Ski season does not come without its challenges. Between unpredictable weather, parking challenges, and crowded lift lines, ski season can get stressful. Don’t get me wrong, it’s the best time of the year! But if you aren’t properly prepared you could miss out on the fun part. Here are some ways you can ensure you’re making the most out of your ski season.
Time Your Trip
i-70 can be a nightmare during ski season. An hour and a half drive can get turned into a 3-4 hour drive. Knowing what times to avoid could save you hours in traffic. Times to avoid i-70 typically include Friday afternoons between 2-7 p.m. on westbound and Sunday evenings between 3-6 p.m. on eastbound. However, eastbound traffic can start as early as 11:30 a.m.
If you want to avoid the traffic jam, plan your schedule according to these peak times. Maybe head up early Saturday morning instead and stay in the mountains for dinner Sunday night or head home early Monday morning. Check out CDOT for traffic updates and road closures before you head out.
Lift Line Nightmares
Vail and other resorts have worked hard at crowd control and minimizing lift lines. Some resorts have high speed chairlifts so that people don’t have to wait in line for as long. However, during holidays and long weekends, crowds can form regardless of lift speed.
If you’re going up to the mountains during this time be sure to check out Vail Resort’s Digital Mountain Assistant, Emma. Emma is an AI operated assistant that provides real time information to skiers and snowboarders. Ask Emma where the shortest lift lines are and she’ll let you know where to go!
Unpredictable Weather
Sometimes the most visually beautiful, bluebird days are the coldest. Always make sure you check the weather and always be prepared for it to be colder than you think. Neck gaiters are hugely important to keep your face warm and its never a bad idea to pack two of them. A fleece gaiter will keep you warm. If it’s too warm out for a fleece gaiter, you have a lighter one packed!
If you’re hands get cold easily, consider wearing mittens instead of gloves. Hand warmers + mittens are sure to keep your hands nice and toasty. I always put warmers in my socks too.
Don’t Forget Parking
Of course the biggest hassle of them all: PARKING. Don’t let the ‘Lot Full’ sign cause you stress. If you reserve a parking spot or a parking pass for the season through Spotsurfer, you can get to the mountain in two minutes (literally). No time wasted!
Happy Ski Season!
With all of these tip you’ll maximize your time on the slopes, reduce ski season stress, and you’ll stay toasty on the mountain. Happy skiing (or boarding)!
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