Safety in the Snow

Snow surface safety and the mountain operations involved enable you to make the most of every day on the slopes. These efforts, led by Ski Patrol in partnership with Lift Operations, Lift Maintenance, Grooming, and Mountain Safety, may include avalanche mitigation, closure of specific zones, and preparation of transportation corridors that guests use to access our mountain terrain. As part of this, motorized vehicles, snowmaking, and other ski area operations may be encountered at any time.
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Sun Shines Through the Trees on a Powder Day at Northstar California , opens in a new window

Closed Terrain
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At different times during the season, and even the day, you may encounter closed terrain within the ski area. The reason a trail is closed can vary: snowmaking operations, unsuitable snow conditions, or avalanche mitigation can all factor into why terrain is temporarily inaccessible. 

To stay informed of terrain closures, check the electronic boards found at the base area (and the top of some lifts), by asking Ski Patrol, or checking the daily Terrain & Lift Status on your My Epic app.

Please be aware that entering closed terrain can result in pass suspension or even prosecution for trespassing. Remember that closed terrain is closed for a reason: your safety, and the safety of other guests, is our highest priority. 

Skiing in closed areas is extremely dangerous and may result in loss of resort privileges.

Check Terrain Status

Avalanche Awareness

Deep piles of snow or the first warm day at the end of a stormy week are two of our favorite things, but they also might take extra attention to prepare the snow surface before we can let you have it safely.
 
Below, we’ve compiled a few key pointers for avalanche-prone days (those marked by rapidly changing conditions): 
  • Some terrain will be closed, either temporarily or for the day. Ski Patrol decides if they can mitigate avalanche danger (which yes, can include dynamite!), or if some zones may need to remain closed for the day.
  • Remember when venturing into steeper terrain generally (35°-45° pitch) that avalanche danger is higher. Slough (or sluff) avalanches can happen with many types of rapidly changing conditions, not just deep powder! Learn more about them here.
  • Prepare for deep snow days by taking a backcountry course.
  • Get the avalanche forecast to Know Before You Go.

 

Resort Boundaries

Due to the nature of privately held lands around Northstar, we are a closed boundary property. Backcountry gates are not available, which means that the terrain outside the resort perimeter is not accessible and leaving the property through any ropeline will be considered trespassing. Below are a few additional considerations:

  • The Resort assumes no responsibility for individuals who elect to go beyond the ski area boundary.
  • Areas beyond the Resort’s ski area boundary are not patrolled or maintained. Avalanches, unmarked obstacles, and other natural hazards exist.
  • You assume the risk that you may not be able to re-enter the Resort from the out-of-bounds terrain.
  • Be aware: the avalanche hazard outside resort boundaries may be extreme. Rescue, if available, is the responsibility of the County Sheriff. It will be costly and may take time.
Skiers at the Lake Tahoe East Ridge Overlook

Adventure ❤s Company

Skiing and riding with a partner isn’t just more fun: it’s also far safer, whether we’re in the middle of a deep powder cycle, you’re gliding through the glades, or scoping out jumps in the terrain park.
 
Keep your partner within visual contact at all times, who knows what kind of great stories you’ll both have to tell! 

Snow Surface Hazard Awareness

Snow Safety Infographic
The Reward
Practicing safety in all snow conditions doesn’t just keep you going all day—it makes for a great season. Below, some highlights.
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