Behind the Scenes with Greek Peak’s Ski Patrol: The Team Keeping You Safe on the Slopes

The Unsung Heroes of the Slopes

One minute, you’re carving the perfect turn. The next, you’re face-first in a snowdrift wondering what just happened. Maybe it was a rogue ice patch, or maybe you just got a little too confident after that one ski lesson five years ago. Either way, if you ever need help on the mountain, there’s one group of people you’ll be very happy to see—the Greek Peak Ski Patrol.

These dedicated professionals are the first ones up the mountain and the last ones down, working tirelessly to make sure everyone has a safe and enjoyable ride. But what really goes on behind the scenes? I sat down with Ski Patrol Director Matt Lee to get an inside look at their daily work, emergency response efforts, and the best ways guests can stay safe on the slopes.

Mornings on the Mountain: Ski Patrol’s Daily Routine

Ski Patrol starts their day well before the lifts start spinning. While most of us are still waking up, they’re already out on the slopes checking conditions and ensuring everything is in place for a safe day of skiing and riding.

“Ski patrollers are out on the mountain in the morning well before the lifts open,” says Matt. “Our work includes assessing trails for hazards, setting up fencing, looking at the snowmaking and grooming for any problems, and checking our rescue equipment. We have gear deployed all across the mountain, and we make sure it’s ready to be rapidly used when needed.”

Trail openings and closings are a careful decision-making process that happens between Ski Patrol and the Mountain Operations Manager.

“Snow depth and the snow surface both play a role in making these determinations. We like to ski just as much as our customers, so we like to open as many trails as we safely can,” Matt explains.

One thing most guests don’t realize? Ski patrol’s work isn’t just for winter.

“Keeping our trails safe is a year-round activity. Some of our patrollers perform trail maintenance in the summer to ensure they are safe and ready for the winter. We also run our annual Community Glade Day. Our glades are a hidden gem here at Greek Peak but they require frequent maintenance to ensure that they are safe and skiable,” he adds.

How Ski Patrol Handles Changing Conditions

Weather in the mountains can change in an instant. One minute, it’s bluebird skies and packed powder—the next, it’s wind gusts, fog, and icy patches forming faster than you can say edge control.

Ski Patrol stays on top of these changes in real-time.

“Trail conditions can be greatly affected by changing weather conditions. We try to safely mitigate any changes in conditions but if that can’t be done, a trail may need to be closed,” Matt explains.

For skiers and snowboarders, this means paying attention to conditions throughout the day. If visibility drops or the snow starts getting slick, it’s time to slow down and ski with extra awareness.

🚨 Guest Safety Tip: Always check the daily Greek Peak Trail Report before heading out to see current conditions and potential trail closures.

What Happens in an Emergency? Ski Patrol to the Rescue

No one ever plans to take a bad fall, but sometimes the mountain has other ideas. Whether it’s an unexpected slip on an icy patch or a crash landing from a jump, Ski Patrol is always ready to respond.

“Ski patrollers are assigned to different areas of the mountain—this helps to ensure that there is always a patroller nearby and ready to help. We also staff two top patrol huts during busy days, which allows a patroller to immediately respond to help almost anywhere on the mountain,” Matt explains.

When a skier or snowboarder needs assistance, ski patrol dispatch coordinates the nearest available patrollers and sends them out with the necessary equipment.

How to Get Help on the Mountain

✔ Call Ski Patrol Dispatch: The number is printed on your trail map (844-972-8765). It’s a great idea to store it in your phone!
✔ Flag Down a Patroller: Look for the red jackets with the white cross.
✔ Go to the Nearest Lift Terminal or Staff Member: Any resort employee can contact Ski Patrol.

Ski Patrol’s Best Safety Tips for Guests

Want to make sure you have a great day on the mountain? Here are some of the biggest safety mistakes skiers and riders make—and how to avoid them:

  • Stopping in Blind Spots: Never stop below a roll-over or in the middle of a busy run. If you have to stop, move to the side where others can see you.
  • Not Knowing the Terrain: Before dropping into a new trail, check the map and make sure you’re comfortable with the difficulty level.
  • Going Too Fast in Crowded Areas: Always adjust your speed based on skier traffic, visibility, and conditions.

Matt emphasizes that personal responsibility is the biggest key to safety:

“Remaining safe on the mountain ultimately comes down to personal responsibility. Maintaining a safe speed, skiing within your ability level, and keeping yourself aware of your surroundings are all great ways to make sure you have a fun and safe day at Greek Peak,” he says.

If he could give one single piece of advice to every skier and snowboarder?

“Know before you go. Familiarize yourself with how to use a chairlift and the terrain you want to ski. If you have questions or need help, ask a Greek Peak staff member. Taking a lesson from our Snowsports staff is a great way to get to know our lifts and terrain,” he advises.

The Most Rewarding Part of Ski Patrol’s Job

While Ski Patrol is often associated with rescues and safety enforcement, their work is about far more than that. They play a crucial role in making the mountain a fun and welcoming place for everyone.

“Being a ski patroller is rewarding in many ways. I watch many sunrises from the top of the mountain and contribute to a sport I love,” Matt shares. “Interacting with guests and ensuring they have a great experience on the mountain is fulfilling, and when an unfortunate incident does occur, it’s gratifying to be able to help turn their day around.“

Next Time You See Ski Patrol, Give Them a Shout-Out!

Ski patrollers are out there every day, making sure Greek Peak stays as safe and fun as possible. So, next time you see one, give them a nod, a thank-you, or maybe even a fist bump.

And if you want to ski smarter and safer?

  • Check the daily trail report before heading out.
  • Follow the Your Responsibility Code (posted around the resort).
  • Store Ski Patrol’s number in your phone, just in case.

Now get out there and enjoy the slopes! And remember: Ski Patrol isn’t just here for the crashes, they’re here to help you avoid them in the first place. Stay safe, ski smart, and have an epic day on the mountain!

Final Thought

Ski Patrol is always there when you need them, but remember—staying aware on the mountain is your best defense!

About the author:

Mountain Mike is your go-to guide for adventure at Greek Peak Mountain Resort. A seasoned outdoor enthusiast and a master of memorable puns, Mike brings his passion for the outdoors and his knack for storytelling to every article. Join him as he explores the peaks and valleys of adventure, inspiring readers to make every outdoor moment unforgettable.