Ski Season FAQs

We asked Crested Butte Mountain Resort what you need to know about this winter’s ski season.

The resort’s operational plans are subject to change as the season progresses. Please check the winter experience page for the latest information throughout the season.

What are you doing to keep guests safe?
In addition to following all local regulations, we believe the core ways to keep guests safe this winter include: requiring face coverings, allowing for physical distancing and by re-imagining our on-mountain experience. We have designed our winter operating plan to do what we feel matters most, help keep guests safe and provide access to great skiing and snowboarding this winter. 
 
Are face coverings required?
Yes. Face coverings will be required in every part of our operation, including while loading and riding on chairlifts, inside all buildings, and during all ski and snowboard lessons. No one will be permitted on the mountain without a face covering. 
 
Do I have to wear a face covering while I’m skiing and snowboarding?
While face coverings are not required during the physical acts of skiing and snowboarding if the guest is maintaining proper physical distance and is not in the vicinity of others, it is recommended guests do so.
 
What are you doing to ensure physical distancing is possible?
We are working to allow for physical distancing throughout our operations to help ensure a safe experience. First and foremost, we will manage the number of people on our mountain through a reservation system. Additionally, we will only load related parties (guests skiing and riding together) on chairlifts or with an empty seat between unrelated parties. We will also manage the number of people coming in and out of our restaurants. 

How are you promoting physical distancing in lift lines?
In addition to the use of markers to help space guests out in lift lines, ski and snowboard equipment will help naturally distance guests while waiting to load the lifts. In addition, guests will be required to wear face coverings at all times while in lift mazes and riding chairlifts. 

Why are you implementing a reservation system?
This year, our commitment to safety takes on more importance than ever amid the COVID-19 pandemic. To help protect our guests, our employees and our communities, some changes are necessary. To allow for physical distancing, we are managing access to our mountains through a reservation system and limiting lift ticket sales in order to prioritize our pass holders. For the vast majority of days, we will be able to accommodate everyone who wants to visit – but this helps us to allow guests the space they need, no matter when they come. 

Will pass holders be required to make a reservation every day throughout the season? 
At this point, it is our plan to have the reservation system in place throughout the season. We know this reservation system is a change to our normal approach, but we are prioritizing our pass holders to ensure they get the best access. We want all of our guests to have peace of mind knowing that we’re doing all we can to give them a safe and enjoyable experience. As the season progresses, and events with COVID unfold, changes to our approach are always possible. 

When can guests purchase lift tickets for the 2020-21 season? 
Lift tickets will go on sale December 8 as early season access is exclusively available to pass holders. 

Can guests make a reservation without a season pass? 
Your lift ticket is your reservation. When you purchase your lift ticket, it is for a specific resort and specific date, therefore there is no need to make any further reservation. You will be able to purchase lift tickets for access at any of our 34 owned and operated North American resorts starting on December 8. 
 
Why are you providing priority access to pass holders this year? 
We try to prioritize our pass holders with every decision we make; they are our most loyal guests and are key to the long-term success of our company and our sport.