Guardians of the Slopes: Crystal Mountain Ski Patrol

Nestled in the heart of Northern Michigan, just 28 miles southwest of Traverse City and a short drive from the breathtaking Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, the Crystal Mountain Ski Patrol is more than a team—we’re a family. With around 75 dedicated patrollers and 25 mountain hosts, we are the first on the hill and the last off, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for every guest.

If you’re looking for a way to give back to the skiing and riding community while forming lasting friendships, building essential skills, and spending time on the slopes, join us and become a part of something truly special.

JackieBottomley

Jackie Bottomley - Patrol Director

With a lifelong dedication to mountain safety and emergency response, Jackie Bottomley serves as the Patrol Director and Unit Representative for Crystal Mountain. A passionate and experienced leader, Jackie has been patrolling since 1982 and has held the role of Crystal Mountain Patrol Director for over 12 years.

Beyond her leadership at Crystal Mountain, Jackie also holds regional and divisional positions, contributing her expertise to the broader ski patrol community. Her decades of experience, commitment to safety, and dedication to mentoring new patrollers make her an invaluable part of the Crystal Mountain team.

Mountain Host

Entry level volunteer position.

The yellow vest you see on the hill belongs to our Mountain Hosts, an entry-level volunteer position designed for those eager to contribute to slope safety and guest assistance.

Becoming a Mountain Host starts with the Outdoor First Care (OFC) course, a two-weekend training in the fall covering basic first aid at a lower cost. The course fee is typically around $60, which includes hands-on training at Crystal Mountain, a written test, and a free vest for use throughout the season. Upon completion, you’ll receive a certificate of completion, and from then on, only an annual refresher course is required.

In addition to refresher training each fall, CPR and chair evacuation training are mandatory every year to maintain your skills. Mountain Host shifts primarily run on Friday nights and weekends, with occasional weekday opportunities when extra coverage is needed. Expect to be on duty Friday through Sunday and during the busy Christmas holiday period.

This role is a fantastic way to get involved, support the mountain community, and gain valuable experience in ski patrol operations!

Ski Patrol

The next-step volunteer position.

The red vest with a white cross represents the Crystal Mountain Ski Patrol, a dedicated team of trained volunteers committed to mountain safety and emergency response.

To become a ski patroller, you must complete the Outdoor Emergency Care (OEC) course, an in-depth training program covering first aid, emergency response, and rescue techniques. This course typically runs on weekends from late August through November, requiring about 120 hours of training. Candidates engage in hands-on scenarios, written tests, and teamwork exercises to develop the critical skills needed for patrolling.

Course Fee: Around $150

OEC 6th Edition Book: Approximately $100

OEC Certification: A one-time requirement with an annual refresher each fall at Crystal Mountain

Additionally, CPR and chair evacuation training are required every year, ensuring all patrollers maintain essential lifesaving skills. New patrollers also undergo hill training to master toboggan transport of injured guests, a process that typically takes place during the first year or longer.

This role is both challenging and rewarding—perfect for those passionate about mountain safety and providing assistance when it matters most!

Volunteer with Perks – Join the Crystal Mountain Ski Patrol & Mountain Host Team!

Both Ski Patrol and Mountain Host positions are volunteer roles, requiring a minimum of 15 shifts per season (November–April). With shift options ranging from 15 to 20 per winter, you’ll enjoy incredible benefits based on your level of commitment.

Each 6-8 hour shift includes a mix of skiing or riding the resort, assisting guests, setting up and taking down signs, monitoring slope safety, patrol room duties, and responding to injuries when needed. It’s a fulfilling way to give back while spending time on the mountain you love!

Exclusive Volunteer Perks:

  • FREE Premier Season Pass to Crystal Mountain—no blackout dates, ski/ride anytime when not on shift (valued at $500-$650).

  • National Ski Patrol (NSP) discounts on gear and equipment.

  • Guest Lift Ticket Coupons—Depending on your shift count, earn free lift tickets for family and friends to join you on the slopes.

  • Great for Your Resume! Gain valuable experience, emergency response skills, and teamwork in a dynamic outdoor setting.

  • An Amazing Community—Join a passionate group of volunteers who share your love for skiing, snowboarding, and helping others.

If you’re compassionate, love the mountains, and want to make a difference, we’d love to have you on our team. As ambassadors of Crystal Mountain, our mission is to create a safe and welcoming environment for everyone on the slopes. Join us today!

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