There’s nothing quite like that first hint of autumn in the mountains. The air is crisp, the aspens have turned golden, and there's an unmistakable sense that ski season is just around the corner. Soon enough, the Rockies will be covered in snow and the lifts will be spinning, and we’ll all be dreaming about first tracks.
But your best ski season starts well before the first snow day. A little preparation now can mean fewer first-day aches, no last-minute gear surprises, and a ski vacation that feels effortless from the moment you arrive.
Here’s how to get ready for your best winter yet.
3 Steps to Prepare for Ski Season
1. Get in Ski Shape
Unless you enjoy the first day 'noodle legs,' starting a ski conditioning routine now will make your first time back on the slopes that much more enjoyable and less prone to injury and fatigue. Winter is just around the corner, and if you want to be in ski-season shape by the time snow begins to fall, it's time to start tuning up your body. It's not ever a good idea to try to 'ski yourself back into shape,' a little prep and consistency will go a long way.
The key is to build up your core ski muscles: legs (quads, hamstrings, glutes), Core (abs, lower back) and increase your cardio. Ideally, you should work your muscles 3-4 times per week and engage in some kind of cardio activity 5 or more days per week leading up to your ski trip, especially if you are coming from lower elevations. Make your cardio days fun, enjoy the last of the nice weather and hike, jog, bike or walk (uphill!) and get that heart pumping!
2. Get Your Gear Ready
If you are like most people, as soon as spring peeked out from behind the snow clouds, your ski gear got stuffed in some closet or garage and was forgotten about. That's ok - but it's time to drag it all out and make sure you are ready, to avoid the last-minute chaos of only finding one glove, an ill-fitting helmet, or rusty ski edges the day before you leave on vacation. Don’t waste those first glorious runs on the hill with gear that won’t hold an edge and tired outerwear that’ll leave you cold, uncomfortable and worst yet, embarrassed to be seen.
Skis and boots - maybe you rent skis when you arrive (great idea!) but if not, make sure you bring your skis in for a tune-up in the fall, so you are prepped and ready. Ski boots should be checked for wear on the toes and heels, tighten any loose buckles, screws or rivets and inspect the liner or footbed. Remember back if you had any sore spots or rubbing and take a trip to the ski store to make any adjustments. Uncomfortable boots make for a rotten ski day, so get them feeling great before the snow flies.
3. Get Planning!
You joined a ski fitness class, your skis are being tuned, now it's high time you start planning your Colorado vacation. The best news is, with one phone call to our Moving Mountains sales team, we can help you pick the mountain location that works best for your crew with the perfect luxury accommodations with the amenities you need. From slopeside convenience to forested privacy or downtown excitement, we have something for everyone.
