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It's a bluebird day, the snow temp is just right, the Groomers have been out all night laying fresh corduroy, and you've just recently waxed your skis. You're all set up for the perfect ski day and by golly, we can't wait to welcome you! Here are some tips and reminders about our trail etiquette at OSC to make sure you're prepared for the best. ski. ever.
Keep in touch, have a plan.
Save the ticket booth number in your phone and ski with it! We have cell coverage throughout the trails, and when we're open, the booth should be your first point of contact if you run into trouble. Remember, the trails become ski at your own risk when the booth is closed. Call 911 if it's an emergency after hours.
OSC Ticket Booth (250) 372-5514
Grab a map of the trails from the booth if you're new, and ask for some trail recommendations.
Trail Etiquette
We really try to discourage walking on our ski trails, but if you must, please walk to the right of the classic tracks and never in the middle skate lanes. Footprints can leave deep ruts in the snow which can freeze and cause accidents.
It's totally cool to stop and take pictures, or have a drink of water while you're skiing. We ask that you avoid stopping on blind corners, or a the bottom of a hill. If you need to stop, step off to the right of the tracks so that others can pass you.
If you need to pass another skier, you can let them know you're "on the left" and come around them using the skate lane - be sure to check for skate skiers first! We're skiing for fun so calling "track" or "hup" in the tracks isn't park of our culture.
Our trails are two-way, so if you're skiing with a friend, you must ski single file in the same tracks, on the right side of the trail.
When classic skiing uphill, it may be necessary to "herringbone" or turn your skis tips out, heels in, and ski up the hill that way. When using this technique, be sure to step into the skate lane and avoid the classic tracks so they don't get cut up. The same goes for skate skiers, please avoid the classic tracks.
Don't be afraid to make some noise when you're coming around a tight corner, or down a steep hill. You never know what might be on the other side
Unexpected crossings
If you see the snowcat on the trails, here's what to do:
- Give them a wave of thanks.
- Step well off the trail, all the way into ungroomed snow. Unpacked snow will be deep, so move slowly.
- The Groomer will slow to a crawl or come to a complete stop.
- The Snowcat Operator may give you hand signals to direct you further off the trail.
- No need to panic, take your time to get completely off the groomed trail, the corduroy part left by the Snowcat's carpet or skirt.
- Ensure poles and ski tips are securely out of the way.
- Wait until the Groomer passes you to proceed. Remember, it’s always better to stay off freshly groomed trails. More on this below.
- Do not attempt to ski past the Snowcat.
- Please don’t ski directly behind the Groomer. By doing so, the (skate) skier punches deep ruts into the trails. It is not a safe practice and distracts the Snowcat Operator.
An alternative to waiting for the groomer to pass, is to turn around and ski to the nearest intersection where there's more room for both of you.
Worried about wildlife? Have a chat with our ticket booth staff about recent sightings, and safe practices when encountering wildlife.
Kids Programs
We may have noticed we have A LOT of kids programs at the lake. It's so amazing that we're able to host opportunities for the next generations of skiers to come! The kids are amazing and very experienced travelling in a group in most cases. Let them come around you, and pack your patience!
Ask or Give Help to other Community Members
If you see someone out on the trails who may be looking for a trail recommendation or directions, ask them if they'd like some help! Our community and the knowledge we share is so special and makes the trails what they are. Don't be afraid to ask for directions and help as well - pretty much everyone loves talking about where the freshest lines are, and what animals they may have come across that day!
Night Skiing
If you're skiing at night, you're always welcome to ask ticket booth staff for trail recommendations, and make sure to pack a headlamp!
Last but not least, enjoy and have fun!
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