Hitting the Slopes During Covid-19
The Do’s and Don’ts of going skiing and snowboarding this year.
Grabbing skiing and snowboarding gear to head up the mountain for a day or two may seem like what people have been doing for years but with Covid-19 be prepared for changes. For now, all ski resorts in Colorado have fired up the chair lifts and opened the doors for avid winter athletes to come in and shred. Like doing anything during Covid, the resorts expect adventurers to social distance, wear masks, and keep the safety of themselves and others in mind. According to Amy Thomas, a journalist for Travel+Leisure wrote “Kelly Pawlak, the president and CEO of the National Ski Areas Association, which represents over 300 U.S. resorts, says, ‘That includes staying or going home if they are experiencing any symptoms like fever, sore throat, and muscle aches.’”
This year reserve the lift tickets ahead of time. Sophomore skier, Shelby Shuman (23) said, “When I have a free weekend, my family normally goes skiing but now we have to plan it out because everything is booked up.” Skiers and Snowboarders also want to pick a time when the slopes are less crowded. Vail, Breckenridge, Arapahoe Basin, Keystone, Eldora, Aspen Mountain, and other resorts are introducing the ability to reserve a day and time. Buying lift tickets online gives the resorts the ability to limit the number of people on the mountain and ensure a safe distance between everyone.
After a long day of shredding, people look forward to sitting down and cozying up with a warm hot chocolate or cup of soup but in 2021, dining options at the resorts are limited. Inside tables are spread six feet apart and customers are expected to socially distance themselves. Most restaurants are set at 25-50% capacity depending on what the county’s current dial level is at.
When being a snow bunny this year, remember to reserve lift tickets ahead of time, bring a mask, and be prepared for differences in the lodges. Skiers and Snowboarders can continue doing what they love, Tiana McDaniel (23) said, “ I enjoyed myself while skiing this year and I am definitely excited to go again!”
