Resort Safety
Protecting what matters most: your experience on the mountain. Discover how we create an environment where adventure and safety go hand in hand.
Our ski patrol is available to assist with any on-mountain emergencies. If you need assistance, please call 231-549-6027 or visit any lift terminal to contact Patrol. For any other emergencies, please dial 911.
Safety isn't about killing the vibe. It's about protecting it.
These guidelines are what let you go bigger, ski longer, and come back tomorrow ready to do it all over again. They are the reason families feel confident bringing their kids, experts can push their limits, and everyone gets to experience the best of a northern Michigan winter.
The Snow Angel Foundation
The Snow Angel Foundation was born from an unthinkable tragedy. On Christmas Eve 2010, a collision on the slopes claimed the life of five-year-old Elise Johnson and left her mother, Kelli, with life-altering injuries. The snowboarder involved was traveling approximately 50 mph in a crowded area.
Their Ride Another Day campaign, launched with the National Ski Areas Association, is a powerful reminder that our choices on the mountain affect everyone around us.
Skier Responsibility Code
This isn't fine print. It's the shared language of the mountain, the code that keeps everyone safe while you're ripping groomers or hunting fresh tracks in the glades.
- 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.
Be safety conscious. Officially endorsed by the National Ski Areas Association.
group of guys skiing down hemlock at boyne mountain
Collision Prevention
Our Michigan slopes might be friendlier than out West, but physics doesn't care where you ski.
Collisions happen fast and can have serious consequences. Keep your head up, ski smart, and remember: having fun doesn't mean forgetting about the people around you.
Speed
Control your speed and stay within your limits. In high-traffic areas, match the pace of the crowd around you. Keep your eyes scanning for obstacles like trees, other skiers, or that random person sitting in the middle of the trail who didn't read this. Ease up and make sure the coast is clear before you commit to steep pitches.
Space
Downhill skiers and riders have the right of way. Give people room to breathe and anticipate where traffic is flowing. When you're passing someone, give plenty of clearance and make sure they know you're coming if needed. A little "on your left" goes a long way.
Self
You're responsible for your own safety and everyone else's. Feeling tired or frustrated? Take a break. More accidents happen when people push through fatigue than almost anything else. Wear your helmet, make sure your gear is dialed in, and check in with yourself before every run. Stay aware, stay smart, stay safe.
Consequences & Collision Policy
We're here to protect the experience for everyone. Reckless behavior ruins the vibe and may result in immediate loss of lift access without a refund.
If you are involved in a collision:
- Check on everyone involved and any witnesses.
- Exchange contact info.
- Call ski patrol immediately: (231) 549-6027
Equipment
The right gear makes all the difference between a legendary day and a frustrating one. From helmets to bindings, what you're riding matters.
Helmets
We strongly encourage helmet use. They won't prevent every injury, but they're smart insurance. Pair yours with even smarter skiing: stay within your ability, stay aware, and respect the terrain.
Equipment Policy
Make sure your gear is dialed in before you hit the mountain. Free tuning stations are available in the base area, and our shops can handle anything more serious.
Chairlifts
Loading a chairlift might seem simple, but a little attention goes a long way in keeping everyone safe and the lifts running smoothly.
Tips for Riding Chairlifts Safely
- Know your lift. Different lifts access different terrain. Ask if you're unsure.
- Stay focused in line. Save the Instagram scrolling for the summit.
- Prep before loading. Remove pole straps, secure loose items, tuck backpacks.
- Make sure your crew is ready. Don't move forward until everyone's good to go.
- Watch the chair approach. Look over your shoulder.
- Sit all the way back. Get flush with the seat.
- Bar down, bar up at the right time. Wait until everyone's seated to lower it, and don't raise it until you see the sign at the top.
- Drop something? Let it go. Patrol or lift ops can help you retrieve it at the top.
Restraining Bars
Use them. Every time. It's the easiest safety move you'll make all day.
Wait until everyone's seated before lowering the bar, and announce it so nobody gets surprised. Adults, help kids with the bar so they stay secure in their seats.
- Disciples 8 boasts locking restraining bars. Once lowered down, they will lock until you enter the top terminal, where they will automatically unlock and raise.
Kids on Chairlifts
Children should sit in their own seats. Load them on the side farthest from the towers, and ask lift ops to slow the chair or raise the platform if needed. Make sure kids sit all the way back and help them with the safety bar.
For safety reasons, skiing or riding with children in backpacks is prohibited.
Terrain
Conditions change regularly at Boyne Mountain. Fresh snow, spring slush, icy mornings... it all plays differently. Respect the terrain, stay alert, and ski within your limits.
Slow Zones
Certain high-traffic areas are designated SLOW ZONES (marked on the trail map). Match the speed of the crowd around you. Blowing through a slow zone at Mach speed is a fast track to losing your lift ticket.
Terrain Ratings
Our trail ratings are specific to Boyne Mountain. Don't assume a blue here skis like a blue somewhere else. Start with terrain you're comfortable on and work your way up.
Green Circle: This is the easiest terrain on the mountain. On our map, beginner learning areas and slow zones are marked with yellow hash marks.
Blue Square: Intermediate terrain. These trails have steeper pitches and may present more challenging snow than our green circle trails.
Black Diamond: Advanced terrain. These trails may feature natural obstacles like trees, rocks, moguls, and narrow sections.
Double Black Diamond: Expert terrain. These trails are for expert skiers and feature natural obstacles like trees, rocks, moguls, streams, and cliffs.
Terrain Parks
Our parks feature jumps, rails, boxes, and other features designed for freestyle fun. Whether you're just learning or you're a seasoned park rat, follow these PARK SMART principles:
- START SMALL. Build your skills progressively.
- MAKE A PLAN. Scope every feature before you hit it.
- ALWAYS LOOK. Check for clear landings.
- RESPECT. The features and other users.
- TAKE IT EASY. Know your limits and land on your feet.
Work your way up from smaller features to larger ones. Progress, don't regress.
Tree Skiing & Deep Snow
Glades are a blast, but they come with real hazards. Deep snow can trap you if you fall. Always ski trees and deep snow with a buddy. Keep each other in sight and regroup often.
Uphill Travel
Uphill skiing and skinning are allowed on designated routes only during specific hours. Scroll to learn more about uphill traffic at Boyne Mountain.
Ticket To Ride
Ticket To Ride
You must have a valid season pass or day ticket for any uphill travel.
Ticket To Ride
You must have a valid season pass or day ticket for any uphill travel.
Boyne Mountain has three trails authorized for Uphill Travel:
- Coldsprings
- Deer Run
- Grice's Way
Uphill travelers must use designated uphill travel routes at all times.
Boyne Mountain has three trails authorized for Uphill Travel:
- Coldsprings
- Deer Run
- Grice's Way
Uphill travelers must use designated uphill travel routes at all times.
Avoid Machinery & Equipment
Avoid Machinery & Equipment
Maintain at least 200ft of separation between yourself and groomers, never travel toward a groomer, or follow a groomer. Do not attempt to climb lift towers or get on lifts.
Avoid Machinery & Equipment
Maintain at least 200ft of separation between yourself and groomers, never travel toward a groomer, or follow a groomer. Do not attempt to climb lift towers or get on lifts.
Be Aware & Respectful
Be Aware & Respectful
It's important to stay aware of your surroundings and be respectful of resort staff and property. Avoid the assuming mindset of "It's okay for me", be a positive member of the uphill and backcountry community.
Be Aware & Respectful
It's important to stay aware of your surroundings and be respectful of resort staff and property. Avoid the assuming mindset of "It's okay for me", be a positive member of the uphill and backcountry community.
You May Be Held Liable
You May Be Held Liable
If an uphill traveler is a contributory cause to a collision or incident, they may be held liable.
You May Be Held Liable
If an uphill traveler is a contributory cause to a collision or incident, they may be held liable.
Winching in Progress
Winch cables are extremely dangerous and can cause serious injury or death. Watch for flashing lights on signs at the bottom, or on the top of grooming machines. When winching is in progress, find a different place to hike or tour.
Rescue Response
Be aware that patrol services are not available outside of operating hours, and ski area buildings are closed. In case of an emergency, call 911 and know that response times could be extended.
By staying informed and prepared, you can contribute to a safer environment for yourself and others. Embrace your adventure with confidence, knowing that you are taking the necessary steps to stay safe.
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