Mountain Safety

Regardless of how you decide to enjoy the slopes, always show courtesy to others and be aware that there are elements of risk in skiing that personal awareness can help reduce. Observe the codes listed below and share with other skiers the responsibility for a great skiing experience.

​Your Responsibility Code

• Always stay in control, and be able to stop or avoid other people or objects.
• People ahead of you have the right of way. It is your responsibility to avoid them.
• You must not stop where you obstruct a trail or are not visible from above.
• Whenever starting downhill or merging into a trail, look uphill and yield to others.
• Always use devices to help prevent runaway equipment.
• Observe all posted signs and warnings. Keep off closed trails and out of closed areas.
• Prior to using any lift, you must have the knowledge and ability to load, ride and unload safely.
• Know the code! It’s your responsibility.

​Snowbasin Courtesy Code

The Snowbasin Courtesy Code is designed to maintain the spirit of respect that Snowbasin staff works on each day with its award-winning service standard.  We recognize that the passion of our guests can sometimes go too far and unfortunately conflicts or errors in judgment take place. It is never acceptable at Snowbasin to break the rules and hurt others through our actions. 

This includes verbal abuse that has become all to prevalent in today’s society.  At Snowbasin, respect and kindness is in our DNA.  It’s what we work towards and train on each day.  While we commit to delivering exceptional kindness and service, we ask our guests to do the same.  We want all guests and employees to come to Snowbasin and enjoy the resort and not worry about someone else’s actions causing them harm. Below are some things that can result in expulsion from the resort and loss of skiing privileges:

• No outside alcoholic beverages and no open containers in areas other than restaurants.
• No consumption of tobacco or marijuana on property, including in lift lines, while riding lifts or in other public places.
• Offensive language including profanity is not allowed.
• Acting in a threatening way with staff or other guests, including throwing snowballs, is strictly prohibited.
• Shouting, making a scene and refusing to obey Snowbasin direction on a particular policy is not allowed.
• Compliance with all COVID related policies and procedures is required to be at Snowbasin.
• Skiing or riding on someone else’s pass is strictly prohibited and can result season suspension of both the pass user and owner of the pass.
• LItttering and vandalism of resort property is not tolerated.

Snowbasin Resort reserves the right to revoke guest privileges for violations to the Courtesy Code. Please remember that we are both stewards of the Forest Service land we contractually manage with them and a private business. It is our responsibility to create an equitable, safe and respectful place to recreate and enjoy these precious mountains.

Code Violations

Actions that detract from the experience of others may be considered a violation of the Responsibility or Courtesy Codes. Both codes will be enforced by all resort personnel. Consequences for violations will be determined on a case by case basis at the discretion of resort management.

Freestyle Terrain Safety

Our terrain parks can contain jumps, boxes, rails and other man-made features. Orange signs and fencing identify these types of terrain on the mountain. It is important to follow the “Smart Style” safety guidelines when entering this terrain:

• Start Small: Work your way up. Build your skills.
• Make a Plan: Every feature. Every time.
• Respect: The features and other users.
• Take It Easy: Know your limits. Land on your feet.

Please visit the Terrain Park Safety website for a comprehensive look at the Smart Style program.

Lift Safety

Using a chairlift or gondola while skiing, snowboarding, mountain biking or even just sightseeing, is an exceptionally safe and secure mode of transportation. Nonetheless, incidents and accidents can happen – especially when people are unaware of loading, riding and unloading procedures. Educate your children about loading, riding and unloading lifts. Be sure to emphasize courteous behavior and utilize these Tips for Responsible Lift Use to get your points across. Slope safety and personal responsibility should be discussed prior to hitting the slopes or using a lift.

Please visit the Kids On Lifts website for more information on educating your children.

Dress for Success

Always wear a helmet. Bring extra layers and gloves to ensure you will remain warm and dry. Avoid cotton as it does little to wick moisture from your skin and is slow to dry. Goggles, gloves, and waterproof outerwear are crucial to navigating the mountain in any condition. Bag check services are located at the Guest Services Center to securely stash your extra goodies.

Know Where You Are

Grab a trail map or familiarize yourself with a digital map so you know where you are on the mountain. Make sure you pay attention to signage and know Your Responsibility Code before hitting the slopes.

Stay Hydrated

It is easy to get dehydrated in the winter. The last thing you want to do is drink cold water when it is cold outside! Try room temperature water or herbal teas to keep you hydrated.

Wear Sunscreen

Snow reflects sunlight. You can easily burn without sunscreen. This includes lip protectant with SPF, as well. Don’t forget the underside of your nose!

Bring Your Medication

If you need an inhaler or have severe allergies, make sure you bring your medication with you in case you might need it.

Ask a Local!

Don’t be afraid to ask. We are here to make sure you have a safe, fun day on the mountain.

Did You Forget Something?

Check out the Grizzly Center or the Rental Shop or Retail Shop to gear up!

​Slow Zones and the Family Zone

Skiers and riders of various abilities merge in these areas which are indicated on the trail map. Going the appropriate speed for the skier/rider density and providing others with adequate space is very important in these areas. Please observe the posted “SLOW” and “FAMILY ZONE” signs and travel at the same speed, or slower, than other guests utilizing the trails in these areas.

Make sure to familiarize yourself with Slow Zones and remember to always stay in control. People ahead of you have the right of way, it is your responsibility to be able to stop or avoid other people or objects.

The Family Zone starts at the top of Bear Hollow, winds down through Snow Shoe, and continues on down Powder Puff to the base area. Higher-level skiers/riders are encouraged to avoid these runs in order to provide families and lower ability skiers/riders with the opportunity to improve their skills while avoiding uncomfortable situations.

The Mountain Safety Team and Ski Patrol will be monitoring these areas to help educate and encourage responsible skiing/riding. Out of control and reckless skiing/riding or actions that detract from the experience of others may be considered a violation of the Responsibility or Courtesy Codes. Both codes will be enforced by resort personnel. Consequences for violations may include suspension of resort privileges.

Restricted Access Terrain

Snowbasin Resort contains many acres of potential avalanche terrain. An “avalanche area” is a portion of the ski resort that contains steep terrain, cliffs, and other natural hazards. As the name would imply, these portions of the resort are subject to extreme weather, and possible avalanches. Avalanche Areas within the ski area boundary are delineated by rope lines with orange and black octagonal signs stating “Avalanche Area DANGER enter through gates only”.

The Avalanche Area rope lines are strategically placed to help keep our guests and resort employees safe. These rope lines allow Ski Patrol to perform avalanche reduction work without having to close the entire resort and allow Snowbasin Resort to keep the lifts and trails open during stormy weather. It is your responsibility to stay out of closed areas.

If you choose to ski and ride within these areas here’s what you need to know:

• Avalanche reduction measures within the ski area boundary reduce but DO NOT eliminate the risk of avalanches.
• Avalanche areas within the resort are rated as double black diamond terrain and are suited for EXPERTS ONLY. You should expect to encounter rocks, cliffs, avalanche debris, and other natural and manmade hazards that are not marked by ski patrol. These areas are not groomed and may have challenging snow conditions. There is no easy way down.
• ONLY enter through an “Open” Area Access Gate. NEVER cross under the rope. Avalanche Areas open and close depending upon conditions. Using the gate is the only way to ensure the area is open.

Entering into a closed area is a violation of local laws and can result in fines and the loss of skiing privileges. Remember the skier responsibility code: Obey All Posted Signs. Once through the gate please stay on the established track until you decide to go down. This helps create a better skiing and riding experience for everyone. Never hike above a rope line to gain access to an Avalanche Area.

The Snowbasin Ski Patrol wants you to have a fun and adventurous experience on the mountain. It is our goal to provide you with as much open terrain as possible. By following these guidelines, together we can make it the best day ever!

For more information on avalanche awareness and current status, visit Utah Avalanche Center’s website.

Area Boundary

The Area Boundary of Snowbasin Resort is indicated on the trail map and marked on the mountain using red signs with a white print. Travel beyond these signs is not recommended. Any persons doing so are responsible for their own safety. Rescue response outside the Area Boundary may be prolonged and at the person’s own expense.

The Snowbasin Ski Patrol and resort employees are focused on providing the best experience possible for guests of Snowbasin Resort. Many resources and hours of work are committed to reducing the risk of avalanche, marking hazards, and other risk reduction efforts within the Area Boundary of Snowbasin Resort. Traveling beyond the Area Boundary signs means you are leaving the area of services provided by Snowbasin Resort including avalanche reduction efforts and patrol services. Persons who travel beyond the Area Boundary may encounter dramatically different conditions immediately upon leaving the Area Boundary. It is your responsibility to look for Area Boundary signs and to know where you are at all times. Individuals who travel beyond the Area Boundary shall accept the risks and be prepared for self-rescue.Rescue response beyond the Area Boundary may require the assistance of local authorities.

Rescue efforts may be prolonged and at the individual’s expense. Individuals needing assistance outside the Area Boundary of Snowbasin Resort should contact 911.

​Uphill Travel

New for the 2021-22 season, a free Uphill Access Pass is required to participate in uphill travel at Snowbasin Resort. This ensures all participants sign the annual waiver, acknowledging they understand the route and policies. Additionally, Snowbasin has added a "Yellow" uphill status to increase access on days with upper mountain activity.  View Policy >>

Allowed Devices

The following skiing, riding, and sliding devices are allowed on the lifts and the mountain. Please note that not all devices are allowed on all lifts and that homemade equipment is not permitted.
Skis: Allowed with a working brake binding system or a retention device (must be worn while riding the slopes.)
Snowboards: Allowed with a retention device (snowboard bindings considered a device; leash preferred.)
Telemark Skis: Allowed with a retention device (must be worn while riding the slopes) or a working brake system.
Monoskis/Sit-Ski: Allowed with a working brake system or retention device (must be worn while riding the slopes) Cannot load on Becker, Middle Bowl, and Porcupine chairlifts.
Snowblades: Allowed with a retention device (must be worn while riding the slopes.)
Ski Bikes/Snowbikes: Allowed under following the parameters:

• The bike must have no more than two (2) skis, these skis must be under 150mm at their widest points.
• Must have metal edges on skis.
• Must have seat.
• Only one (1) rider per bike.
• Must be designed to load lift without slowing or stopping.
• Must be loaded within envelope/capacity of chair; bike counts as a rider on chairlift.
• No homemade bikes.
• Must wear a leash at all times (on lifts and on slope.)
• Cannot load Becker, Middlebowl or Porcupine chairlifts.
• May be restricted in certain areas and on other lifts for safety reasons.
• Snowdecks: Allowed, but must have metal edges and a leash (must be worn while riding the slopes and chairlifts.)
• Snow Trikes: Are allowed under the supervision of an Ogden Valley Adaptive Sports instructor and under following the parameters. To set up a session contact 801-695-7074.
• Must have metal edges on skis.
• Only one (1) rider per trike.
• Must be designed to load lift without slowing or stopping.
• Must be loaded within envelope/capacity of chair; bike counts as a rider on chairlift.
• No homemade trikes.
• Must wear a leash at all times (on lifts and on slope.)
• Cannot load Becker, Middlebowl or Porcupine chairlifts.
• May be restricted in certain areas and on other lifts for safety reasons.

Backpack Policy

For everyone’s safety, transporting a child in a backpack or a front pack is not allowed.

Drone/Unmanned Aerial System Policy

Due to safety and privacy concerns, we prohibit the operation or use on or above Resort property of unmanned aerial systems, or drones, by the general public — including model aircraft by recreational users and hobbyists. Commercial photography crews may receive approval on an individual basis with prior written authorization from Snowbasin Resort. This prohibition includes drones used for filming or videotaping, as well as any drone use by media or journalists operating above or within the area boundaries. This prohibition extends to any devices launched or operated from Resort property, as well as any launched from private property outside of the Resort boundaries. Please contact a Snowbasin Resort representative if you have any questions or if you seek prior authorization to operate any such devices within the resort’s boundary area.

Any authorized operation of drones on or above Resort property will be governed by Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) rules and regulations, local law enforcement, and/or U.S. Forest Service rules, as well as those policies separately established by this Resort, which may include
certification requirements, evidence of training completion, insurance coverage documentation, indemnification requirements, and waivers or releases of liability.

Any violation of this policy may result in any/all of the following: suspension of your access privileges to the Resort; the revocation of your season pass; confiscation of any prohibited equipment. Violators may also be subject to primary liability for damages; including, but not limited to, damages for trespass, violations of privacy, and physical injuries to persons and/or property, as well as legal defense costs.

​American National Standard for Passenger Ropeways

American National Standard for Passenger Ropeways recognizes that certain dangers and risks are inherent in machines of this type, and their operation. It is also recognized that inherent and other risks or dangers exist for those who are in the process of loading, riding or unloading from lifts, tows or conveyors. Passengers accept the risks inherent in such participation of which the ordinary prudent person is or should be aware.

Passengers shall use good judgement and act in a responsible manner while using the ropeway, tow or conveyor, including:

• Participating in the loading, riding, and unloading processes in such a manner as to reduce risks for themselves and others;
• Obeying all written and oral instructions and warnings;
• Refraining from using the lift, tow or conveyor while under the influence of drugs or alcohol;
• Properly use the lift, tow or conveyor and equipment package provided.

All passengers who use a lift, tow or conveyor shall be responsible for their own loading, riding, and unloading. They shall be presumed to have sufficient ability, physical dexterity, and/or personal assistance to negotiate and be evacuated safely. Passengers shall maintain control of their speed and course while loading and unloading.A passenger shall get on and off at designated areas. No passenger shall load the lift without first understanding and observing the proper loading, riding, and unloading procedures.

Passengers, while riding a ropeway, tow or conveyor, shall not throw or expel therefrom any object, nor shall any passenger do any act or thing that shall interfere with the operation. Passengers shall not willfully engage in any type of conduct that may contribute to or cause injury to any other person.

Please read and observe all signs. Ask for instructions if needed.