Uphill & Closed Trail Policies

Smugglers’ Notch Resort is committed to providing an enjoyable skiing and riding experience for our guests and employees. We know that part of the fun comes from dealing with the challenge of an occasional hazard or obstacle or less-than-ideal snow conditions. We strive to open our trails and glades as soon as possible, using our experience and knowledge to balance the fun and challenge with our responsibility on the hill. Trails are closed for a reason, and it is frequently not one you can see from the lift or the rope at the top of the trail. Skiing or riding closed trails puts you in a higher risk situation and puts anyone who might have to rescue you in a comparable situation. Therefore, Smugglers’ Notch Resort will enforce a policy of No Skiing on Closed Trails for our guests and employees. People observed skiing or riding on closed trails will be subject to potential loss of lift privileges, as explained below.

> First violation will be the loss of skiing/riding privileges for the remainder of the day or the next day if it occurs after 3:00 pm.
> Second offense will result in loss of skiing/riding privileges for 7 days.
> Subsequent offenses could result in loss of skiing/riding privileges for the remainder of the season with no refund.

Wooded areas between named trails and glades are not marked in any way, are not patrolled, and have no skier/snowboarder services. If you decide to ski or snowboard in wooded areas, within the ski area boundary, you are solely responsible for yourself. You should be an expert skier/snowboarder and you should stay in groups of three or more. Do not ski or snowboard on or across closed trails.

Much of the land Smugglers’ trails are located on is owned by the State of Vermont. The lease held by Smugglers’ Notch Management Company that permits operation of skiing services stipulates that Smugglers’ is responsible and liable for the maintenance and safety of the mountain at all times. The lease gives resort officials the ability to grant, limit, or terminate property use at any time. Smugglers’ Notch Management requests that those enjoying our terrain police their own behavior and abide by the following rules. Failure to abide by this code of conduct will result in more restrictive policies.

1. Always stay in control. You must be able to stop or avoid people or objects.
2. People ahead of downhill of you have the right-of-way. You must avoid them.
3. Stop only where you are visible from above and do not restrict traffic.
4. Look uphill and avoid others before starting downhill or entering a trail.
5. You must prevent runaway equipment.
6. Read and obey all signs, warnings and hazard markings.
7. Keep off closed trails and out of closed areas.
8. You must know how and be able to load, ride and unload lifts safely. If you need assistance, ask the lift attendant.
9. Do not use lifts or terrain when impaired by alcohol or drugs.
10. If you are involved in a collision or incident, share your contact information with each other and a ski area employee.

Smugglers’ Notch Ski Patrol is dedicated to keeping our slopes fun and accessible for all. Whether providing first aid, responding to emergencies, or promoting responsible skiing and riding, this highly trained team is always ready to help. Look for their signature red jackets on the trails, ensuring every adventure is both thrilling and worry-free. If you need assistance, call (802) 644-1182.