How Ski Resorts Are Using Gamification to Deepen Engagement on the Slopes

Ski resorts have always relied on much more than snowfall and slopes to keep visitors
coming back year after year, and now they have introduced gamification to help. The
experience has always been shaped by how skiers are guided around slopes and entertained
when they come off them. In the past few years, there has been a growing number of resorts
experimenting with gamification to enhance engagement. Just like other sports, they have
found that by blending physical activity with digital feedback, resorts can encourage
exploration and loyalty at the same time.

Ski Gamification in Practice
Some of the most advanced gamification can be found on the slopes of North America. Vail
Resorts’ My Epic app, used across a number of destinations, connects lift pass data to a
mobile app. This records a skier’s stats for the day, such as vertical descent and number of
runs completed. Without any manual intervention, skiers can build up a digital log of their
exertion. This data is then tied to milestones, which has the subtle effect of encouraging
visitors to extend their time on the mountain and return year upon year.
The Les 3 Vallées app in France allows skiers to track distance skied and altitude changes.
This platform can combine interactive maps with progress tracking and encourages users to
venture beyond familiar runs rather than face a logistical challenge. This can reinforce
emotional connection to the slopes as users return. 

What Ski Resorts Can Learn From Digital Entertainment Platforms
Ski resorts have successfully integrated tracking technology into their apps, but they can still
find some mechanics used in digital entertainment that may improve their product. For
example, in the iGaming sector, a bingo app can be used effectively to attract and retain
customers. By using structured progression and timed incentives, gaming companies aim to
sustain participation. Users can play a wide array of themed slot and bingo games, with live
games and promotional structures that are designed around rewards. Ski resorts can use this
emphasis on visuals and momentum to guide skiers even more while they are on the slopes.
Ski resorts don’t necessarily need to copy digital entertainment platforms, but they do need to
understand how engagement systems can work best. When applied with planning and
strategy, and by implementing visuals and milestones, they can make their apps feel more
meaningful. They only need to look at fitness apps like Strava for even more inspiration.

Balancing Incentives and the Experience
Successful gamification is a balance. Skiers still need to be able to enjoy their experience and
not become overwhelmed by app features making their activity too competitive. By focusing
on aspects of gamification that are proven to work and giving end-of-the-day achievements
like distance covered or calories burnt, they can ensure technology enhances the trip, rather
than detracting from the enjoyment. As competition increases between resorts, engagement
strategies that deepen loyalty will become increasingly valuable.

From Aspen to the Alps, digital apps have already started to change the game for skiers
around the globe. Gamification is no doubt enhancing the experience already, and by
studying other industries, app creators can look to refine how they motivate users without
compromising on authenticity.