MOM'S BLACK BOOK Snowboarding

by Kristen Kucharski

Last February I wrote about skiing, so this year we thought we would try something new, like snowboarding. Words like “world’s largest,” “world’s only,” “world’s first” always draw me in, so that’s why we chose Raging Buffalo, which received the title of the World’s First Snowboard-Exclusive Area in 1993. When I first pulled up the website and saw they were offering a $49 all-inclusive rate for a group lesson, an all-day lift ticket, plus equipment rental, compounded with the fact that they were advertising lessons to kids under five years old, I was instantly sold.

The rate was outstanding by comparison to other resorts, and I also thought - if a preschooler can snowboard, surely this is something I too can do with my kids. Raging Buffalo is a small snowboard park, allowing them to offer the best customer service and one-on-one instruction for true beginners. Our instructors, Kyler and Nick, were beyond patient with the girls’ eagerness to go fast down the hill, as quickly as possible. They took the time to teach us the basics of stopping and turning, plus ensured our safety using the magic carpet and tow rope.

Our entire group of beginners mastered the art of going down the hill and feeling like we were pros, but the science of turning and stopping will likely need a few more practice runs! Although my “everything” hurt the next day from pushing myself up after falling a few hundred times, the day was filled with laughter, fun, and the feeling of conquering a brand new something, like snowboarding. The hills are perfect for beginners as young as toddlers, with accessibility to the magic carpet lift (conveyor belt), as well as challenging enough for experienced riders who prefer half pipes, table tops, rails, and jumps.

Location: Raging Buffalo Snowboard Park, 19-265 Western Ave Algonquin

Contact: (847) 836-7243 • www.RagingBuffalo.com

Hours: February hours: 4 to 10 p.m.

Monday-Friday; 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday/Sunday

Prices: Vary by day/event/rentals needed. Check Groupon for great deals. Rates as low as $29 for lesson,

equipment, and lift ticket for kids under 12!

Description: Raging Buffalo Snowboard Park is officially the world's first snowboard-exclusive area. Raging Buffalo Snowboard Ski Park is open to skiers and snowboarders, offering lessons, equipment, and special events.

about the writer Naperville mom Kristen Kucharski graduated from Illinois State University in 1992 with an International Business Degree. She is married and has two energetic daughters and her house is always full of children. Kristen joins Glancer Magazine with her column titled, Mom's Little Black Book, a monthly feature written for moms who are looking for ways to keep their kids busy.

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