How to Avoid Lift Queues….

Skiing and snowboarding during peak times – like school holidays or festive seasons – can be an exhilarating experience, but the crowds often mean longer lift queues. Don’t let that slow you down! With a bit of strategy, you can spend more time carving down the slopes and less time waiting in line. Here are our top tips to make the most of your time on the mountain and avoid lift queues.

1. Time Your Breakfast Strategically

How you approach breakfast can set the tone for your ski day. Choose one of these two strategies:

• Have a hearty breakfast and skip the first lifts.
  Instead of rushing out with the crowds, enjoy a leisurely breakfast and start your day slightly later. This way, you can ski through lunchtime when the slopes and lifts tend to quiet down. Plus, you’ll have the energy to keep going without needing a big midday meal.
• Have a light breakfast and hit the first lift.
  Early birds get the powder! By making the first lift of the day, you’ll enjoy freshly groomed slopes and fewer crowds. Plan to take an early lunch – around 11:00 AM – so you can ski while others are stuck in long lunch queues.

2. Use Indirect Routes to Popular Areas

If you’re heading to a popular ski zone, don’t follow the crowds to the main lift. Instead, take a few smaller, less busy lifts that eventually lead to the same area. While it may take a little longer, you’ll avoid bottlenecks and maximize your skiing or snowboarding time.

3. Ski Smart During Lunch Hours

Peak lunch hours (12:00 PM–2:00 PM) are when lift queues are at their quietest. Use this time to ski your favorite runs without interruptions. If you plan ahead with either an early or late lunch, you’ll have the slopes mostly to yourself during this golden window.

4. Explore Less Popular Runs and Hidden Gems

Peak times tend to crowd the most famous and accessible runs. Check the trail map for less obvious options or speak to locals and resort staff about quieter slopes. You might discover hidden gems with incredible scenery and fewer skiers.

5. Plan Ahead with Lift Apps and Ski Maps

Many ski resorts now offer apps with live lift queue times and trail updates. Use these tools to avoid the busiest lifts and identify alternative routes. Keeping the resort map handy is also essential for navigating efficiently. Look here to find the best options – lift maps/apps.

6. Ski Early or Late in the Day

The slopes are often quieter early in the morning or towards the end of the day. If your energy allows, start skiing as soon as the lifts open or enjoy a later session, taking advantage of extended lift hours if available. Sunset runs can be magical and far less crowded.

7. Choose Strategic Accommodation

Staying close to less crowded lifts or slopes can make a big difference during peak times. Look for chalets, hotels, or apartments near secondary lift systems rather than the main resort hub. This lets you start your day ahead of the crowd. Our well located properties can help with this one – properties.

8. Travel Midweek

If your schedule allows, ski during midweek days. Even during peak weeks, Mondays through Thursdays tend to be less busy compared to weekends.

Final Thoughts

Skiing and snowboarding at peak times doesn’t have to mean endless queues. With these tips – from strategic breakfasts to exploring quieter runs – you can make the most of your time on the slopes and enjoy an unforgettable holiday.