Mountain Policies & Safety

Giants Ridge provides a team of trained Ski Patrollers to provide first aid, assess mountain safety, post warnings and close trails.

• Ski Patrollers are on duty when the chair lifts are operating for the public .
• To summon a Ski Patroller, let any employee know or call the Patrol Room at 218-865-8019.
• The Patrol First Aid Room is located in the South Chalet.

• Use properly maintained equipment. Have bindings inspected and correctly adjusted by a certified technician. Equipment may be rented from our rental shop.
• Wear a properly fitted helmet.
• Dress in water and wind resistant outerwear and layers to accommodate changing conditions.
• Use sunscreen and wear goggles or sunglasses to protect your eyes.
• Know your physical limits.
• Use caution walking to and from the slopes. Sturdy, non-slip footwear is recommended for the parking lots and the base area.
• Sign up for a lesson. Even experienced level skiers and riders can benefit from a professional lesson.

Giants Ridge welcomes guests using the following snowsports equipment:

• Alpine Skis – must have metal edges and working bindings with brakes
• Telemark Skis – must have metal edges and a brake system or retention devices
• Snowboards – must have metal edges and working bindings.
• Snowblades – must have metal edges and retention device
• Mono Skis – must have metal edges and working brake system or retention device.
• Snowskates / Decks – must have a retention device that is to be attached to the user at all times. Must be secured on lift and not dangling down below the seat.
• Snow bikes – must have metal edges and retention device that is attached to the user at all times. Bikes must be store bought and have no more than 2 skis. Homemade conversions are not allowed. Uphill transportation for snow bikes is limited to the Sarajevo lift. Bikes are not allowed in the Terrain Parks.
• Snow Shoes – on designated trails only
• Nordic Skiing – on designated trails only
• Snow tubing – in designated areas only

The following are NOT allowed on our slopes:

• Sleds, toboggans, discs, snow scooters, snow trikes, uphill traffic on alpine slopes.
• Babies are NOT allowed in Bjorns, baby carriers or backpacks on the slopes or lifts. (Policy link inserted here)
• Service Animals are NOT allowed on the chairlifts, alpine slopes or tubing lanes (Policy link inserted here)

To help ensure a safe trip down the mountain, everyone should start on easiest trails and work their way up. Whether you are new to snow sports or want to take your skills to the next level, our friendly professional instructors are trained to help you develop the skills and confidence to have fun on the slopes.

Do NOT Ski or Ride Impaired – Be responsible with alcohol consumption

 Electronic Devices – Giants Ridge discourages the use of electronic devices that utilizes head/ear phones while skiing and snowboarding, or loading and unloading lifts as it may increase the risk of collisions or not being able to hear instructions. You may not hear someone (or something) approaching from behind.

 Do NOT go in “Closed” Areas – During the course of regular operations, Giants Ridge may find it necessary to close sections of the mountain for the safety of our guest. Closures are often marked with rope, ribbon or fencing in conjunction with a CLOSED sign, any marked boundary must not be crossed weather or not a CLOSED sign is in place. Crossing a closure boundary can endanger yourself or other and may result tin loss of lift privileges.  Ropes, fences and closures are in place for your safety. Do not enter closed trails by going through the trees or under ropes.

Wooded areas between named trails are not marked in any way and are not patrolled. The snow is not groomed or maintained. If you decide to ski or snowboard in wooded areas, you are solely responsible for yourself. You should be an expert skier/snowboarder and stay in groups of three or more

Machinery and Equipment – Snowcats, snowmobiles and snowmaking may be encountered at any time.

 Watch Our First Timers Guide 

Link – Mountain Sports School Lesson Information

Skiing and snowboarding can be enjoyed in many ways. At ski areas, you may see people using alpine skis, snowboards, telemark skis, cross country skis, and other specialized equipment, such as that used by adaptive athletes. Regardless of how you decide to enjoy the slopes, always show courtesy to others and be aware that there are elements of risk in skiing and riding that common sense and personal awareness can help reduce.

1. Always stay in control. You must be able to stop or avoid people or objects.
2. People ahead or downhill of you have the right-of-way. You must avoid them.
3. Stop only where you are visible from above and do not restrict traffic.
4. Look uphill and avoid others before starting downhill or entering a trail.
5. You must prevent runaway equipment.
6. Read and obey all signs, warnings, and hazard markings.
7. Keep off closed trails and out of closed areas.
8. You must know how and be able to load, ride and unload lifts safely. If you need assistance, ask the lift attendant.
9. Do not use lifts or terrain when impaired by alcohol or drugs.
10. If you are involved in a collision or incident, share your contact information with each other and a ski area employee.

Winter sports involve risk of serious injury or death. Your knowledge, decisions and actions contribute to your safety and that of others.

Giants Ridge is seriously concerned about the safety of its skiers/riders. Ski Patrol and employees may issue warnings or remove privileges without refund for those who are acting recklessly or are out of control.

Three actions every skier and rider can take to help keep themselves and those around safer on the slopes:

• Be Readyto slow down or avoid objects or other people at any time.
• Stay Alertto what’s going on around you, especially other skiers and riders.

 Plan Ahead and ease up at blind spots, check uphill when merging onto trails, and give other skiers plenty of room when passing. Look out for spots on the run where traffic merges or you can’t see what’s coming next.

 Slow Zones Certain areas of the mountain are designated as SLOW ZONES. Observe posted slow zone areas and reduce speed. Fast and aggressive skiing and riding in these areas may result in loss of lift ticket.

For more information on collision safety and Ride Another Day, please visit Collison Safety

Wearing a helmet is a personal choice, but it’s one Giants Ridge STRONGLYLY ADVISES, especially for children. Keep in mind that it is important that helmets be properly fitted and do not inhibit vision or hearing.

For more information on helmet use for children, please visit Helmet Safety.

Helmets and Kids

Wearing a helmet while skiing or snowboarding reduces the risk of head injuries. They are most effective when you ski or ride at slower speeds. Bonus: they also keep your head warm! Not all ski areas require helmets, but it is a good idea to outfit your child with one and wear one yourself.

While wearing a helmet is a personal choice, you would be setting a good example for the young ones in your family if you chose to wear one while skiing or riding. Nearly all ski areas rent helmets to the public. Make sure your helmet is properly fitted and the chin strap is fastened.

Winter Lift Safety for Skiing and Snowboarding

Riding the chairlift can be one of the best parts of the day — the views are beautiful, your legs get a rest and you get to catch up with (or make new) friends! But, it’s important (and part of Your Responsibility Code) to know how to load, ride and unload all lifts safely. Whether this is a chairlift, a rope tow, or a carpet, knowing how to use these lifts will make your day more fun and safe.

Not sure how to ride a chairlift?

Ask an attendant, ski patroller, or other area employee for help. Learning how to ride the lift is also one of the features of a lesson, and another reason it’s worth discovering snow with a pro.

Tips for Riding Lifts Safely

• Be familiar with the type of lift you are riding and what type of terrain it will bring you to. Ask for help if you need it.
• Avoid distractions while waiting in the lift line: Do not use your smartphone.
• Before loading, remove backpacks and secure loose items. Remove pole straps from wrists.
• Before moving out to load the chair, make sure everyone in your group is ready.
• Look over your shoulder to watch the chair approach.
• Sit all the way in the chair, flush with the seat back.
• If the lift has a restraint bar, wait until everyone is seated, and slowly reach up and lower the bar. Small children should not attempt to lower the bar. Adults and older kids should always help little kids lower the restraint bar.
• Be aware of your surroundings while riding the lift. If you drop something, let it fall. You can always ask ski patrol or the lift attendant at the top for help retrieving the lost item.
• As you approach the top terminal, prepare to raise the bar – but do not raise it too soon. Signs will help you know when to raise the bar.

Riding

• Sit down and sit back. Your back should be against back of the chair.
• If a restraint bar is available, lower the bar when it is safe to do so.
• Remain seated and face forward.
• Drop something? Let it FALL. Any item dropped can be picked up later.
• Absolutely no horseplay and never jump off a lift!

Unloading

• Check for loose clothing & equipment to make sure it will not get caught.
• If restraint bar is lowered, raise the bar.
• Keep your ski tips or front of your snowboard tipped up and straight ahead.
• Stand up at the “Unload Here” line and move away from the unload area.
• If you fall, move out of the way if possible or wait for assistance.
• If you ride the chair past the unload area, wait for assistance. DO NOT JUMP!

Learn more about lift safety.

• Freestyle terrain areas are designated with an orange oval and may contain jumps, hits, ramps, banks, fun boxes, jibs, rails, half pipes, quarter pipes, snowcross, bump terrain, and other constructed or natural terrain features.
• Prior to using Freestyle Terrain, you are responsible for familiarizing yourself with Freestyle Terrain and obeying all instructions, warnings and signs.
• Freestyle skills require maintaining control on the ground and in the air.
• Use of Freestyle Terrain exposes you to the risk of serious injury or death.
• Inverted aerials are not recommended. You assume all risk.
• Only enter terrain parks through the “gate” at the top. Do not cut under ropes or through trees to access the parks.

The sign at the top of the Terrain Park will tell you what size features you can expect in the park.

• START SMALL – Work your way up. Build your skills.
• MAKE A PLAN – Every feature. Every time you use freestyle terrain, make a plan for each feature you want to use. Your speed, approach and takeoff will directly affect your maneuver and landing.
• ALWAYS LOOK– Before you drop.
• RESPECT – The features and other users.
• TAKE IT EASY – Know your limits. Land on your feet.

Learn more about PARKSMART .

Skiers and riders should be advised that a green circle, blue square, or black diamond trail at Giants Ridge is not necessarily the same as a green circle, blue square or black diamond trail at other resorts. The system is a relative rating of trails at each resort and does not compare trail difficulty between resorts.

Trail Difficulty

Green Circle: Easiest

Blue Square: More Difficult

Black Diamond: Most Difficult

Double Black Diamond:  Experts Only

Orange Oval: Freestyle Terrain

On-Mountain Service Animals Policy

Giants Ridge recognizes the important role service animals play in many of our guests’ lives; however

out of safety concerns for our guests, employees, and resort property, Guest Services Management under its operational plan and as operator of Giants Ridge pursuant to the Americans with Disability Act (ADA) and federal requirements of 28 C.F.R. § 36.301 et seq., it is Giants Ridge’s policy that service animals (which as defined under the ADA can only be dogs or miniature horses) are not permitted on chairlifts at the resort, based on the legitimate safety requirements determined by Giants Ridge regarding the safety of other guests and employees, as well as, the safety of the service animal itself.  In addition, Giants Ridge does not allow service animals to accompany guests skiing, snowboarding, or tubing on the mountain slopes/trails or biking on the mountain trails.   This policy of restricting service animals on both chairlifts and accompanying guests while using Giants Ridge’s ski and mountain bike terrain also applies equally to all other animals, including pets and emotional support animals. These safety concerns include the real potential for conflicts between service animals and skiers and riders, and are compounded by the large volume of slope and trail use. These safety requirements are based on actual risks and are not intended to be discriminatory in any way.

Baby Bjorns / Babies in Backpacks Policy

Out of safety concerns for our guests, employees, and resort property, Guest Services Management as under its operational plan and as operator of Giants Ridge does not allow skiers or snowboarders to carry an infant or toddler in backpacks, chest packs, baby bjorns or other similar devices on their bodies. This policy stems, in part, from the safety concerns with the infant and/or parent, as well as, for the safety of our employees. The basis for this policy, in part, is that the national safety standards which govern chairlift design and operations (referred to as the ANSI B.77 passenger ropeway standards) require chairlift passengers to be individually able to access chairlifts on their own accord and ability. Also, the chairlift’s design may preclude this type of use of a pack by a guest. In addition, because of safety concerns related to the potential evacuation of chairlifts, and the equipment harnesses employed in such evacuations, our evacuation procedures require that passenger to be unencumbered by such packs carrying infants – both for the safety of our guests and our employees/ski patrol who conduct such evacuations. Lastly, there are additional safety concerns related to skiing or snowboarding with and infant in such a pack, especially the potentially elevated risks of skier vs. skier collisions and the potential harm to an infant in a pack – no matter how well trained or the expertise of the adult carrying the infant.

Aerial Drone Policy

Out of safety concerns for our guests, employees, and resort property, Guest Services Management under its operational plan and as operator of Giants Ridge prohibits the operation or use of unmanned aerial systems, or drones, by the general public—including recreational users and hobbyists—without prior written authorization. This prohibition includes drones used for filming or videotaping, as well as any drone use by media or journalists operating above or within Resort boundaries. This prohibition on drone operations or use extends to any drones launched or operated from Giants Ridge property, as well as drones launched from private property outside of the Giants Ridge boundaries. Any authorized operation of aerial drones may be governed by Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) rules and regulations, local law enforcement, as well as those policies separately established by Guest Services, which may include certification, training, insurance coverage, indemnification requirements, and waivers or releases of liability. Any violation of this policy may involve suspension of your recreational privileges, or the revocation of your season pass, as well as confiscation of any drone equipment, and may subject violators to any damages, including, but not limited to physical or personal injuries, property damage, damages for violations of privacy, regulatory fines and legal fees. Please contact our Marketing Department if you have any questions.

Early Season Nordic Skiing Policy

Out of safety concerns for our guests, employees, and resort property, Guest Services Management under its operational plan and as operator of Giants Ridge provides for a designated area of machine-made snow for use by Nordic skiers during snowmaking operations. This policy applies to all Nordic skiers utilizing terrain within the Alpine Ski Area Boundary, from the start of the snowmaking until snowmaking operations are complete.

Definitions:

Alpine Ski Area – Includes all terrain shown in grey on the Giants Ridge Nordic & Snowshoe Trail Map. For purposes of this policy, the Nordic Stadium will be considered part of the Alpine Ski Area.

Nordic Trail System – Includes all trails listed as Nordic Ski Trails and designated as such the Nordic and Snowshoe Trail Map. Generally available only as sufficient natural snowfall allows.

Base Area – Generally flat area at the bottom of the Alpine Ski Area, starting at the Nordic stadium and stretching to the area in front of the Sports Pavilion. The only portion of the alpine area available to Nordic skiers.

Nordic Skiing/Skiers – Anyone engaged in the act of classic or skate skiing. Anyone Nordic Skiing at Giants Ridge must have a valid Giants Ridge Nordic Season Pass or Daily Nordic Ticket, with a current waiver signed and on file. Each Monday and Friday Giants Ridge will publish a map on the Giants Ridge website of the available section of the Base Area that will be groomed and tracked for Nordic skiing. The designated skiing area may include any combination of: The Nordic Stadium, adjacent to the Lodge; Base Area Courtyard, between the South and Main Chalet, Beginner’s area, St. Moritz and Greely’s Way runs; and the Nordic route to the Snow Sports Pavilion. Only the terrain shown on the most current map is available for Nordic skiing.

Rules: Nordic Skiing will be available only from 4pm – 6pm daily, or as otherwise published on www.giantsridge.com.

• Skiing outside of designated areas or hours may result in loss of recreational privileges.
• Nordic Skiing within the ski area boundary is not permitted at any time except as shown on the Designated Nordic Skiing Area Map posted on the Giants Ridge Website
• It is the Nordic skier’s responsibility to know which area is available for skiing.
• Be aware that mountain operations take place 24 hours a day; snowmobiles, snowcats, snowmaking and other hazardous equipment may be encountered at any time. It is the Nordic skiers responsibility to stay clear of all mountain operations
• Nordic skiers are responsible for their own safety. No ski area services, including ski patrol, are available when the ski area is not open.  Please call 911 in the event of an emergency when the ski area is not open.

Out of safety concerns for our guests, employees, and resort property, Guest Services Management, in conjunction with its operational plan as operator of Giants Ridge, does not allow individuals younger than 3 years old to embark, ride and disembark on a chairlift at Giants Ridge. In addition, Giants Ridge does not allow skiers/snowboarders, mountain bike riders or any other individuals riding a chairlift to carry an infant or toddler in their arms, backpacks, chest packs, baby bjorns or other similar devices.

This policy stems in part from the safety concerns with the infant/toddler and/or parent as well as for the safety of our employees. The basis for this policy, in part, is that the national safety standards which govern chairlift design and operations (referred to as the ANSI B.77 passenger ropeway safety standards) requires chairlift passengers to be individually able to access chairlifts on their own accord and ability. Also, the chairlift’s design precludes the use of a pack by a guest. In addition, because of safety concerns related to the potential evacuation of chairlifts and the equipment employed in such evacuations, our evacuation procedures require that a passenger not be unencumbered by carrying infants in their arms or in packs – both for the safety of our guests and our employees and mountain patrol who conduct such evacuations. Lastly, there are additional safety concerns related to skiing/snowboarding or mountain bike riding with an infant in a pack or child carrier, especially the potentially elevated risks of skier vs. skier collisions or collisions with objects and the potential harm to an infant in a pack or carrier – no matter how well trained or the expertise of the adult carrying the infant.

• Giants Ridge allows Pedal Assist eMTB (class 1) that weigh 50 lbs or less on all the Gravity Trails and South XC Trails. The bike carriers used on the chairlift are not designed to handle bikes heavier than 50 pounds.eMTBs are not allowed on any of the trails in the Enchanted Flowest. These trails are on USFS property, which does not allow eMTBs of any kind.

• Bikes Must have no more than 2 skies
• Must have metal Edges on Skis
• Must have a seat
• Only 1 rider per bike
• Must be designed to load lift without slowing or stopping the lift.
• Must be loaded within envelope of chair; bike counts as rider on chairlift
• No homemade bikes permitted
• NOT allowed in terrain parks
• MUST wear leash at all times (on lift & on slope)
• Uphill transportation for snow bikes is limited to the Sarajevo Express lift.

• Sleds, toboggans, discs, snow scooters, snow trikes, uphill traffic on Alpine Slopes
• Children are NOT allowed in Bjorns, baby carriers or backpacks on the slopes or lift
• Service Animals are NOT allowed on the chairlifts, Alpine slopes or tubing lanes