With the ski season fastly approaching and the last season getting cut short, I bet you are wondering if there is even going to be a season this year. If there is going to be a season, what will social distancing and covid measurements look like at the slopes? The Powderhorn spoke with App, Beech, and Sugar Mountain to learn what they are planning on doing.
Kimberley Jochl from Sugar Mountain Resort said,¨Sugar values and prioritizes the health and safety of its guests, staff and local communities. Therefore, since the future is uncertain and change, at this point in time, is a constant, Sugar Mountain Resort continues to be committed to following guidance from the CDC and the NC Governor. As the winter season nears our direction will become more clear.¨
Talia Freeman from Beech Mountain Resort said, ¨Beech Mountain will abide by all mandated state restrictions. We are dedicated to providing a safe winter experience for our customers, staff, and community members. We have increased safety and sanitation measures around the resort. We are retrofitting our rental and ticket system to provide more efficient online ordering and less contact upon arrival. We are hiring in all departments and welcome High School applicants. Our scheduled opening date for the season is Saturday, November the 21.¨
Appalachian Ski Mountain is having their annual pre-season sale beginning Oct 19- 25 and their scheduled opening date for the season is Friday, Nov 20th. We spoke with fellow students to ask them their opinion on ski season.
Junior Sofia Maruszak said, ¨I feel very comfortable with snowboarding during COVID because we are already socially distancing, plus wearing ski masks. I don't feel that the slopes should do anything but I have a feeling they will, like cut down restaurant capacity and shop capacity. I think they should open because this isn't a team sport, it is individual, already wearing masks and socially distancing.¨
Senior Ty Church said,¨I don't mind snowboarding during COVID. No, I do not think the ski slopes should do any precautions because we are outside. I think the slopes need to open.¨
Senior Camron Randolph ¨I think that snowboarding will work for the winter because it is outdoors. They can take precautions in cafeterias, ski schools, and any other indoor building pretty easily. I also believe as long as they limit ticket sales during big weekends then there shouldn’t be any problems. Also limiting how many people can get on the chairlift.¨
Students faced disappointment when the season ended early because it meant that the annual Daniel Boone Rail Jam was canceled. Appalachian Ski Mountain plays a big role in this event they always helped set up for this event. They also bring snow over from off of their slopes and they always make the coolest rail set up for the competitors to be able to show off their moves. Hopefully this year we will be able to have this competition.
With the way 2020 is going many people are hoping that means we will have a good winter season with lots of good snow days. Hopefully, it will be more snow than rain like it was last year. With the season still being a few months away, the ski slopes are still unsure of the exact measurements they are going to take this year.
Since March 2020, restrictions and social distancing guidelines have limited many people from recreation activities like movies, team sports, plays, and theme parks. This has caused many people to seek outdoor activities like hiking, biking, walking, and camping. With winter approaching, snow activities will most likely increase.
Whether you are a seasoned skier or snowboarder or want to try a new winter sport, the local ski resorts are a great place to do it.
Written by Ella Pennell
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