One of the duties of Ski Patrol is to ensure that all our guests are safely off the mountain when we close for the day. At closing time we gather at the top of the mountain and ski all the runs, sweeping to make sure no one is left behind. During sweep we also move signs and warning lines out of the runs to allow the grooming crew to set up for the next day.
The Ski Patrol Hut at the top of East Peak Face is where we store most of our top of hill equipment. During the season we run our “bump” out of this hut, because it’s one of the highest points on the resort and allows us to quickly access any terrain and reach patients that might need our assistance.
One of the important jobs of Ski Patrol is to keep skiers and boarders safe from unseen hazards and dangerous terrain. One way we do this is by setting up a boundary line or our “forever lines” which stay up all season to keep riders from heading toward dangerous cliffs.
Ski Patrollers train to transport patients through difficult terrain using the skills of Outdoor Emergency Transportation (OET). Here are some photos of Ski Patrollers learning and sharpening their OET/Sled Handling Skills through steep terrain.
Hyak Ski Patroller Scott McKinley skis the backside run “Ultimate” on a Powder Day.