Ski Season Procedures
Ski Season Procedures
Holiday Valley Releases Plans for Winter 2020-21; Subject to NYS guidelines
Crisp mornings and changing leaves has everyone thinking one thing — winter is almost here. Since the pandemic began, Ellicottville’s local businesses have done an outstanding job of rapidly changing gears to safely accommodate its patrons, implementing procedures from social distancing to facial/temperature scanners to branded plexiglass between barstools. It’s been an uphill battle, but one that’s been met with a tenaciousness you’ve come to expect from Ellicottville.
In late-summer, ski resorts around the country began announcing operating procedures for the upcoming season. Fortunately, skiing/snowboarding already takes place in an environment where social distancing isn’t only prevalent, it’s encouraged. And most of the time you’re already wearing goggles and a facemask. But the challenges remain. It will be up to each of us to do our part to ensure we have a fun, safe season.
Holiday Valley recently released its COVID operating policies for winter ’20-’21, using guidelines set forth by the ski industry. New York State guidelines have not yet been released, and the resort may need to tailor the plans depending on what the state mandates. HV’s projected opening date — weather permitting — is Friday, November 27th. With 60 trails, 13 lifts and a world-class snowmaking system, the resort has the outdoor space and capabilities to successfully navigate us through the season.
PASSES
At this time, Holiday Valley does not plan to limit the number of skiers or riders permitted at the resort most days. A bonus for Classic Season Passholders? The resort plans to open Yodeler and Mardi Gras at 8:00 a.m. every Saturday between December 26th and February 27th. Extended operating hours will allow season passholders to be the first ones on the hill and get some good turns in on the weekends.
A few years ago, the resort began offering lift ticket purchases on its website. When you buy 14 days in advance, you save money (there are a lot of different options — head to the site for more information) and can lock in your tickets. Holiday Valley is encouraging skiers and snowboarders to purchase ahead of time.
Another quick note on passes: if you’re planning on coming consistently throughout the season, check out Holiday Valley’s Ultimate Passes. They offer great value and allow you the flexibility to pick a time that works best for you.
LODGES, WARMING HUTS AND FACE COVERINGS
Holiday Valley is asking that you wear your mask at all times unless you’re seated to eat or drink or in an outdoor location where you can practice social distancing. When you’re in the lodges — whether that’s to eat, drink, go to the restroom, get rentals or shop in the Mountain Shops — you must wear a face covering. They’re recommending you bring a spare with you. Facemasks will be available in the Mountain Shops.
To help avoid the general congregation of people, indoor space at the resort’s three lodges — The Main, Yodeler and Tannenbaum — will be extremely limited. The resort is asking that skiers and riders treat their vehicles as a base lodge and get ready there. Lodges will be rearranged to reduce capacity in dining areas and meet the 50% threshold set forth by New York State.
Lodges will act more as a warming hut than a traditional hangout spot. New entry and exit points are being implemented, and tables will only be available for those eating. A staple of Holiday Valley is their acceptance of guests bringing their own food — and while picnicking will be allowed this year, you’ll be asked to not bring anything in until you’re ready to eat. Crockpots and other electric devices will not be permitted.
CHAIRLIFTS, RENTALS AND SNOWSPORTS
Fortunately, Holiday Valley operates 11 quad chairlifts that can disperse skiers and riders across the variety of terrain. This season, chairlifts will be loaded in such a way that allows for social distancing; you’ll have the opportunity to ride up with members of your party. Singles will be paired up with one other person unless they ask to ride alone. While on the chairlifts and in lift lines, facemasks are required.
When you purchase your lift tickets online, you’ll also be able to book your rentals. The resort will limit the number of people allowed in the rental shop at one time and will implement more outdoor spaces and registration desks to allow for social distancing. All rental equipment will be sanitized between uses.
Both private and group lessons will be available this season for ages three to adult. The resort is asking that you register in advance for any day or night group lesson and advance reservations are required for private lessons. All seasonal programs are available this season but special arrival and lunch hours will be staggered. Call Creekside Lodge to set lessons up — the resort hopes to have lessons available for purchase online by November.
As we get closer to the season, Holiday Valley will continue to fine tune its COVID procedures. For more information, head to www.holidayvalley.com.
