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Terrain Park Safety at Ski Hills
Hitting the slopes at your favourite ski hill can be exhilarating, but ensuring a safe experience for you and your family is just as important as carving the perfect line. Whether you're navigating moguls, exploring terrain parks, or simply enjoying the fresh mountain air, safety is key. Let's explore some essential tips for staying safe and making the most of your mountain adventure.
Thinking of trying out the terrain park at your local ski hill? It’s an exciting challenge, but it comes with its own set of rules to ensure everyone has a fun and safe experience. Before jumping in, consider these helpful tips to prepare yourself and keep those around you safe.
As much as we’d all love to hit the slopes and instantly feel like a pro, skiing and snowboarding take practice and preparation. Start with a few lessons to build your skills and confidence, and spend time cruising the main slopes to get a feel for your equipment and the hill. Remember, safety isn’t just about protecting yourself—it’s about respecting the safety of others too.
When you’re ready to tackle the terrain park, take a moment to observe. Hang out nearby and watch how other skiers and boarders navigate the features. Cheer them on as they go—it’s a great way to support your fellow riders while learning from their technique. A helpful tip is to stay well out of the way, ideally on the edges of the park. Look for untouched corduroy snow, as it indicates areas without traffic. Pay attention to how others stop, their speed, and how they approach jumps and landings. Visualize yourself doing the same things before making your first move.
Gear Up for Safety
Your equipment is your first line of defence against injuries. Make sure your skis, snowboard, bindings, and boots are in excellent condition before heading out. Damaged or poorly adjusted gear can lead to accidents, so take the time to inspect everything. If you're unsure or your equipment needs a tune-up, bring it into Ottawa Valley Air Paddle for professional servicing. We’ll help you glide effortlessly and safely down the slopes.
Remember, helmets are a must—especially in terrain parks. Wearing a snow sport helmet is strongly recommended at all ski hills when tackling features like jumps, rails, and boxes. Protecting your head is a simple but critical step in enjoying your day with peace of mind.
Are you ready to take on the terrain park?
Ask yourself this:
- Are my skills strong enough to control my speed and direction on various terrain?
- Do I feel confident stopping quickly when needed?
- Have I taken the time to watch others in the park to understand the flow and etiquette?
- And most importantly, am I wearing proper protective gear, like a helmet, and using well-maintained equipment?
The mountain is your first terrain park. Before attempting the park’s features, use natural terrain to develop your balance and control. Ski over rollers, practice banked turns in the trees, and experiment with small moguls to make your skiing more dynamic. These skills will help build your confidence and translate seamlessly when you’re ready to hit the terrain park.
Terrain Parks at Calabogie Peaks & Mount Pakenham
These local hills offer a range of exciting terrain parks designed for skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels. Whether you're a beginner testing the waters or a seasoned park enthusiast, knowing and following the rules is crucial.
At Calabogie Peaks, you’ll find three unique park areas:
- Jackladder Rail Park: This intermediate terrain park is packed with jumps and features that challenge your skills.
- Progression Park: Perfect for beginners, this mini park offers small rails and jumps to help you practice and improve.
- Mogul Field: For those looking for a challenge, this bumpy terrain will test your control and balance.
Mount Pakenham boasts a well-maintained park accessible by the Polar Quad Chairlift, with features spread across trails like The Loop and Lower Porcupine. These parks cater to a range of abilities, but it’s important to assess your skill level and pick features accordingly.
Follow the SMART Style Code
Both resorts adhere to the Smart Style Freestyle Terrain Safety Program, which outlines five essential rules:
The Smart Style code is a set of safety and etiquette guidelines for riding in terrain parks:
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Start small: Work your way up and build your skills.
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Make a plan: Plan for each feature you want to use.
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Always look: Look around the jumps before you drop.
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Respect: Respect the features and other users.
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Take it easy: Know your limits and land on your feet.
The Smart Style Safety Program is a terrain park safety initiative that began in 2001. The program's goal is to educate riders about freestyle terrain safety.
Stay in Control
On or off the terrain park, always stay in control of your speed and movements. Whether you’re tackling moguls or gliding through groomed runs, maintaining control ensures the safety of yourself and others.
Remember to follow the Alpine Responsibility Code:
- Always stay in control. You must be able to stop or avoid people or objects.
- People ahead or downhill of you have the right-of-way. You must avoid them.
- Stop only where you are visible from above and do not restrict traffic.
- Look uphill and avoid others before starting downhill or entering a trail.
- You must prevent runaway equipment.
- Read and obey all signs, warnings and hazard markings.
- Keep off closed trails and out of closed areas.
- You must know how and be able to load, ride and unload lifts safely. If you need assistance, ask the lift attendant.
- Do not use lifts or terrain when impaired by alcohol or drugs.
- If you are involved in a collision or incident, share your contact information with each other and a ski area employee.
Know the Code - It is your responsibility!
Other important rules of thumb:
A Final Word on Fun and Safety
Skiing and snowboarding are thrilling ways to embrace winter, but safety should always be your top priority. Before heading out, double-check your gear, warm up, and familiarize yourself with the terrain. If you’re looking for a reliable partner to keep your skis or snowboard in peak condition, stop by Ottawa Valley Air Paddle. We’re here to ensure your adventures are as safe as they are fun.
Now, grab your gear, head to the hill, and enjoy everything our local hills have to offer. See you on the slopes!
