Always show courtesy and respect to others and be aware that there are elements of risk in skiing and snowboarding. Common sense and maintaining an awareness of your surroundings will help minimize the risk. Know your ability level and stay within it. Know and follow "Your Responsibility Code" and share with other skiers the responsibility for a great skiing/riding experience. In the interest of safety there are devices that are not allowed at Copper. Before you finalize your plans to visit Copper Mountain, please review our Allowable Devices.

 

NEW - Copper Critter Lift Safety Tips

Copper has introduced its “NEW” Union Creek High Speed Quad Lift at West Village.  The new lift replaced the old fixed grip, H Lift. West Village is Copper’s base to the majority of beginner (green) trails.  Along with our new lift, we have introduced a new “Lift Safety” initiative directed at all beginner ski and ride guests, in an effort to help education our guests on the key elements of safe loading, riding and unloading of a lift.  These important Safety Tips are presented by Copper’s own Critters from Copper’s Critter land.  These fun Safety Tips are found at the bottom of all beginner lifts and in Copper’s “School House” (kids ski school center).  Check out and learn from Copper’s new Critter signage.  Remember to always ask a Copper Lift Attendant for any additional assistance or guidance, they are there to help.  Have a safe day on the slopes and on our lifts:

Click on the links below for more information:

Skier Safety

Ski Safety Act

Signage

Extreme Terrain

Slow Zones

Tree Wells

Back Country

 

Electronic Devices

Lift Loading

Ski Patrol

Helmets

Freestyle Terrain

High Alpine Experience

St. Anthony's Clinic

 

Adaptive Ski Programs

Other Power-Driven Mobility Devices

 

Skier & Rider Safety

Skier safety is of the utmost importance to Copper Mountain.  On the Mountain, we allow traditional alpine skiing, snowboarders, telemark skiers or cross-country skiers and adaptive skiers with specialized equipment.  In the interest of guest safety there are some types of devices that are not allowed at Copper.  Before you finalize your plans to visit Copper Mountain, be sure to review and understand what are Allowable Devices at Copper.  
Always show courtesy and respect to others and be aware that there are elements of risk in skiing and snowboarding.  Common sense and maintaining an awareness of your surroundings will help minimize the risk.  Know your ability level and stay within it.  Know and follow “Your Responsibility Code” and share with other skiers the responsibility for a great skiing/riding experience. Back To Top

YOUR RESPONSIBILITY CODE:
1. Always stay in control, and be able to stop or avoid other people or objects.
2. People ahead of you have the right of way. It is your responsibility to avoid them.
3. You must not stop where you obstruct a trail or are not visible from above.
4. Whenever starting downhill or merging into a trail, look uphill and yield to others.
5. Always use devices to help prevent runaway equipment.
6. Observe all posted signs and warnings. Keep off closed trails and out of closed areas.
7. Prior to using any lift, you must have the knowledge and ability to load, ride and unload safely.
Be advised that Copper Mountain does not mark all potential obstacles or hazards. When marked, poles, flags, fencing, signage, padding or other forms of marking are used to inform the skier/rider of the location of a potential obstacle or hazard. These markers are no guarantee of your safety.  It is part of your responsibility under “Your Responsibility Code” and the Colorado Ski Safety Act to avoid all obstacles and hazards.

 

Colorado Ski Safety Act

The Colorado legislature, recognizing risks that are inherent in the sport, has passed the Colorado Ski Safety Act which provides inherent risks of the sport and relative responsibilities of the skier; and the ski area. You must obey the Act. Under the Act, any person using the facilities of a ski area is considered a skier. A summary of the inherent risks is listed below:

Under Colorado law, a skier assumes the risk of any injury to person or property resulting from any of the inherent dangers and risks of skiing and may not recover from any ski area operator for any injury resulting from any of the inherent dangers and risks of skiing, including but not limited to: changing weather conditions; existing and changing snow conditions; bare spots; rocks; stumps; trees; collisions with natural objects, man-made objects, or other skiers; variations in terrain, whether natural or as a result of slope design; freestyle and extreme terrain; jumps; snowmaking or grooming operations; and the failure of skiers to ski within their own abilities. Back To Top

CAUTION:  Snowcats, snowmobiles and snowmaking and other equipment may be encountered at any time, it is your responsibility to stay clear of this equipment.

 

Signage

Various informational and caution signage is located throughout the ski area, please read, understand and follow all rules and related signage.  Skiers and riders should be advised that a green circle, blue square, or black diamond trail at Copper Mountain is not necessarily the same as a green circle, blue square or black diamond trail at other resorts. The system is a relative rating of trails at each resort and does not compare trail difficulty between resorts. Skiers and riders should begin with the easiest terrain and then move up in difficulty as their ability permits. Back To Top

 

Extreme Terrain

Extreme Terrain contains cliffs, very steep slopes as well as rocks and other hazards. Skiing or boarding Extreme Terrain is for EXPERTS ONLY. Back To Top

 

Family Ski Zones & Slow Zones

Families are special at Copper.  You will see on the Copper Mountain Trail Map that we have specifically identified ski runs that are Slow & Family Zones.  These tend to be more gentle slopes for slow family skiing. Additionally, we have identified Slow Zones in some higher traffic areas, and where approaching a busy intersection of trails or nearing lift-loading areas where slower speeds make a safer experience.  Please observe the posted slow areas by maintaining a speed no faster than the general flow of traffic.  Space and speed are especially important in these areas. Fast and aggressive skiing will not be tolerated. Back To Top

 

Tree Wells & Deep Snow

 Skiing and snowboarding off the groomed runs and in deep powder is one of the most exciting and appealing parts of the sport. However, if you decide to leave the groomed trails you are voluntarily accepting the risk of a deep snow immersion accident. A deep snow or tree well immersion accident occurs when a skier or rider falls into an area of deep unconsolidated snow and becomes immobilized and suffocates. Deaths resulting from these kinds of accidents are referred to as a NARSID or Non-Avalanche Related Snow Immersion Death. Back To Top

Become educated on how to reduce the risk of NARSID through your own action and awareness.  The website www.treewelldeepsnowsafety.com is intended to assist all skiers and riders in learning about the risks and prevention of deep snow immersion accidents

 

The Back Country

Pursuant to the Colorado Ski Safety Act, the ski area assumes no responsibility for skiers going beyond the ski area boundary.  Areas beyond the ski area boundary are not patrolled or maintained. Avalanches, unmarked obstacles and other natural hazards exist. Be aware: the backcountry avalanche hazard may be extreme. Rescue in the backcountry, if available, is the responsibility of the Summit County Sheriff. It will be costly and may take time. Back To Top

Play it safe with Copper’s Avalanche Beacon Training Area just below the Timberline Patrol building at the top of the American Flyer lift. Best part: it’s FREE. The training area consists of 8 buried beacon transmitters that can be turned on and off individually for single or multiple burial searches.  If you would like assistance with the beacon bowl, please stop by Timberline Patrol and a patroller will be happy to assist you.

 

Electronic Devices

Copper Mountain discourages the use of electronic devices including cell phones, iPods, and communication devices, and any other electronic equipment that utilizes head/ear phones while skiing and snowboarding, and when loading and unloading lifts. Back To Top

 

Lift Loading & Unloading

Lift Safety & Children - In the interest of safety, children who are riding lifts at Copper Mountain Resort must be able to load, ride and unload the lift safely and without being carried. Children in backpacks are not permitted on Copper Mountain chairlifts or ski trails. All children must wear skis, a snowboard, or one of the allowed devices listed on our website.

Under Colorado law, you cannot board a lift unless you have sufficient physical dexterity, ability and knowledge to negotiate or to use such lift safely, or until you have asked for and received information sufficient to enable you to use the lift safely.  If you need special assistance, please communicate with our Lift Operations personnel.  Better yet, take a ski lesson to improve your ski/riding and lift loading skills. You may not use a lift or any ski trail when under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Back To Top

In addition to the video below, here are two additional videos to provide information on how to properly ride, load, and unload from the lifts with kids.

 

Copper Mountain Ski Patrol

The Copper Mountain Ski Patrol consist of fulltime and volunteer patrollers who work together to provide efficient, professional emergency response to guests at Copper Mountain. Patrollers’ primary focus is on mountain safety.    Assisting the ski patrol is the Mountain Safety Patrol who works with the ski patrol to ensure guest safety.  Rounding out the team is Copper Mountain’s well-trained avalanche dogs.  In the event of an on-hill incident or emergency, call Copper Mountain ski patrol at 970-968-3311.

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More on Helmets

Copper Mountain encourages all guests to wear a helmet. While helmets may mitigate or reduce the severity of some head injuries, their use does not guarantee safety and will not prevent certain injuries. Regardless of whether or not you choose to wear a helmet, every winter sport participant shares responsibility for his or her safety and for that of others using the ski area facilities. The National Ski Area Association emphasis the importance of helmets and has partnered with the "Lids on Kids" organization. For more information please visit www.lidsonkids.org to find out how to find the best helmet for your child. Back To Top

 

Freestyle Terrain

At Copper we have a number of terrain parks for your enjoyment. The parks are identified as having Small, Medium and Large Features.  Start small and work your way up.  If you would like some professional instruction visit Woodward At Copper for specially designed classes and coaching where progression is the focus.  Copper reinforces the “Smart Style” approach for our terrain park users:

 

 

 

 

 

FREESTYLE TERRAIN WARNINGS & INSTRUCTIONS:

• Trail ratings do not apply to terrain features.
• Terrain Features are not related to degree of difficulty.
• Inspect terrain features before use.
• You are the sole judge of your ability to use any terrain feature, work your way up.
• Terrain feature shapes and surface conditions change with weather and use.
• Use spotters when landing area is not visible.
• Do not stop on landing areas.
• Use of features can be dangerous; you assume all risks of injury or death.
• Aerial somersaulting maneuvers not recommended.

The four main points of Smart Style:
1. MAKE A PLAN
Every time you use Freestyle Terrain, make a plan for each feature you want to use.  Your speed, approach and takeoff will directly affect your maneuver and landing. 
2. LOOK BEFORE YOU LEAP
Scope around the jumps first, not over them. Know your landings are clear and clear yourself out of the landing area. You are responsible for inspecting Freestyle Terrain before initial use and throughout the day. The features vary in size and change constantly due to snow conditions, weather, usage, grooming and time of day. Do not jump blindly. Use a spotter when necessary.
3. EASY STYLE IT
Start small and work your way up.  Always ride or ski in control and within your ability level. Do not attempt Freestyle Terrain unless you have sufficient ability and experience to do so safely. You control the degree of difficulty you will encounter in using Freestyle Terrain, both on the ground and in the air.
4. RESPECT GETS RESPECT
From the lift line through the park.  Respect Freestyle Terrain and others. Only one person on a feature at a time. Wait your turn and call your start. Always clear the landing area quickly. Respect all signs and do not enter Freestyle Terrain or use features when closed.

*Each feature can be broken down into 4 zones. Identify these zones and have a plan before using any Freestyle Terrain.

Approach zone is the space for setting your speed and stance to use the feature.
Takeoff zone is for making moves that start your trick.
Maneuver zone is for controlling your body in the air and setting up for landing.
Landing zone is the prepared slope between the knuckle and the runout beyond it.

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Get Ready for your High-Alpine Experience

Preparing physically for Your Ski Vacation
Get in shape to ski — do not ski to get in shape. Skiing and riding are exciting, vigorous winter sports. Always make an honest assessment of your physical abilities.

What to Wear
The weather can change radically and rapidly, so plan to bring or obtain when you arrive goggles, lip balm, sunglasses, sun protection, a hat and clothing that makes it possible for you to dress in layers. Multiple layers of clothing are best because layers can be added and removed in order to better regulate your body temperature.
Your base layer should be long underwear, preferably in a wool and polyester blend. The mid layer should be a turtleneck or long sleeve shirt. A fleece pullover or sweatshirt is ideal for the next layer. Outer layers can include a coat and pants and should be water resistant and comfortable. Socks should be a thin wool or poly blend for skiing or riding. Gloves or mittens should also be worn. Mittens are generally warmer and are best if you tend to get cold hands. A good hat should cover your ears and stay on your head during windy conditions. Be aware you will be walking on wet, snow and icy conditions so please walk with caution.  Be extra careful in ski boots as they can slip easily in these conditions.  Where possible, wear high alpine boots with soft soles when in High Alpine Environments.

Feeling Under the weather
Copper Mountain Resort's elevation ranges between 9,712 feet at the base to 12,441 feet at the top of Copper Peak. If you are coming from lower elevations, acclimation may be required.  The best approach is to take it easy for a day or two. Staying properly hydrated is very important for having an enjoyable vacation.  At our elevations you can become dehydrated with no warning signs.  Drink water before you start up the hill and sip water throughout the day.

You may experience altitude sickness, this usually occurs within the first 48 hours of your arrival. Symptoms include headache, nausea, insomnia and loss of appetite. Increase your fluids and decrease salt, alcohol and caffeine intake. Seek medical attention if symptoms persist.  Be aware that high elevation can also accentuate existing health problems. If you have a respiratory or vascular illness, consult your physician before your visit.  In the event of a medical emergency while at the base areas or in the Village, call 911 and give your location and nature of the emergency. Back To Top

 

St. Anthony Copper Mountain Clinic

The clinic is located in Center Village, at 860 Copper Road 970-968-2330. During the winter season clinic hours are open daily: 8:30am-4:30pm. The Clinic is staffed by physicians, nurses and x-ray technicians. This facility offers guests and employees of Copper Mountain a direct link and a seamless experience to advanced medical services. St. Anthony Copper Mountain Clinic, a Centura Health Facility, is independent of Copper Mountain Resort. Back To Top

 

Adaptive Skiing Programs

Copper Mountain Resort has partnered with The Breckenridge Outdoor Education Center (BOEC) to offer training and education to Copper guests having special needs.  The BOEC is a national leader in outdoor adventure education serving all people, while ensuring that the outdoors is accessible to those with disabilities and special needs. Adaptive alpine skiing is all about meeting the needs of each individual through specialized equipment and teaching methods. Coaches are selected based on the student's specific disability and skiing experience.  The BOEC will provide coaches and if needed equipment for your training needs.  Please plan ahead and contact the BOEC before you arrive at Copper to make the necessary arrangements.  You may contact The BOEC  at  (970) 453-6422 and additional information can be found on their website at  www.boec.org/

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Other Power Driven Mobility Devices

Copper Mountain Resort has determined that the use of any power driven devices or vehicles by the public, including other power-driven mobility devices used by disabled persons, would conflict with orders from the United States Forest Service and would also conflict with Copper’s safety requirements necessary for the reasonably safe operation of our on-slope activities. These safety concerns include the use of devices on the slopes that expose the user and skiers/snowboarders to a safety hazard; collisions with downhill skiers and snowboarders; and the use of devices that may provide access into closed areas that pose avalanche hazards. These safety concerns are compounded by our facility’s high volume of trail use. These safety requirements are based on actual risks and are not intended to be discriminatory in any way.

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