These days, most ski destinations have legalized cannabis, but that doesn’t mean it’s a good idea to light up at the resort. Smoking, vaping, dabbing, and other consumption methods may make the aches and pains of skiing feel more manageable. However, it may be wise to save the toking for the après ski–most slopes have rules against possessing or consuming pot.
RELATED: Savoring sweater weather: cannabis for cold winter nights
Generations of winter-sport-loving stoners have held “safety meetings” in the trees before a run or passed the vape on a chairlift, but that doesn’t mean it’s all above board. Resorts often have rules against any smoking or vaping on the premises–ski runs included. But why aren’t ski resorts embracing the perks of legalization?
Why ski resorts rarely allow cannabis
There are more states with legal weed than there aren’t in the U.S. right now. As it stands today, many of the states where marijuana is legal for either medicinal or recreational are home to some of the best ski resorts in the nation, like Colorado, Washington, California, Vermont, New York, and so many more.
These states have legalized cannabis, but the plant remains illegal if taken on federal land within their borders. Unfortunately for snow-loving stoners, many ski resorts in these states and more are on federal land. Federal law supersedes state law, so legalization doesn’t stand on most mountains. The strict cannabis policies on ski resorts reflect the harsh penalties for violating federal law.
Cannabis use is not widely legalized on ski runs or at the lodge, but there are ways to enjoy the plant while enjoying winter vacation on the slopes.
Weed events for snow lovers
Meeting for joints int he trees may be prohibited, but there are still places for stoners to gather. Cannabis events and trips are a fantastic way to meet fellow weed lovers without breaking any federal laws. Zaprès Events hosts weed skiers and snowboarders in Michigan.
The company is hosting a weekend ski trip at Treetops Resort in Gaylord, Mich., complete with weed sponsors, like a Kiva s’mores bar. Last year, Zaprès hosted a Ski & Ride Day with a private chef and weed sponsors to cap off a powder day. These events provide a legal space to celebrate the intersection of winter sports and weed with all the trappings of a resort event.
How to enjoy après weed
Some may prefer a more low-key post-ski toke. This crowd would be best served finding a weed-friendly vacation rental. Bud and Breakfast, CannaVacay, and HiBnb have pages of accommodation results where cannabis is not an issue. These specialty sites don’t touch all towns, though.
If there isn’t anything suitable on pot-specific sites, try Airbnb or VRBO. Few hosts will advertise there as cannabis-friendly, but those who are very against joints on the back patio will definitely say so. If renting in states that have been legal for some time, many hosts expect that cannabis users will follow the same etiquette as cigarette smokers. Rules like keeping the smoke and vapor outside, cleaning up your roaches and ash, not disrupting the neighbors, and other common sense are key.
Having a place to retire and toke after a strenuous day on the slopes is worth its weight in lift passes. Not everyone wants a full-on event after a ski day. This crowd may want to book somewhere for their Après.
RELATED: These are the best CBD lotions for pain
Weed products to bring on a ski trip
Every ski trip needs pain balm. That sport is tough on the legs, and that’s only the beginning of the day after soreness skiing and snowboarding provide. Whether it is CBD only, has a little THC, contains menthol for a slight burn, or has other herbs said to treat pain, put it in your bag for later.
Those staying in a vacation rental may want to invest in a dry herb vape or bring a vape pen. Stinky smoke can stick around or disrupt neighbors, and hosts hate to hear complaints about their guests. This situation is a great fit for weed drinks, which are a familiar way to wind down (see: alcohol), and have little impact on the surrounding air. Having options with less stank can help offset any issues.
Edibles are a wonderful way to stay stealthy about consuming cannabis. However, keep all weed food and candy labeled and locked away from any children or pets. This is especially important for people considering leaving leftovers behind for their hosts.
Whatever cannabis products you bring, the main rule is to leave them behind before hitting the slopes. Possessing pot on federal land is a big no-no.
Why not bring weed to the mountain
While you may think you’re not likely to get caught, ski resorts strictly enforce their cannabis policies. This is likely due to safety risks for their guests and potential lawsuits if they are hurt. Looking up a few of the top mountain resort websites reveals that smoking and vaping are not allowed. And frankly, not everyone should be whipping down the mountain high.
Skiing and snowboarding while under the influence of any mind-altering substance increases risk, something any resort would advise against. To legally protect themselves and physically protect guests, many resorts have made it clear that cannabis products are not allowed.
Aside from the risk of personal injury, there are some other good reasons not to try sneaking weed into a ski resort. At best, smoking marijuana could get your ski pass revoked, but it could also land you with a criminal record. Federal land is not to be messed with when it comes to weed.
RELATED: Mental clarity was my favorite effect of this mushroom seltzer
Cannabis at a ski resort? Not yet
In some ways, cannabis goes hand in hand with ski and snowboard culture. Mad steez and sick vibes are stoner-friendly, but ski resorts on federal land are not. Cannabis consumption on the mountain can get someone kicked out despite spending big bucks on their lift pass. At the worst, they could end up in cuffs. Avoid that altogether and save the weed activities for après.
