Advice

Preparing for the Snow

Always check the weather and dress accordingly. Bring a good pair of gloves and a warm toque or helmet. Dress in Layers: Wear warm, loose fitting clothing and dress in layers. When you are inside, you will want to shed a layer or two. Many new fabrics on the market are specially made for cold weather and the friendly staff at McMaster Sports inside the chalet can help you if you are looking for winter gear. Woolen sweaters, turtlenecks, a warm hat and insulated gloves or mittens are essentials, along with waterproof outer garments, both top and bottom.

Food for Thought: Chicopee offers a variety of food options. If you want to beat the rush on your day at the slopes, arrive early and enjoy breakfast before embarking on your ski adventures. You will be exercising, stay hydrated and be sure to fuel up before you do so. Also, take a break when you feel tired and enjoy a hot beverage and a snack to keep your energy level up.

What to Bring

Don’t be misled by the many photographs in holiday brochures of sun and blue skies above the ski hill. When you are at the top of the hill or on the chairlift it can get very, very cold!! For this reason you need to wrap up very well to ensure that you are comfortable while skiing, and also to make sure you are not making yourself more susceptible to injury by allowing muscles and joints to be colder than they need to.

Start with your underwear: You need good thermal underwear which covers as much of your body as you are comfortable with. It is worth investing in some high quality ‘long johns’ which will not itch you or make you uncomfortable.

Add Layers: Once you have your baseline warmth taken care of, then add layers to ensure that you not only have layers of fabric protecting you, but also layers of warm air. Thermal t-shirts are a good idea as well as a good pair of thick thermal or specialized ski socks.

Waterproof Pants: Next on the list is either a good pair of warm water proof pants in a fabric such as neoprene and a jacket of similar composition or an all-in-one thermal waterproof ski suit.

Gloves and Hats: The final touches are some warm, waterproof and durable gloves and a warm woolly hat which should cover as much of your head as possible. Don’t forget the majority of body heat is lost through the head. Tubular elastic neck warmers are also good as they cover up anywhere not already protected by the jacket collar or the hat. Scarves are not recommended. If you can remain warm and comfortable while you are skiing through the use of appropriate ski wear, then you are a long way towards making the most of your ski day.

Checklist

1. Hat - You loose 90% of your body heat through your head; buy a warm hat and wear it.
2. Mitts - Gloves or mittens should always be worn no matter what the temperature is. (It’s never a bad idea to bring a backup pair of gloves.)_
3. Neck-Warmer - A fleece neck warmer is a great little investment in warmth and comfort.
4. Water-Proof Pants - Don’t wear blue jeans - They provide absolutely no warmth and get wet very easily.
5. Sunglasses or Goggles -The sun reflecting off the snow can make visibility tough.
6. Sunscreen!

On the Slopes!

The Alpine Responsibility Code: Courtesy is as essential at a busy ski area as it is any place people congregate. Also, there are elements of risk in skiing that common sense and personal awareness can help reduce. Please observe The Alpine Responsibility Code to enhance your enjoyment on the slopes this winter. Copies are posted throughout the grounds and chalet.

- Always stay in control.
- People ahead of you have the right of way.
- Stop in a safe place where others can see you and out of the flow of ski traffic.
- Whenever starting downhill or merging from one trail to another, look uphill and yield to oncoming skiers and snowboarders.
- Use devices on your skis to help prevent runaway equipment.
- Observe all signs and warnings and keep off closed trails.
- Know how to use the lifts safely.

Remember: Smile, ask questions, and laugh at your mistakes. It won’t be long before you are up on the mountain reveling in the wonders of winter and giggling like the kid you suddenly feel showing off inside you.

Helpful Safety Tips

- Ski boots are made for skiing. Use caution when walking on hard surfaces.
- When boarding a chair lift, always have your ski poles in your inside hand and in front of you. If you’re unfamiliar with a ski lift, please ask the operator for assistance. Look over your outside shoulder for the oncoming chair.
- If you are separated from friends or family while skiing or snowboarding, arrange a predetermined meeting place or return to the bottom of the hill or the chalet. Two-way radios and cell phones are also a great tool to stay in contact.
- You should always be comfortable with the trail you choose to ski. (First run should always be at a lower level than your expertise).
- We provide signage for your education and safety, please be aware and stay informed.
- When a trail is closed, it’s either for grooming, lack of snow, or other needs…please obey signage, it’s for your safety. Bamboo, caution tape and temporary fencing are used to mark hazards. Please keep a safe distance.
- Always let the skier or snowboarder in front of you know that you are about to pass them.
- Never sit or stand in the middle of a trail. Always move to the side of the trail where you are still visible to other traffic.
- Always be prepared for the unexpected. 
- If you or another in your party are injured the Canadian Ski Patrol is onsite at Chicopee. They are identifiable by their blue & yellow jackets with a maple leaf on the back. Chicopee’s First Aid room is located at the rear of the chalet; follow the signs or ask a staff member for assistance.