Killington reminds guests of uphill travel safety

As winter enthusiasts continue to embrace uphill travel at Killington Resort and Pico Mountain, resort officials remind guests of the importance of following designated routes and safety protocols. Uphill travel—whether by skinning or snowshoeing—offers an invigorating way to experience the mountain, but adherence to the resort’s policies is essential for ensuring the safety of all guests and resort staff.

Uphill travel pass and guidelines

To access Killington and Pico’s uphill travel routes, all participants must obtain a 2024/25 Uphill Travel Pass and wear the corresponding armband at all times. The pass is free for season pass holders, while non-pass holders can purchase one for $59. Registration includes watching an etiquette video and signing an express assumption of risk form.

Uphill travel is permitted on designated routes only, which are chosen to minimize conflicts with resort operations, including snowmaking and grooming. The uphill routes—marked by uphill travel icons—are updated regularly based on mountain conditions and operational needs.

Uphill travelers must ascend on designated routes during operating hours but may descend on any open trail. However, during non-operating hours, participants must ascend and descend on designated uphill travel routes for safety.

Critical safety concerns

Killington Resort has reported recent incidents where uphill travelers have strayed from designated routes, creating dangerous situations involving grooming equipment. Snowcats operate with winch cables that can be nearly invisible in low light or snowy conditions, posing serious risks to anyone off designated paths.

All uphill travelers must adhere to posted signage, respect closed trails, and stay within approved routes to avoid hazardous situations. Those venturing beyond resort boundaries assume full responsibility for their safety, as ski patrol services are unavailable outside resort operating hours.

Emergency preparedness and best practices

Resort officials urge all uphill travelers to be prepared for winter conditions, as cell phone service may be unreliable on the mountain. During resort hours, ski patrol can be reached at 802-422-1243 or via in-house phones at extension 4444. Outside of operating hours, emergencies should be reported by calling 911.

For a safe and enjoyable uphill travel experience, guests should:

Wear their Uphill Travel Pass armband visibly at all times

Check route availability on Killington’s website before heading out

Avoid travel outside of designated routes to prevent conflicts with snowcats and mountain operations

Ascend and descend only on designated routes during non-operating hours

Killington Resort continues to support uphill travel as a rewarding and scenic activity but emphasizes the need for compliance to keep the experience safe for everyone.

For more information, visit: killington.com.