If you are learning to ski or snowboard or you just want to enjoy some time on the snow then a visit to one of the UK’s indoor slopes is a great idea. The only trouble is that time on the snow can be costly and you just might find that plenty of other people have had the same idea that you have! Indoor slopes are relatively small and a crowded piste and long queues for the lifts does not make for the perfect visit.

Winter

It probably won’t surprise you to hear that the indoor slopes start to get busy as the ski season approaches and remain so until the season draws to a close. Those who are embarking on their first skiing holiday flock to the indoor centres to begin the learning process and others with some experience like to brush up their skills before their annual trip. Weekends can get fully booked and prices rise to reflect the increased demand.

Festive Treat

During the winter there are some days when you will find the slopes quiet. Christmas Eve and Boxing Day are good times to go. Most people seem to be occupied with over eating and entertaining the family so if you need to escape then the indoor slope is a fabulous option. Skiing is a good way to burn off a few of those extra pounds you may have gained over the festive period.

Summer

If you are planning to learn to ski or would simply like to spend some time on the snow then it really pays to pick your moment. The summer months are much quieter than the winter period and you will pay less as well. Indeed you may even be able to benefit from a monthly pass that will give you unlimited time on the slope for a minimal fee. The savings here can be huge and it is well worth checking your nearest centre to see what deals they offer. Weekdays are always much quieter than the weekends and so if you are able to take some time off work then it will help you considerably.

The Right Time

How much you get out of your visit to the indoor ski centre may not only depend on the time of year that you visit. The time of day is also a factor. As the day draws on, the piste can become extremely bumpy. As skiers and boarders use the slope the conditions progressively deteriorate and by the evening you can find yourself facing a sea of humps with an icy path cutting through them. This situation can be very disconcerting for learners and far from ideal for anybody. If you want the best snow conditions indoors then make sure you are one of the first people on the snow in the morning. The surface will be even and there will be less people about.

If you pick the right time and the right day you will find that your visit to the slope will result in far more time actually skiing than at peak times. Your trip will be much better value for money and you will improve your technique much more quickly. Make the wrong choice and you will spend most of your time queuing for the lift or waiting at the top for the slope to clear. This is OK for anyone who wants to pose in their new jacket but not much good for anyone else.

Article by Sally Stacey