How to Grind Skis on Rails

Once an underground activity, riding rails at ski areas has become mainstream. Most ski areas set aside some part of their mountain for a terrain park, filled with features like jumps, boxes, and rails. Ski manufacturers even make special skis, usually softer, twin tip models, for playing in terrain parks. For the novice, or even the expert who has never tried it before, skiing on a rail can seem very intimidating. However, with a little practice and courage, riding rails is something any competent skier can do.

Instructions

    • 1

      Slide on a box to get used to having your skis on artificial surfaces. Practice keeping your weight centered as you slide the box, then practice the dismount off the box back onto the snow.

    • 2

      Look for a smaller rail that is close to the ground for your first attempts. You want to minimize the distance you are falling, and a smaller rail can give you more confidence.

    • 3

      Approach the rail with some speed. If you go too slowly, you will fall off.

    • 4

      Keep your eyes on a spot on the rail that you plan to land your skis on as you approach it, and keep your knees bent.

    • 5

      Jump onto the rail with confidence, and twist your body so that your skis are fully perpendicular to the rail. You must commit to the move, or you are likely to fall off. Try to relax as your ride the rail. If you tense up, you are more likely to fall off.

    • 6

      Slide on the rail with your weight evenly distributed between both skis, and centered over your skis. If you lean too far forward, or too far back, you will fall off the rail. If you do feel yourself losing your balance, try to fall forward off the rail.

    • 7

      Turn your shoulders and skis back so they are facing downhill as you come off the rail. You do not have to try to jump.