STEAMBOAT SPRINGS, COLORADO-January 27, 2021-With more people using individual power vs. horsepower to explore Howelsen Hill and Emerald Mountain this winter, Howelsen Hill Ski Area’s Uphill Access Policy helps ensure the only difficulty comes from your work out.
“The number of people utilizing Howelsen Hill for uphill adventures and exercise has increased significantly this season,” said Howelsen Hill Ski Area Manager Brad Setter. “While we do allow and encourage uphill use, there have been some close encounters recently and urge everyone to exercise extreme caution especially around equipment like snowcats and the winch cat and its cable.”
Starting Sunday and running through Feb. 9, the ski area will see increased snowcat activity at all hours as the crew preps and winch the hill for upcoming events. Uphillers should always stay off trails being groomed and well clear of these machines.
During operating hours, uphill access is permitted only on a dedicated route. Day tickets and season passes are not required for uphill access during operating hours. After operating hours, uphill access is allowed on all ski area trails.
Daytime users should follow Lower Hobo Park XC trail to Mile Run; then immediately exit the ski area onto Blackmer Trail. Better yet, to avoid conflicts with downhill skiers, uphillers should park at the Blackmer trailhead instead of the base area.
No matter when you travel uphill understand that:
- Entering closed terrain is prohibited. It’s your responsibility to know what terrain is open/closed.
- Stay away from snowmaking equipment and groomers, especially winch cat operations, where hundreds of feet of heavy metal cable is spread out across the run, either on the snow or at chest/head level. The cable can be very difficult to see, especially at night, and is extremely dangerous.
- Be aware that snowmaking and grooming equipment could be encountered at any time, especially during non-operating hours. Areas with snowmaking or grooming operations are closed to the public.
- Be visible by wearing reflective gear and using headlamps. Also carry a whistle in case the need for assistance arises.
- Leave pets at home. Dogs are not permitted within the ski area boundary.
- Adhere to and obey all posted signs as required by the Colorado Ski Safety Act.
Howelsen Hill Ski Area Uphill Access Policy can be found online at www.steamboatsprings.net/uphill and the ski area’s operating hours are posted at www.steamboatsprings.net/ski.
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Contact
Brad Setter, Howelsen Hill Ski & Rodeo Manager, 970.879.4300 or email
Michael Lane, Communications Manager, 970.871.8220 or email
Emily Hines, Marketing, Communications & Events Coordinator, 970.871.7031 or email