Deciphering ski maps

[WelshMoth]

Not sure if this has been done, but I've always just followed the group like a sheep and reading the maps sends my brain to sleep. Any hints and tips?! I'm especially stressing because I'm the only experienced skier and my family won't always be in lessons!

There was a previous thread on this, not too long ago. A few good tips on there so worth looking back. I'm going to sound a bit trite, but it's just like snakes and ladders. The lifts are the ladders and the runs are the snakes. Pick the snake colour you fancy, check the name and follow the signs. It's worth knowing the area in the resort it's heading towards eg 'les coches' as signs will often have the town/area destination that it leads towards as well or even instead of the run name. I would have a good look the night before so you have a vague plan.

I have never seen a lift that will only have a black run off it without LOTS of warning signs (if that's an issue). If you have 'Blue'' only skiers, just check before you get on as you can't guarantee there is always an easy out.

Lists have names too so worth noting as they can be on signs.

If runs are in another direction than 'down' the page, they will have arrows on it to show this.

I am always the map reader for our group, but it's quite easy really. Honest!

I find the hardest bit is ensuring any front runners read the signs and don't turn the wrong way or overshoot. Ensure everyone stops at junctions, or your plan won't be worth jack!

dontcall that's really helpful. Thank you.

Where are you going welsh?

Leaving on the 18th for a week.

Where though, where! I like to ooh and ahh at everyone's holiday

Not sure how this will help but I have noticed different kinds of piste maps - some of really small-scale and impossible to decipher, even with glasses and if you know the resort and what you're doing.
Others are larger-scale and relatively easier to read. If you find one of those, keep it forever!

I like this idea, lens cleaner cloth with the map printed on it. Saves the crushed map situation. viraliq.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/14.-Cate-Blanchett.jpg

Er, not sure what happened there! wipe-out.eu/product-tag/france/

dontcall

Off to Courchevel, staying in Moriond. Canny wait.

I'm certain DH would love his piste map on Cate Blanchett

Oh yes that gets an oooh for certain . It's dumping with snow there at the moment (DH is there on a lads trip). God I love skiing talking about skiing, buying kit, anything really

Ha yes indeed I'll blame the DC

I'd love to but a little place out there. I'd bloody love a good season skiing. Love it.

Courchevel and the 3 Valleys in general are really well sign posted. You'll be fine.

Enjoy