Wind & Lift Operations 101

Why Lifts Close: The Physics of Wind

Ski lifts are engineered for specific wind limits. When gusts exceed those thresholds, chairs swing dangerously, creating hazards during loading, riding, and unloading. High-speed detachable chairs and gondolas are more wind-resistant than fixed-grip chairs due to aerodynamic design and enclosed cabins (in gondolas' case). Summit and ridgeline lifts close first because they face unobstructed wind; lower, tree-sheltered lifts often remain operational.

Each lift has a manufacturer-specified max wind speed, typically 40-60 mph sustained or 50-70 mph gusts. Anemometers (wind sensors) at lift terminals continuously monitor conditions. When readings exceed limits, lift operators must shut down—there's no discretion involved. This is a safety regulation, not a resort decision, and applies worldwide at all ski areas.

What Happens During a Wind Hold

When wind speeds approach limits, lift operators issue warnings via radio and signage. If speeds exceed thresholds, the lift stops and riders are offloaded (either completing their current ride or, in extreme cases, being lowered via rope in emergencies). The lift remains closed until sustained winds drop below safe levels for a specified duration (usually 10-15 minutes of consistent readings).

Partial closures are common: upper mountain lifts close while lower lifts run. This concentrates skier traffic on remaining terrain, creating longer lift lines and crowded runs. Some resorts offer shuttle access to lower lifts if your preferred zone is inaccessible. Wind holds can last 30 minutes or all day depending on weather patterns. Mountain valleys and inversions sometimes create microclimates where wind abates, allowing reopening even while nearby peaks remain closed.

How Resorts Monitor and Decide

Ski patrol and lift operations teams monitor weather forecasts, real-time anemometer data, and avalanche danger simultaneously. Wind often accompanies other hazards: reduced visibility, avalanche risk, or extreme cold. Even if wind drops briefly, lifts may stay closed while patrol assesses avalanche hazard or visibility improves.

Resorts want lifts open—closed lifts mean unhappy guests and lost revenue. Decisions are based purely on safety and regulatory compliance. Some resorts use sophisticated weather models predicting wind patterns hours in advance, helping them communicate closure expectations to guests via apps, social media, and on-mountain signage.

The Refund Question: Why No Compensation?

Ski resorts do not refund tickets for weather-related closures, including wind holds. This is standard industry policy, disclosed in ticket terms and conditions. The rationale: weather is beyond resort control, and some terrain typically remains accessible. Refunding tickets for partial closures would be financially unsustainable for resorts operating in variable mountain climates.

Multi-day ticket holders or season pass holders absorb weather risks over more ski days, making individual bad-weather days less impactful. Single-day ticket buyers bear more risk—one wind-hold day is their entire trip. Some resorts offer "fresh tracks" or discounted future tickets as goodwill gestures, but this is discretionary, not guaranteed.

What to Do When Lifts Close

Check the morning report: If high winds are forecasted, consider alternative plans before leaving your lodging. Resort apps and websites post lift status updates.

Pivot to lower terrain: If upper lifts close, focus on sheltered, lower-elevation runs. Tree skiing often provides wind protection and good conditions.

Take a break: Use closures as an opportunity for lunch, hot chocolate, or a mid-day spa visit. Fighting crowds on limited terrain is exhausting.

Drive to another resort: If you're in a multi-resort region (like Banff with Louise, Sunshine, and Norquay nearby), check if neighboring mountains have better conditions.

Explore off-mountain activities: Whistler, Banff, and Tremblant offer shopping, museums, hot springs, and dining. A forced rest day can be enjoyable if you embrace it.