Responsibility Code
Skiing can be enjoyed in many ways. At ski areas you may see people using alpine, snowboard, telemark, cross country and other specialized ski equipment, such as that used by disabled or other skiers. 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 that common sense and personal awareness can help reduce. Observe the code listed below and share with other skiers the responsibility for a great skiing experience.
- Always stay in control and be able to stop or avoid other people or objects.
- People ahead of you have the right of way. It is your responsibility to avoid them.
- You must not stop where you obstruct a trail or are not visible from above.
- Whenever starting downhill or merging into a trail, look uphill and yield to others.
- Always use devices to help prevent runaway equipment.
- Observe all posted signs and warnings. Keep off closed trails and closed areas.
- Prior to using any lift, you must have the knowledge and ability to load, ride and unload safely.
Skiers and riders should be advised that a green circle, blue square or black diamond trail at one area is not necessarily the same as a similarly rated trail at another area. The system is a relative system that is only valid at this area. Skiers and riders should work their way up, beginning with the easiest trails no matter what their ability level may be, until they are familiar with the trails at the area.
KNOW THE CODE. IT’S YOUR RESPONSIBILITY.
This is only a partial list. Be safety conscious. Officially endorsed by the National Ski Areas Association.
Lift Safety
Be advised that you cannot board a lift unless you have sufficient physical dexterity, ability and knowledge to negotiate or to use such lift safely, or until you have asked for and received information sufficient to enable you to load, ride and unload the lift safely. You may not use a lift or any ski trail when under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Remove backpacks before boarding lifts. Check for loose straps and clothing.
For your children’s safety, skiing/riding with children in backpacks is also prohibited.
Caution
Snowcats, snowmobiles and snowmaking may be encountered at any time.
Slow Zones
Certain areas (highlighted on the map) are designated as SLOW ZONES. Please observe posted slow zone areas by maintaining a speed no faster than the general flow of traffic. Fast and aggressive skiing and riding may result in loss of lift ticket.
Helmet Use
Helmets are a smart idea. Hilltop Ski Area encourages you to educate yourself on the benefits and limitations of helmets. If you choose to wear one, please ski or ride as if you are not wearing one. Every winter sport participant shares the responsibility for his or her safety and of others using the ski facilities.
Freestyle Terrain
Helmets are recommended. Freestyle terrain may include 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. Freestyle Terrain has designations for size. Start small and work your way up. Designations are relative to this ski area.
Look Before You Leap
You are responsible for inspecting freestyle terrain before initial use and throughout the day. The features vary in size and change constantly due to snow conditions, weather, usage, grooming and time of day. Do not jump blindly. Use a spotter when necessary.
Easy Style It
Always ride or ski in control and within your ability level. Do not attempt freestyle terrain unless you have sufficient ability and experience to do so safely. You control the degree of difficulty you will encounter in using freestyle terrain, both on the ground and in the air.
Respect Gets Respect
Respect freestyle terrain and others. Only one person on a feature at a time. Wait your turn and call your start. Always clear the landing area quickly. Respect all signs and do not enter freestyle terrain or use features when closed.
Use of freestyle terrain exposes you to the risk of serious injury or death. Inverted aerials are not recommended. You assume the risk.
Out-of-Control Skiing/Riding
Hilltop Ski Area is seriously concerned about the safety of its skiers/riders. The Ski Patrol will issue warnings or remove privileges without refund for those who are acting recklessly or are out of control.
Authorized Activities
Only authorized recreational activities are allowed on Hilltop Ski Area premises. All other activities, including sledding and tubing are strictly prohibited. For your children’s safety, skiing/riding with children in backpacks is also prohibited.
Collisions
NSAA, as part of its on-going efforts to promote on-hill safety and responsible skiing and riding, has developed the #RideAnotherDay campaign, in partnership with Kelli and Chauncy Johnson. This campaign has both a print and a video component. You can see each below. Both are available for download using the links below each element.
http://www.nsaa.org/safety-programs/collisions/
Kids on Lifts
For your children’s safety, skiing/riding with children in backpacks is prohibited.
Lids on Kids
Find out how to choose the right helmet and fit for your child.
Smart Style/Park Smart
The National Ski Areas Association and Burton Snowboards would like to welcome you to the “Park Smart” Terrain Park Safety initiative. Park Smart is the evolution of the original Smart Style program. A cooperative effort with the help of the Professional Ski Instructors of America (PSIA) and the American Association of Snowboard Instructors (AASI) that emphasizes the proper use of terrain parks while delivering a unified message.