Ski resort begins preseason uphill restrictions

Route and timing restrictions for uphill skiers at Whitefish Mountain Resort go into effect Thursday, Nov. 23.

Flathead National Forest and Whitefish Mountain Resort remind skiers and snowboarders to follow the policy and heed the Forest Service Special Order, which requires uphill skiers to keep their distance from grooming machines and snowmaking equipment and follow route restrictions.

The policy is in effect 14 days prior to opening day, Dec. 7, and remains in effect 14 days after Closing Day, April 8.

In preparation for the ski season, snowmaking and grooming operations are ongoing as conditions allow. Resort officials remind the public that equipment such as snow guns, hoses, grooming machines, snowmobiles and high voltage lines can present real and serious hazards to skiers and must be avoided.

Again this year, parking for uphill skiers is limited to the Spruce Lot only.

Skiers should follow the designated East Route. From 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. the route is the only approved route for uphill and downhill traffic during the preseason. There are no uphill or downhill route restrictions before 8 a.m. and after 4 p.m. pre- and postseason.

The East Route begins at Spruce Parking Lot, crosses the bridge toward the Ski and Ride School and Clinic building and ascends lower Inspiration, Expressway, Moe-Mentum, and Fill Hill to the summit. It is marked by 12?red diamonds with an arrow and the word “UPHILL” printed on them.

Skiers are asked to read and abide by this policy and order. Any uphill travelers not following the special order can be ticketed and face up to a $100 fine for a first offense and stiffer penalties for repeat offenders.

Pre-season and post-season dogs must be on a leash, during ski season dogs are prohibited.

The Uphill Skier Policy and the Forest Service Special Order can be found at www.skiwhitefish.com/uphill-policy and www.fs.usda.gov/activity/flathead/recreation/wintersports.