Even heading to the ski slopes this winter won’t be as simple and carefree as those seeking fun and adventure have grown accustomed to over the years, with the Michigan ski industry urging everyone thinking of strapping on their ski boots to “Know Before You Go.”
Saying that without a doubt, 2020 has been a year of change, the Michigan ski industry is working overtime now preparing to deal with the safety of guests and staff during a pandemic, which is a top priority of ski areas across Michigan as they begin to open.
Indoor restrictions, face covering rules, new take-and-go dining options, new lift queue configurations, and social distancing rules are some of the changes that guests will find at ski areas across the state. This season, the Michigan Snowsports Industries Association (MSIA) is urging skiers and riders to “Know before you go,” by checking the website of the ski area you are planning to visit to familiarize yourself with their COVID-19 protocol.
Steve Kershner, MSIA Chairman and Director of Snow Sports at Shanty Creek Resort, says, “Some ski areas are going to contactless lift ticket sales, others are bringing in food trucks for outdoor dining, changing the rental department around to aid in social distancing and limiting class sizes for ski and snowboard lessons.”
One rule that is consistent across all Michigan ski areas is the requirement to wear CDC-recommended face coverings, indoors and outdoors when 6 feet of physical distance cannot be maintained. That includes the base lodge staging area, shuttles, lift lines, while loading and riding a lift, entering an indoor facility or anywhere else where distancing is difficult.
Kershner cautions, “The important thing to remember is that we are doing this for the well-being of our guests and our staff. We want everyone to be able to head out and enjoy the slopes safely.”
Mickey MacWilliams, President and Executive Director of MSIA says that the association’s website, http://goskimichigan.org, now has a COVID-19 information page with links to each Michigan ski area’s COVID-19 policies. MacWilliams says, “This makes it easy for skiers and riders to check out the particulars at any ski area that they plan to head to and come prepared.” She adds that the site offers some general guidelines that are relevant no matter which ski area you visit. Tips include:
- Making sure the whole family has face coverings. Face coverings are required indoors and out, when social distancing cannot be achieved. NO EXCEPTIONS, PERIOD! Ski areas are requiring this for the safety of staff and customers. It is mandatory.
- Dress for the weather! Indoor access is limited.
- Plan a trip to the slopes during off-peak times if possible.
- Please be patient and kind! Ski areas and guests will get through this together if the rules are observed
- Have fun, stay safe…Ski Well, Be Well!
