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Going on my first ski trip - what's the average day like

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Going on my first ski trip - what's the average day like

Going on my first ski trip - what's the average day like

Things like, what time do we get out on the slopes? How long do we ski for? When does it get dark?

asked by Skiernovice 1 year 32 weeks ago
answers (8)
NatePhill0504's picture
Novice, The answers to some of this will vary by time of year and location. Generally, lifts open around 9am and daylight skiing ends around 3pm to 4pm, depending on altitude. Many locations have night skiing, although lots of people prefer Apres Ski (After ski parties) to more time on the slope. Apres is typically 4pm to 7pm, where it is acceptable to be out in your ski gear before dinner. There are great food and beverage options in most resorts. Eat a hearty breakfast, drink lots of water and budget for big dinners. You will burn a lot of calories learning, as it takes time to learn how to let the mountain guide you down. Get a lesson, explore, enjoy your friends, come back over and over and tell everyone you know how great it is!! Nathan
Illinois snowskier's picture
Hard to answer your question precisely without knowing what resort are visiting. Mountain resorts normally open at 9 am and close at 4:30 pm. but there are some that offer night skiing. On your first day out, take your time to know the area and know which runs are your ability level. Many areas offer mountain tours but a trail map can be your best friend. Try to go with a friend. Stop and rest when needed. Also, the sun can be very powerful. Make sure to wear proper eye protection and sun screen but the most important thing to do is to have fun! Rick Alpine Accessories
pkerr's picture
I remember my first real trip to the "big" mountains and iwas stoked. I e-mailed the mouintain and they sent me some good info. I practically memorized their WEB site and trail map. I got online in the forum and asked all sorts of newbie questions that actually came in handy. As has been said... drink plenty of water all throughout the day... even if it's cold and snowy. You'd be surprised how dry it is up at altitude. I use a camelback and it works great for keeping water available. Take plenty of pictures. They'll give you something to stare at during the summer while you dream about the next trip.
typatterson's picture
My best advice to you is to find some deep powder, drop in fast and carve carve carve.....
monkeydoctor's picture
whats a day like.....bliss 8^)
ColoradoSkiDude's picture
First, you’re going to have a blast doing this. Skiing only gets better as you get better. Let’s get onto the list: 1) Workout. You don’t need to be Superman, but the more fit you can get the more fun you’re going to have 2) Diet: You don’t have to be a monk, but just watch what you are eating on a regular basis. Have a good breakfast, and a reasonable lunch and dinner. Watch the booze. Drinks and beers are like candy bars. They add a lot of calories on quickly. 3) Where are you going skiing at? If it is out here in Colorado, it’s all at altitudes around 8,000 feet and above. Plan an extra day to acclimate 4) Take a lesson – or two – friends don’t let friends teach them how to ski 5) Dress warm – Spend wisely, but you invest in good ski gear. Good stuff may be pricey but out on the hill you’ll thank yourself for every dollar spent. 6) Shades: Skiing is often done in places where it gets really sunny. Get some good eye protection so your eyeballs aren’t melting down your face.
ColoradoSkiDude's picture
1) Slopes open dependent on the ski area. Here in Colorado they open up around 9AM and close at 3:30PM at the start of the ski season – the amount of daylight in each day gets shorter until December 21st. Once past Presidents Day (I think) the hours get extended like 8:30AM to 4:00PM. 2) Ski for as long as your body can hold out the exertion. If you are truly skiing and not just hanging around, skiing burns anywhere from 500 to 800 calories an hour. Eat a good dinner the night before, have a good breakfast (I’ve found that oatmeal, yogurt, and a banana is a great breakfast for me), and a light lunch – leave the booze for after skiing. 3) It gets dark when the sun goes down  OK, I couldn’t resist. Look up local sunrise and sunset times on Google for your location. The ski areas will usually close well before it gets too dark to ski. The ski patrol guys will sweep the hill so you won’t be left up there in the dark.
dchogyoji's picture
You'll overdress, and you'll lose things.

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