Uphill restrictions tightened at Whitefish Mountain Resort

Flathead National Forest has strengthened its special order regarding uphill travel at Whitefish Mountain Resort.

The special order now explicitly states that skiers and hikers must use the approved uphill and downhill routes within the set time periods.

Hikers should also stay at least 100 feet away from grooming equipment or 50 feet away from snowmaking equipment

Those in violation could face up to a $100 fine. Stiffer penalties are possible for repeat offenders, according to the Flathead National Forest.

An uphill ski policy at the resort was created in 2010 to maintain skier access, reduce risk to uphill and downhill skiers and minimize disruption to resort employees and operations.

Concerns were highlighted last season when two skiers hiked the mountain before the lifts opened and entered a closed area while avalanche control work was in progress. A ski patroller was preparing to throw an avalanche explosive when the skiers appeared below.

Despite not following the approved downhill route, the Forest Service had no grounds to fine the skiers due to the phrasing of the special order.

“The special order only covered getting too close to grooming and snowmaking equipment,” explained resort spokeswoman Riley Polumbus. “There was nothing about staying on the designated routes.”

Polumbus said the new special order was written in cooperation with the ski resort.

She reminds hikers to review the uphill policy before heading up the mountain.

“Anyone who wants to hike needs to read it and understand it,” Polumbus said. “If there are questions, contact us.”

Hikers are allowed on the Toni Matt route from 6 a.m. to 4 p.m., and on the East Route from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. No hiking is allowed between 7 p.m. and 6 a.m.

The special order can be found online at www.fs.usda.gov/activity/flathead/recreation/wintersports.