Frequently Asked Questions

1. How safe is skiing?


Statistically, skiing is no more hazardous than bicycling or tennis. It used to be though, in the days of long, stiff wood skis, non-support boots and non-release bindings. Now, with modern equipment such as fiberglass skis, high-support plastic boots, helmets and automatic release bindings,  these all contribute to keeping you safe.  We ask that all patrons know and follow the Your Responsibility Code, which is a guide to keeping you and your fellow skiers and riders safe while on the hill.  skiing is much safer. For more information, check out this link to our Safety Pages.

2. If I'm a beginner,  how long will it take to be able to ski or ride with confidence? 

As with all new beginnings, it will depend on an individual's patience and desire.  On your first day in a lesson, you'll focus on learning how to turn, slow down, stop and possibly ride the lifts.  Though each individual progresses at a different speed, both skiing and snowboarding contain movement mechanics your body may recognize from other sports and activities.  The best way to ensure a good experience and the fastest progression is to take a lesson.  Click here for information on programs offered through our Learning Center.

3. Do I have to be in shape?


While some flexibility and endurance is beneficial when learning to ski or snowboard, athlete/jock status is not required.  If you do some exercises before your first ski experience, you will enjoy it more. First of all, you'll learn faster, because you won't tire so easily during the learning process.  You're probably going to fall down some once or twice while learning so you'll bounce back better if you're in shape. It’s always a good idea to do some minor stretching prior to a day on the slopes. Walking briskly, jogging, jumping rope, or stretching are great ways to prepare for a day on the slopes.

4. What kind of facilities should I expect?

Mad River Mountain’s skiable terrain features 24 trails of varying difficulty spread over 144 acres.  Additionally we are home to the Avalanche Tubing Park, a 10-lane tubing course complete with its own lift service.  Two parking lots ensure close proximity to your activity of choice.

Both Mad River Mountain ski area and the Avalanche Tubing Park have

• Heated base lodges
• Fire Pits
• Food Service
• Restrooms
• Vending Machines

In addition at Mad River's Base Area you'll find:

• The Etc Shop - Retail
• Guest Services with Lost & Found
• Rental Facilities
• Adaptive Ski Program
• Kids Adventure Place
• Race Program
• The Loft Bar & Pizzeria/Sub Shop

Every ski area, whether a day (no lodging) or destination (lodging) area, has the same basic facilities:

• A mountain with ski lifts to transport skiers to the top.
• Trails of varying difficulty to ski back to the bottom.
• A base lodge with food service, restrooms, ticket window, ski school, and Patrol.
• Parking lot.

5. How should I dress for different temperatures?

Dress in layers.  Believe it or not temperatures and conditions can be very different at Mad River than they are in Columbus or Dayton.  We might not be Mount Washington but the varying terrain and altitude can contribute to brisker temperatures and wind conditions. 

When skiing or riding goggles, helmets, gloves, and of course jacket & ski pants are strongly recommended. 

• Goggles will protect your eyes from watering up while going downhill.
• Gloves protect your hands from the elements and cold chair lifts
• Helmets are just a smart choice for all abilities.
• Ski/Snowboard pants will keep your legs warm and underlayers dry
• A good ski jacket with an inner layer that can be removed or used is always best.

6.  How can I find out the conditions before I go?


Every ski resort publishes a "conditions" report or a "ski report." Usually it's done daily and gives you a summary of the temperatures, trails open, lifts running, weather conditions, and more. Mad River updates our reports every morning by the first light