How does it work on the mountain?

There are always questions about where, when and how. Here is some information, you will
find helpful. If you have any further questions, don’t hesitate to drop us a line or give us a
call.

Mayrhofen:   altitude 650 m Penken:        altitude 1800 up to 2300m

With the gondola you will be up from 650 metres to 1800 meters in approximately 12
minutes. Please note, because of the queues in the morning “10 minutes earlier” will make a
big difference in getting up on the mountain. You might want to get a coffee or ski for the
hour before we start, where you can expect the conditions to be good with freshly groomed
snow and not many people.

Start:
On your first day, for group instruction either Sunday or Monday, you will be graded.
Beginners and “Dryslopers” (people who have been skiing indoors on plastic) will be put into
beginners groups. “Dryslopers” have an advantage therefore will normally advance quickly,
but will want to get used to the new feeling of skiing on snow.
People who skied before will be asked to ski on an easy slope while our instructors will take
a look, and according to the standard will put you into different groups. It sounds worse
than it really is. There is no need to be “nervous” because of the grading, as we are all
“pulling on the same rope”.
One reason for your holiday is to have fun and enjoy yourself. We will do everything possible
to make you feel comfortable.
If you are coming with a friend, we will try to put you into the same group, if the standard of
your skiing is the same. Although there are reported cases where even couples asked not to
be put into the same group. ☺

Times:
Our instruction times are from 1000 till 1200, then an hour break for lunch and going on
from 1300 till 1500. Lifts in our region keep on working till 1600. The last gondola down to
the village is at 1700. A full hour of après ski is available up on the mountain, for those who
want to.
Depending on snow conditions there is the possibility of skiing all the way down into the
valley, although you will have to take a ski bus back to Mayrhofen. That bus ride would take
about 15 minutes. Please note: This downhill slope is only recommended for experienced
skiers !

Ski Equipment:
You can store your equipment (skis and boots) up on the mountain. You may also lock them
up there as well. If you bring some sneakers/boots you have an easier time walking home.
You might even be able to make the après ski last longer.
You can as well get your skis prepared and your instructor will tell you some basics about
how to treat them and maintain them.
Groups of higher standards might as well try something new. Getting into the carving
technique on short skis will help you achieve new turns and add to your overall skiing.

Personal Equipment:
We just want to make you are aware of some “basics” on the mountains. The sooner you
know them, the sooner you follow them, the better your holiday is going to be and the more
fun you are going to have.
Sun:
Please remember that sun protection is very essential in the mountains. You will get
sun cream in shops in Mayrhofen. (One without water is best.) You might want to get some
lip protection as well. That comes up to a couple of Euros, but is definitely worth it. If you
have short hair, don’t forget to put some cream behind your ears and your neck. No joking.
Even if the sun is covered in clouds, the radiation from the snow is still present. Biggest
sunburns occur in foggy conditions.

Eyes:
Finally remember to protect your eyes! Long exposure to sun on a mountain without
protection can lead to a very unpleasant feeling, like having “sand in your eyes”. Snow
goggles are best in snowy conditions, as they will not fog up like normal sun glasses because
of the humidity. (Those goggles can be purchased in the ski area, or in the village).
Children are more sensitive but if the equipment is ok and they come prepared, they will be
fine.

Temperature:
In cold conditions the human body looses most of its heat via its head. Sometimes you will
ski through some shady parts, and even if the day itself is warm, it is getting chilly.
A hat, a hatband or an earmuff will keep you warm and cosy. (You can always fit one of
these in your pockets. Just in case)

Altitude:
You will always be up at around 1800 meters, and you will do a good deal of sportive
activity. Therefore you need to supply your body with liquid to prevent it from dehydrating.
Drink. Drink. Drink. (Later in the day, you might want to change from tea, water or soft
drinks to beer or wine. ☺ )
Food:
There are plenty of restaurants on the mountains, where you can get lunch or snacks.

Tip:

carry a small bar of chocolate or glucose sweets with you, which will provide you
with some energy during instruction sessions.

We would be happy to welcome you in our ski school and look forward to showing you our
mountains.

Your Team of the Ski School Mayrhofen Mount Everest