Skier Receives Summons for Ignoring Uphill Ban at Copper Mountain, CO

A skier at Copper Mountain, Colorado, was issued a court summons after continuing uphill travel despite warnings from ski patrol that uphill access was prohibited. Ski patrol contacted law enforcement, and a deputy traveled up the mountain with ski patrol to meet the skier. The skier agreed to switch to downhill travel and return to the base, where the summons was issued. The enforcement reflects safety concerns during periods when access is closed. Resorts use heavy machinery such as snowcats, winch cats, and snowmobiles for snowmaking, grooming, lift maintenance, and race training, creating hazards for uphill travelers. The risk increases during U.S. men’s ski team training, where athletes may ski at very high speeds.

"A deputy later traveled up the mountain with ski patrol by snowmobile and rode up to the skier. The individual eventually agreed to transition to downhill mode and return to the base, where the summons was issued by the deputy. This particular interaction shows how seriously resorts are beginning to enforce their uphill travel policies, especially during periods when access is closed."

"While some skiers and riders may view uphill restrictions as overly strict, resorts typically close uphill access for significant safety reasons rather than convenience. During the off-season, ski areas regularly operate heavy machinery on terrain, including snowcats, winch cats, and snowmobiles. Snowmaking equipment, grooming operations, lift maintenance, and race training can all create hazards for anyone traveling uphill."

"This concern is especially relevant right now, as Copper Mountain is welcoming the U.S. men's ski team for training on the mountain. These high-speed training environments can add another layer of risks for everyone involved, but particularly for the speed specialists, who are known to ski at speeds of up to 80 mph. In situations like this, even a single uphill skier can create dangerous conditions for both resort staff, coaches, and athletes."

"Copper Mountain clearly states on its website that "UPHILL ACCESS FOR THE 2025/26 SEASON IS NOW CLOSED!" This website statement, combined with"

Read at SnowBrains