Preserving the Wonderland Feeling
There’s a moment that every mountaineer experiences, whether they are professional, amateur, or first-timers: they hike, ski, or snowshoe to an overlook and gaze out on the beautiful wintery vista and feel that sense of tranquility and vigor that keeps them coming back year after year.
It doesn’t matter if we are alone with nature when that feeling comes, or if we simply experience a private moment amidst the sounds of loud vacationers, enjoying their Colorado skiing; we value the moment all the same. The goal for every person on the mountain, then, is to preserve those good feelings as long as possible.
That can only be done as long as we stay safe.
Staying Safe At All Times
Like any outdoor activity, safety on the mountain is best achieved from two different angles: with good preparation and being smart while you’re out there. As such, we’ll take a moment to go over both — from the moment you start packing and securing your mountain rental, to the time that you’re in the elements, surrounded by nature.
Remember, if you have any particular questions about the mountain itself, your vacation rental, or the city of Breckenridge, feel free to contact your Ski Colorado property management services representative. They’ll be able to help you prepare properly for whatever excursion you have planned.
Smart Preparation
When preparing for a day in the mountains, the first step to a happy trip is to think ahead and prepare accordingly. Usually, this means packing wisely and being clear with your friends and family about your itinerary.
As beautiful as it is, Colorado skiing and snowboarding can lead to their fair share of injuries. The US Department of Agriculture has drawn up a list of the types of injuries that one is likely to sustain while outbacking in the mountains. These include bruises and broken bones — most commonly wrist fractures for snowboarders and knee injuries for skiers — and traumatic brain injuries, which are listed as the leading cause of fatalities among winter sportsmen and women.
Equipment, therefore, plays a very important role in remaining safe. When packing, be sure to include:
- A helmet
- Goggles that fit over the helmet
- Sunscreen
- Wrist guards
- Brightly colored, contrasting snow gear
- A trowel
- A whistle
While many of these things may be found in your mountain property rental, it is a good idea to invest in much of this life-saving equipment so you always have it. As mentioned before, be sure to let people know where on the mountain you plan to be — maybe even leave a copy of your itinerary at home for them to check.
Good Mountain Etiquette
Now that you’ve packed, checked the weather, and gone up the mountain, your good sense and instincts are what will keep you safe. The parks services do a good job of making sure that there is clear signage available so that you always know where you are as well as when you’re about to leave the trail. Heeding these signs is a good way to remain safe, no matter what you’re doing.
Other tips for you to remember while enjoying the majestic Rockies include:
- Respecting the wildlife — admire from afar!
- Pay attention to the difficulty ratings of certain slopes.
- Always travel with a buddy.
- Keep your eyes peeled for others in need.
- Don’t test yourself against the weather — Mother Nature always wins.
By keeping your wits and staying within the proper boundaries you are sure to have a fun, safe experience every time you visit Breckenridge.