Your first time on the slopes can be very scary. Not only do you not know how to snowboard, but there are also a lot of people going very quickly around you. So, basic snowboarding etiquette is very important so that everyone stays safe and has fun. Etiquette on the slopes is pretty straight-forward, and some basic rules include:
- Do not make movements across the entire width of the slope
- If you are behind someone who is going slower than you, stay far from them when passing
- Do not block the trails or the slopes
- Give others space
- Do not come to an abrupt stop in front of someone, because you will spray them with snow
- If you fall, keep control of your body
- When merging onto another trail, yield to traffic
- Start on the easier trails, and when you are ready, move onto the harder trails
- Always keep an eye out for people who may need help, whether they are injured or stuck
Most of these mostly unspoken rules are in place so that no one gets hurt, but they are also in place so that you do not take time away from the other riders day on the slopes. Also, some rules are in place because you do not want to disrespect anyone, such as not coming to an abrupt stop in front of someone. These rules regarding etiquette while snowboarding are very simple and easy to remember, and they should come naturally when you are on the slopes.