Lost Trail Ski Area Opens Thursday

Lost Trail Ski Area will open Thursday, December 3rd, to begin the season. Not a huge amount of snow on the hill, but enough to grab the skis and snowboards and head on up the south end of the valley. Highway 93 is in beautiful condition and will stay that way through the weekend. The ski area's normal operating hours at 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Thursday through Sunday. Weather permitting, the hill will be open from now until April 4th.

COVID-19 has, of course, caused some changes in operation this year. All the crew on the hill are required to sanitize prior to each shift and those who don't feel well are required to stay home and not come to work.

Other changes due to COVID-19 require you to think ahead about preparations as you go to the ski area. We took a look at the Lost Trail website and you should, too. Here's a general review.
For the public:

Face coverings are required during all aspects of operation - loading and unloading chairlifts, in all lines for tickets or chairlifts, inside the lodge and all buildings, and during all ski and snowboard lessons.

Buffs and all normal ski masks that cover the mouth will suffice as face coverings. However, if your ski mask is too warm to wear inside, bring along a standard COVID-19 mask to wear.

No outside food or drink will be allowed in the lodge or yurt.

All ski bags, coolers and personal items will not be permitted inside resort structures. Use your vehicle as your "personal lodge."

On the chairlifts, only related groups (guests who are skiing together) will ride together. (If you arrive together, ride together.) Single skiers and snowboarders will be riding alone.

There will be a limited number of people allowed in the lodge at any time, as Lost Trail will comply with the state-mandated 50% capacity. Distancing of 6-feet will be in effect inside the lodge. Food offered for sale will be "Grab n Go."

There will limits to the number of people allowed at one time in the Rental and Repair Shops, with entry and exit doors for one-way traffic flow.

By the way, the Retail shop is newly renovated with lots of great stuff, but again maintain the social distancing. One last thing, if you're visiting from out-of-state, please adhere to your local health officials and the rules for the state of Montana, too. If you feel sick, don't come to the ski area.

As always, check their great website for the latest snow conditions and other information. Think snow!

CHECK IT OUT: Here's how to stop your glasses from fogging while wearing a face mask

Categories: Missoula News, Montana News