Picture this: you’ve taken the day off work, loaded up the car with your snowboarding gear, and headed on over to Deer Valley Resort for a day of shredding.
As you’re walking towards the lift, you hear whispers in the air – rumors of a ban on snowboarding. Suddenly, it’s confirmed: Deer Valley has banned snowboarding. The end of an era for shredders. But what does it really mean for you? In this post, we’ll dive deeper into the reasons behind the ban, its impact on snowboarders, alternatives to Deer Valley, and some tips and tricks for dealing with resort bans. Let’s hit the slopes!
Why Deer Valley Banned Snowboarding
Deer Valley has been a premiere ski resort for over 30 years. The resort boasts a luxurious, refined atmosphere, catering to skiers and snowboarders with large wallets. However, in 2019, Deer Valley made a controversial decision that disappointed many snowboarders worldwide. Deer Valley banned snowboarding entirely, making it the first North American resort to do so.
So why did Deer Valley decide to ban snowboarding? It was said that the decision was made in order to preserve the resort’s “exclusivity” and “refinement”. The resort believed that snowboarding doesn’t fit its brand, attracting a younger, more radical crowd. Furthermore, Deer Valley’s policy was to “cultivate an upscale, elite winter resort clientele.” Snowboarding, with its rebellious and free-spirited nature, didn’t appeal to the crowd that Deer Valley was aiming to attract.
Critics of the ban argue that snowboarding brings diversity and energy to a resort, attracting a wider range of customers. In fact, some snowboarders claim that they would switch to skiing or move on to another resort entirely. Deer Valley’s excuse that they needed to preserve their reputation may not be entirely sincere. After all, the resort is not struggling financially and it is one of the most elite ski resorts in North America.
Regardless of the reason, the ban on snowboarding at Deer Valley marks the end of an era. The decision by the resort has reverberated around the snowsports industry, raising questions about whether snowboarding is becoming less accepted in mainstream skiing culture.
Impact of the Ban: What It Means for Snowboarders
Snowboarders are feeling the heat of Deer Valley’s ban, with many wondering what’s next for their sport. For starters, it means that riders who enjoy shredding at Deer Valley will have to find alternative resorts to continue their passion. It’s a frustrating setback for those who love snowboarding and see the ban as a sign of the times. Many are also concerned that this move may prompt other resorts to follow suit, further limiting the options for snowboarders.
The ban represents a significant shift in the ski resort industry. For decades, skiers and snowboarders have coexisted on the mountains, with most resorts welcoming both groups. This ban, however, sends a message that snowboarders are no longer welcome at the exclusive Utah resort. It’s a trend that is concerning for the snowboarding community, as it may lead to further division between skiers and snowboarders.
Snowboarders are also worried about the implications for the sport as a whole. With one of the most prestigious resorts in the world banning snowboarding, many are concerned that other resorts may follow suit, further restricting access to the mountains. Snowboarding has always been about breaking boundaries and challenging the status quo, and this ban feels like a step back for the entire community.
Despite the setback, many snowboarders are determined to keep pushing forward. Some are organizing protests, while others are finding other resorts to call home. One thing’s for sure: this ban won’t stop the snowboarding community from continuing to grow and thrive. If anything, it will only make them stronger and more vocal in their fight for equal access to the mountains.
Alternatives to Deer Valley for Shredders
If you’re disappointed about Deer Valley banning snowboarding, don’t worry. You can still find plenty of amazing snowboarding destinations across the US. Here are some top alternatives to Deer Valley:
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Park City Mountain Resort: Just a few miles down the road from Deer Valley, this resort has over 7,300 acres of terrain, including a 22-foot Superpipe.
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Jackson Hole Mountain Resort: Known for its steep terrain and deep powder, this Wyoming resort is a paradise for advanced riders. It also has plenty of beginner and intermediate runs.
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Mammoth Mountain: This massive California resort has over 3,500 acres of terrain, 28 lifts, and a longest run of 3 miles. It’s also one of the few places in the US where you can ride year-round.
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Aspen Snowmass: With four mountains to choose from, this Colorado resort has something for snowboarders of all skill levels. It also boasts a vibrant nightlife scene.
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Whistler Blackcomb: This Canadian resort is one of the largest in North America, with over 8,100 acres of terrain. It also has a world-renowned terrain park and halfpipe.
These are just a few of the many options available to snowboarders. Do some research and find the resort that best fits your style and skill level. And don’t forget to check local regulations before you go – some resorts may have restrictions or bans on snowboarding.
Tips and Tricks for Snowboarders Dealing with Resort Bans
So, Deer Valley has banned snowboarding. What now? As a snowboarder, it can be a harsh realization that some resorts don’t want anything to do with you, but don’t let that stop you from shredding. Here are a few tips and tricks to help you navigate resort bans:
- Do your research
Before you embark on any snowboarding trip, research the resorts and check if they welcome snowboarders or not. Look for reviews by other snowboarders who might have encountered bans and see how they coped.
- Don’t be confrontational
If you find yourself at a resort where snowboarding is banned, the last thing you should do is confront the staff or management. Remember, they have the power to remove you from the premises, and you definitely don’t want that.
- Find a snowboard-friendly resort
There are plenty of resorts that welcome snowboarders with open arms. It might require a bit more travel, but it’s worth it to be able to ride without any bans getting in the way.
- Try out other winter sports
If you find yourself at a resort with a snowboarding ban, you could use the opportunity to try out other winter sports like skiing or snowshoeing. Who knows, you might just discover a new passion.
- Stand up for your rights
If you feel that the ban on snowboarding is unjustified, you could write a letter to the resort’s management voicing your concerns. If enough people speak up, the resort might consider changing its policy.
In conclusion, don’t let resort bans stop you from embracing your snowboarding passion. With a little bit of research and planning, you can still experience the thrill of gliding down the mountainsides, with or without the resorts’ approval.