Let’s be honest: taking the family skiing for the first time can feel a bit like herding cats on ice. Between managing mittens, wiping runny noses, and making sure everyone has their lift ticket, it’s a lot! But if there is one thing I prioritize above all else when I’m out with my kiddos, it’s safety and respect on the mountain.
Ski etiquette isn’t just about being polite; it’s about keeping our little shredders (and everyone else’s) safe. Over the years, I’ve found that teaching these rules early helps kids build confidence and awareness. Whether you are a total beginner or getting back into the groove, here are the essential “unwritten rules” that my family lives by.
1. The Golden Rule: Downhill Skier Has Right of Way
This is the big one. I tell my kids it’s just like driving a car—you don't hit the bumper in front of you. People skiing downhill from you cannot see you. It is 100% your responsibility to avoid them. Even if they make a sudden, erratic turn (which, let’s face it, beginners do all the time), it is on you to be in control enough to steer clear.
2. Stop in a Safe Spot
When legs get tired and we need a break, I always teach my group to pull over to the side of the run. Never, ever stop in the middle of a trail or—even worse—just below a roller or blind spot. If skiers coming from above can’t see you until they are airborne, you are in a dangerous spot. We call these “invisible zones,” and we stay far away from them!
3. Look Uphill Before Merging
Whenever we enter a trail or start moving after a break, we do a “shoulder check.” Just like merging onto a highway, you have to look uphill to make sure no one is zooming down into your path. I’ve turned this into a habit for my kids: stop, look up, then go.
4. Respect the Lift Line
Lift lines can be testing grounds for patience, especially with eager kids. The rule here is the “zipper merge”—alternate turns with the group next to you. And please, watch those skis! Nothing ruins a mood faster than someone clacking over the tops of your brand-new skis. We tell the kids to keep a little "bubble" of space around them in line.
5. Ski Within Your Ability
It’s tempting to let confidence run wild, but safety means staying in control. If you can’t stop or turn instantly to avoid an obstacle or person, you are going too fast or are on terrain that is too steep. We always start slow and work our way up.
Gear That Helps With Safety
Part of etiquette is also being prepared so you aren't a hazard to yourself. We always ensure our helmets fit perfectly and our vision is clear.
- Helmets are non-negotiable: We love the Smith Vantage MIPS Helmet for its adjustable fit and venting—keeps the head cool when you're working hard helping kids up!
- Clear Vision: If you can't see, you can't ski safely. For the kids, I recommend the Smith Grom Goggles which fit smaller faces perfectly without fogging up.
- Stay Warm: Cold kids are distracted kids. I always keep a pack of HotHands Hand Warmers in my pocket to prevent meltdowns and keep us focused on the skiing.
6. Be a Good Samaritan
If you see a "yard sale" (skis and poles everywhere after a crash), stop and check if they are okay. You don't need to be a medic, but just asking "Are you alright?" or crossing your skis uphill from them to warn others is a huge help. It teaches our kids empathy and community spirit.
Skiing is a shared joy. By following these simple rules, we ensure that everyone gets to enjoy the mountain and make it home for hot chocolate safely. See you on the slopes!
Source: This article was adapted from an original piece by Sierra Shafer for Ski Mag.
