8 Tips On How To Ski & Snowboard During COVID

Some recommendations for skiing and snowboarding during the pandemic.

I grew up an avid skier so when I moved to Colorado, I knew that skiing was going to become a, hopefully, everyday endeavor. Unfortunately, the pandemic struck in the midst of a great Colorado ski season last year and my everyday endeavor ended quickly. I have since returned to the slopes, but this time ready for whatever changes the coronavirus may have caused to the winter sport I adore. Here are some recommendations for when you decide to hit the slopes.

1. Many ski and snowboard resorts are requiring that you book your pass days in advance.

As there is now a limit to the amount of people allowed on the mountain. Make sure you make a reservation at least ten days in advance to ensure that you have a spot on the mountain. I like to frequent Keystone in Colorado and I try to make my reservation at least ten days in advance. I have an Epic Pass which allows me to do this for many resorts that allow the Epic Pass, however, if you are buying a lift ticket, that counts as your reservation.

2. Bring roughly four people when you go skiing or snowboarding.

This will make it so people are unable to join you on lifts or gondolas. While there is physical distancing on the lifts, an added precaution to avoid unnecessary interaction with people outside of your bubble. At Breckenridge in Colorado, there were many instances when I had to go with strangers, as the lift workers paired groups together when they approached the lift. There was space in between, at least two seats.

3. Masks are required when on the mountain.

This includes the chairs, gondolas, and when going down the hill. Here is a list of face coverings for normal skiing and snowboarding as well as COVID safety options that I recommend. At Brighton Resort in Utah, a worker sits on a chair and yells at people to put their masks on and if they catch you too many times, they’ll take your lift ticket. For shopping and roaming around a medical grade mask like this one is sufficient.

4. If you are going on a day trip, try to bring food with you and leave it in the car.

Other than saving you money on the extreme prices of food at the restaurants, it also allows you to avoid crowds of people during lunch rushes. This recommendation goes for normal times too, especially if you’re on a budget.

5. If you really want to avoid masses of people, think about going to smaller slopes.

While they may not have the number of runs a big resort has, it can make you feel a bit more COVID-safe. I like Sundance in Utah, which has the small crowds but also a variety of slopes to choose from, giving options from beginner to advanced winter athletes.

6. Avoid renting equipment from resorts.

Here is a list of places to buy ski and snowboard equipment.

7. If you don’t know the rules of the area you are venturing to…

Call ahead or check out the website.

8. Try to go during the middle of the week.

This way, you can avoid the usual vacationers who only have a few days off and the traffic they create on Friday and Sunday afternoons.

Skiing and snowboarding haven’t had many, if any, changes due to the pandemic. They’re still the same lovable sports that people can participate in, even when a pandemic is occurring, as long as you follow the resort’s rules and everyday COVID safety.

Cameron Howell

Content Associate

Cameron is an avid traveler and has lived on three continents. He enjoys learning about different cultures and languages. Cameron loves exploring cities and going on long hikes anywhere in the world.