Plan a great day on the slopes!

We’re in the right place and have the best conditions!

With the snow we’ve had this winter, a ski day with friends can be one of the most exhilarating ways to enjoy the winter season. Whether you’re a seasoned skier or just starting out, proper planning is essential to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience on the slopes. From organizing transportation to packing the right gear and planning your après-ski activities, here’s a step-by-step guide to making your ski day with friends a success.

1. Choose the Right Resort

Selecting the right ski resort is the first step in planning your trip. Consider factors like location, terrain difficulty, lift ticket prices, and available amenities. If your group has a mix of skill levels, choose a resort that offers beginner, intermediate, and advanced trails. Look for resorts with ski rentals, lessons, and terrain parks if needed. There are plenty to choose from - Beaver Valley to Collingwood!

2. Coordinate Transportation

Decide how you and your friends will get to the resort. If you’re driving, organize a carpool to save on gas and parking fees. The snow conditions this year mean the hills are packed - and parking limited. Make sure all vehicles are winter-ready with snow tires or chains. If the resort is farther away, look into bus services or ski shuttles that operate in your area. If your group is large, consider renting your own bus to get everyone and their equipment to the slopes without the hassle of driving.

3. Purchase Lift Tickets in Advance

Most ski resorts offer discounts for purchasing lift tickets online ahead of time. This not only saves money, but also helps avoid long lines at the ticket counter. If any members of your group are first-time skiers, check for beginner packages that include rentals and lessons.

4. Plan Your Gear!

Having the right gear is crucial for a great ski day. If you own your equipment, make sure your skis or snowboard are waxed and bindings are properly adjusted. If you need to rent gear, reserve it online in advance to ensure availability. Essential items include:

• Skis or snowboard and bindings

• Boots

• Poles (if skiing)

• Helmet and goggles

• Warm, moisture-wicking clothing (base layers, insulated jacket, snow pants, gloves)

• Neck gaiter or balaclava for added warmth

• Sunscreen and lip balm (sun reflects off the snow and can cause unexpected burns!)

5. Plan the Day’s Schedule

Setting a rough itinerary helps keep everyone on the same page. Decide on an early start time to maximize your day on the slopes. Coordinate meet-up points in case anyone gets separated. Plan for lunch breaks and discuss whether you’ll dine at the resort or pack a picnic. Just like a potluck, each person can be responsible for something specific to share the load, including food, snacks and beverages.

6. Safety First!

Safety is paramount when skiing with a group. Make sure everyone understands basic slope etiquette, such as yielding to skiers ahead and avoiding stopping in the middle of trails. Exchange phone numbers and consider using walkie-talkies in case of poor cell reception. If someone is new to skiing or snowboarding, encourage them to take a lesson rather than attempting difficult runs on their own.

7. Capture the Memories

A ski trip with friends is a perfect opportunity to create lasting memories. Bring a GoPro or smartphone to capture the action, but be mindful of keeping your phone warm to preserve battery life. Take group photos at scenic spots and record funny moments from the day.

8. Plan Après-Ski Activities

Part of the fun of a full day of skiing is the time it ends and everyone heads inside. After a full day on the slopes, wind down with some après-ski fun! Many ski resorts have cozy lodges with fireplaces where you can relax with a warm drink. If you're staying overnight, consider visiting a nearby town for a nice dinner or enjoying a hot tub session to soothe sore muscles. Especially with a large group, make dinner reservations well ahead of time to avoid the disappointment of a full restaurant.

9. Check the Weather and Conditions

A few days before your trip, monitor the weather forecast and snow conditions. Knowing the expected temperature and snowfall helps with layering your clothing appropriately. If conditions look unsafe due to storms or icy conditions, be flexible with your plans and consider rescheduling. This year, the weather had been unpredictable, and squalls have led to terrible driving conditions and towns that completely shut down.

10. Have Fun and Be Flexible

The most important part of a ski day with friends is to have a great time! Things might not always go according to plan—someone may forget gear, take a wrong turn on the slopes, or get tired early. Stay flexible, keep a positive attitude, and make the most of your time together.

With thoughtful planning and a spirit of adventure, a ski day with friends can be an unforgettable experience. So, gather your gear, coordinate with your group, and hit the slopes for a day of winter fun!