Ski safety

Alpine skiing is associated with a certain degree of danger. At Aurdal Valdres Alpinsenter, great emphasis is placed on safety, so that you, our guest, will have a safe and good experience on the slopes.

For your own safety, it is important that signs and instructions posted on the ground are followed.
In addition, it is necessary to have knowledge of the most important driving rules that apply to safe driving on the alpine slope. 

Common regulations for all Norwegian alpine resorts are described in the Alpine Safety Regulations:

THE 10 ALPINE SKIING RULES

  1. Responsibility to avoid harm
    You must behave in such a way that you do not pose a danger to yourself or others. You must have the necessary control over your ski/snowboard equipment at all times and you are responsible for preventing the equipment from causing damage to people or other property.
  2. Adjust your speed to the conditions.
    You must drive in a controlled manner and adjust your speed and driving style to your skill level, terrain, weather and road conditions, and traffic.
  3. Duty to yield
    If you are coming from behind, you are responsible for driving in such a way that you do not expose others to a collision.
  4. Overtaking and downhill driving
    You may pass another skier or snowboarder provided that they are given sufficient space for both controlled and uncontrolled movements. It is prohibited to ride straight downhill, except during organized training.
  5. Starting, driving in or turning uphill on the downhill slope
    If you drive into or turn uphill on a downhill slope, you must ensure that this is done without endangering yourself or others. The same applies to driving after stopping.
  6. Stop on the descent
    Unless absolutely necessary, avoid stopping on the descent in tight spots or areas with limited visibility. After falling in such a spot, move away as quickly as possible.
  7. On foot on the descent
    If you are on foot, you must only use the outer edges of the hill.
  8. Ski stoppers/straps
    Ski stoppers/straps are mandatory. Check that bindings are adjusted correctly.
  9. Respect signs and markings
    Follow signs, markings and instructions.
  10. Accident assistance
    In the event of injuries and accidents, every skier or snowboarder has a duty to help. Witnesses and other participants are obliged to provide their personal information. 

It is forbidden to stay in the alpine resort outside opening hours. This can be life-threatening as construction work is underway with snow production and preparation. Alpine skiing is associated with a certain degree of danger. Drugs and skiing do not mix. Violation of the alpine rules of conduct may result in expulsion from the resort.

As always, the following advice applies:
It is important that you wear a helmet, show consideration for other skiers and snowboarders and follow the ski regulations. Skiing at Valdres Alpine Center should be safe and we all have a responsibility for our own skiing.

GROUND OVERVIEW

Our alpine map shows an overview where the trails are divided into an international color code that indicates the degree of difficulty and recommended skill level.

Color code for the slopes

The color codes are also indicated on the trail signs on the ground.
Green: Very easy 50% Beginner trails
Blue: Easy 17% Easy trails
Red: Medium 17% Challenging trails
Black: Demanding 17% Expert trails

Open slopes

Open
Closed
Green / very light
Blue / light
Red / medium
Black / demanding

SKIING AND SAFETY EQUIPMENT

Skis and safety equipment that are adapted to the individual's needs and skill level are essential to having a good experience. Worn steel edges and poorly prepared skis are often the reason why the skiing experience is not as expected.

Feel free to stop by our ski rental for tips and advice. Here you can also get help with sharpening steel edges and preparing your skis or snowboard.

The most important thing you can do for your own safety is to wear a helmet. Ski helmets today are very comfortable, and you are sure to find a helmet that fits you, whether you buy or rent the helmet.

We recommend everyone wear a helmet at Valdres Alpine Center.

 

A back brace can prevent back and neck injuries, as the brace distributes the pressure from the impact of a fall over a larger area. When riding in terrain parks and jumps, using a back brace is especially important.

A little tip might be to take a ski school lesson with us. Regardless of your skill level, you will be able to get tips and advice that will improve your technique and skiing experience.

TERRAIN PARK

Valdres Alpine Center has a terrain park, both in the main facility and in the Fjellstølheisen lift. The areas are adapted to different skill levels, so everyone can find their favorite area.

The most important safety tip is to familiarize yourself with the park before testing any of the elements.

Starting with the 2021/2022 season, helmets will be mandatory in the terrain park and big jump.



OFF-PISTE

Off-piste is skiing on loose snow outside of groomed trails. All skiing in areas not marked on the trail map is at the skier's own risk.

If you choose to ski outside the facility's marked trail network, it is important that you take the necessary precautions. You should be especially aware of the piping in connection with the snowmaking system.

You should always ride with others when moving outside the facility's marked and prepared trail network.

TRAFFIC IN THE FACILITY OUTSIDE OPENING HOURS

All traffic in the facility when the lifts are closed is prohibited. The main reason for this is that work is carried out with mechanical equipment both in the evening and at night.

Preparation machines, snowmobiles and equipment used for snow production will pose a major hazard.

It can be difficult to spot grooming machines.

We encourage everyone to respect the ban on traffic on the slopes outside of opening hours.

We would like to point out that serious violations may result in a police report.

 

In collaboration with the Norwegian Alpine Resorts Association, ALF.