Steamboat's SlopeWise strategic initiative focuses on the company-wide
strategic initiative of safe and responsible skiing and riding through awareness,
education and consequences for unsafe conduct on the mountain.
Steamboat's team has always placed a major emphasis on safety on the slopes,
however we know more can always be accomplished. The resort unveiled its
SlopeWise program to incredible support from all levels of the resort and
community. The program has gained significant momentum and continues to
dramatically shape safe skiing and riding at Steamboat.
On behalf of the entire company, I trust you will safely and responsibly enjoy
this great mountain, understand the risks associated with the sport as well as your
responsibility; wish you lots of Champagne Powder® snow and thank you for
visiting Steamboat.
Always Ski & Ride with Care & Be SlopeWise

Chris Diamond
President & COO
Recreation on this public land is provided by a unique partnership between the Steamboat Ski & Resort
Corporation and the Routt/Medicine Bow National Forest. The resort is committed to the wise use of our
natural resources, as well as the preservation and enhancement of the National Forest. The resort hopes you
will join in its commitment to preserve the environment by helping keep National Forest lands beautiful.
SlopeWise Code
Steamboat is committed to promoting skier/rider safety and has established the SlopeWise and ParkWise Programs. Under these programs, all skiers/riders must be responsible, treat each other with respect, be considerate, and know and comply with the Colorado Ski Safety Act, Your Responsibility Code, Colorado law, and the SlopeWise and ParkWise Programs.
SLOPEWISE CODE OF CONDUCT
Steamboat reserves the right to terminate privileges on a first offence if it determines, in its sole discretion, that such action is appropriate. Especially egregious behavior could mean that an individual is banned from the slopes for up to two years or more. It is the individual's responsibility to understand, and adhere to all rules, laws or regulations of the resort, city, county and state. See below
The following will not be tolerated:
- Fast and/or reckless skiing/riding.
- Refusal to show and/or relinquish your pass to a mountain employee when requested.
- Violent behavior, or abusive, foul or threatening language.
- Skiing/riding in a closed area. It is your responsibility to know what trails or slopes are open and closed. Skiing/riding in a closed area is illegal and you may be prosecuted and fined up to $1,000.
- Going over or under a rope or past another closure indicator is also illegal and you may be fined up to $1,000.
- Riding a lift or skiing/riding while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Actions or behaviors that in our judgment may endanger your safety or the safety of others.
- Violating the law, including the Colorado Ski Safety Act.
COLORADO SKI SAFETY ACT
The Colorado legislature established as a matter of law that certain dangers and risks are inherent in the sport of skiing.
WARNING
Under Colorado law, a skier assumes the risk of any injury to person or property resulting from any of the inherent dangers and risks of skiing and may not recover from any ski area operator for any injury resulting from any of the inherent dangers and risks of skiing, including: Changing weather conditions; existing and changing snow conditions; bare spots; rocks; stumps; trees; collisions with natural objects; man-made objects; or other skiers; variations in terrain; and the failure of skiers to ski within their own abilities. The Ski Safety Act includes cliffs, extreme terrain, jumps and freestyle terrain as inherent dangers and risks of the sport.
YOUR RESPONSIBILITY CODE
- 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 prevent runaway equipment.
- Observe all posted signs and warnings. Keep off closed trails and out of closed areas.
- Prior to using any lift, you must have the knowledge and ability to load, ride and unload safely.
This is a partial list. It is designed for your own protection and endorsed by the National Ski Areas Association, National Ski Patrol, Professional Ski Instructors of America and American Association of Snowboard Instructors. Avoid all obstacles. Fencing, poles, padding and other markings are intended to alert you to certain hazards, not to protect you from injury. Steamboat management reserves the right to refuse access to the mountain to any person with equipment other than conventional alpine skis, telemark skis, snowboards or adaptive ski equipment.
IN CASE OF INJURY
- If someone is injured, cross skis or place a snowboard securely in the snow above the accident.
- Call Patrol 970.871.5911. If emergency call 911.
- Patrol will ask for the number of the phone from which you are calling, the exact location of injury, the description of the injured person and nature of the injury.
- Remain calm
CAUTION
Grooming equipment, snowmobiles, snowmaking equipment, and other vehicles may be encountered at any time. While rare both inside and outside of the posted ski area boundary, avalanches may occur at any time without warning. Become educated on how to reduce the risks through your own actions and awareness. Visit www.avalanche.org or contact the Steamboat Patrol.
COLLISIONS
Colorado Law requires that you give your name to a resort employee before you leave the vicinity if you are involved in a collision resulting in an injury. Witnesses are also encouraged to contact a resort employee.
ELECTRONIC DEVICES
Steamboat discourages the use of electronic devices (cell phones, music players or earphones) while skiing/riding, or loading or unloading lifts.
EMERGENCY MEDICAL CARE
Yampa Valley Medical Center (970.879.1322) provides emergency care 24 hours a day.
HELMET USAGE
Steamboat recommends wearing helmets for skiing and riding. Skiers and snowboarders are encouraged to educate themselves on the benefits and limitations of helmet usage. The primary safety consideration, and obligation under Your Responsibility Code, is to ski and ride in a controlled and responsible manner.
HIGH ALTITUDE ENVIRONMENT
- Always wear sunscreen, sunglasses and hat or helmet, even on cloudy days.
- Wear proper clothing to protect against frostbite.
- Keep hydrated, drink plenty of fluids.
- Some visitors may experience symptoms associated with Steamboat's high altitude. Symptoms may include headaches, nausea, loss of appetite, restless sleep, coughing and difficulty in breathing. If symptoms persist or if you have concern about your health, you should seek medical attention.
- Be Alert for wildlife.
TREE WELLS/DEEP SNOW
Steamboat has earned a world-wide reputation for its tree skiing/riding and signature Champagne Powder™ snow. Skiing or riding in tree areas and deep snow is an individual choice and carries with it inherent risks. A fall into deep snow or a tree well can be suffocating and fatal.
- Be aware of deep snow conditions, tree wells and other natural and manmade obstacles. Do not ski/ride too close to trees in deep or windblown snow conditions.
- If skiing/riding in deep snow or near trees, stay with a partner and remain in visual contact.
- Stay close enough to either pull or dig out your partner.
- If your partner becomes immersed, first try to clear an airway, then call Patrol, 970.871.5911.
- For further information visit www.treewelldeepsnowsafety.com and http://avalanche.state.co.us/index.php.
BACKCOUNTRY WARNING
Areas beyond the ski area boundary are not patrolled or maintained; avalanche and other hazards exist. Access to public lands outside the boundary is provided through marked access points. Steamboat Ski & Resort Corporation assumes no responsibility for the safety and welfare of skiers going beyond the ski area boundary. Rescue in the backcountry is the responsibility of the Routt County Sheriff's Office. If available, rescue is costly and may be very slow.
BE AWARE, SKI/RIDE WITH CARE
BE SLOPE AND PARK WISE
ParkWise
EMERGENCY PHONE NUMBER: 911 or 970-871-5911
EMERGENCY MESAGE BOARDS: Located at the top of every lift.
SKI PATROL: If someone is injured, cross skis or place a snowboard securely in the snow above the accident and send someone to call the Patrol. The type of injury and location are helpful information. There are emergency phones located at all lifts, on several trails, and at on-mountain restaurants. (See
map)
EMERGENCY MEDICAL CARE: Yampa Valley Medical Center (970-879-1322) provides emergency care 24 hours a day.
Steamboat is committed to promoting skier/rider safety and has established the SlopeWise and ParkWise Programs. Under these programs, all skiers/riders must be responsible, treat each other with respect, be considerate, and know and comply with the Colorado Ski Safety Act, Your Responsibility Code, Colorado law, and the SlopeWise and ParkWise Programs.
- Read the Signs - Signs at Freestyle Terrain have important information, rules and regulations for use of the Terrain and are meant to be read and understood.
- Look Before You Leap - You are responsible for inspecting Freestyle Terrain before initial use and throughout the day. Know landings are clear and clear yourself from landing areas.
- Easy Style It - Always ski/ride in control and within ability level. Start small and work your way up. (Inverted aerials prohibited)
- Respect Gets Respect - Respect Freestyle Terrain and others. Respect all signs and do not enter Freestyle Terrain or use features when closed.
COLORADO SKI SAFETY ACT
The Colorado legislature established as a matter of law that certain dangers and risks are inherent in the sport of skiing.
WARNING
Under Colorado law, a skier assumes the risk of any injury to person or property resulting from any of the inherent dangers and risks of skiing and may not recover from any ski area operator for any injury resulting from any of the inherent dangers and risks of skiing, including: Changing weather conditions; existing and changing snow conditions; bare spots; rocks; stumps; trees; collisions with natural objects; man-made objects; or other skiers; variations in terrain; and the failure of skiers to ski within their own abilities. The Ski Safety Act includes cliffs, extreme terrain, jumps and freestyle terrain as inherent dangers and risks of the sport.
IN CASE OF IN JURY
- If someone is injured, cross skis or place a snowboard securely in the snow above the accident.
- Call Patrol 970.871.5911. If emergency call 911.
- Patrol will ask for the number of the phone from which you are calling, the exact location of injury, the description of the injured person and nature of the injury.
- Remain calm
CAUTION
Grooming equipment, snowmobiles, snowmaking equipment, and other vehicles may be encountered at any time. While rare both inside and outside of the posted ski area boundary, avalanches may occur at any time without warning. Become educated on how to reduce the risks through your own actions and awareness. Visit www.avalanche.org or contact the Steamboat Patrol.
COLLISIONS
Colorado Law requires that you give your name to a resort employee before you leave the vicinity if you are involved in a collision resulting in an injury. Witnesses are also encouraged to contact a resort employee.
ELECTRONIC DEVICES
Steamboat discourages the use of electronic devices (cell phones, music players or earphones) while skiing/riding, or loading or unloading lifts.
EMERGENCY MEDICAL CARE
Yampa Valley Medical Center (970.879.1322) provides emergency care 24 hours a day.
HELMET USE
Steamboat encourages guests to educate themselves on the benefits and limitations of winter sports helmets. Helmets can make a difference in reducing or preventing some (but not all) head injuries. Make sure your helmet is properly fitted, in working order and has not been damaged. Remember that wearing a helmet does not make you invulnerable and you must at all times ski/ride responsibly and within your ability.
HIGH ALTITUDE ENVIRONMENT
- Always wear sunscreen, sunglasses and hat or helmet, even on cloudy days.
- Wear proper clothing to protect against frostbite.
- Keep hydrated, drink plenty of fluids.
- Some visitors may experience symptoms associated with Steamboat's high altitude. Symptoms may include headaches, nausea, loss of appetite, restless sleep, coughing and difficulty in breathing. If symptoms persist or if you have concern about your health, you should seek medical attention.
- Be Alert for wildlife.
TREE WELLS/DEEP SNOW
Steamboat has earned a world-wide reputation for its tree skiing/riding and signature Champagne Powder™ snow. Skiing or riding in tree areas and deep snow is an individual choice and carries with it inherent risks. A fall into deep snow or a tree well can be suffocating and fatal.
- Be aware of deep snow conditions, tree wells and other natural and manmade obstacles. Do not ski/ride too close to trees in deep or windblown snow conditions.
- If skiing/riding in deep snow or near trees, stay with a partner and remain in visual contact.
- Stay close enough to either pull or dig out your partner.
- If your partner becomes immersed, first try to clear an airway, then call Patrol, 970.871.5911.
- For further information visit www.treewelldeepsnowsafety.com and http://avalanche.state.co.us/index.php.
BACKCOUNTRY WARNING
Areas beyond the ski area boundary are not patrolled or maintained; avalanche and other hazards exist. Access to public lands outside the boundary is provided through marked access points. Steamboat Ski & Resort Corporation assumes no responsibility for the safety and welfare of skiers going beyond the ski area boundary. Rescue in the backcountry is the responsibility of the Routt County Sheriff's Office. If available, rescue is costly and may be very slow.
BE AWARE, SKI/RIDE WITH CARE
BE SLOPE AND PARK WISE
Patrol/AEDs
STEAMBOAT PATROL
The Patrol is here for your benefit and its members have been trained in
emergency and life saving medical procedures. You will see these individuals out
on the mountain administering medical assistance, enforcing the safety code,
educating and conducting speed control. If someone is injured, cross skis in the
snow above the accident and send someone to call patrol. There are emergency
phones located at all lifts, on several trails and at on-mountain restaurants.
The type of injury and location are helpful information to speed response.
970-871-5911
Steamboat and its staff are committed to the safety and comfort of guests.
"On-mountain safety is taken very seriously at Steamboat," said John Kohnke, ski
patrol director for Steamboat. "The resort is prepared for nearly every medical
situation that might arise with portable AED units as well as the staff's
extensive medical experience and the on-mountain volunteer network of local
emergency doctors and paramedics/ambulance personnel who donated time and skills
throughout the winter season."
AED EQUIPMENT
Having already been credited with saving the lives of several individuals, the
resort utilizes several automated external defibrillator (AED) units, which are
capable of viewing and recording cardiac rhythms as well as administering
life-saving cardiac shocks. The resort first purchased an AED Life Pak 300
during the 1992/93 season. Currently, the resort employs fourteen AED units in
its cache.
Thunderhead Building
Top of the Steamboat Gondola |
- Third floor Thunderhead Food Court
- First Floor Hazie's entrance
- Patrol Mountain Dispatch
|
Rendezvous Saddle Building
In the saddle of High Noon |
- First Floor across from Accessory Shop
- Second Floor by the Bussing Station
- Third Floor outside Men's Room
|
Base Area
Gondola Square |
|
Four Points Hut
Top of Four Points Lift |
|
Fetcher Patrol Base
Base of Ski Area |
|
Patrol HQ
Top of Sundown Express Lift |
|
Steamboat Grand Hotel
|
- Behind the Front Desk at the Hotel
|
DOCTORS & PARAMEDICS
Celebrating its 25th Anniversary, seven local physicians and another five local
paramedics exchange being on-call on the slopes through the resort's
mountain/ski patrol radio network for free skiing privileges. Steamboat's
program of putting local doctors and paramedics on the mountain is 25 years old.
Dr. David Wilkinson, who serves as Medical Director for the Advanced Life
Support program at Steamboat Ski Area, says at least one physician or paramedic
is on the hill "almost 100 percent of the time." Wilkinson said the system works
well because skilled medical people can administer advance life support
techniques right on the slopes, when minutes count. In addition, the Yampa
Valley Medical Center Emergency Doctors monitor radio traffic on this channel
and are available for immediate consultation and can monitor the patient's
condition prior to arriving at the ER. The state-of-the-art Yampa Valley Medical
Center is just a quarter mile from the slopes. Steamboat is one of the few
resorts in the country that has a program such as this.
PATROLLERS OF THE YEAR
Steamboat patrollers have been recognized three times as the Colorado Ski Country
USA Patroller of the Year since the program began. These individuals set the
highest standard as a patroller and continually raise the bar for guest
relations, responsibility and commitment among the Steamboat patrol staff.
Cody St. John 2005/2006
Scott Halliday 1999/2000
Wes Richey 1990/1991
Safety Hint: Program Patrol's telephone number 970.871.5911 into your
cell phone for emergencies.
YAMPA VALLEY MEDICAL CENTER
Opened in November 1999, The YVMC ushered in a new era in healthcare for
northwest Colorado. This 29-bed, outpatient-centered hospital offers high-tech
care with a personal touch, including 24-hour emergency care, surgery, maternity
suites with whirlpool baths, a full range of diagnostic imaging and laboratory
services, plus physical therapy, cardiac rehab and SportsMed. The YVMC is also
designated as a Level III Trauma Center and has a Level II Nursery for critical
care of newborns. YVMC is a community hospital, located less than a ½-mile from
the ski area, operated by the not-for-profit, Steamboat Springs Health Care
Association. www.yvmc.org
Safety Hint: Becoming AED & CPR Trained is simple and easy.
STEAMBOAT SAFETY POSTER CONTEST
Hayden Valley Elementary, Lowell Whiteman Primary, SOROCO Elementary, Strawberry
Park Elementary, Soda Creek Elementary, North Routt Community Charter School and
Christian Heritage School all participated in the ski area's 8th annual safety
poster program. Students submitted a poster depicting their favorite aspect of
on-mountain safety or the responsibility code. The primary goal of the program
is to generate awareness of skiing and riding in a safe manner to children while
making the learning,process fun. All 23 winning entries from the Steamboat
contest were entered into the National Ski Areas Association's national safety
poster contest.
2007 NATIONAL SAFETY POSTER CONTEST
Alice Holmquist, Soda Creek Elementary, took top honors in The National Ski Areas
Association (NSAA) Annual Kid's Safety Poster Contest in May 2007 (see right).
The contest called for children to create a poster related to any one of the
seven points in “Your Responsibility Code.†Overall, more than 300 posters were
received from ski areas representing 17 states for the national contest.
Holmquist is the third Steamboat Springs student to win the contest, joining
Devin Wilkinson (2004) and Daniel Bockelman (2001).
Deep Snow & Tree Wells
Steamboat has earned a world-wide reputation for its tree skiing/riding and signature Champagne Powder™ snow. Skiing or riding in tree areas and deep snow is an individual choice and carries with it inherent risks. A fall into deep snow or a tree well can be suffocating and fatal.
- Be aware of deep snow conditions, tree wells and other natural and manmade obstacles. Do not ski/ride too close to trees in deep or windblown snow conditions.
- If skiing/riding in deep snow or near trees, stay with a partner and remain in visual contact.
- Stay close enough to either pull or dig out your partner.
- If your partner becomes immersed, first try to clear an airway, then call Patrol, 970.871.5911.
- For further information visit www.treewelldeepsnowsafety.com and http://avalanche.state.co.us/index.php.
What Is A Tree Well?
First of all, trees are an important and integral part of the natural mountain environment and exist across ski areas,
predominantly in the ungroomed areas of the resort. A tree well is an unstable hole or depression that forms around the
base of a tree when low branches prevent snow from filling in and creating snowpack around the trunk.
How Do I Know If A Tree Well Exists?
Usually there is no easy way to identify if a particular tree has a tree well by sight, because the branches often block
visibility of what hole may exist. Individuals should assume that a tree well accompanies every tree.
What's The Difference Between Aspen And Evergreens?
The biggest difference is that Aspen typically don't have low-lying branches, which can hide tree wells and help them
form like what you see with Evergreen trees.
How Do I Prevent From Falling Into Tree Well:
Fortunately, the risk of falling into a tree well is completely avoidable and preventable:
Precautions include but are not limited to:
- Avoid skiing/riding too close to trees, particularly evergreens, in deep snow or after heavy snowstorms
- Assume all trees have a potentially hazardous tree well
- Do not ski/ride alone
- Keep one's partner in sight
- Be aware of your surroundings
Are Tree Well Accidents More Likely to Occur In Morningside Park?
Absolutely not, no matter where you ski/ride on the mountain, individuals should understand tree skiing is not groomed
and hazards may exist at any time during the season.
Are Tree Wells The Only Snow Element I Need To Worry About?
No, individuals should be aware of encountering deep, ungroomed snow at any time on the mountain. Skier/riders should
pay particular attention after heavy snowfalls.
What Do I Do If Someone Falls Into Deep Snow/Tree Well And Can't Get Out?
- Be aware of deep snow conditions, tree wells and other natural and manmade obstacles
- If skiing or riding in deep snow or near trees, stay with a partner and remain in visual contact
- Stay close enough to either pull or dig out your partner
- If your partner becomes immersed, first try to clear an airway, then call for help (Patrol 970.871.5911)
I Heard There Are No Friends on a Powder Day!
The old adage ‘there are no friends on a powder day', couldn't be further from the truth. Always ski/ride with others and remember deep snow conditions, tree wells and other natural and manmade obstacles may be encountered at any time, anywhere on the mountain.
How Do I Reach Patrol?
Steamboat Patrol Dispatch may be reached via phone at 970.871.5911 or by most resort employees via mountain radio.
Safety Hint: Never Ski or Ride alone, always go with a buddy.

COLORADO AVALANCHE INFORMATION CENTER
Current Avalanche Conditions can be found at
http://avalanche.state.co.us/Forecasts/Steamboat/
Mountain
MOUNTAIN ENVIRONMENT
Altitude:
Steamboat is located 6,900 feet (2,103 meters) above sea level and rises to more than 10,000 feet (3,220
meters). Some guests may experience a headache, touch of nausea, fatigue or shortness of breath. These are symptoms of
altitude illness and generally disappear within 48 hours. Altitude illness is almost totally preventable and can be
significantly minimized by following these simple guidelines-exercise in moderation the first few days; drink more water
than usual; reduce alcohol intake, which has a greater effect at this altitude; eat food high in carbohydrates: grains, pasta,fruits and vegetables; and, avoid salty foods.
Altitude illness is usually a minor problem; however, if symptoms persist or if you have concern about your health, you
should seek medical attention.
The Yampa Valley Medical Center (970-879-1322) provides care 24 hours a day including emergency services, labs,
respiratory therapy, family practice, sports medicine and more. www.yvmc.org
Clothing:
Staying warm and comfortable on the slopes is easy. The best clothing choice is water-resistant, layered
clothing which can be removed or added with weather changes. If your clothes are not water-resistant, a water-repellent
spray can be applied. Also, ultraviolet rays are more powerful at Steamboat's elevation. A good pair of goggles or
sunglasses that not only cut glare but also filter the ultraviolet rays is strongly recommended.
Ultraviolet Rays:
Regardless of your skin color or complexion, everyone needs to wear a protective sunscreen even on
overcast days when ultraviolet rays can penetrate cloud cover. Remember, Steamboat's weather can change day-to-day or
even hour-to-hour, so be prepared for any type of weather condition.
COLLISIONS & CLOSURES
Collisions:
Colorado Law requires that you give your name to a resort employee before you leave the vicinity if you are involved in a collision resulting in an injury. Witnesses are also encouraged to contact a resort employee.
Closures:
It is your responsibility to know what runs are open and closed. Skiing or riding on a closed run is also illegal and you could be fined up to $1,000. A closure may consist as simply as just a closed sign or could be a mixture of signage, ropes, or other material.
LIFT INFORMATION & EMERGENCY MESSAGES
If unfamiliar with the lift or wish the lift slowed or stopped, please notify the operator for assistance. Never jump from a lift. If your lift stops for a prolonged period, remain seated; you will be contacted by the patrol. Opening & closing times are subject to change without notice.
| Bar-UE |
Double Chairlift |
1,380' |
9:00 min |
| Bashor |
Double Chairlift |
315' |
3:00 min |
| Burgess Creek |
Triple Chairlift |
950' |
7:00 min |
| Christie Peak Express |
Six-Person Chair |
1,030' |
4:45 min |
| Christie III |
Triple Chairlift |
1,037' |
7:30 min |
| Elkhead |
Quad Chairlift |
710' |
6:00 min |
| Four Points |
Triple Chairlift |
1,366' |
7:30 min |
| Gondola |
High-Speed 8-passenger |
2,200' |
9:00 min |
| MorningSide |
Triple Chairlift |
542' |
6:00 min |
Priest Creek
(limited backup use only) |
Double Chairlift |
1,853' |
10:30 min |
| Pony Express |
High-Speed Quad |
1,657' |
5:20 min |
| Preview |
Double Chairlift |
60' |
2:00 min |
| Rough Rider |
Surface Lift |
140' |
3:00 min |
| South Peak |
Triple Chairlift |
340' |
4:00 min |
| Storm Peak Express |
High-Speed Quad |
2,160' |
7:00 min |
| Sundown Express |
High-Speed Quad |
1,936' |
5:30 min |
| Sunshine Express |
High-Speed Quad |
1,300' |
5:30 min |
| Thunderhead Express |
High-Speed Quad |
1,638' |
5:30 min |
Note:
--All lifts will operate when rider traffic demand and openings/closing times are subject to change without notice.
--Spring lift hours for the 2009/10 season go into effect in March
EMERGENCY & KIDS' MESSAGES
Emergency message boards are provided at the top and bottom of all lifts. These boards provide a link to guests should
something happen, such as a lost child or accident, and require an immediate response. The board will inform you where
to call for further details. If you have kids in a clinic or on their own, it is a good idea to check the board each time you ride the lift. To send an emergency message, contact the patrol at 970-871-5911.
HELMET USAGE
Steamboat recommends wearing helmets for skiing and riding. Skiers and snowboarders are encouraged to educate themselves on the benefits and limitations of helmet usage. The primary safety consideration, and obligation under Your Responsibility Code, is to ski and ride in a controlled and responsible manner.
Helmets are available for purchase and rental at many locations including Steamboat Ski & Sport and the Kids' Vacation Center. Steamboat supports the National Ski Areas Association's Lids on Kids initiative:
www.lidsonkids.org
SKI AREA BOUNDARY/BACKCOUNTRY ACCESS
Areas beyond the ski area boundary are not patrolled or maintained; avalanche and other hazards exist. Access to public lands outside the boundary is provided through marked access points. Steamboat Ski & Resort Corporation assumes no responsibility for the safety and welfare of skiers going beyond the ski area boundary. Rescue in the backcountry is the responsibility of the Routt County Sheriff's Office. If available, rescue is costly and may be very slow.
The resort strongly urges those venturing into the backcountry to know your limits and to be prepared for any set ofcircumstances.
Backcountry terrain is rugged and has not had any sort of preventative avalanche control work performed. This risk, along with the other hazards - large cliffs, obstacles, changing snow conditions, tree wells, etc. - requires respect, knowledge and preparation. Before heading into the backcountry-be prepared & let someone know where you are going and when you should be back.
10 must have items for backcountry travel
- Backcountry shovel,
- Avalanche probe (extended),
- Backpack,
- Avalanche probe (folded),
- Extra dry gloves and a flashlight,
- Water,
- First aid kit,
- Avalanche transceiver,
- Extra dry hat,
- Food that is high in energy
Should you need help, rescue in the backcountry is
coordinated through the Routt County Sheriff's Office and
may be costly and very slow.
You should realize that your actions affect not just yourself, but also every other member of your party and potentially any other winter enthusiast who may be required to help in the case of an accident. If you feel something is above your ability level, it is your responsibility to make the wise judgment and inform your group.