ADA Power-Driven Mobility Devices Policy
SUBJECT: Use of “Other Power-Driven Mobility Devices” by Disabled Individuals
Sunlight Mountain Resort, in conjunction with the White River National Forest, established a public access policy precluding motorized equipment on slopes and trails within the established boundaries of the Special Use Permit granted for public skiing access. This policy also extends to lands owned or managed by Sunlight Mountain Resort. The policy precluding motorized equipment remains in effect. The public access policy for Sunlight Mountain Resort was established to prevent serious harm to the environment and the natural resources. Due to the need to address soil integrity, erosion and vegetation concerns, the Ski Area has adopted a “no motorized” policy for the public during the summer season.
Due to concerns with actual safety practices during the winter season, Sunlight Mountain Resort has determined that the use of any power-driven devices or vehicles by the public, including power-driven mobility devices used by individuals with mobility disabilities, would conflict with our safety requirements necessary for the reasonably safe operation of our on-slope activities. These safety concerns include the use of devices on the slopes that expose the user and skiers/snowboarders to a safety hazard such as collisions with downhill skiers and snowboarders. These safety concerns are based on actual risks and are not intended to be discriminatory in any way. ADA parking is available in designated and signed areas and a visible permit is required.
Sunlight Mountain Resort allows individuals with mobility disabilities to use power driven mobility devices, wheelchairs and manually-powered mobility aids such as walkers, crutches, canes, braces or other similar devices designed for use by individuals with mobility disabilities in areas open to pedestrian use. Access to the on-mountain facilities will only be allowed with the use of approved adaptive devices. Adaptive devices are any specialized equipment that have been designed and manufactured primarily for the use by individuals who have disabilities, including mono-skis, bi-skis, outriggers and sit-skis. Equipment that does not meet the definition of “adaptive” design (such as Snow-Bikes) is not permitted on the ski area by any members of the public, including individuals who have mobility disabilities. Sunlight’s adaptive ski program offers or will arrange for adaptive equipment that meets this definition, when requested in advance by individuals wanting to enjoy winter sports at our resort.
Sunlight Mountain Resort does not limit or restrict the use of Service Animals anywhere on our property. Service Animals are defined as animals that have been individually trained to actively assist individuals with physical or cognitive needs. Individuals with Service Animals, of course must maintain control of their animals at all times. In addition, any Service Animal must be house broken and it is the responsibility of the owner to clean up behind their Service Animals. The use of ski lifts by Service Animals must be limited by weight capacities, evacuation limitations and general safety practices and will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis. There is no limitation on Service Animals during the summer season.
