Industry News
Safety has always been a core value at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort (JHMR), and on January 2, resort CEO Mary Kate Buckley made that very clear. In a letter providing an update on the resort’s safety initiatives, she outlined new policies, including removing the vertical feet leaderboard from the JH Insider App.
“We are removing the JH Insider app vertical feet leaderboard, which was deemed to potentially promote fast skiing,” Buckley wrote. As reported by Buckrail, this change was partly due to a local citizens group who was campaigning for safer skiing measures and felt publicizing the people who have skied/ridden the most vertical encourages and rewards fast riders.
In addition to removing the vertical feet leaderboard, JHMR has taken other significant steps to enhance mountain safety during the 2024-25 winter season, prioritizing awareness, enforcement, and community involvement. Initiatives such as “Family Zones,” “Rest Areas,” and promoting the National Ski Area Association’s Responsibility Code aim to create a safer skiing environment. The resort has also adopted the NSAA Triangle of Safety campaign, emphasizing collision prevention through speed control, space creation, and accountability.
JHMR has reported a rise in enforcement actions this season for behaviors like skiing in restricted areas, reckless skiing, and speeding, surpassing last year’s figures. Buckley highlighted an instance where Ski Patrol suspended 24 passes in a single day due to violations of closure signs.
Employee training is central to this safety culture, with mandatory sessions and a safety pledge for JHMR’s 1,800 staff. Violations of safety protocols lead to strict consequences, including pass suspensions or revocations. Collaboration with the Snow Angel Foundation, founded after a tragic high-speed collision, reinforces JHMR’s commitment to reducing on-mountain accidents through education and awareness.
Enforcement efforts include an increased presence of Speed Wranglers and Ski Patrol, who monitor behavior, enforce rules, and educate guests. Enhanced trail management and infrastructure modifications further address safety risks. Guest feedback highlights a positive shift in the mountain’s safety atmosphere due to these measures.
Data-driven analysis helps JHMR assess and improve safety performance. The resort aligns with industry collision benchmarks but aspires to set a higher standard by fostering a robust safety culture. Continuous evaluation has led to trail adjustments and better management of high-traffic areas.
Under the Wyoming Ski Act and JHMR’s safety pledge, guests are encouraged to take personal responsibility for safety. JHMR aims to redefine expert skiing to emphasize control and accountability. Buckley credits these efforts with enhancing the mountain experience while maintaining JHMR’s adventurous appeal.
