The Ultimate Guide to Ski Etiquette: Safely Navigate the Crowds
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Fresh snow, sunshine, breathtaking views: mountains are a place to get away. But as ski resorts become increasingly crowded, it can pose challenges for getting down trails safely and respectfully. Knowing the right ways to navigate slopes is paramount for a positive ski day for you and your party, as well as for the rest of the riders on the mountain.
Below, we break down the fundamentals of ski etiquette and mountain safety. From beginners learning the sport to experienced riders returning to the mountain during peak season, there are tips to stay safe, avoid accidents, and have an overall enjoyable time at the resort.
This guide covers essential topics like right-of-way rules, speed control, and appropriate lift behavior, and provides strategies for managing high-traffic areas and communicating effectively across the mountain.
Being a safe and respectful skier should be the top priority of anyone visiting a resort this season. It’s the starting point from which every other skill set builds upon, and it’s the key step in making sure your time at the mountain is the best it can be.
The Responsibility Code: created by the National Ski Areas Association in 1962.
Mountain Safety Basics
If you take away anything from this guide, let it be these mountain basics that will get you from the top of the mountain to the bottom as efficiently and safely as possible. There are a few non-negotiables of skiing, and making sure you don’t endanger yourself or others is the top priority.
Right-of-Way Rules
When on trail, skiers that are farther down the slope always have the right of way. As the skier above them, it’s crucial to yield to those ahead of you, in case they don’t see you approaching.
When trails merge, enter the new trail with caution. Make sure to look uphill when merging, and yield to oncoming skiers when entering any new trail or zone. When in doubt, double check.
Speed Control and Stopping Safely
Skiers and riders need to be in control of their speed at all times. This means that at any point, you should be able to shut down your turns and come to a stop quickly and effectively. Match your pace to the trail’s difficulty and traffic conditions. There’s no world in which bombing down a crowded trail—or one above your skill level—is safe or a good look.
When stopping to catch your breath or regroup with your ski buddies, do so at the edge of the trail. You should be out of the main fall line and, just as importantly, in a place where skiers above you will be able to easily see and avoid you. Never stop in a blind spot, like beneath a knoll or around a sharp turn.
Safe Distances Between Skiers
Leave the close quarters for après. When on piste, maintain enough space between you and surrounding riders to be able to react safely to others’ behavior. A sudden stop or fall from another skier shouldn’t end in a pile up. There is a level of unpredictability in skiing that should always be taken into consideration—leave room to respond to wipeouts, icy patches, sudden turns, and more. After all, wouldn’t you expect the same space?
Lift Loading and Unloading Etiquette
Here’s the thing about lift lines: if you act out, people will judge you—and remember what your kit looks like. If you bombed down the trail and someone saw you, prepare to get called out when you get in line. Likewise, the way you queue will have others responding accordingly. The best advice is to wait in line patiently, avoid cutting, and keep your group together as respectfully as possible. If you get separated, it’s no big deal. Just wait for your crew at the top of the lift in a safe place.
When it’s your time to get on the chair, make sure you’re ready. This means having your RFID card in a pocket without anything else in it so it can easily be scanned, making sure you don’t have any miscellaneous straps and buckles hanging loosely that might get caught on the chairlift, and following the general guidelines set out by lift employees and patrollers. Move quickly, be respectful, and thank your liftie.
Avoid playing loud music in lift lines or on the chairlift. Now is not the time to get lost in the soundtrack to your next powder turn. Tune in to the situation around you so you don’t miss social cues and some good old fashion lift line banter.
Emergency Signals
Accidents happen. In case you’re involved in one, it’s crucial to know what to do. Start with placing skis in an "X" to signal for help if you’re injured or assisting someone who is. If you’re in a blind spot on the hill, move only if you’re able—otherwise, station a buddy higher up to alert oncoming skiers. Aid the injured party as best you can, and wait for ski patrol to arrive.
Ski patrollers work to ensure a safe skiing environment on the slopes.
Navigating Crowded Slopes
A busy resort is an experience all its own. And a safe day on the mountain is the starting point for a fun one, even if the slopes are bustling. Here are a few steps to make sure you’re acting as safely as possible for your own enjoyment and the betterment of your fellow riders.
Managing High-Traffic Areas
When in doubt, hit the brakes. Managing your speed means being able to quickly slow down in congested zones such as lift bases and trail intersections. If you see a congregated group of skiers, you should be instinctively checking your speed. It will make it easier for you to navigate the cluster, and give others peace of mind that you won’t smoke them in passing.
Signs are there for a reason: while it may seem like a nuisance at times, pausing to read resort signs can save skiers a world of trouble. Signs can denote closed trails ahead, accidents, or warn of natural hazards.
Passing Etiquette
Remember, downhill skiers have the right of way. That doesn’t mean you can’t pass them, though. It just means to do so respectfully, and on the downhill skier’s terms. Announce your presence with a polite, “On your left!” and wait until there is space on the trail to safely sneak by. There is very rarely a rush to the bottom, and an extra second or two waiting for a clear path to pass won’t set back your powder day.
Group Skiing Protocols
There’s nothing better than a party shred. Here’s how to let it rip with your ski buddies: when you hit narrow trails, transition into a single-file formation. When the trail widens, it’s okay to ski two or three abreast; just make sure you’re keeping a safe distance from each other and leaving room for other parties to pass.
When regrouping, do so on the side of the trail to avoid blocking other riders’ paths. As when riding solo, be sure to avoid blind spots on the mountain when you stop—if you can’t see oncoming skiers, they can’t see you.
Respect your group members. Competition can arise in groups, but there’s no need to ski above your skill or comfort level in effort to keep up. Communication is key in a ski group for a safe, fun time. If you’re not feeling it, you can always catch up at decreed meeting spots or the lift. If you’re in the lead of the pack, give slower skiers a minute to regroup when they reach the party—you’ve had a moment to catch your breath before they’ve arrived.
Peak Time Management
The resort is going to be busiest midday, and you can plan accordingly. Start early or ski during non-peak hours to avoid heavy crowds. There are apps and resort updates to plan around busy areas.
Choosing Runs for Your Skill Level
There’s no reason to ski above your skill level. Instead, stick to trails that match your abilities. It will be far more enjoyable, and overestimating your skill increases risk for yourself and others. If you’re in a group and uncomfortable with the run others have chosen, plan a meeting spot and take a different route down.
Communication on the Slopes
Communication can be key to maintaining a safe environment on the slopes.
Clear communication with your ski party and others on the mountain is crucial to safely enjoying your day.
Universal Ski Signals and Calls
There are a few signals to know when hitting the slopes. Pass on skiers’ left, and be sure to use the clear, concise call of “on your left” when overtaking. As you do, you can always point with your hand to indicate where you’re heading.
In case of a crash and resulting injury, place your skis in an “X” above where you or the injured party is stationed. Likewise, you can also signal a big “X” with your arms to oncoming skiers and patrollers to let you know you are injured or otherwise need help.
If you biff it on a turn and find yourself picking up the pieces of a wipeout but otherwise OK, a quick way to ensure you’re not hurt is to tap the top of your helmet with your palm. This will signal to other riders or viewers from the lift that you’re not in need of assistance.
Reporting Unsafe Behavior
The age old rule applies to skiing: If you see something, say something. Inform ski patrol if you see reckless skiing or dangerous conditions. A quick heads up can save someone from being injured or skiing into unsafe terrain.
Emergency Protocols
Make sure you know the resort's emergency number, and, should a situation arise, notify a ski patroller for immediate assistance. If you’re on the fence about calling, just do so. Patrollers are on scene to provide help, and it’s better to have a quick conversation and be on your way than to end up over your head.
Keep personal information on your person. An ID, charged cell phone, and credit card can go a long way in an emergency. If you’re at a resort you’re unfamiliar with, keep a trail map in your pocket as well, and make sure you remember where you parked, and how to get back to your car, bus, or condo. Ski resorts can quickly become disorienting, and if you know where you need to end up, a patroller can help you get there.
Make sure your cell phone is at full battery before heading out for the day. Cold weather can drain a phone battery quicker than on warmer days, so be sure to store your phone in an interior pocket.
Modern Skiing Challenges
Modern problems require modern solutions. Here are a few tips to stay safe in the age of the GoPro.
Managing Photos and Videos
Don’t get so absorbed into your phone that you forget to stop only in safe zones, away from the main trail. Capturing footage should never put you, your party, or other skiers at risk. If you’re setting up a shot, do so in a manner that doesn't interfere with any oncoming traffic
Ditch the Kodak courage. Just because someone is filming doesn’t mean you need to ski faster or try a trick beyond your skill level.
Skiing with Mixed Skill Levels
If skiing in a party with mixed abilities, the safest way forward is to plan routes based on the least experienced skier in the group. Use meeting points to regroup frequently without pressuring slower skiers. If you need to, split into smaller groups based on skill level, but only after you’ve openly discussed your plan with the entire group. No one wants to feel ditched.
Responsibility Code
The Responsibility Code: created by the National Ski Areas Association in 1962.
When in doubt, you can always refer to the Responsibility Code, a set of 10 principles designed to encourage safe skiing on the resort and provide some skier expectations. The code was created by the National Ski Areas Association in 1962 and is promoted by the National Ski Patrol, and it’s something that we’re all held accountable to uphold. The principles are as follows:
Always stay in control. You must be able to stop or avoid people or objects.
People ahead or downhill of you have the right-of-way. You must avoid them.
Stop only where you are visible from above and do not restrict traffic.
Look uphill and avoid others before starting downhill or entering a trail.
You must prevent runaway equipment.
Read and obey all signs, warnings, and hazard markings.
Keep off closed trails and out of closed areas.
You must know how and be able to load, ride and unload lifts safely. If you need assistance, ask the lift attendant.
Do not use lifts or terrain when impaired by alcohol or drugs.
If you are involved in a collision or incident, share your contact information with each other and a ski area employee.
Quick-Reference Tips for Ski Etiquette
Respect downhill skiers’ right of way.
Control your speed based on conditions.
Stop only where visible and safe.
Communicate clearly when passing or merging.
Follow resort-specific guidelines and signage.
Ski safely! You don't want to end up in a sled:
Credit - Lucy Higgins
The Author: Lucy Higgins
Lucy is a seasoned editor and writer with a background in magazine publishing and creative directing. Formerly the Editor-in-Chief at Backcountry Magazine, she now works as a freelance writer and editor.
When Lucy's not at a desk, she can be found running, skiing, and spending time with her toddler.
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