by Andrea Harwood Palmer
Gore Mountain opened recently with procedures in place to satisfy health and safety guidelines during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“We have several health and safety protocols in place to keep our guests and employees safe throughout the season,” said Stephanie Backes, Gore Mountain marketing director.
“Most importantly, we have face masks or coverings required at all times,” she said. “When you’re in the base area, on the lift, inside the lodge, wherever it may be. Guests can take their mask off when they’re actively skiing or when they’re seated, eating and drinking. “
“We’re also strongly encouraging our guests to be ready when they leave their vehicle, to minimize the amount of items they have to store in the base area, and to minimize the amount of time they need to spend inside.”
Like other skiing locations, Gore Mountain has a 50 percent capacity limit. In the dining areras, there are grab-and-go options this year.
“Another item of note this year is the ski lift,” she said. “We are allowing only people who are in the same party to ride the lift together. Singles will ride the lift alone.”
Backes said the response to the new protocols have been great.
“Our guests have been very compliant and positive about it,” she said. “They’re with us, in terms of having a great season and making sure we can provide a safe and enjoyable experience.”
Season passes, day lift tickets, ski rentals and lessons are all available to purchase online, and guests are encouraged to secure them digitally before arriving. Touchless pickup options are available for all passes, rental and lesson purchases.
“If you have a specific date in mind, I’d recommend logging on earlier, rather than later, to make sure you get the dates and times you want,” said Backes. “People understand we’re trying to manage our numbers here. It’s an easy process to get online and get what you need. We want everything to be as easy and safe for guests as possible.”
“We want to drive home that we have processes in place for the health and safety of everyone, and we are looking forward to a great season,” said Backes. “We want everyone safe, happy and having fun.”
Lift tickets, rentals and lessons can be purchased online at www.goremountain.com. Hours of operation are 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily, with expanded hours expected as the season continues. Gore Mountain is located at 793 Peaceful Valley Road in North Creek.