Mountain Safety

• Personal Awareness

   

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  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

  • Please be respectful of families and children. No smoking in lift lines, while riding lifts or in other public places.
  • Offensive language including profanity is not allowed.
  • Consumption of alcoholic beverages outside of designated sale areas is prohibited.
  • Always follow the directions of security personnel, ski patrol, and management.
  • For your safety, observe the Your Responsibility Code at all times.
  • Threatening or intimidating behavior, pushing and throwing snowballs is not permitted.
  • Properly care for your dogs by keeping them on a leash and cleaning up after them.
  • Littering and vandalism of resort property is not tolerated.
  • Snowbasin discourages the use of electronic devices – cell phones, music players, or earphones – while skiing and snowboarding, or loading and unloading lifts.

  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.

• Prepare For The Day

   

• 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.

  Charge Your Phone

  The cold is a battery killer. Make sure you have enough juice to get you through your day. Also, it is helpful to write down emergency numbers or numbers of those in your party in case your phone dies. Consider bringing a pocket charger if your battery drains quickly. Visit our Guest Services Center in the lower level of Earl’s lodge to utilize their charging station!
  • Pro tip: turn your phone onto “Low Power Mode” to preserve battery life.

  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!

• Specialty Zones

   

• ​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.

  Resort employees may 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 which 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.

• Mountain Use & Uphill Policies

   

• ​Uphill Travel

  Uphill Travel is Allowed on Green Days From 4:00 am - 9:00 am

  The Uphill Travel status is posted on Snowbasin’s Mountain Conditions page at 4:00 am daily to alert guests if the conditions are green or red. The daily status may also be found by calling the Snow Phone at 801-620-1100. Uphill travel goes red at 9:00 am. We are no longer offering night uphilling EXCEPT during the Full Moon each month. Uphill travel is only open to skiers, snowboarders and snowshoers. We do not allow fat biking on our uphill route.

  On Green Days, uphill travel is permitted if you abide by the following rules:
  • When traveling uphill, stay in the middle of the trail.
  • If you come to a sign that reads “Winch Cat Ahead”, this ends your ascent. Do not travel around winch cats.
  • All uphill travelers must be equipped with lights and ON front and back.
  • No dogs are allowed on the mountain.
  • Only stop where you can be seen from above and below.
  • Your uphill route is your downhill route.
  • All uphill travel must cease by 9:00 am.
  • For everyone’s safety, stay on the approved route. If found off the approved route, there will be consequences.

  The ONLY approved routes are to Needles Lodge following these trails:
  1. Powder Puff > School Hill or Snowshoe Road > School Hill > Bear Hollow > Sweet Revenge
  2. Cut off Sweet Revenge to Middle Bowl Traverse > Porky Traverse > Strawberry Traverse

  View Full Uphill Policy

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  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.

• Know Before You Load

   

• ​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 there from 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.

Right of Way & Collisions

Snowbasin Resort is concerned with the safety of all the skiers and riders out on the mountain. To help ensure everyone has the opportunity to #RideAnotherDay, please view the video above and always remember the first and second part of Your Responsibility Code: 1. Always stay in control and be able to stop or avoid other people or objects. 2. People ahead of you have the right of way. It is your responsibility to avoid them. If you are involved in a collision: 1. Notify Ski Patrol immediately if someone needs medical assistance. 2. Do not leave the scene before exchanging information with the other party (even if there is no injury.)