Downhill Skiing & Snowboarding Tips

How to Aspen Guides

Learn tips about snowboarding and downhill skiiing in Aspen, Colorado before heading out on the slopes.

Know your ability:

Don’t attempt a double black diamond run if you’re just starting out.
Ride in a controlled manner so you don’t endanger yourself or others.
Follow these tips for beginner skiers.
Consider a lesson at any ability.

Right of way:

Downhill riders always have the right of way.
When overtaking, leave space for the person in front of you - no one has eyes in the back of their head.
To help avoid a crash when passing on catwalks, it’s helpful to shout “on your left” or “on your right” to the person ahead of you.
If there is a crash or accident offer your assistance. Everyone appreciates when someone skis down with the pole or ski they lost a few turns up rather than having to hike back up the hill to retrieve their yard sale of equipment.

How to carry your skis:

Place your skis together with the brakes interlacing to hold them together.
Put your skis over one shoulder and hold your poles in your hand.
Watch your surroundings - take your skis off your shoulder around low ceilings and crowded areas.

Gondola courtesies:

Take your skis off your shoulder and keep your poles pointing towards the ground in order to avoid hitting someone.
The loading area can be busy and moves quickly so be prepared. The silver queen gondolas fit six people each.
Put your skis and boards in the racks – don’t bring them inside.
Open the windows if you’ve been working up a sweat – riding is a sport but fresh air for 15 minutes can be a game changer.
If it’s a quiet day, no need to squeeze six people per gondola – let someone enjoy a solo ride up and grab the next bucket with your group of friends.
The red gondolas play music. Get to know your fellow gondola riders to pick music you all like. If you're not so into music skip the red gondolas.
Save your phone calls for when you have a bucket to yourself.

Lift Loading

Alternate! When the lines converge make sure to alternate.
If it’s a powder day or holiday weekend, the lift lines can be busy. Take the singles line which moves a bit faster and meet new people on the chair. Pay attention to the line waiting for an unfilled chair. Don’t miss your chance to jump in line – an empty chair on a powder day will earn some glares.

Respect the out-of-bounds signage and fencing.

For more winter sports safety tips, check out this guide.

Mountain Transportation/Parking

Take advantage of the FREE bus system between all four mountains.
Many hotels have shuttle services. Check with your hotel about their radius restrictions.
There is FREE parking at Buttermilk (restrictions apply during special events including, but not limited to, Toyota U.S. Grand Prix, X Games, The Snow League)
Parking for Aspen Mountain is in the downtown core. We recommend using the Rio Grande parking garage and taking the free Galena Street shuttle if skiing all day.
Daily parking at Aspen Highlands varies in price, offering both partial and daily rates.
Snowmass has free parking at the Town Park Station where you can catch a free shuttle to the mountain. Paid lots include Two Creeks and the Base Village parking garage.

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