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Safety & Conduct

A person rides the zip line at Snow King Mountain in Jackson Hole, WY.

Snow King Mountain Guest Code of Conduct

Snow King Mountain is a place where local residents and visitors share space comfortably. Snow King’s close proximity to neighbors within the Town means that guests of the resort must be considerate of their behavior by adhering to the following guidelines:

  • Please avoid excessive noise or screaming while on Snow King attractions.
  • Be respectful of other guests and behave in a family-friendly, courteous manner.
  • Obey all safety rules posted and verbal instructions are given.
  • Do not litter, and help us recycle tickets, glass, and plastics.

WINTER SAFETY INFORMATION

Responsibility Code

Snow King Mountain adheres to the National Ski Areas Association responsibility code.
The National Ski Areas Association (NSAA) believes education, helmet use, respect and common sense are critical when cruising down the mountain. NSAA developed Your Responsibility Code to help skiers and boarders be aware of the elements of risk in snowsports that common sense and personal awareness can help reduce.

Ten Points to Your Responsibility Code

  1.  Always stay in control. You must be able to stop or avoid people or objects.
  2.  People ahead or downhill of you have the right-of-way. You must avoid them.
  3.  Stop only where you are visible from above and do not restrict traffic.
  4.  Look uphill and avoid others before starting downhill or entering a trail.
  5.  You must prevent runaway equipment.
  6.  Read and obey all signs, warnings, and hazard markings.
  7.  Keep off closed trails and out of closed areas.
  8.  You must know how and be able to load, ride and unload lifts safely. If you need assistance, ask the lift attendant.
  9.  Do not use lifts or terrain when impaired by alcohol or drugs.
  10.  If you are involved in a collision or incident, share your contact information with each other and a ski area employee.

Winter sports involve risk of serious injury or death. Your knowledge, decisions and actions contribute to your safety and that of others. If you need help understanding the Code, please ask any ski area employee.

KNOW THE CODE: IT’S YOUR RESPONSIBILITY.

Trail Signage

You’ve arrived. You’re geared up and have a lift ticket. Now what?

Go get a trail map at the base lodge or lift-ticket window. Take a few minutes to check it out.

The lifts and the trails are marked on the map. The colored symbols next to the trails are the keys to enjoying your first few days on the slopes. Their shape and color indicate the difficulty of the trail.

Slope

Here’s what they mean:

Green Circle: Easier

Blue Square: More difficult

Black Diamond: Most difficult

Double-Black Diamond: Most difficult, use extra caution

Orange Oval: Freestyle terrain

You’ll find them on trail maps and posted on signs on the mountain. The same trail symbols are used at every resort in the country, but as Albert Einstein must have said, “It’s all relative.”

A Green Circle trail in Jackson Hole, Wyo., might be as tough as a Blue Square at Sunlight, Colo. Not a big deal. The trail ratings are consistent within each resort. So all the “Greens” at a ski area will be about the same difficulty, as will the “Blues” and the “Blacks.”

Before you ride a lift during your first few days, make sure you can handle the trails at the top. Some skiers think they can improve by skiing tough terrain when their skills aren’t up to that level, but that’s a good way to get hurt. Instead, take a lesson. Check your trail map and make sure the trail symbols off of that lift fit your ability.

If you have any questions or need directions, go talk to a lift attendant or anyone in a resort uniform. “What’s the easiest way down?” “Where’s the closest groomed trail?” “What’s the capital of New Guinea?” They want you to have fun nearly as much as you do.

Lids on Kids

NSAA promotes the use of helmets on the slopes. We urge skiers and riders to wear a helmet – but to ski or ride as if they are not wearing a helmet. NSAA views skiing and snowboarding in a controlled and responsible manner – not helmets only – as the primary safety consideration for all skiers and boarders. A skier’s behavior has as much or more to do with the safety of the sport as does any piece of equipment.

In 2002, Lids on Kids http://www.lidsonkids.org/ debuted as a resource for consumers to learn about helmet use in skiing and snowboarding. This site contains FAQs about helmet use, fit and sizing information, general slope safety information, related articles and games and testimonials about helmet use from well-known athletes, including US Ski Team members.

The site has received nearly 2 million hits since it was created. The tagline, “A Helmet-It’s a Smart Idea,” is printed on posters and promotional cards at resorts nationwide.

Objects Are Closer Than They Appear

In 2008-09, NSAA developed the “Objects are Closer Than They Appear” campaign to shine a spotlight on the first tenet of Your Responsibility Code: Always stay in control and be able to stop and avoid other people or objects.

The campaign emphasizes the role that speed plays in staying in control and overtly addresses the risk posed by collisions with trees or other fixed objects on the slopes.

Snow Immersion Suffocation (SIS hazards)

Skiing and snowboarding off the groomed runs and in deep powder is one of the most exciting and appealing parts of our sport. However, if you decide to leave the groomed trails you are voluntarily accepting the risk of a deep snow immersion accident. A deep snow or tree well immersion accident occurs when a skier or rider falls into an area of deep unconsolidated snow and becomes immobilized and suffocates. Deaths resulting from these kinds of accidents are referred to as SIS hazards or Snow Immersion Suffocation.

NSAA has made available for distribution Tree Well and Deep Snow caution signs and brochures for resorts to use in their efforts to educate skiers and snowboarders about the hazards of tree wells during deep snow conditions. Ski areas are able to download the artwork and have signs made to fit the conditions at their resorts, either for on-mountain signage, printed in trail maps, posted on websites, or utilized in other mountain media.

Become educated on how to reduce the risk of SIS hazards through your own action and awareness. ALWAYS ski or ride with a partner within viewing distance. The website www.deepsnowsafety.org is an excellent resource designed to assist all skiers and riders in educating themselves about the risks and prevention of deep snow and tree well immersion accidents.

Kids on Lifts

Snow King Mountain encourages all parents to fully understand the risks associated with kids riding alone on ski lifts.  Snow King policy is that parents must take responsibility and determine if their children are mature enough physically and mentally to ride alone, or with other children on a chairlift.  Children must be able to load and unload the lift on their own, safely manage pulling down and raising the restraint bar, and understand that fooling around on the lift is an extremely dangerous activity.  Parents are encouraged to lean more about the risks of kids on chairlifts via the NSAA website below, or ask a mountain representative if you have any questions.

NSAA views using and riding chair lifts in a responsible manner as one of the primary safety considerations for all skiers and boarders. A skier’s behavior has as much or more to do with the safety of the sport as does any piece of equipment from helmet to chairlift.

In 2012, the website www.kidsonlifts.org/ and the initiative as a whole debuted around the country to resorts and consumers. This site contains FAQs and safety tips on how to load, ride and unload responsibly, general skiing and riding tips, coloring pages for kids, public service announcements, and more. The tagline “No Horsing Around” is a motto we hope to ingrain in not only children but every skier and boarder.

NSAA believes these safety facts and tips will help prepare individuals and families for a day on the slopes. With the help of the following information, your adventures down the mountain will be that much more enjoyable.

Speed and Collision Safety

NSAA, as part of its ongoing efforts to promote on-hill safety and responsible skiing and riding, has developed the #RideAnotherDay campaign in partnership with Kelli and Chauncy Johnson.

Complementing the Responsibility Code and its seven tenets, #RideAnotherDay promotes three actions every skier and rider can take to help keep themselves and those around safer on the slopes. These three actions are:

1. Be Ready

Be ready to slow down or avoid objects or other people at any time. Ski and ride in such a way that you are always able to control yourself regardless of conditions and avoid others and objects you may encounter on the run, groomed or otherwise.

2. Stay Alert

Stay alert to what’s going on around you, especially other skiers and riders. Being aware of those around and changing conditions will help you have a fun and safe day on the hill.

3. Plan Ahead

Ease up at blind spots, check uphill when merging onto trails, and give other skiers plenty of room when passing. Look out for spots on the run where traffic merges or you can’t see what’s coming next. If you are unfamiliar with a run, take it easy the first time down it and make note of places where you’ll want to slow down, such as cat tracks and rollers. Also, give other skiers and riders lots of room, especially if you are passing them. There’s plenty of space out there, so there’s no need to crowd each other.

By doing these three things every run, you’ll be helping keep the slopes safe and enjoyable for you and everyone else.

Restrictions & Assumption of Risk

No Dogs Allowed at Snow King Mountain
Dogs are not allowed at Snow King Mountain during operating hours.

No Drones

Assumption of Risk
Alpine recreation is a high-risk activity. Know your limitations. Ski and ride safely, sober, and in control. Individuals who are impaired by alcohol or drugs, not following posted signage, or behaving recklessly are subject to suspension of lift privileges and/or legal action. All visitors to SKMR assume and accept risks of injury, damage, or loss.

Your Responsibility Code (Courtesy of the NSAA)

  • Always stay in control and be able to stop or avoid other people or objects.
  • People ahead 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, look uphill and yield.
  • Use devices to help prevent runaway equipment.
  • Observe signs and warnings. Keep off closed trails.
  • Know how to load, ride and unload lifts safely.
  • Liability Waiver

Backcountry Travel Avalanche Conditions and Safety

Snow King Mountain Resort has two backcountry gates accessible from our summit. Skiers traveling outside the controlled boundaries do so at their own risk. We do not conduct avalanche control work outside of those gates.

When traveling outside the gates we recommend skiers travel in pairs and carry the necessary backcountry equipment such as beacon, shovel, and probe. For avalanche conditions reports and safety information please visit https://www.jhavalanche.org/.

FREESTYLE TERRAIN SAFETY

Guest Education and Relations

Freestyle Terrain use, like all skiing and riding, exposes the user to the risk of serious injury. Prior to using freestyle terrain, it is the user’s responsibility to become familiar with all instructions and posted warnings and to follow Your Responsibility Code and SMART STYLE.

Educating guests about responsible Freestyle Terrain use is important. Guests should be aware of their responsibilities when using freestyle terrain. The list below provides some basic guidelines for guests. This list may be posted on signs at the entrance to the park, on signs on lifts
accessing the park, on trail maps and guides and in other collateral pieces that the resort makes available to guests:

Orange Oval

Oval

The orange oval is used to designate Freestyle Terrain on the mountain. Look for the orange oval on trail maps; trail signs, and lifts to identify Freestyle Terrain.

Suggested Messages to Users

You are in control: What you need to know before using Freestyle Terrain

  • Know Your Limits and ability level and select the appropriate freestyle terrain for you.
    Your physical condition, speed, controlled balance; body movements, alignment, trajectory and maneuver difficulty will directly affect your desired outcome.
  • Know the intended use of the freestyle terrain you have chosen.
    For example, some features are intended to be used in a series with no stopping and some individually with stopping areas; jump ramps are for jumping and rail ramps are for entering onto rails.
  • Inspect the features that you are about to use. A daily inspection runs through the park is always advisable as features may have changed from prior usage. This is particularly important if you have not used the park before.
  • Your actions can take you out of balance and cause serious injury or death no matter how the feature is designed or where you land.
  • AVOID THE BACKSEAT — LAND ON YOUR FEET!
  • Transitions are changes in the shape and pitch of the snow or feature or changes from one type of sliding surface to another. Transitions can be gentle or abrupt and demand users to be alert and respond to them with accurate movements.
  • Know where to land. The “sweet spot” is between the knuckle and center of the landing zone. Even if you land on or near the sweet spot you can still be seriously injured or die if your landing posture is not correct.
  • Inverted maneuvers are not recommended.
  • Be aware that the features change constantly due to snow conditions, weather, usage, grooming and time of day
  • Read and obey all posted signage, instructions and warnings before entering freestyle terrain.
    • Know PARK SMART
    • Know the ATML Model
    • Know Your Responsibility Code

SMART STYLE Freestyle Terrain Safety Initiative

The NSAA in cooperation with Burton, the National Ski Patrol, the Professional Ski Instructors of America and the American Association of Snowboard Instructors created SMART STYLE in an effort to promote the proper use and progression of Freestyle Terrain skills and knowledge. The PARK SMART tenets provide clear, concise and effective messages for all Freestyle Terrain users.

Park Smart

There are FIVE main messages that are associated with PARK SMART:

  • START SMART
    Work your way up. Build your skills.
  • MAKE A PLAN
    Every feature. Every time.
  • ALWAYS LOOK
    Before you drop.
  • RESPECT
    The features and other users.
  • TAKE IT EASY
    Know your limits. Land on your feet.

ATML Model

ATML is an acronym for Approach, Takeoff, Maneuver, and Landing.

The latest version of the SMART STYLE DVD has introduced the ATML model. ATML is an acronym for Approach, Takeoff, Maneuver, and Landing. It breaks down the usage of terrain features into four zones. Each zone requires certain actions and tactics from the user and these actions directly impact each subsequent zone. Introducing the ATML model to guests reiterates that their actions in each zone will determine the outcome.

Each feature can be broken down into four zones. Identify these zones and have a plan before using any freestyle terrain.

  • Approach zone is space for setting your speed and stance to use the feature.
  • Take-Off zone is for making moves that start your trick.
  • Maneuver Zone is for controlling your body in the air and setting up for…
  • Landing!

SUMMER SAFETY INFORMATION

Snow King Mountain has many activities to enjoy during summer months. Please be aware of the following while enjoying what we have to offer.

  • Weather: Weather can change rapidly in the mountains. Be prepared. Wear proper footwear and clothing for the activity, stay hydrated and check the weather forecast before you head out. Carry extra layers if appropriate. Please visit www.weather.com for updates.
  • Terrain: Keep in mind that in the event of an emergency, you may be required to walk in a variety of terrain. Dress appropriately for a rugged alpine environment!
  • Mountain Maintenance: Be aware that there may be vehicles and equipment operating at any time on the mountain. Keep adequate distance from vehicles and equipment for your own safety.
  • Wildlife: There is a wide variety of wildlife you may encounter while recreating here. Do not approach or feed wildlife. Bear spray is recommended. Making noise may also help in avoiding wildlife confrontations.
  • Signs: Obey all posted signs and warnings.
  • Wildfires: Wildfires are a very real danger here. Please take care with fire and any equipment that produces sparks. Cigarette smoking is prohibited while riding chairlifts. Be responsible. Report any fire or smoke immediately.
  • Lightning: Know what to do if you see or hear lightning. Seek shelter immediately in a building if available. Avoid being the tallest object in the area and avoid open areas. Stay away from isolated tall trees or utility poles. Stay away from any metal conductors. If in a group, spread out to avoid the potential for multiple injuries.
  • High-Altitude Environment: If you live at a lower elevation, you may tire more easily. Take it easy at first, plan short trips until you are acclimated, and drink plenty of water. Some visitors may experience symptoms associated with Jackson’s high altitude. Symptoms may include headaches, nausea, dizziness, loss of appetite, restless sleep, coughing, and difficulty in breathing. If symptoms persist or if you have a concern about your health, you should seek medical attention.
  • Hiking: Hike or otherwise recreate with a buddy, carry a cell phone, and know who to call in an emergency. Snow King Mountain can be reached at 307-201-5004 on weekdays between 9 AM and 5 PM. Outside of operating hours, call 911.

Hiker’s Responsibility Code:

  • Obey all trail signs and markings and hike only on designated trails.
  • Don’t stop where you obstruct a trail or are not visible to others.
  • Know how to use the lifts properly. When in doubt, ask a lift operator.
  • Respect the environment and wildlife.
  • Be prepared for constantly changing weather conditions.
  • No smoking due to fire danger.
  • Please hike on designated hiking trails and roads only.
  • Hiking/outdoor footwear is recommended.
  • Clean up after your pet and throw away all waste!!!

Please take the opportunity to visit the Bridger Teton National Forest and National Safety Council’s websites to learn more about National Forest information and summer safety information.

https://www.fs.usda.gov/btnf/

https://www.nsc.org/home-safety/tools-resources/seasonal-safety/summer