If you can find snow, you can ski. Unfortunately, it only snows in the U.S. for anywhere from four to six months out of the year. But you can find places to ski all over the country in the spring if snow is on the ground. Ski season typically ends in early spring, so you will need to act fast if you still want to get a few more runs in before the start of summer!
So, how do you make the most of early spring skiing? From using a ski helmet communication device to looking for slope discounts, keep these tips in mind to enjoy the last few weeks of ski season before it’s gone:
Check for Snow
The only thing stopping you from skiing is the need for more snow, so that should be your priority when finding a place to ski. The official end of the ski season varies by state and resort, so contact the park or facility to find out how long they plan to stay open. Lots of places play it by ear depending on the local snowfall. The changing climate is another concern. Temperatures are rising throughout most of the U.S., making it harder to find resorts in the springtime.
Use technology to check on the park or area before you make the trip. Use apps like OntheSnow to find open resorts based on your location. It also lets you track snowfalls in real-time. Some resorts will even post a live feed of the slopes to their website so you can check for powder all season long.
Prepare for Changes in Temperature
When spring rolls along, the snow on the ground will usually start to melt. This leads to what’s known as crust snow. It’s hard and usually made of ice as the moisture evaporates. You may need to adjust your skiing habits as a result. The snow won’t be as malleable, which can make it difficult to navigate in some areas. Keep an eye out for rocks and icy ridges that can break your skis.
Consider wearing pads in case you fall to reduce your chances of injury. Falling on crust snow isn’t painless. If it gets too warm, the snow beneath your skis will start to give out entirely. Avoid skiing over rocks or frozen stretches of water that could melt at a moment’s notice. You could easily damage your skis or wind up falling through the melting ice.
Make sure you are wearing a durable helmet that fits your head when skiing in the spring. If you fall, you are much more likely to injure your head compared to the dead of winter.
Stay Connected on the Slopes
Skiing in the spring can be unpredictable. You never know when you might need to throw in the towel and head home due to the changing weather. Use ski helmet communication to keep in touch with everyone in your group. The device will automatically connect to the other users when you are in range, so you don’t have to take your hands off the poles. Coordinate with your companions regarding the quality of the snow and whether the ground is passable so you can avoid troublesome areas.
A little bit of audio will also help pass the time. Use skiing helmet accessories to listen to music or a podcast while you trek through the wilderness.
Look for Discounts
Spring tends to bring on savings — at least when it comes to skiing. The changing climate and shifting terrain can lead some resorts to offer discounts on everything from meals to equipment rentals, day passes, and more. The slopes tend to be a little quieter as well as the crowds go home for the season. Contact the resort to see if they offer any season discounts around this time of year.
Find Local Events
The season also makes it easier to be outdoors. Warmer temperatures can lead to a slew of new events that you won’t find in winter. There are more hours of daylight now that we have switched over to daylight saving time, which means more fun at night.
Expect to see more concerts and outdoor eating venues pop up in areas that are known for their skiing. Lots of places host seasonal favourites like pond skims and local crafts festivals. You can get in on the excitement or take advantage of the fact that fewer people will be on the slopes.
Dress for Warmer Weather
Adjust your wardrobe as the temperature continues to rise. You won’t need to wear as many layers on the slopes in the spring as you would in the winter. Consider switching to a lighter jacket or thinner pants to stay cool when working up a sweat. Keep a pack on your person so you can quickly change your clothes or tuck a layer away for safekeeping if you get too warm.
Enjoy Spring Skiing Before The End of The Season
Spring is one of the best times of year to go skiing if you can handle the warming weather. It may not be the same as skiing over a fresh patch of powder, but it brings a certain thrill all its own. Use these tips to enjoy spring skiing while it lasts!
