Lidar-equipped drones or ground-based systems map slopes, trails, and surrounding landscapes in high detail. This data helps ski resort operators optimize snowmaking by identifying areas with insufficient coverage and deploying resources more efficiently. With climate variability affecting snowfall, such precision ensures better snow management and a consistent skiing experience.
Safety is another critical area where lidar excels. Resorts use lidar to monitor potential avalanche zones by measuring snow depth and identifying unstable layers. By comparing 3D maps over time, operators can track changes in snowpack and predict when conditions might become hazardous, allowing for proactive interventions.
Additionally, lidar plays a role in infrastructure management at resorts. From lift maintenance to lodge expansions, 3D lidar scans provide detailed site surveys, reducing planning time and costs. Some resorts are even using lidar to create immersive, virtual ski maps for guests, offering a detailed view of trails and facilities before they hit the slopes.
As lidar continues to evolve, its applications in skiing and outdoor recreation are only expanding. For more information about lidar in outdoor environments, read https://lidarnews.com/articles/low-and-slow-helicopter-based-lidar-for-snow-ice-observations/
