Skiing Responsibly

Montana Ski Areas Association (MSAA) 

DUTIES OF A SKIER 

 1.  A skier has the duty to ski at all times in a manner that avoids injury to the skier and others and to be aware of the inherent dangers and risks of skiers. 

 2.  A skier:  

  • Shall know the range of the skier's ability and safely ski within the limits of that ability and the skier's equipment, so as to negotiate any section of terrain or ski slope and trail, safely and without injury or damage. A skier shall know that the skier's ability may vary because of ski slope and trail changes caused by weather, conditions, grooming changes, or skier use.  

  • Shall maintain control of speed and course so as to prevent injury to the skier or others. 

  • Shall abide by the requirements of the skier responsibility code that is published by the National Ski Areas Association and that is posted as provided in 23-2-733. 

  • Shall obey all posted or other warnings and instructions of the ski area operator. 

  • Shall read the ski area trail map and must be aware of its contents.  

3.  A person may not:  

  • Place an object in the ski area or on the uphill track of a passenger ropeway that may cause a passenger or skier to fall.  

  • Cross the track of a passenger ropeway except at a designated and approved point. 

  • If involved in a skiing accident, depart from the scene of the accident without:  

    • Leaving personal identification; or 

    • Notifying the proper authorities and obtaining assistance when the person knows that a person involved in the accident is in need of medical or other assistance.   

4.  A skier shall accept all legal responsibility for injury or damage of any kind to the extent that the injury or damage results from inherent dangers and risks of skiing. Nothing in this part may be construed to limit a skier's right to hold another skier legally accountable for damages caused by the other skier. 

The Skier's Responsibility Code

Sliding on snow can be enjoyed in many ways. At mountain sports areas you may see people using alpine, snowboard, telemark, cross country and other specialized ski equipment, such as that used by disabled or other skiers. Regardless of how you decide to enjoy the slopes, show courtesy to others and be aware that there are elements of risk in skiing, which 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.

Memorize, Observe and Teach this Code!

  • Always stay in control. You must be able to stop or avoid people or objects.

  • People ahead or downhill of you have the right-of-way. You must avoid them.

  • Stop only where you are visible from above and do not restrict traffic.

  • Look uphill and avoid others before starting downhill or entering a trail.

  • You must prevent runaway equipment.

  • Read and obey all signs, warnings, and hazard markings.

  • Keep off closed trails and out of closed areas.

  • You must know how and be able to load, ride and unload lifts safely. If you need assistance, ask the lift attendant.

  • Do not use lifts or terrain when impaired by alcohol or drugs.

  • If you are involved in a collision or incident, share your contact information with each other and a ski area employee.