Grabbing your skis and heading for the fresh powder is one of the greatest feelings in the world. A great day on the slopes is a truly magical experience, as it allows an adventurous human to combine the bounties of nature and the adrenaline of risk taking. Unfortunately, a great day can quickly turn sour if you’re not familiar with common rules of courtesy and etiquette. The following is an important list of what not to do during your next ski trip.
Don’t Be Clueless
Gathering a few tidbits of information is essential to maximizing the fun you’ll be able to have during your trip. Knowing exactly where you’re going and the expected weather conditions is absolutely essential to packing efficiently and effectively. If you’ve never been to the area before, you’ll want to get a trail map and grooming report. Get a basic understanding of what areas are for which skill levels, and mentally take note of the proximity of certain landmarks, such as the main lodge or the lifts. Â Maybe where you can get a celebratory spritzer at the end of the day!
Don’t Be a Jerk
It’s okay to take skiing seriously and attack the mountain with a passion, but it’s not okay to be a rude and obnoxious d-bag in the process. Hollywood movies have glorified the ski snob, who kicks back at the luxury condo, as something that is to be admired – but the truth is that he always ends up getting his due comeuppance in the end. Get familiar with and follow the rules of the slopes, which include giving other skiers plenty of space and understanding that people in front of you always have the right of way. Â We all love hot dog, you don’t have to be one.
Don’t Go Above Your Level
If you try to conquer a slope that is clearly above your skill level, it will be painfully obvious to others and can often be physically painful to you. It seems like common logic, but many folks would be surprised to learn how many novice skiers embark on journeys that are way over their heads in an attempt to fit in with a group or impress a certain someone. The results often range from hair-raising to tragic, as there is no backing out once the initial descent has begun. Always be smart and logical when choosing a slope. Â Especially if you’re already tired. This is a recipe for disaster.
Don’t Be Cheap
Everybody knows that the economy is in the tank and a dollar doesn’t go as far as it used to. That having been said, you should expect to spend some cash while you’re on a ski trip. Lodging in Vail I’ve found to be negotiable, from vacation homes, to condos and townhomes. Unfortunately, the price of daily passes in non-negotiable, no matter how many fists you wave or tears you shed. Saving money by buying cheap gear is simply a bad move, given that shady equipment such as cheap goggles or bindings can put you in a position that is not only uncomfortable and inconvenient, but also highly unsafe. You should also carry a bit of cash on you at all times so you can grab a quick bite, an energy boost or tip one of the many attendants that might make your day a little bit better.
Don’t Turn In Early
One of the most wonderful parts about a ski trip is what the French call “Apres-ski”. After a long day of hitting the slopes and burning a massive amount of calories, the French believe that it is a civic duty to hit the clubs and bars in the local area to fill up on nourishment and beverages. It truly is the perfect way to complete a wonderful day of skiing, and should only be passed up by the most physically exhausted of skiers.
About the author
Colorado resident Josey Wales is a snowboarder and manages Vail vacation rentals when it’s not a powder day.
By Olivia GrilHey Folks! I'm Olivia from California, United States. I'm a blogger, travel lover, I can travel anywhere, whether it's a new place or already visited. I love meeting new people, clicking photos of every movement, and documenting my adventure. I also, write about travel, travel movies, the best places to visit, etc. Read my stories.
