Ski Patrol

Requirements

The Big Powderhorn Ski Patrol is a unit of the North Central Region, Central Division of the National Ski Patrol. Since its formation in 1938, the National Ski Patrol has become one of the largest outdoor rescue organizations in the world including over 31,000 members serving 650 patrols in the U.S., Canada, Europe and Asia. In 1980, the National Ski Patrol was granted a Federal Charter by the United States Congress. NSP’s Congressional Charter stipulates the promotion of safety and health in skiing and other outdoor winter recreational activities. As a part of its Federal Charter, The National Ski Patrol reports annually to the United States Congress.

The National Ski Patrol was founded by Charles Minot “Minnie” Dole in 1938 after the tragic loss of a friend due to injuries suffered in a ski related accident. He was also responsible for the establishment of the famed 10th Mountain Division of the U.S. Army. Applicants for this remarkable military unit were actually screened by the National Ski Patrol. Many individuals who were responsible for the establishment of ski areas in the United States served in the 10th Mountain Division and contributed significantly to the sport.

Guest Patrolling

The Big Powderhorn Ski Patrol welcomes qualified guest patrollers. Please contact us in advance to arrange to sign on!

Signing on to patrol with us as a guest is a privilege and at the discretion of the Patrol Director and Big Powderhorn management. Prior to signing on, guest patrollers will be required to present to the Crew Chief his or her credentials, which will be logged by the crew chief, including:

• Current NSP membership
• Current OEC card
• Current CPR for Healthcare Providers card

Please arrive at the ski patrol aid room in the Caribou Lodge with plenty of time for the crew chief to check your credentials and arrange to have you signed in prior to being in boots and ready to be on the hill for opening sweep by 8:45am.

Guest patrollers will be required to be in uniform, carry a radio, pack, and respond to accidents. Closing sweep assignments will be made prior to 3:30pm and guest patrollers will be expected to participate in both opening and closing sweep.

If you’re interested in being notified about days we are in need of additional coverage, including incentives for patrollers to sign on with us, consider signing up for our Patrol Reserve Corps!

Please contact us at patrol@bigpowderhorn.net or visit bigpowderhornskipatrol.com/guest-patrollers/.

Patrol Perks/Benefits

If you ask a Big Powderhorn Patroller what benefits they get the most out of, you will probably find that they will not tell you about the benefits provided by the ski resort, but rather the lifetime friendships, camaraderie, fun, and the satisfaction of doing good and helping out their fellow snowsport enthusiasts!

But there are other benefits to patrolling at Big Powderhorn Mountain:

• Flexible schedule! Get your 10 day requirement in when it fits your schedule!
• First tracks! Our office is measured in acres.
• Guest pass benefits
• Outdoor Emergency Care training/credentials
• Access to ski lessons/training
• Pro deals and discounts on outdoor gear
• On-premise break room/changing room
• Discounted BPM cafeteria meal tickets
• Patrol social events

Ski Patrol Application

For additional information on the Big Powderhorn Ski Patrol, including information on signing on, please email patrol@bigpowderhorn.net.

Know the Code

Common Sense – it’s one of the most important things to keep in mind and practice when on the slopes. The National Ski Areas Association (NSAA) believes education, helmet use, respect, and common sense are very important when cruising down the mountain. NSAA developed Your Responsibility Code to help skiers and boarders be aware that there are elements of risk in snowsports that common sense and personal awareness can help reduce. The Code was updated in 2022 and now has ten points.

Terrain Park Responsibility Code

1. Make a plan.
2. Every time you use Freestyle Terrain, make a plan for each feature you want to use.
3. Your speed, approach and takeoff will directly affect your maneuver and landing.
4. Look before you leap.
5. Before getting into freestyle terrain observe all signage and warnings.
6. Scope around the jumps first, not over them.
7. Use your first run as a warm up run and to familiarize yourself with the terrain.
8. Be aware that the features change constantly due to weather, usage, grooming and time of day.
9. Do not jump blindly and use a spotter when necessary.
10. Easy style it.
11. Know your limits and ski/ride within your ability level.
12. Look for small progression parks or features to begin with and work your way up.
13. Freestyle skills require maintaining control on the ground and in the air.
14. Do not attempt any features unless you have sufficient ability and experience to do so safely.
15. Inverted aerials increase your risk of injury and are not recommended.
16. Respect gets respect.
17. Respect the terrain and others.
18. One person on a feature at a time.
19. Wait your turn and call your start.
20. Always clear the landing area quickly.
21. Respect all signs and stay off closed terrain and features.

THIS IS A PARTIAL LIST. BE SAFETY CONSCIOUS.