Ski safe: how to ski safely in Alpe d’Huez
In Alpe d’Huez, on-slope safety is central to your skiing experience. To enjoy the full variety and scale of our ski area, it’s important to adopt simple safety habits and ski with awareness on every descent. The Ski Safe approach is designed to guide all skiers, beginners, families, snowboarders and experienced riders, towards safer, more controlled skiing.
It helps you understand the right behaviours, reduce risks and enjoy smoother, more confident skiing while respecting others on the slopes.
Discover the key principles every responsible skier should follow.
What equipment do you need to ski safely in Alpe d’Huez?
A certified helmet and back protector significantly increase safety. Before each session, make sure your skis or snowboard are checked and adjusted by a professional.
Warm clothing, proper gloves, goggles and sun protection are essential for skiing safely in the conditions of the French Alps and the Alpe d’Huez Grand Domaine.
Why warm up before skiing?
A short warm-up reduces the risk of injury and makes the first runs easier. Light joint mobility and muscle activation improve stability and comfort, especially on cold mornings in the Oisans mountains.
How to check the weather before skiing in Alpe d’Huez?
Always check the weather forecast, snow conditions, avalanche risk and open slopes before heading out. These updates help you adjust your route safely across the Alpe d’Huez ski area.
How to stay in control of your speed?
Adapt your speed to your level, slope traffic and snow conditions. You can ski fast as long as you remain fully in control.
Beginners should stay in learning zones, while advanced skiers must slow down in crowded areas.
Why is ski slope signage important?
Slope signage is there to keep you safe. Never enter a closed run, it may hide ice, low snow coverage, grooming operations or avalanche control work.
Following the signs helps protect you and other skiers.
Who has priority on the slopes in Alpe d’Huez?
Downhill skiers always have priority. Anyone coming from behind must adjust speed and trajectory to avoid collisions. When overtaking, always leave plenty of space and never cut across another skier’s line.
How to cross or change direction safely?
At intersections or when changing direction, stay highly alert. Look left, right and behind before moving. Anticipation makes your movements safer and easier to read for others on the slope.
How much distance should you keep between skiers?
Alpe d’Huez is a shared ski area. Maintaining a comfortable distance ensures safe skiing for everyone, regardless of ability level.
Where should you stop safely on a ski slope?
Never stop in the middle of a run or in a narrow section. For a break, move to a visible spot on the side of the slope. After a fall, clear the piste as quickly as possible. If you need to walk back up to retrieve equipment, stay on the edge of the slope where you’re easier to anticipate.
