Information for our guests

Snow and Conditions

Finally, the snow has arrived! On 1 January we received 6.5–17.5 cm of light snow. Once packed by the grooming machines, it doesn’t amount to large volumes, but when mixed with artificial snow it improves the conditions on the slopes.

Skihytta – Snow production has exceeded expectations. We opened L4 and L10 on Saturday, 3 January. L5 will open a little later.
Høgegga (L76–78) – Opened Saturday, 3 January.
Fageråsen (L74) – Snow production is possible, but wind may reduce efficiency and cause snow loss.
Turistsenteret – Hesten/Kanken and L79 will open as soon as possible. Snowmaking continues on open slopes, but drifting snow may occur.

Wind and Lift Operations

Strong winds continue to challenge operations. Powerful gusts of wind may occur, especially at the summits. We are continuously assessing whether lifts can run, with chairlifts and the gondola being the most exposed. Lifts may close at short notice – please keep an eye on the SkiStar app. We will reopen as soon as the wind calms down. Strong winds create several additional perceived cold degrees.

• Cover exposed skin – face and fingers freeze quickly.
• Dress in layers – wool base layer, insulating mid-layer, windproof outer layer.
• Take indoor breaks – warm up regularly.
• Watch for warning signs – white, numb skin may indicate frostbite.
• Children get cold faster – check them often.
• Heat packs for gloves and boots are worth their weight in gold (available in sports shops).

Snow Status

Snow production went well from 30 December to 1 January, but strong winds make further production difficult. However, the wind helps us by collecting snow in snow catchers, which we can later move to slopes and lift tracks.

Lift Status

• S4 Tolvern opens on Sunday, 4 January

On 3 January we opened

• H1 Høgekspressen
• H2 Høgeggatrekket
• S1 Skihytta Express

Stay updated in the SkiStar app for any operational messages regarding lifts.

Slope Status

We are currently working on snow production in

• L74
• Upper part of L-76
• L-23
• L79
• L26
• Eventyr to complete the children’s area
• L4, L10, L63, L76 (from slope 78 and down), L78 are open.

Slopes about to open:

• L5

Lifts and slopes without snowmaking require more natural snow. The ones closest to opening are:

• F1 Brynbekken
• S6 Oletrekket
• S7 Håvitrekket

Background: Snow production and operations

Christmas 2025 has been a challenging time in Trysil, marked by limited snowfall, mild temperatures and shifting, at times strong winds. These wind conditions have required frequent adjustments to lift operations, including periods of full or partial closures. Unfortunately, this has led to increased pressure on open lifts and slopes. Some areas have also experienced icy conditions, placing extra demands on both guests and operations.

We sincerely apologise to everyone who has had a ski experience below expectations and thank you for your patience, understanding and constructive feedback. Safety is always our highest priority, and we work every day to deliver a safe and memorable mountain experience – within the limits nature sets for us.

We produce snow as soon as weather conditions allow – both in the mountains and in the valley – and prioritise all available resources for this. Effective snow production depends on several factors: air and water temperature, water reservoirs, humidity and wind. Our experienced team works continuously to create the best possible conditions.
Mild weather and wind have limited production at the start of the season, but with frost returning we are now working at full capacity to open more lifts and slopes as soon as it is safe. We do not have the capacity to run the entire snowmaking system at once, so we prioritise main slopes, transport routes, loading and unloading areas, and slopes that provide the best connectivity in the ski area.

Why it takes time

Opening a slope is not just about “getting snow on the ground”. The process requires:

• Sufficient snow depth
• A sustainable snow base that can withstand ski traffic
• Safe edges, transitions and run-outs
• Good visibility and safe conditions for guests and staff

Once the snow is produced, it must settle before grooming. Then the snow is moved and distributed, packed in several layers and secured to withstand wear and varying temperatures. The entire descent is padded and checked before opening. We never open a slope until it is safe.

We evaluate and improve

To give guests the best possible experience under challenging conditions, we have implemented several measures:

• Extended lift opening hours to spread traffic throughout the day.
• Extra activities indoors and outdoors, more ski buses and increased staffing for guidance.
• The Trysil gondola has helped relieve pressure, but we acknowledge that loading and unloading areas can feel crowded during peak times. Therefore, we have strengthened staffing and introduced clearer direction – work that will continue.

The ski patrol has been active throughout the period and has handled incidents promptly. The injury level has not been higher than normal, but we know that visibility and presence have an important preventive effect, and this is continuously evaluated.

We are also aware that the combination of limited slope availability and many guests with varying skill levels can be demanding. Our goal is to be a destination for the full range of ski guests, and we recognise that this places extra demands on planning, logistics and clear frameworks when conditions are challenging.

Ski passes and capacity

We follow industry guidelines for compensation (Norske alpinanlegg og fjelldestinasjoner) and assess all enquiries individually. Many guests have shown understanding that weather and wind are beyond our control.
To look after our guests we have:

• Offered lower ski pass prices during the Christmas and New Year period
• Extended opening hours
• Increased activity options and staffing

Limiting the number of guests is a complex decision. Capacity has varied throughout the day depending on lift operations and wind conditions. Ski passes are valid at several destinations and are often purchased well in advance, making access control challenging. We evaluate this continuously when conditions are demanding.

We apologise and look ahead

All feedback is taken seriously. The experiences from this year’s Christmas period will be an important part of SkiStar’s internal evaluation, as well as in collaboration with the industry through Norske alpinanlegg og fjelldestinasjoner and Svenska Skidanläggningars Organisation. The goal is to learn from challenging periods and be better prepared should similar conditions occur again.

A long-term destination plan forms the basis for further development of the ski area. In the coming years, investments in additional snowmaking will be prioritised – an area that is becoming increasingly important.

We sincerely apologise to all guests who have had a less enjoyable experience than expected, and at the same time thank you for your patience, understanding and constructive input. Safety is always our highest priority, and we work every day to deliver a safe and memorable mountain experience within the limits set by nature.