How to read slope conditions before a ski trip

I read slope conditions before a trip in the same order as I plan a lesson: safety first, then the real goal for the day, and ambition last.

What to check first

Check open routes, working lifts, webcams, temperature, wind and resort messages. A simple 'slope open' message is not enough for a good decision.

Warning signs

• only a small part of the resort is open
• temperature moves around zero and the slope gets soft quickly
• wind may stop the lift
• webcams show big queues early in the morning
• a beginner has no easy learning route