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Ski & Ride Tips
1st Day Tips
Take a lesson. Like everything else, you'll improve the most when you receive some guidance. The best way to become good at downhill skiing or snowboarding is to take a lesson from one of our qualified instructors. You'll safely learn more in a 2 hour lesson than you will in 2 weeks on your own. Also, our pros will be able to show you around the mountain and tell you which terrain is best for you. Click here for more info on private skiing or snowboarding lessons, adult classes or children's classes. Get in shape. Don't try to ski yourself into shape. You'll enjoy skiing and snowboarding more if you're physically fit. Obtain proper equipment. Be sure to have your ski or snowboard bindings adjusted correctly at a local ski shop. You can rent quality ski or snowboarding equipment at Copper. Click here to view our rentals page. Dress in layers. Layering allows you to accommodate your body's constantly changing temperature. For example, dress in polypropylene underwear (top and bottoms), which feels good next to the skin, dries quickly, absorbs sweat and keeps you warm. Wear a turtleneck, sweater and jacket. Do NOT wear cotton as a base layer. Be prepared. Mother Nature has a mind of her own. Bring a headband or hat with you to the slopes, 60 percent of heat-loss is through the head. Wear gloves or mittens (mittens are usually better for those susceptible to cold hands). Drink plenty of water. At 9,700' base elevation, our climate is extremely dry, so it is easy to dehydrate. Staying hydrated (which includes consuming less alcohol than at sea level) also helps you avoid altitude sickness. Know your limits. Learn to ski and snowboard in control. If you're tired, stop before you become fatigued. Injuries usually result from fatigue. Have a seat and enjoy the environment around you. Most of all, have fun.
Villages/Base Areas Copper has 3 base areas: The Village at Copper, the East Village, and Union Creek. All are easily accessed by shuttles or walking. Each village offers lift tickets, rentals and food. Union Creek is recommended for beginner skiers. The Village at Copper is best for intermediate or advanced beginner skiers to start the day. The Village offers the most action and services including the majority of restaurants and shops. The East Village is a great starting point for expert or advanced intermediate skiers. Once on the mountain, it is relatively easy to get to different areas on the mountain, so intermediate skiers and above can start anywhere and get to other parts of the mountain easily.
Parking Once you get here, you have several parking options. There is free parking in the Alpine Lot which is located at the edge of the resort - you will see signs once you get off I-70 at exit 195. There are also 3 pay lots which get you a little bit closer to the action for $10-$15/day - simply follow signs for "Close-In Pay Parking". Our recommendation is to park in the Alpine Lot. Shuttles run from the Alpine Lot to all 3 base areas. Our beginner area, Union Creek, is serviced by the UC/Green shuttle. All services (food, rentals, lessons, etc.) are available at each base area.
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