If you have extenuating circumstances, please call or email the office.
IF YOU ARE SICK, DO NOT ATTEND BLIZZARD! We will not charge a No-Show Fee if you contact the office and let us know you are/were sick. If you’re not feeling well, please stay home!
What are Blizzard’s behavior expectations on the bus?
Riding the bus is a privilege. Because we consider everyone at Blizzard to be family, showing respect for instructors, chaperones, bus drivers and fellow members is expected at all times. Blizzard prohibits drugs, alcohol, smoking of any kind, and foul language. Inappropriate behavior will result in discipline up to and including loss of membership without refund.
Is every bus supervised?
All buses have at least one adult in addition to the bus driver. Buses may have additional chaperones (parent volunteers) and/or instructors to assist with loading and unloading, taking attendance, and passing out lift tickets. If you’re interested in becoming a chaperone, contact the office!
Who sees that kids get to the right group?
When we arrive at the area, Blizzard staff escort our youngest members (Mites, SuperMites and SuperKyds) from the bus to the chalet and deliver them to their groups. At the end of the day, staff escort them from the chalet to the buses. These members are supervised at all times. All lessons for older members (Classic, Team Blizzard and Apprentice Instructors) meet at our Lesson Cones throughout the day. The schedule is posted online each week and reviewed on the bus ride.
Where do I put my gear?
The bus company requires that all skis and snowboards be transported in trailers. This keeps the buses from being damaged. Keep your boots, goggles, and other equipment with you on the bus. Otherwise, you’ll have frozen boots by the time we arrive at the area!
What’s the best way to carry gear?
With 40 pairs of skis and snowboards piled in a trailer, gear bags keep your investment safe and prevent a massive tangle of boards, bindings and poles. Inside the bus, the best way to carry your gear is to wear it! Bring a small lunch bag and tuck spare mittens or socks inside. Most areas do not allow bags in the chalets. See our gear and equipment page for more information.
What type of bus do we travel on?
We contract with a metro area school bus company to provide safe, reliable transportation each week. These are the same buses and drivers many of your children see every day at school. We rely on their recommendations concerning weather conditions. Bonus trips and bus stops outside the metro area may use motor coach buses and charge an additional fee to cover increased costs.
What happens if weather is a danger?
See our cancellation policy for complete information.
What if I don’t see a bus stop near me?
If you don’t see a bus stop near you, please let us know and we’ll schedule one. Blizzard requires a minimum of 30 members for a new bus stop, so get your friends to join!