Eager to get in some family time cruising the slopes? Hold your horses. Planning a ski or snowboard trip this season involves much more than deciding which Jeff and Paige album to bring for the drive. “Know before you go,” says Chris Linsmayer, public affairs director with Colorado Ski Country USA. “This is certainly the year to do your pre-arrival research.”

With the coronavirus still a concern, much has changed for the upcoming season as resorts take measures to keep guests safe. Keep these tips in mind.

  • Pre-purchase your ticket.
    Walk-up, single-day tickets may not be available, so be sure to buy lift tickets in advance.
  • Check the website.
    Keep an eye on resorts’ COVID-19 pages as policies may fluctuate throughout the season.
  • Plan to be outside … a lot.
    In an effort to mitigate crowds indoors, many resorts will open up larger outdoor seating areas at lunch hubs and may even set up portable toilets en plein air.
  • Expect changes to ski lessons.
    Ski schools will be reducing class sizes and may only offer half-day lessons (to eliminate the lunch period).
  • Pack your mask and prepare to social distance.
    Just like you’re doing everywhere else.