Location
Proximity to a population centre is likely to produce better business, especially if accessible by public transport. Good road access together with coach and car parking is essential and planning approval is often dependent upon adequate provision.
A gradient which averages 14 - 16 degrees (1:4 - 1:3 or 25% - 29%) is required on site for the ski slope. This could be a natural hill, a man made hill, a ramp or any combination of these. In the case of a man made hill, the width of the mound will need to be approximately four times its height.
The market potential, the constraints of the site and individual management philosophy will usually dictate the size and shape of any slope. Slopes vary in length from 30 metres to 400 metres though the most economical slopes are around the 100 metre mark. The width is much more significant and outdoor slopes should be 10 metres minimum with a separate beginners area if possible.
The ski slope should blend in with other facilities to produce good customer flow, cater for spectators and get the very best out of the site potential. The layout should be planned to allow for possible expansion as the business becomes established.
These are usually needed to create suitable skiing contours, sometimes to create barriers (eg. disguise a car park) and generally landscape the site to increase its appeal.
This is nearly always necessary however well drained a site appears, but the amount and the type of drainage required will be determined by the geology of the site.
Matting
There are two basic types of dry slope matting:
Dendix is the oldest and most common type of matting, it is made up of hollow hexagons of upturned plastic bristles approx 25mm long.
Snowflex is a more recent design, it resembles a carpet, with thinner bristles approx 10-12mm long. It is laid on a soft foam-like material, which makes it softer on which to fall.
Watering
Although called dry slopes, most have a water sprinkler system, which lubricates the skis on the slope. This creates a more realistic feel, and lengthens the life of both the skis and the matting.
Needs differ in relation to the prevailing ground conditions. Underlay is usually necessary to help to keep the skiing surface clean and therefore keep wear and tear to a minimum. It also helps to protect the skis and the safety bindings. The provision of run off areas at the sides of the slope will increase safety and properly prepared walkways will increase efficiency.
Depending on the size and shape of slope a certain amount of anchorage may be required to prevent any movement of the surface. A combination of several systems is often recommended according to ground conditions.
A ski lift is an essential ingredient for a viable enterprise. There are three main categories as follows:
(a) Draft Lift with cable of rope at waist height - suitable mainly for slopes of up to 70 metres length.
(b) Button Lift with overhead cable - suitable mainly for slopes of 75 - 300 metres length.
(c) Chairlift - suitable mainly for slopes over 300 metres length.
The vast bulk of business will occur during the winter evenings so adequate lighting must be provided. 400W high pressure discharge lamps produce the best results.
Buildings are required to house equipment, workshop, offices, reception, club rooms, bars, catering, shop etc. All buildings should blend with the whole development of the site and be versatile, so as to take account of possible changes in emphasis as the facility develops and to promote good management/supervision of all areas.
These should include water, electricity (gas), telephone, and sewerage.
Since the great majority of trade will occur during the winter season a ski slope can be linked very profitably with summer based activities. Apart from creating all year round use of the site this arrangement will produce added use of ancillary facilities, improve cash flow and help to maintain staffing levels.