Resort Uphill Policies

I began consolidating resort policies before realizing USA Skimo has already accumulated a data base here. They've done a great job, and I am not going to reinvent the wheel. So, if you are looking for information regarding the rules of uphill traffic at any ski resort in the US, this is the place.

If you are interested in hearing about more of my skimo sins (yes there is a long list that goes well beyond my aversion to the attire in this sport) then keep reading.

With outrageous ticket prices, powder taxes, and corporate monopolies seeming to eat up and spit out the soul of the few remaining private ski mountains left in America year after year, it's easy to hold a negative sentiment towards ski resorts. I'm as guilty as anyone. However, after combing through uphill policies, I'd argue that in general this is one of the few things ski resorts are handling quite well.

Some early season touring near Big Sky 

A ski resort has zero incentive to allow uphill traffic at any time. The $20-$40 season uphill passes that some require (although most are free) are not contributing significantly to their bottom lines. Resorts are assuming a ton of liability by allowing us to skin after hours and in some cases against downhill traffic while the lifts are spinning. Despite this, most offer a variety of uphill routes, and in my opinion, relatively gracious uphill hours.   

What's the big deal then in ignoring these policies. Well, it only takes one of us to piss them off before they decide they need to carry extra insurance to minimize risk, jacking the prices of uphill passes towards the cost of their day tickets, or worse deciding the risk isn't worth it and banning uphill traffic all together. I've ski toured at a fair share of resorts, and I can think of only a few times when I felt the uphill policy actually inconvenienced me. In fact, I've found the established routes quite helpful when devising a plan and navigating at a new mountain in the early hours. 

Ok so with that out of the way, here comes my big confession. I've broken uphill policies many times. Both out of ignorance and on purpose. Most recently just the other day. Maybe not that shocking if you know me. And yes, I'm quite aware of the hypocrisy in then writing a blog encouraging us to abide by resort uphill policies. Perhaps that is the point of this confession. I realized when first writing this that my behavior and attitude towards this behavior is the problem. I'll be honest, I still don't feel wrong in skinning up a resort at the crack of dawn minding my own business when I'm not supposed to. But I know just because it doesn't feel problematic doesn't mean it isn't problematic. This isn't an excuse for me to ignore the ramifications of my actions, especially when I am self aware, let alone writing about them. Trust me, I really didn't want to write this blog. When I am set on doing something, I do it. Even if means bending some rules. In putting this out, it's going to hold me accountable.  

So, here's a final reminder for both you and me next time we want to skin up a resort. As uphill traffic becomes more and more popular, resorts are continuing to reform their policies. Our behavior as uphill users directly affects their decisions. Right now we are being thrown a bone. A big meaty bone. So let's not mess this up. I'm all about pushing limits. It's so easy to do in a resort where big and inviting terrain is accessible and untouched, especially early season. But, there is a time and a place. With resorts watching our every move and reacting accordingly, this isn't it. So, don't skin off the designated routes. Don't get in the way of the groomers, or cross any cat winches (yes I've seen skin tracks do this). Don't bring your dogs if dogs aren't allowed. Don't be the one that ruins this for everyone. Respect the rules. If you don't like them, there is plenty of touring to be had in the backcountry. 

Simon