Mountain Safety & Information

Please read over the following information before your visit. 

WEST MOUNTAIN WINTER SAFETY PRACTICES & MOUNTAIN OPERATIONS DETAILS

Help Keep West Mountain Clean! Support our Clean Mountain Initiative:

• Please store all skis, snowboards and poles on the ski racks. *
• Please watch your language. *
• Please do not leave any garbage or gear on the tables, on the floor, or the ground. *
• Please do not fight, bully, or trash talk on the property. *
• Please do not steal or vandalize the property or other’s property. *
• Please do not smoke on the property.
• Please leave your pets at home. *
• Please do not use our trails for uphill travel. *
• Please do not bring outside alcohol, coolers on the property.
• Please be respectful of other guests and WM employees. *

Winter Reservation Policies as of 10/14/22:

• Tubing Guests without an RFID West Express Card: Advance reservations are required for tubing at westmountain.com. Same-day tickets will only be sold if available.
• Tubing 6-pack Guests: Tubing 6-pack guests are required to make a reservation 48 hours or more in advance of your visit by calling the front desk at 518-636-3699 ext. 0.
• Tubing Guests with a West Express RFID Card: Advance reservations are required for tubing. Reload tickets at westmountain.com/reload. Same-day tickets will only be sold if available.
• Daily Skiing and Snowboarding Guests Without a West Express RFID Card: Advance reservations are recommended for skiing and snowboarding at westmountain.com.
• Daily Skiing and Snowboarding Guests with a West Express RFID Card: Advance reservations are recommended for skiing and snowboarding. Reload tickets at westmountain.com/reload.
• Season Pass Holders (Including Indy Pass) and 6-Pack Lift Ticket Holders: We do not require advance reservations for skiing and riding for season pass holders (Including Indy Pass) and 6-pack ski/ride lift ticket holders. To redeem an Indy Pass ticket (Holiday & non-Holiday) you have to present a photo ID at the ticket window so we can look you up in the Indy Pass system and give you your complimentary tickets (2 per Indy Pass Holder). Indy Pass holders will be charged an RFID card fee upon arrival. Indy Pass holders receive 25% off a lift ticket for the third day.
• All Other Guests: Advance purchase is required for Programs, Winter Camps, Rentals, and Lessons at westmountain.com. Same-day lift tickets and rentals will only be sold if available. Check in for all pre-reserved rental bookings is at the Rental Shop. Check-In for pre-reserved tickets only (without rentals) will be available outdoors at the ticket windows at the Main Lodge. All pre-reserved lesson check-ins will be available outdoors at the Snowsports window at the Main Lodge. Program participants will check in at a table set up in the courtyard the first week of programs. If you are renting and taking a lesson, please purchase in advance online and arrive well ahead of your lesson time to be at lesson line up in time. More information below.

Uphill Travel: West Mountain does not offer uphill travel except during summer operational hours with the purchase of a ticket or season pass.

Smoking and Pets: Smoking and pets are not permitted on the property.

Outside Alcohol and Coolers: Outside alcohol and coolers are not permitted on the property.

Drones: West Mountain does not allow drones on the property.

Lift Safety HERE

Handicap Accessibility: We have handicap parking spots located in the main parking lot near the entrance. We have an elevator near the lobby that accesses the restaurant and bar located on the second floor of the main lodge. Restrooms, cafe and lodge seating are located on the first floor and handicap accessible.

Tubing Park: For your safety, we ask that you please follow these guidelines when visiting our Tubing Park:

• One person per tube in the standard sized tubes, no lap riders.
• Children under 4 years old are not permitted to go tubing.
• Riders must be able to control their own tube.
• No running starts or pushes.
• Tubers must sit in tube, no laying on belly.
• Ski/Snowboard boots not allowed.
• Tubing participants must be able to remain seated in the tube while holding the handle. Dismount the tube and exit the tubing lanes while also removing the tube from the lanes.
• Abide by the Tubing Park Rules. Load, ride, and unload the lift safely.

Snow Sports School, Ski & Snowboard Rentals, & Retail: West Mountain will be offering lessons, programs, retail, and rentals this season. 24-Hour advance reservations are required for daily lesson bookings by calling 518-636-3699 ext. 336. Lesson check-in will take place outdoors at the SnowSports Lesson Check In window. Program and Camp participants will check in at a table set up in the courtyard the first week of programs. After checking in, pre-reserved rentals can be picked up and dropped off at the rental building (located across the courtyard from the Main Lodge). Gloves, hats, snow pants, WM branded retail, and more is available for purchase on the Main Lodge.

New to Skiing and/or Snowboarding? West Mountain is all about family fun for all ages, but we know that if this is your first time skiing or snowboarding, it can be a little overwhelming. With that in mind, we’ve created the First Timer’s Guide to help prepare you for your first visit to the Mountain. Here’s everything you’ll need to know

Learning Made Easy

West Mountain has taught many guests to ski and snowboard since 1961. Thanks to our dedicated staff of instructors, we have consistently taught brand new beginners to advanced skiers and snowboarders the joys of being on the mountain all winter long. We hope you will join us on your journey to improve your skiing or snowboarding adventure.

Skiing Must Knows

Getting Started: Skis are constructed to make learning and turning far easier than ever before. Knowing a few basic facts about ski construction as well as the various ski types will help you find the perfect skis that are right for you.

Getting the Boot: Comfort is the Key

• The most important thing is that the boots are comfortable and fit your feet. Ski boots come in traditional American sizes and "mondo point," which is the length of the boot in centimeters.
• When trying on boots, wear one pair of medium-weight or light-weight socks.
• The fit should be snug and your heel should remain in place when flexing the knee and ankle forward into the boot.
• Your toes should barely touch the inside of the boot and should slide back slightly when you bend your knee forward.
• Make sure there aren't any pressure points or spots that pinch your feet or calves.
• Remember boots will stiffen in the cold.
• Bindings hold your boots to the skis and are designed to release when you need them to during a fall.

• Poles are used to help you with your balance and rhythm while skiing. Poles can be made from fiberglass, aluminum or carbon fiber.

A Few Key Pointers

• When renting skis, discuss your skiing experience with the technician and don’t exaggerate your ability or experience.

• Skis should be about chin high for beginners. Specifically, the tip should land between the chin and nose. Edges should be sharp and bases should be freshly waxed. Did you know we tune skis at West Mountain? Visit Steve “Ski” Magee in the rental/tune shop for your next tune up.
• It’s important to note your exact weight, height, age and skier type (beginners are type I). These factors determine your DIN (Deutsch Industrial Norm) setting on the bindings. DIN numbers correspond to the torque needed to release a ski boot out of the binding
• After sliding into the boot, your foot should feel snug (not painful) everywhere. With ski boots, your toes should touch the front until you drive your knees forward. Your toes should then pull back, leaving a little wiggle room for comfort.
• Don't tuck pant legs into boots. The boots are designed to hug your shin and calf, so you don't want any extra fabric to interfere.

Snowboarding Must Knows

Getting Started: While many snowboards may look similar on the shelf, not all are the same. A number of things influence the performance of a snowboard including the construction material, stiffness, length, weight and shape.

A Few Key Pointers

• As far as length goes, your board should fall somewhere between your chin and your nose (when stood up on its tail) and be wide enough so that your feet don't hang over the edge more than half an inch.

• Beginners will generally want a more forgiving (softer) board to learn on.
• When renting a board, discuss your riding experience with the technician and don’t exaggerate your ability or experience.
• Lastly, you'll need to know your stance (regular or goofy). This is different for every person, but is usually the same as the leading foot on skateboards or surfboards.

There is no right or wrong here and remember you can always change if you start to find that you’re more comfortable with one foot over the other.

Proper Boot Fitting

Boots are the primary connection point to your board and as such are arguably your most important piece of snowboard equipment. Uncomfortable feet can lead to all kinds of problems with snowboarding, so make sure your boots fit properly. Some initial fit tips for boots include:

• When trying on boots, wear the socks you'll be wearing up to the hill. A medium-weight wool or other moisture-wicking sock is best.

• The fit should be snug. Remember, the foam in your boots will pack out slightly as you break them in, so you want them tight at the beginning but not painful.

• Your heel should remain in place when bending the knee and ankle forward.
• Walk around and make sure there aren't any pressure points or spots pinching your feet. Common problem areas include on the bridge of the foot, the heel and around the ankle bones

Lift Safety

If you are new to skiing/riding, please read over National Ski Areas Association's lift safety documentation HERE

What to Wear

If you are new to skiing/riding, please read over National Ski Areas Association's recommendation on What to Wear HERE

Base Lodges & Food and Beverage: Please store all gear in the cubbies. The tables and floor must remain clear of all gear. Tables are reserved for those purchasing food. If you are bringing in your own food, please use the tables under the tent behind the Main Lodge. The West Mountain Bar & Eatery will be open for sit-down dining with its regular menu and will offer a full bar. The West Express Café, located downstairs in the Main Lodge, will also be open for food and beverage service. The NW Lodge will also be open and will offer a limited food and bar menu. Please store all gear in the cubbies. The tables and floor must remain clear of all gear.

KNOW THE CODE:

Common Sense, it's one of the most important things to keep in mind and practice when on the slopes. At West Mountain, we believe that helmet use, respect, personal responsibility, and common sense are very important when cruising down the mountain. We encourage all skiers and snowboarders to familiarize themselves with the responsibility code below. The National Ski Areas Association developed Your Responsibility Code to help skiers and snowboarders be aware that there are elements of risk in snowsports that a little common sense and personal awareness can help reduce.

Your Responsibility Code

1. Always stay in control, and be able to stop or avoid other people or objects.
2. People ahead of you have the right of way. It is your responsibility to avoid them.
3. You must not stop where you obstruct a trail, or are not visible from above.
4. Whenever starting downhill or merging into a trail, look uphill and yield to others.
5. Always use devices to help prevent runaway equipment.
6. Observe all posted signs and warnings. Keep off closed trails and out of closed areas.
7. Prior to using any lift, you must have the knowledge and ability to load, ride and unload safely.
8. Do not use lifts or terrain when impaired by alcohol and/or drugs.
9. If you are involved in a collision or incident, share your contact information with each other and a ski area employee.

Protect yourself, protect others. With common sense and the seven points of Your Responsibility Code, you can have a safer day on the slopes.

Helmet Safety For More Information on the Importance of Wearing a Helmet, Please visit: Lids on Kids
For More Skiing and Snowboarding Safety Tips, Please visit: National Ski and Snowboard Association 

Alpine Racing and other Events: West Mountain will be offering alpine racing and training this season Events will be governed by the guidelines from US Ski & Snowboard, NYSSRA, USCSA, NYPHSAA, and other governing bodies.

• All athletes and family members must adhere to all safety guidelines while on the property.
• All additional event guidelines will be available as more information becomes available.

Please view our WMR Safety Plan HERE

Please view and download our WM Liability Release HERE

Please view U.S. Ski & Snowboard's Safesport Information HERE

Ski Patrol: Will follow National Ski Patrol guidelines.

Pulling a Ticket or Pass: WM reserves the right to remove a lift ticket or pass at any time and for any reason. Such reasons can include, but are not limited to:

• Sharing your season pass or ticket, using someone else’s pass or ticket, or loading the lift without a ticket or pass.
• Violations of the skier’s responsibility code
• Bouncing the chairlift
• Jumping from the chairlift
• Vandalism
• Violent or aggressive behavior
• Smoking/Drugs
• Bullying
• Skiing on closed trails
• Skiing off trail

Fees: If season pass or ticket fraud is suspected, season pass/ticket privileges will be revoked and the police will be notified. A $100 recovery fee will be charged if season pass privileges are ever reinstated.

Violators using someone else's ticket or pass will be charged the price of a season pass or all-area, all-day lift ticket and the police will be notified.

WM reserves the right to prosecute for any of the above violations to the full extent of the law.

There is a $6 reprint fee for tickets and passes. The fee is dependent on the ticket/pass that is being reprinted.

Vendors, Sales Personnel and Others: All Vendors, sales personnel, town and state representatives and others must have a scheduled meeting, delivery time, etc. with the appropriate West Mountain manager ahead of visiting WM. Please call the front desk upon arrival at 518-636-3699 ext. 0 for confirmation of scheduled visit and to be permitted entry. Masks are required indoors.

Refund Policy: West Mountain Products cannot be refunded, resold or transferred.

Please Note: Reservations can only be moved to another day with a documented medical excuse accompanied with a copy of your reservation emailed to west@westmountain.com. We do not issue refunds.

WEST MOUNTAIN SUMMER/FALL SAFETY PRACTICES & MOUNTAIN OPERATION DETAILS

2023 Spring and Summer Hours of Operation HERE 

Summer/Fall Reservation Policies:

• Summer Season Pass Holders: Summer Adventure Tickets are complimentary for summer season pass holders. Reservations for aerial adventure, mountain biking and scenic chairlift rides and hiking should be made online in advance at westmountain.com. The process is simple. Just input your summer season pass number and click Validate once your selections are in your cart. Buddy tickets (one per day per pass holder) can be purchased at the ticket window. Buddy tickets are 20% off the retail rate. Picnics (select the Picnic Add-On) and bike rentals can be added to your reservation online and are a separate fee. We will require you to show your summer season pass at check-in. The name on the ticket reservation must match the name on the season pass. Please check in at the ticket windows at the Main Lodge upon arrival.
• Winter Season Pass Holders: Summer Adventure Tickets are 15% off for winter season pass holders. Reservations for aerial adventure, mountain biking, mountaintop picnics, and scenic chairlift rides and hiking should be made online in advance at westmountain.com. The process is simple. Just input your season pass number and click Validate once your selections are in your cart. We will require you to show your winter season pass at check-in.  The name on the ticket reservation must match the name on the season pass. Please check in at the ticket windows at the Main Lodge upon arrival.
• All Other Summer Guests: Advance Reservations are strongly recommended at WestMountain.com. Check in for all pre-reserved ticket and rental bookings is available outdoors at the ticket windows of the Main Lodge. After check-in at the ticket windows, advance rental purchases can be picked up in the rental shop (across the courtyard from the Main Lodge). If you are renting and taking a lesson, please purchase in advance online and arrive well ahead of your lesson time to be at lesson line up in time.
• *Beginning in 22-23, all new ticket and program purchasers will be charged an RFID card fee. There will be an additional replacement fee if the card is lost, stolen etc. All ticket and program holders/participants will need their RFID card to access the lift.

BIKING/HIKING/LIFT RIDING/CLIMBING CODE:

All guests must check in at the ticket window at the Main Lodge upon arrival and have a signed waiver and a valid ticket or access band when visiting. Guests 12 and Under need to be accompanied by an adult. In order to ride the chairlift, children must be able to sit up next to an adult. Baby carriers, large coolers and back packs are not allowed on the lift. Do not bike/hike/climb alone. Be safe, wear a helmet when engaging in biking/climbing activities at West Mountain. Wear proper athletic shoes and gear for your visit. Know your ability and do not try to exceed it. If in doubt, seek help. You can always ask a mountain attendant for assistance. Do not stop where you obstruct a trail or cannot be seen by other mountain users. Be aware of others on our mixed use trails. Observe all CLOSED TRAIL signs, barriers and caution ropes. Do not ride/hike/climb off designated trails. Do not disturb animals or plants on the mountain. No fires. smoking or pets are allowed on West Mountain property. Biking, Hiking, Climbing, or any other activity are not allowed on the property during non-business hours.

Mountain Biking Safety Details:

• Purchase a ticket or season pass
• Wear a helmet
• Stay in Control
• Wear the Correct Riding Gear
• Ride Within your skill level
• Get to know the trail(s)
• Slow down for blind corners
• Watch for drainage ditches, water bars and other obstacles
• Obey signs and warnings
• Be aware of others on our mixed-use trails
• Do not bike on trails when the mountain is not open.

Uphill Travel during Summer Operations: West Mountain offers uphill travel during summer operations with purchase of a ticket and only during business hours.

Tickets and Passes: All guests must have a VALID lift ticket or pass to access the lifts.

Pulling a lift ticket or pass: WM reserves the right to remove a lift ticket or pass at any time and for any reason. Such reasons can include, but are not limited to:

• Sharing your season pass or ticket, using someone else’s pass or ticket, or loading the lift without a ticket or pass.
• Violations of the summer responsibility code
• Bouncing the chairlift
• Jumping from the chairlift
• Vandalism
• Violent or aggressive behavior
• Smoking/Drugs
• Bullying
• mountain biking/hiking on closed trails
• mountain biking/hiking off trail

Fees: If season pass or ticket fraud is suspected, season pass/ticket privileges will be revoked and the police will be notified. A $100 recovery fee will be charged if season pass privileges are ever reinstated.

Violators using someone else's ticket or pass will be charged the price of a season pass or all-area, all-day lift ticket and the police will be notified.

WM reserves the right to prosecute for any of the above violations to the full extent of the law.

There is a $6 reprint fee for tickets and passes. The fee is dependent on the ticket/pass that is being reprinted.

Smoking and Pets: Smoking and pets are not permitted on the property.

Outside Alcohol and Coolers: Outside alcohol and coolers are not permitted on the property.

Drones: West Mountain does not allow drones on the property.

Handicap Accessibility: We have handicap parking spots located in the main parking lot near the entrance. We have an elevator near the lobby that accesses the restaurant and bar located on the second floor of the main lodge. Restrooms, cafe and lodge seating are located on the first floor and handicap accessible.

Lift Safety HERE

THANK YOU FOR YOUR COOPERATION

_____

WEST MOUNTAIN TRUE TO OUR ROOTS SINCE 1961

An established ski and outdoor activities year-round community with a family-friendly atmosphere, West Mountain is the choice for an authentic upstate experience on the mountain.

Nestled at the foot of the Adirondack Mountains and conveniently located off I-87,

West Mountain offers a quick drive to downhill satisfaction.

Family-owned and operated since day one, West Mountain continues to evolve to meet the needs of families as well as skiing and riding loyalists and year-round outdoor enthusiasts.

Improve your skills, have fun with your family and live an active lifestyle. We care about your family, your health and your enjoyment. The new West Mountain is the year-round destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking convenience, affordability and a real Adirondack adventure.