11 Tips for the Ski Resorts this Winter
11 TIPS & HACKS FOR THE SKI RESORT
Ever been to a really crowded ski resort? Yea me too. Ever been to a really crowded Ski Resort as a chaperone for about 20 teenage boys? I have. I don’t recommend it. Maybe have that root canal done you have been putting off since college. Even if you don’t need a root canal, get one, if it gets you out of that trip. That’s a free life hack, no additional charge. 😉
You’ve purchased that fancy ski outfit, your phone is charged for all those high flying selfies you’re going to post, and you’re ready to go. Then you show up at the ski resort a little late – you stopped and had brunch, had some laughs, no big deal. Now you’re in line, a long line, and find yourself one of those angst-ridden skiers or snowboarders at the back of a slow-moving lift line, wondering if this is really worth it. Resorts can get crazy busy. Especially the ones up around the Washington DC area. They have crammed parking lots, long lift lines, and a mountain so crowded you can hardly get in a turn. So grab a Moscow Mule and take a seat. Here are a few tips and hacks to help you navigate the ski resort and make sure you get the most out of your lift ticket.
1. Hack the Parking Lot
– Get there early and park in the back
The best way to get fresh tracks and beat the crowds is to show up early. You can save even more time by hacking the parking lot. Though human instinct is to find a spot closest to the entrance, do yourself a favor and stop circling. Parking in the far back means the shuttle will come scoop you up, and you’ll be delivered to the ticket booth faster than the folks who snagged a closer spot and have to walk. You’ll feel wily as a fox when you beat them to the hill.
2. OK, you didn’t get there Early – Like I Said
– Bring a snow shovel
If you arrive late, you might find parking options quite slim. Look for places where the snowplow has pushed some snow up where you could have otherwise parked. Then get to work with your shovel to create enough space to slide in your rig. The gang will be so impressed.
3. Beat the Crowds
– Choose a small resort
Sure, you could go to the trendy resort with the gondola and three gourmet restaurants just like everyone else. But thinking outside the box can yield better snow and a more easygoing atmosphere. Look for smaller resorts, and you’ll find fewer people and shorter lines. Though the runs may be shorter and less challenging, the tradeoff is often untouched powder, and enough room to actually get in some turns.
4. Skiers Skiers Everywhere
– Make for the backcountry
There’s some debate about the name for backcountry skiing just outside the resort boundary. Some call it side country, because you can use the resort’s chairlifts, then exit through approved gates to access it. Others insist that once you exit the ski resort’s boundary, it’s all backcountry. The area is not controlled, and many resorts require backcountry skiers to carry avalanche gear with them. If you’re prepared and experienced, it’s a great way to avoid the masses.
Pro-tip: Most skiers who access the backcountry through the resort will try to get as far out as they can. If you do the opposite, and stay close to the boundary, you’ll find fresher snow and better turns there.
5. Look for beginner areas
Start with a little surveillance. If you spot group lessons heading up on a particular chairlift, follow that lift. Though beginner slopes aren’t quite as steep, you’ll likely find fresh powder up there, because beginners will avoid it. Any training areas, like where they’re running gates, are also pretty good bets.
6. Time It Right
– Ski at night
Good news for night owls. After daytime skiing closes, the crowds head home or into the lodge for a hot toddy, which makes evening a great time to show up. Night skiing ticket prices are lower, the lines are shorter, and the snow is freshly groomed. Even better, if it’s snowing, you and your fellow night skiers will get a fresh batch of powder all to yourselves.
7. Wait it out
– Ski at lunch
Wait it out around noon, the crowd will funnel into the lodge to grab their $20 latte and croissant. This is your moment. With a sandwich in your pocket, you can eat on the lift, and then you’ll get all the turns you want while the others are struggling with ski boots and bathroom lines inside. It’s a great feeling to save the cash, too.
8. Head up on a holiday
The best time to hit up a ski resort is during a big game or any holiday. While everyone else is inside whooping at the TV or taking an ill-advised second helping of mashed potatoes, you’ll have the place—and the powder—practically to yourself.
