ABSTRACT
National Ski Patrol trail ratings are used on Vail Mountian. The gentle slopes are designated with a green circle and the "Easiest" marking; intermediate runs are rated "More Difficult" and accompanied by a blue square; a black diamond along with the words "Most Difficult" identifies the hardest trails. The six skier ratings which help to identify the type of run in more detail include: beginning, low intermediate, intermediate, advanced intermediate, advanced, and expert. A beginning skier turns and stops in a wedge and can usually negotiate beginning chairlift slopes and a few of the easier green runs. A low intermediate skis in a wedge but employs some skidding or sliding at the end of turns. The intermediate's skis slide most of the time in a stemmed or wide-track parallel position. The advanced intermediate is a parallel skier who has experimented with different snow conditions and maybe with NASTAR racing.
