Skiing in times of Covid-19

Skiing in times of Covid-19 by: Maria krug '22

Skiing could be considered the perfect escape from times like these. With Covid still existing and being at its spike, skiers felt like their sport could really thrive despite the pandemic. The sport is outdoors and provides distance in the mountains as people naturally ski a bit spread out.

One of the most popular skiing hotspots in the U.S. is Vermont with over 20 mountains for skiers to enjoy a day out.

With Vermont being a popular spot, travel and safety guidelines had to be implemented in the mountains to ensure a safe experience for all.

According to the Okemo website, a popular mountain in Vermont, guidelines include:

Physical distancing at all times
Mandatory usage of masks or face coverings
The capacity of people in lifts has been reduced
Enhanced cleaning and sanitation
Cashless transactions
Pass holder reservations

"Skiing, in general, doesn't involve many close encounters with others," said Max Szostack. "But from what I've seen, the regulations in lift lines and the severe limitations of indoor dining appear safe and organized"

Over winter break I went to Okemo and even with all guidelines put into place, it seemed like some people disregarded those instructions putting them at risk.

There were those who were masks only above their months, forgetting to cover their noses. And those who despite signs, forgot to social distance when in lines.

"Luckily skiing is a sport that is already socially distanced and people wear masks most of the time," Kate Smith '22 said. "That being said, mountains feel so much crowded because chair lifts can only hold one person or families."

Lines have doubled the size and people forget to social distance as they wait for the lift to take them up the mountains. Employees, however, patrolled around and call on anyone not wearing mask or lifting it down in the lines.

The waffle cabin is a popular eating area at Okemo to fuel your body while out skiing. This is one of the only times people are allowed to pull their masks down, to eat, still maintaining social distance as much as possible.

However, there was also a vast majority of people and employees that were practicing safe distancing and following Covid guidelines while skiing.

Photo taken from the LAtimes.

"Everyone wears gators and masks in the mountains and are required inside above your nose," Sienna Peck '23 said who went skiing this break. "Overall social distance was upheld and employees made sure you had masks on at all times."

Overall, with all regulations put into place, mountains and ski resorts have been able to make skiing possible during a pandemic. With most people complying with guidelines, the sport was able to make a comeback for the winter season.

All pictures by Maria Krug '22

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