According to the National Ski Areas Association (NSAA) night skiing accounts for only 7% of annual ski visits, but almost 200 NSAA member resorts offer it. These resorts have found that the night skiers are, for the most part, night people. They like to party and they like to ski.
Reasons to Go Night Skiing
Save Money - Generally, night skiing lift tickets will cost less than day tickets. Many areas offer eight hour tickets any time i.e. you can go eight hours before closing and get a full eight hours on the slopes. Look for Twilight Specials and online coupons.
Less Skiers - Hardly any resorts have all their skiable acres open for night skiing and most people ski in the daytime, so if you never tried night skiing you will not be overcrowded.
First Time Fun - With the high-intensity lamps available today most of the terrain under the lights is well lit, and instructors will probably have fewer pupils and can offer more personal coaching. Not many people remember their first time on skis but if you did it under the stars, you won't forget it.
Party Time Fun - Remember it's evening and après-ski time for the day time skiers, so you can be sure to catch the band playing and the bar crowded. In addition, many areas pipe music on the slopes at night.
Romance Time - A chairlift ride under the full moon with a significant other can be a warming experience. Most ski resorts in the romantic Pocono Mountains offer night skiing. Camelback Mountain is open from 8 am - 10 pm daily, while Mount Hood, in Oregon, is open weeknights until 10 pm, and until 11 pm on weekends.
Race Time - Even World Cup skiers have seen the light and are racing at night. Night racing leagues are popping up at many areas for kids and adults.
Tips for Night Skiing
Dress Warmly - Dress in layers, and plan on at least ten degrees colder when the sun goes down - not counting the wind factor.
Ski With a Friend - Even though the skiable terrain is well lit the nearby woods are not and you always want someone to know where you are.
Check Your Car - If you will be driving home after skiing make sure your lights and battery are ready for the trip.
Know the Skier Responsiblity Code - Follow it double at night. That shadow could be another skier.
Don't Drink and Ski - It may be party time in the lodge, but, day or night, don't drink alcohol and ski.
