Slope safety: Tips to help skiers, snowboarders navigate New Mexico’s ski areas and resorts

Though the slopes and terrain may vary from one resort to another, both seasoned and novice skiers and snowboarders must adhere to some basic guidelines on the mountain.

That begins with the “Your Responsibility Code,” which was initially developed by the National Ski Areas Association in 1962 to help ensure safety for everyone on the slopes. The code has undergone several revisions over the years, most recently increasing from seven points to 10 in 2022.

The first point on this list, “always stay in control” is at the forefront of these guidelines, and that includes all ski areas and resorts in New Mexico. While experienced riders may feel more confident on the mountain, the same rules apply to them.

“Ride and ski responsibly,” said Christiana Hudson, marketing director for Pajarito Mountain and Sipapu Ski & Summer Resort. “And everyone — newbies and seasoned skiers and snowboarders alike — should follow the responsibility code.”

While many of the code’s guidelines are intuitive — “Read and obey all signs, warnings and hazard markings,” for example — others are less obvious.

One example is No. 9, which focuses on avoiding the use of lifts or terrain while impaired by alcohol or drugs. That part might seem like common sense, but the section that follows involving marijuana use is significant. Although marijuana was legalized in New Mexico in 2022, it remains illegal at the federal level. This, the NSAA Code notes, includes “many ski areas located on federal forests, so marijuana is illegal and could involve a federal offense.”

On a more basic level, there are a few steps that beginning skiers and snowboarders can follow to get the most out of their experience. Some areas, such as Sipapu and Pajarito, offer free lessons for first timers, which can help ease the transition to an unfamiliar sport.

“Sliding on snow isn’t something that just comes naturally. A beginner lesson goes a long way to getting comfortable sliding on snow, and understanding how to get on and off a chairlift,” Hudson said.

Apprise ski: Tips to help skiers, snowboarders navigate New Mexico's slopes safely

Understanding the trail rating system will help newcomers know where they should hit the slopes once they are more comfortable. Most ski areas offer a “bunny slope” for beginners, but beyond that, virtually every North American mountain will utilize the same colored trail rating system, ranging from green (beginner) to blue (intermediate) to black (advanced).

“(Novices should) start on the green trails for sure,” Hudson said. “The mountain trails are governed by a grading system for how steep the trail is. Green trails are wide, groomed, with slope grades from 6% to 25%.”

For more experienced riders, overall awareness is key.

“Of course confidence and familiarity with your gear, snow sliding, and terrain will mean often seasoned riders and skiers take their own safety in consideration by looking out for others down the hill, staying in control, and having the ability to stop,” Hudson said.

Proper attire is also essential. At a minimum, it is recommended that a beginner have waterproof ski gear: pants, gloves, socks and moisture-wicking base layers (cotton should be avoided). A waterproof coat is also ideal if it is snowing; otherwise, a warm coat will suffice. Those who are more advanced might seek out items such as heated socks, gloves or snow boots.

“A great day can be ruined by wet gloves and soggy pants,” Hudson said. “Invest in waterproof gear made for skiing, or borrow it from a friend. In the past several years, more inexpensive options (have become) available.”