Although there are still a few months left to kick off the snow season, the crisis caused by the COVID-19 that forced the hasty closure of the stations before the end of the season makes us begin to consider how we can enjoy from skiing to the new normal.

Knowing many more details about the virus since the pandemic broke out, both institutions and many companies are adapting to the situation. When it comes to sports, many centers and companies have also had to adapt to offer safety measures and alternatives to their users.

On the other hand, those that are practiced individually and outdoors have a lower risk of infection, but it is still important to respect safety measures. The ski season is about to arrive, but the resorts are already beginning to prepare for the new situation.

Skiing and COVID-19: new normality on slopes

In order to minimize the risk of infection, and although skiing and other related disciplines such as snowboarding are sports that are practiced individually and outdoors. There are some actions that have been proposed so that the 2020-2021 season can take place.

The size of the slopes allows for sufficient distance between skiers, but there are other times when crowds may form or there may be an increased risk of infection.

To avoid this, some measures include reducing traffic on the ski lifts, limiting their capacity to 70%. To avoid queues and waits, it has also been proposed to extend the opening hours of the ski lifts and thus distribute them more efficiently to all users. The purchase of ski passes online will also be promoted so that the ticket offices are not meeting points for people.

Another aspect to consider is the ski and snowboard lessons that are taught on the slopes, which are also a meeting point. In this case, it will be decided to reduce the number of students, thus minimizing the risk of possible infections. Of course, everything related to the rental of equipment must be subject to strict rules of hygiene and disinfection.

And après-ski?

It’s weird not to end a snowy day without relaxing by drinking hot chocolate or eating something to replenish strength. As with hotels and restaurants, they will also need to adapt to restrictions in order to reduce risk if necessary.

While many things are still unknown about the upcoming ski season, many are already looking for solutions to try to recover. Although there are a few weeks left for the first heavy snowfalls to arrive, it is important to see how the track response evolves.

For more information you can go to the website https://www.vallter2000.cat/es/invierno/