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Tips for On-Mountain Activities

Summer On-Mountain Activities

  • Fast weather changes: During the summer, start hiking early in the day so you can avoid mountain peaks if there's a late-afternoon thunderstorm. If you are above tree-line, crouch down or try to find shelter from lightening. Avoid over hanging rock and small cave entrances.
  • Emergencies: Always take a small emergency kit with a whistle, compass, space blanket, string, duct tape, matches and iodine tablets (for purifying water). With these, you could do MacGyver-like magic that could help keep you safe if lost. Bring a waterproof jacket or rain gear, a fleece top and even gloves and a hat if it's fall or spring, in case there's an unexpected snowstorm.

    Winter On-Mountain Activities

    Keep yourself warm on mountain

  • The higher you go, the colder the temperature. Even if the weather is sunny, don’t get complacent.
  • Conserve the heat you have by wearing the appropriate ski outfit. Dress in layers to save body heat. This also allows you to accommodate the constantly changing temperature of your body. Polypropylene underwear keeps you warm, absorbs sweat and dries quickly.
  • When riding a chairlift, tighten and relax your grip on your ski poles, wiggle your toes, and stretch out your legs to warm up your thighs.
  • Cold weather can lead to cracking or swelling of your lips. Make sure to apply lip balm or moisturizer as often as needed.
  • Eat foods rich in carbohydrates. Likewise, foods with sugar are also advisable. Steer away from smoking cigarettes and drinking alcohol. Smoking can hinder blood circulation by constricting the capillaries, and though alcohol provides warmth by dilating blood vessels, you will feel cold again in no time.

    Avoiding Injuries

  • It is common fact that prevention is still better than cure, and there are things you can do to avoid injuries before hitting the slopes.
  • Make sure you are in good shape. There is a much lower risk of getting injured and you will not tire as easily if you are physically fit before skiing.
  • Take a ski or snowboard lesson from one of our expert ski and snowboard instructors. You’ll be skiing like a pro in no time!
  • Acquire the appropriate ski or snowboard equipment. Check to make sure your gear is in good condition, especially the bindings. Have them adjusted correctly at a ski shop.
  • Avoid head injuries - wear a helmet!
  • The sun's rays and glare can impair your vision. Wear sunglasses or goggles so you can see the terrain clearly.

    On the Slopes

  • Maintain control - ski within your abilities. If you realize you are on a slope that is too hard, keep your skis on and side step down that slope.
  • At the start of each skiing day, take several slow ski turns to warm up.
  • Ski with a buddy.
  • As much as possible, stay on marked trails and don’t ski on avalanche-prone areas like steep hillsides which do not have enough vegetation.
  • Be aware of weather changes and snow conditions. Learn how to adjust in different conditions such as deep powder and unfavorable weather.
  • Remember that drinking alcohol and skiing are not a good combination. The same goes for some medications. Some medications have side effects like making you drowsy or impairing your senses.
  • If you get tired, the most sensible thing to do is to stop and take a rest. Fatigue can increase your chance of injury.

    Other Travel Tips

  • Ski Vacation Travel Tips
  • Top Five Travel Tips from Aspen/Pitkin County Airport

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