Quick Guide To Western Colorado Ski Resorts In The Age Of Social Distancing
Aspen/Snowmass. Photo by Jeremy Swanson
Many questions have surrounded the future of ski resorts in Colorado this winter season. While some resorts are implementing reservation systems and parking limits, it’s clear visitors looking to get some fresh powder in will still be able to do so despite pandemic restrictions.
This past October, The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment released a guidance protocol for Colorado ski areas.
“Ski areas are a vital driver of the Colorado economy,” the document says. “During the COVID-19 pandemic, these areas also present unique challenges for controlling virus transmission. A successful ski season will require a strong partnership between ski areas, local governments, local businesses and the state.”
Most notably, Colorado officials emphasize the expectation to wear masks, physically distance in outdoor and indoor areas, limit group sizes and prepare for symptom screenings prior to each visit. Additionally, it also recommends to purchase lift tickets remotely.
Spoke+Blossom Magazine spoke to a few local ski resorts to hear how they’re adapting to the upcoming season.
“Skiing feels more vital than ever this season, a chance to connect with nature and enjoy time outside with friends and family,” says Mike Kaplan, president and CEO of Aspen Skiing Company. Aspen Skiing Company is providing complimentary passes to all Roaring Fork Valley teachers and school workers and select frontline workers at area hospitals. New safety protocols will be instituted across every aspect of the business, including new technology that allows for contactless commerce and pick-up of lift tickets, in addition to other protocols listed on their website.
Powderhorn Mountain Resort will be prioritizing passholders and may limit the number of daily lift ticket sales dependent on local county restrictions. Rentals and lessons will need to be reserved online in advance. Food and beverage services will include online ordering, grab-and-go and outdoor dining.
Monarch Mountain in Salida is aligning themselves with The National Ski Areas Association’s motto for the upcoming season: Ski Well, Be Well. There will be limited capacity in their main lodge, so they recommend “car picnics” for when you need to warm up and refuel. They also recommend, if possible, to avoid historically busy weekends to prevent overcrowding. They added a COVID information page to their website to provide clear updates for visitors.
Sunlight Mountain in Glenwood Springs ensures lift tickets and passes will be covered by its Smile Guarantee. The resort emphasizes that because they don’t have large crowds, social distancing measures are present by nature. They are following county and state guidelines for mask and hygiene practices.
Vail Resorts is requiring reservations to access the mountains. All transactions will be cashless and face coverings will be required at all times, including in lift lines and while on chairlifts and gondolas, where only related parties will be seated together. Employees will undergo daily health screenings. High-touch surfaces and restrooms will be frequently cleaned, in addition to rental equipment between each guest.
Wolf Creek Ski Area kicked off the 2020-2021 ski season early on October 28, 2020. They are offering only lifts and restrooms. Visitors are told to bring their own water, food and equipment. While they are abiding by local, state and federal guidelines, they are hopeful their soft opening will allow staff members to ease into understanding COVID protocols while introducing additional departments and amenities and transitioning into the peak season.
Originally published in the Winter 2020-21 issue of Spoke+Blossom.