TOP OFF THE TANK: RULE CHANGES ENTICE SKIERS TO THE NORTH
While we are still in the midst of a pandemic and need to continue to take all the steps asked of us to get past this, there are some promising updates that can make spring skiing escapes a bit more doable; and best of all: that foreshadow what we all hope will be an open and normal season next year.
Last week, the state of Maine lifted all quarantine requirements for travel there. New Hampshire allows fellow New England residents to travel to and from with no extra steps other than agreeing to respect masking, social distancing and other rules (all easy to follow on a ski day).
Even Vermont, one of the strictest states for travel throughout the pandemic, has made adjustments: If you are
14 days past your final COVID-19 vaccination shots, there are no travel or quarantine requirements to visit the state now, although you are asked to follow guidelines set forth while in the state.
This means that while the snow still holds (and it pretty much almost always holds well into the first week of April), for many of us, it may take less advance planning and quarantining to get in some great ski days.
How do you know what is allowed and where you can go more freely now?
Your first step is to visit the state’s COVID-19 site and read up on the latest updates for travel. It’s both invigorating and encouraging to see things begin to change after a long season of challenges.
Next, visit your resort choice website and check to see if you can or must order tickets in advance. Advice? If you can: do. There’s a pent-up hunger out there that could mean last spring ski days – usually a bit quieter since skiers begin to think about boating and golfing—could be busier this year with slopes filling up with those who now find a quick trip easier.
Lock in your lift tickets right away – and do look for spring deals such as season passes for next year that allow you access now. Your skiing and riding could be “free” that way.
Book your rooms now as well and while weekends should be fine, always remember that midweek is magical. You can often find fresh tracks all day, and you won’t find much of a lift line.
If it is a resort you’ve not visited this season, get a feel for how they are operating this year. What’s open for on-mountain food? Is there a place to store bags should you be driving to the area, or are you better off keeping all your extras in the car?
What are the lesson set-ups, if you’ll be using lessons? Websites share most, but giving a call and chatting with a customer service rep can probably win you some tips to make your visit to that particular resort a smooth one. Call them: They want to help.
Plan, too, on bringing more along for an overnight than you usually do. While most restaurants are operating and take-out is a snap, food shopping at home and bringing along a cooler and bag of basics means one less place you’ll need to stop off at on the way.
Yes, there are still restrictions and no, our borders are not totally open. But spring is bringing us a little more freedom, here and there, to get out and savor the ski day.
Take advantage.