Follow these tips to keep the slopes flowing smoothly, minimize accidents and maximize fun for an unforgettable visit to our Colorado resorts and ski areas.
Be Prepared & Check Your Gear
A great day on the mountain starts with the right preparation. Taking a few simple steps before venturing out helps you stay comfortable, protected and ready for adventure. When you first arrive in Colorado, you may need some time to acclimate to the higher elevation before diving into your plans — so kick back, relax and enjoy our beautiful alpine scenery when you get here.
Being this high up means drinking water is extra important; bring a reusable water bottle with you so you can stay refreshed and ready to explore. A good rule of thumb is to drink about twice the amount of water you typically would to help your body get used to the altitude. Because it’s winter, it’s easy to forget the importance of sun protection. Our bright, sunny days — also known as bluebird days — are amplified by the reflection from the snow. Wearing sunscreen, sunglasses, a neck buff and protective clothing will keep you shielded from UV rays and ensure you’re not spending your après-ski time soothing a sunburn.
Otherwise, keep your winter gear and outerwear snug and secure, and always wear a helmet. This will keep you safe and warm — and prevent your things from getting snagged or lost. Otherwise, they may join a graveyard of lone gloves and ski poles under the chair lift.
Choose Trails That Match Your Skill Level
Picking the right trail for your ability level sets you up for a confident and enjoyable ride. It also allows you to stay in control of your movement, navigate obstacles, avoid collisions and move safely around others. Keep an eye out for signs indicating that a trail is green (easy), blue (moderate), black and double-black (expert) — and, when in doubt on where to go, refer to a map or ask a ski-resort employee. If you tackle the slopes in the right order for your skill level, your abilities are likely to progress more quickly.
Considering heading into Colorado’s untamed backcountry? Find more tips on managing risk, like avalanche awareness, choosing your destination with care and bringing the right equipment.
Respect Mountain Etiquette & Be Aware of Your Surroundings
It can be easy to get caught up in the moment while whooshing through blankets of snow, but remember to give plenty of space to skiers and snowboarders ahead of you — they have the right of way. Before heading downhill or merging onto a new trail, take a quick look uphill to make sure the coast is clear. And if you need to stop, choose a spot that’s easy for others to see and won’t block the run.
As you explore Colorado’s legendary terrain, keeping an eye on your environment helps ensure a seamless and enjoyable ride. Look out for signs, warnings and hazard markers as you get the lay of the land — these are there to make sure you have the best experience the mountain can provide. If a trail is closed or an area is restricted, it's best to steer clear – they’re off-limits for a reason. Open, designated trails are carefully chosen for not only the safest, but also the most optimal skiing and boarding adventures based on the slopes’ snowpack.
Speaking of winter conditions, they can change quickly! Stay alert for icy patches, changes in terrain and shifts in weather that can affect the trail. Being present as you zoom down hill will help you adapt easily to these kinds of environmental shifts.
And don't forget to take it easy in slow zones — other people in these areas may not be focused on what’s around them, and your awareness can save you both from incidents. Don’t be afraid to call it quits while you’re on top. The mountain will be there for another day, so when you start to get tired, head to aprés ski to toast your accomplishments.
Pro tip: Sample our libations (and smokables) with care so you can stay alert and on top of your game for the best day on the slopes.
