Safety & Policies

Uphill Travel

No uphill travel is allowed within the ski area boundaries during our operating season. Before we open for the season, and after we close for the season, uphill travel is allowed. Note that we do not provide any avalanche mitigation or ski patrol services outside of our operating season.

Retention Devices

All skis, snowboards, and snowbikes are required to have retention devices. Skis with backcountry-style bindings without brakes are required to have leashes. This is required under Alaska law, see Sec 5.45.100(c)2

Drones

No drones are allowed at Arctic Valley without our express permission, granted in advance.

Speed Wings

Beginning with the 2023-24 ski season, all speed wing riders must have a USHPA Speedflying rating, plus the PS (Para Ski) special skill endorsement. They must also complete Arctic Valley’s waiver each season. These requirements will help Arctic Valley make sure our Speedflying program is sustainable long term.

Ski Bikes

Ski Bikes are allowed. Retention devices are required for ALL ski bikes. Please note that Arctic Valley is steep, and has limited grooming. We recommend advanced ski bikers only!

Skiing & Riding Safety

Arctic Valley cares about your safety! Know the Responsibility Code, and learn how to ride lifts safely before skiing or riding.

Your Responsibility Code

  • Always stay in control. You must be able to stop or avoid people or objects.
  • People ahead or downhill of you have the right-of-way. You must avoid them.
  • Stop only where you are visible from above and do not restrict traffic.
  • Look uphill and avoid others before starting downhill or entering a trail.
  • You must prevent runaway equipment.
  • Read and obey all signs, warnings, and hazard markings.
  • Keep off closed trails and out of closed areas.
  • You must know how and be able to load, ride and unload lifts safely. If you need assistance, ask the lift attendant.
  • Do not use lifts or terrain when impaired by alcohol or drugs.
  • If you are involved in a collision or incident, share your contact information with each other and a ski area employee.
  • Winter sports involve risk of serious injury or death. Your knowledge, decisions and actions contribute to your safety and that of others. If you need help understanding the Code, please ask any ski area employee.

Inherent Risks of Skiing

WARNING. Under Alaska law, the risk of an injury to person or property resulting from any of the inherent dangers and risks of skiing rests with the skier. Inherent dangers and risks of skiing include changing weather conditions; existing and changing snow conditions; bare spots, rocks, stumps and trees; collisions with natural objects, man-made objects, or other skiers; variations in terrain; and the failure of skiers to ski within their own abilities.

Lift Safety

Find more lift safety resources at Discover Snow.

Helmets

Helmets can help mitigate head injuries on the slopes. Bonus: they also keep your head warm! It is a good idea to outfit your child with one, and wear one yourself. While wearing a helmet is a personal choice, you would be setting a good example for the young ones in your family if you chose to wear one while skiing or riding. Find more information on helmets.

Freestyle Terrain Safety

START SMALL – Work your way up. Build your skills.

MAKE A PLAN – Every feature. Every time.

ALWAYS LOOK – Before you drop.

RESPECT – The features and other users.

TAKE IT EASY – Know your limits. Land on your feet.