Many skiers and snowboarders may think that Massachusetts snowboarding is best enjoyed during daylight hours. A significant minority of thrill-seekers, however, have started to think differently. Many ski resorts are now offering visitors the chance to tackle the slopes at night time.

So if the idea of after-dark skiing or snowboarding appeals, how should you go about it? The first thing to remember is that there is always going to be a greater degree of risk in the dark, especially in an extreme sport such as skiing. This means that you should only look to take to the slopes at night if you have some experience already; it is not recommended for beginners.

Know Your Surroundings

As well as being an experienced skier or snowboarder, it also helps to know plenty about the run you are set to attempt at night. However familiar you are with certain slopes, everything will look different at night, sometimes terrifyingly different. It is essential that you have skied the route in daylight before attempting it in the dark.

Bring Lights

While some people trust to their night vision and skill to see them down a route safely, others like to have some source of light to hand. Some ski resorts, such as Bradford, will light routes after dark giving skiers a chance to experience night skiing in relative safety. Other skiers will also use headlamps, secured to their head by means of a band.

Travel with a Partner

One thing any night skier should never do is be alone. The slopes are dangerous enough during the day, and skiing alone can be problematic for even very experienced veterans. When skiing at night, the chances of falling and sustaining serious injury are increased.

No skier should ever venture onto the slopes at night with no one else present. It is easy to get lost in the dark, and becomes almost impossible to find someone in the mountains once night has fallen. A companion will help to keep a skier safe, and to provide a greater chance of finding help in the event of an accident.

Staying Warm

Keeping warm is also crucial, as temperatures drop significantly at high altitude after dark. Wearing an extra layer is to be recommended, and it is also a good idea to try and carry additional clothing, if possible, in case of accident. If a skier has to remain in one location due to injury, then they need to ensure that they are warm enough to survive the wait for help.

Driving

If a skier is driving to a night-skiing area, then their car needs to be in good working order. The car’s lights and battery need to be ready for the trip, and it also helps to stock the trunk with emergency supplies. A third party should always be informed of a skier’s plans, so the emergency services can be notified quickly in case of possible danger.

But anyone who follows these basic safety tips should find night skiing a rewarding and thrilling activity.