When skiing around, it’s important to exercise caution for those near you. We’ve created a page where you can learn about the various safety aspects of skiing so we can all make it down the hill in one piece.

NSAA Skier Code of Conduct

Know the code! Regardless of how you decide to enjoy the slopes, always show courtesy to others and be aware that there are elements of risk in skiing that common sense and personal awareness can help reduce. Observe the code listed below and share with other skiers the responsibility for a great skiing experience.

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.

Saddleback – 207-864-5671; 139
Sugarloaf – 207-237-6994
Sunday River – 207-824-5350
Pleasant Mountain – 207-647-8444; 140
Black Mountain of Maine – 207-364-8977
Big Moose Mountain – 207-695-2400
Hermon Mountain – 207-848-5192
Big Rock – 207-425-6711
Mt. Abram – 207-658-3333
Lost Valley – 207-784-1561

Park SMART

Park SMART:
Start Small – Work your way up.
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.

Trail Signage

Green Circle – Easy, Beginner
Blue Square – More Difficult, Intermediate
Black Diamond – Most Difficult, Advanced
Double Black Diamond – Extremely Difficult, Experts Only
Orange Dash – Freestyle Terrain, Park

Be aware that difficulties are ranked differently at each mountain. What is a green circle at one mountain could be a blue square at another. Use caution when skiing at new mountains or new trails.

Helpful Tips

Three In The Trees – When skiing in the glades, always remember to have two buddies with you. In the event of an emergency, one can stay there while the other goes to get help.

Ski Patrol – Whatever mountain you choose to go to, it’s a good idea to have the Ski Patrol phone number saved to your phone.

Save A Digital Trail Map – Whether you’re at your home mountain or trying out a new one, it’s always smart to save a digital copy of that mountain’s trail map so you have it. It’s better to have it and not need it then need it and not have it.

Check For Frostbite – On cold, windy days, the time at which you get frostbite is significantly less. Always keep an eye out for exposed skin. In the lift lines and other places, check others and especially be on the lookout for frostbite with kids. Common places to get frostbite are on your nose, cheeks, ears, and lips. You can also get it on your hands, fingers, feet, and toes. If you or someone around you has frostbite, instruct them to go to the lodge and warm up.

Read The Reports – Before heading out to the hill, read the report for your mountain plus the weather forecast for that day. You can also see the lift status of Saddleback, Sugarloaf, Sunday River, and Pleasant Mountain by clicking to our Mountain Lift Status page

Check Your Gear – Before snapping into your skis, take a few moments to look over your gear. Ensure your equipment is working properly. See the full checklist below.

Morning Checklist

• Bindings are working
• Ski bases are smooth
• Poles have baskets at the bottom
• Ski boots are functioning and clicking into the bindings
• RFID card (if applicable) is in your outer (left) pocket
• Gloves are dry and warm
• Pockets are zipped
• Correct goggles are on for the conditions
• Helmet is snug
• Warm Clothes
• Sunscreen – Always smart to have some SPF on!

Stay Hydrated – While it doesn’t seem like it, skiing is a workout if you’re getting into some technical areas. It’s a good idea to keep a small water bottle with you so you can always be hydrated.

Watch For Hazards – During the early and late parts of the season, it’s important to watch for hazards. These can be water bars, ice patches, rocks, dirt, stumps, or other things that can risk your safety. Be mindful of the season when skiing and ski accordingly.

Ski Protected In The Sun – Even on cloudy days, the sun’s UV rays can be harsh, especially at higher elevations. Always protect your skin by applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher to all exposed areas, and reapply every two hours. Don’t forget your lips! Use a lip balm with SPF 30 protection as well. To safeguard your eyes, wear goggles or sunglasses that provide 100% UV protection. Snow acts like a mirror, intensifying the sun’s rays and increasing your risk of sunburn and eye damage. Remember, it’s not the heat that harms your skin, it’s the radiation. Stay protected every time you ski.