Signage
Our centre is only a part of the huge Parnassos mountain range that has a maximum altitude of 2,459m. at the top of Liakouras. Our slopes also reach an altitude up to 2,260m., with steep rocky slopes nearby, dangerous during precipitation and avalanches. As a rule, more difficult weather conditions prevail here than in the lowlands, due to denser fog, stronger winds, and lower temperatures. That is why you must never violate the warning and prohibitory signs that are placed at critical points and provide timely warnings of impending dangers (cliffs, avalanches) and especially never enter a slope, path or route that has been marked “closed”. Consult the direction signs and never attempt to descend alone unknown slopes, especially in the event of dense fog.
The demarcation of our slopes has been done with signs, placed around the tracks, where the number, name, direction and degree of difficulty of the slope are indicated through the corresponding colour. Only the beginner learning areas with baby-lift in Kelaria and Fterolaka are considered to be green slopes, while real black slopes with a slope of > 45% do not exist in our centre. Ski routes, according to international regulations, are available without checking or grooming (uncompacted snow) requirements, though they remain protected from alpine dangers. That’s why they are only offered to very good skiers with experience on steep slopes and uncompacted snow. However, our centre, when weather and conditions allow for it, always paves and monitors the most accessible and up-to-date Regional route No24.
Always consult the guiding signs, follow the signposts of the slopes and always remain within the designated areas of our centre, especially in case of poor visibility. In addition, never cross nets or ropes closing off areas. It should be noted that apart from the designated tracks, our centre, although it is always active in rescue operations, does not bear any responsibility in the event of any accident.
Rules of Conduct fot Skiers & Snowboarders (10 skiing rules F.IS)
Avalanches
Avalanches are a common and dangerous phenomenon more so for the Alps than for the Greek mountains. However, the rapid spread of off-piste skiing worldwide should make us more aware of avalanche hazards. History and experience show us that, when the appropriate conditions are created (snow height, temperature change, wind activity, slope, orientation, slope surface) then avalanches, small or large, are created in all Greek mountains and as is known, have been fatal in some cases.
In our centre, avalanches are created only in areas that are outside the boundaries of our slopes, mainly on the steep northern sides above the ring route to Fterolaka. Warning signs have been placed on these peaks that prevent access, while, when the risk is heightened, depending on the conditions, there is either a multi-day exclusion of the areas in question or an artificial intervention to eliminate risks. At the same time, snow-profiles are carried out at regular intervals and avalanche hazard reports are issued in accordance with the international E.I.DAVOS scale, which should be taken very seriously by everyone.
Off-piste skiers should pay special attention to the following critical points:
- All “loukia” left from the Hercules lift towards the ring track,
- The large “louki” behind the Odysseus surface lift, towards the ring route,
- All “loukia” under the surface Zeus lift towards the ring route,
- The “kaminades” near the surface lift No14.
To locate avalanche victims we use search devices (electronic transceivers) at 457KHz. We remind you that off-piste skiing is done only at your own risk and in the event that you ignore warning and prohibition signs, you risk your life and the lives of other skiers.
DON’T FORGET: Within the limits of responsibility of the Parnassos Ski Center any outdoor sports activity is PROHIBITED (eg. mountaineering, paragliding, mountain biking, four-wheel driving and ATVs, speedflying, snowmobiles, snowbiking, etc) apart from skiing (ski, snowboard and use of sleds) in controlled areas.
Also, for the serious reason of avoiding accidents, skiing is not allowed to people who carry children in a sling. Finally, respect the environment and do not try to descend deep snow in the forest slopes of Fterolaka, where there are small firs and skis or snowboards that can harm the trees and stop their growth. For this reason, the appropriate prohibition signs have been placed at critical points. Good skiing and snowboarding and always remain safe!!!