Safety & Policies

Slow Zones and Reckless Skiing

Slow zones are clearly marked around the base of the mountain and on the trail map. It is your responsibility to ski slowly and in control in these areas for your safety and the safety of others. Signage is also posted at trail intersections, use extra caution when merging. Always read and obey all signs, warnings, and hazard markings.

Ski and ride in control at all times to avoid collisions. You must be able to stop or avoid other skiers, riders, and objects. For more information, visit the NSAA Collision Safety Page. Additional resources can be found on the NSAA Ski and Snowboard Safety Page.

During your visit, you may encounter snowmobiles, snowmaking equipment, or snowcats (groomers). For your safety, slow down and keep your distance from operators and machinery. Never ski or ride in closed terrain where snowmaking or grooming is taking place.

Do not ski or snowboard on closed terrain or trails. Doing so could result in serious injury. Always stick to open terrain, stay alert, and plan ahead.

Stay up to date on snow conditions this winter by subscribing to our daily snow report or downloading the Cranmore app.

Riding a chairlift is part of the fun at Cranmore, and safety is key to making it a smooth, enjoyable experience. Please take a moment to review these important guidelines before loading, riding, and unloading the lift.

Before Loading

• Remove backpacks and secure all loose items.

• Remove pole straps from your wrists.

• Ask the lift attendant for help if needed. Small children should load closest to the attendant.

Loading the Lift

• At the “Wait Here” sign, move forward quickly to the “Load Here” sign and line up evenly.

• When the next chair arrives, sit and slide back as far as possible while keeping your bottom stable on the seat.

• If you’re not ready, it’s OK to wait for the next chair.

• Ensure everyone in your group is seated before lowering the restraint bar. Adults should lower the bar for small children.

Riding the Lift

• Sit back, hold on, and remain still throughout the ride.

• Do not use phones, music, or games while loading or unloading.

• If you drop something, let it fall—it can be picked up later.

• Absolutely no horseplay on the lifts, including throwing snowballs or clicking skis together.

Unloading the Lift

• At the “Unload Here” sign, stand and ski down the ramp.

• Watch for others and move out of the way quickly to allow everyone to unload safely.

Important Restrictions:

• Guests may not ski or ride while carrying infants in backpacks or baby carriers.

• Infants are not permitted on chairlifts or magic carpets.

More Info

Helmets are an important part of mountain safety, but it’s just as important to ski and ride as if you’re not wearing one. Safe, controlled, and responsible behavior on the mountain is the number one factor in keeping the sport safe for everyone. How you ski or ride matters just as much, if not more, than the equipment you use. Keep reading to learn more about helmet use and the programs Cranmore supports to help educate our guests about helmet safety.

More Info

Only pass or ticket holders using approved snow-sliding devices are permitted to ski or ride on Resort property. All devices must have a retention device.

APPROVED SNOW SLIDING DEVICES:

• Downhill skis
• Snowboards
• Telemark skis

• Mono ski

APPROVED ADA ADAPTIVE SNOW SLIDING DEVICES:

• Sit skis
• Mono skis

NON-APPROVED DEVICES:

• Cross-Country skis
• Boot skis
• Snow skates
• Snow surfers
• Skis or snowboards with plastic edges
• Tandem devices
• Sleds, tubes, or toboggans
• Body sleds
• Fat tire bikes
• Snow bikes

Terrain Park safety and etiquette are instrumental in ensuring that everyone has an enjoyable experience when skiing or riding in the parks. At Cranmore we offer four terrain parks that should provide a good time for everyone, from beginner to advanced. For more information, please visit our Terrain Parks Page.

For safety tips and park etiquette, check our NSAA’s page on Freestyle Terrain Safety and PEEPS - Park Etiquette and Education Program.

A great day on the mountain starts with the right gear. Whether you’re skiing, snowboarding, or tubing, dressing in layers and choosing the right essentials will keep you warm, comfortable, and ready for fun. Here’s what we recommend packing for your Cranmore adventure.

Skiing & Snowboarding

• Waterproof ski jacket – We recommend a shell and a puffy you can wear together. You’ll be glad to have options when spring skiing rolls around and you want to shed a layer.

• Ski pants or bibs – Bibs are a great alternative if you’re looking to mix things up.

• Beanie – Wear under your helmet for extra warmth.

• Base layer tops and bottoms – Choose non-cotton layers. Cotton stays wet, and keeping your core warm and insulated is key.

• Neck gaiter or balaclava – Provides extra warmth and protection for your neck and face.

• Gloves or mittens – Choose waterproof, insulated options. Mittens tend to keep hands warmer than gloves.

• Goggles – Protect your eyes from sun, wind, and snow.

• Ski or snowboard socks – Tall, thin, wool or synthetic socks are best. Thick socks can restrict blood flow and make your feet cold.

• Helmet – Highly recommended for safety. It keeps your head warm and could save your life.

Need boots, skis, a snowboard, or poles? Visit our Rentals page for more information.

Tubing

For the best experience on our tubing hill, we recommend:

• Warm hat or beanie

• Gloves

• Boots

Other Essentials

No matter what your mountain plans are, don’t forget these:

• Sunscreen and moisturizer (yes, you can get sunburn in winter!)

• Season pass or lift ticket (RFID)

• Hand and toe warmers

• Neck gaiter

• Lip balm

• Snacks

• Sunglasses or goggles

• A big smile and sense of adventure!

The wooded terrain in glade areas is not maintained. Unmarked obstacles and natural hazards may exist. Use extra caution and always respect posted signs and ropes. Do not enter glades alone. Eye protection is recommended, and pole straps should be removed. Glades are not frequently patrolled and should be used at the skier’s or rider’s own risk.

Drones

Due to safety and privacy concerns, Cranmore Mountain Resort prohibits the operation or use of unmanned aerial systems (drones) on or above Resort property by the general public—including recreational users and hobbyists—without prior written authorization from Cranmore Mountain Resort.

This prohibition includes drones used for filming, videotaping, or media purposes, whether operated within Resort boundaries or launched from private property outside of them.

Please contact the Cranmore Marketing Department with questions or to request prior authorization. Any authorized drone operation must comply with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations, local law enforcement requirements, and Resort-specific policies, which may include certification, training, insurance coverage, indemnification, and liability waivers.

Violations of this policy may result in suspension of access privileges, revocation of season passes, confiscation of prohibited equipment, and liability for damages—including trespass, privacy violations, injuries, property damage, and associated legal fees.

Release of Liability 

Cranmore Mountain Resort Release of Liability

Parking

Overnight parking is prohibited in all Cranmore Mountain Resort parking lots.

Pets

For the comfort and safety of all guests, we ask that you observe the following guidelines when visiting with pets:

• In accordance with local ordinances, dogs must always be leashed and under owner control.

• Dogs are not permitted in the following areas:

  • On lifts

  • On ski trails (during and after operating hours)

  • In retail shops and food establishments

  • In the Arlberg Children’s Center

• Only well-behaved dogs under strict owner control are permitted on food patios and in Schneider Square.

• Please consult Guest Services in the Ticket Office to confirm whether a facility is dog-friendly before entering.