Experience Snow Skiing

Coming to the mountains, stay in the mountains Coming to the mountains? It just makes sense to stay in the mountains! With winter comes freezing temperatures and snow in the mountains, which mean it’s ski season! Ober Gatlinburg Ski Resort in Gatlinburg offers eight ski trails serviced by two quad and one double chairlift, which keeps you out of lift lines and on the slopes. Generally from mid-December through early March when temperatures drop, Ober Gatlinburg’s snowmaking equipment blankets 100% of the slopes, which are maintained with the latest snow-grooming equipment that provides a smoother, more consistent surface. If you’ve never skied before, take a short, concise instructional class from the on-site ski school before you begin, so that you can learn the basics before you get out on one of the two beginner runs. For those with more experience, Ober Gatlinburg also features four intermediate and two advanced runs. Other services include night skiing, lessons, and ski and snowboard rentals. In addition, there’s a Ski Shop on location. Like any sport, there are pointers for ensuring a safe and fun snow skiing or snowboarding session. Provided below is a partial list of tips. Prior to Hitting the Slopes Obtain proper equipment. Be sure to have your ski or snowboard bindings adjusted correctly at a local ski shop. You can rent good ski or snowboarding equipment at resorts. When buying skiwear, look for fabric that is water and wind-resistant. Be sure to buy quality clothing and products. Dress in layers. Layering allows you to accommodate your body’s constantly changing temperature. Be prepared. Bring a headband or hat with you to the slopes: 60 percent of heat-loss is through the head. Wear gloves or mittens. Wear sun protection. The sun reflects off the snow and is stronger than you think, even on cloudy days! Always wear eye protection. Skiing and snowboarding are a lot more fun when you can see. While on the Slopes Take a lesson. The best way to become a good skier or snowboarder is to take a lesson from a qualified instructor. The key to successful skiing/snowboarding is control. To have it, you must be aware of your technique, the terrain and the skiers/snowboarders around you. Skiing and snowboarding require a mental and physical presence. The all-important warm-up run prepares you mentally and physically for the day ahead. If you find yourself on a slope that exceeds your ability level, leave your skis/snowboard on and side step down the slope. If you’re tired, stop skiing. Your Responsibility Code Always stay in control. People ahead of you have the right of way. Stop in a safe place for you and others. Whenever starting downhill or merging, look uphill and yield. Use devices to help prevent runaway equipment. Observe signs and warnings, and keep off closed trails. Know how to use the lifts safely. Coming to the mountains? It just makes sense to stay in the mountains of Gatlinburg. To learn more about all the fun that Gatlinburg offers, call 800-568-4748, or for mountains of information visit the Gatlinburg website at www.gatlinburg.com.