1. What is the purpose of having a year-round ski slope at Liberty University?

Over the last several years, LU has debated about how to best use Liberty Mountain to meet the university’s financial, academic and recruiting goals. As a Christian university, we remain steadfast in training young champions for Christ. We want to give prospective students as many reasons as possible to choose LU over secular institutions. While some may believe that a ski slope would decrease academic performance, studies indicate that participating in extracurricular activities can positively affect a student’s grade-point average.

A year-round ski slope provides students with more outdoor recreation opportunities near campus, giving them a chance to break away from the everyday pressures of college life. In addition to new recreational opportunities, we want to establish more club sports and outdoor activities. With the addition of the ski slope, we hope to establish snowboarding/skiing as a club sport to compete against other colleges and universities, and eventually an academic course.

2. Will the Liberty Mountain Snowflex Center be open to the general public as well as the student body?

The slope will be open to the public at various times; however, current and prospective students will be given priority in usage.

3. What is Snowflex? How does it work?

Snowflex is a synthetic material, simulating the effects of real snow. Snowflex features a unique shock layer, giving it a responsive and reactive feel. Manufactured in tile form, Snowflex forms a uniform surface that can be made into complex features and shapes. It is manufactured exclusively by Briton Engineering. Every component in Snowflex has been meticulously researched and tested. Following its launch, Snowflex, has proven itself both technically and commercially in a wide range of slope operations.

Snowflex possesses these unique qualities:

SLIP & GRIP : Maximum forward speed; extra edge control for turning; realism is lost without speed and edge control
SAFETY : Ultra cushioning for falls; no holes in surface layer to get caught in; no sharp edges/surface metal to cause abrasions or cuts.
FORMABILITY : Ability to create adventurous and interesting terrain and stunt formations
AUTHENTICITY : Creates the thrill of real snow

4. What features will the Liberty Mountain Snowflex Center have?

Main slope and nursery slope Two Jumps (a tabletop and kicker) 11-foot high elliptical quarter pipe with hip Grind rails (flat box, down-flat-down, and up-flat-down) Cornice drop off (possibly) Bowl Counter slope Intermediate areas (blue/green/red runs) Extreme tube chute Ski lodge Other possible jibbing features

5. Why not use artificial snow?

On average, the Lynchburg climate would only allow for skiing on the mountain about 45-50 days a year —not enough to make it economically feasible.

6. Where will the slope be located on Liberty Mountain?

The ski slope will be located on the “bald spot” of Liberty Mountain. To view sketches of what the mountain may look like, check out the "Downloads" section.

7. How much will it cost to ski?

Pricing packages for students, alumni and the general public are not available at this date.

8. What is the estimated time of completion?

Dec. 2008 or Jan. 2009

9. Does Snowflex require special equipment?

No. Slope users are free to use the same equipment currently used in alpine environments.

10. Can you ski or snowboard on Snowflex if it is covered with snow?

Snowflex can be used on slopes that may experience snowfall or frosts in wintertime without any detrimental effect. Skiers and snowboarders are able to use the slope as normal in such conditions; however maintenance should take place by hand.

11. Can you ski or snowboard on Snowflex if it is covered with frost?

Frost or ice form on a Snowflex slope should not prove to be a problem for those using the slope. Frost or ice that forms should not be solid as the fibers of Snowflex to ensure that such precipitation, in reality, is broken up and relatively weak. Skis or snowboard edges further break up the precipitation when used.

12. Can we ride it in all seasons? (I.e. extreme heat and cold)

Yes.

13. Can you use slalom poles on Snowflex?

Yes.

14. What happens to the BritonMist system if there has been a heavy frost or snow?

The BritonMist system (consisting of small misting devices) is insulated against frost, snow and ice by the integral shock absorption layer to help prevent pipes bursting. The BritonMist system is also installed in such a manner that surplus water in pipes can be drained down into the water tank at the end of every day if need be, again reducing the potential for this happening.

15. Can Snowflex be installed and used in hot climates?

Yes, Snowflex has been tested in the Middle East and a slope was installed in Lebanon.

16. How big will the slope be?

The total skiable area is 40,537 square feet. The total slope length will be in the region of 450-500 feet.

17. What times will the slope be open?

The slope will be open for day and night skiing. Exact times are yet to be determined.

18. Can I arrange parties?

Yes, once the ski lodge is built, party rooms will be available.

19. Are there group discounts?

Yes, once the pricing structure is established group rates will be available.

20. What clothing should I wear?

During cold months, normal ski attire is sufficient. As temperatures become warmer, you may want to wear light, long-sleeve clothing, such as under armor or wind pants.

21. Can I rent clothing and equipment?

Yes.

22. Is the rental of equipment separate from the slope fee?

Yes.

23. Do I need to wear a helmet?

No.

24. Where can I tube on the slope?

Tubing can/will take place on: The nursery slope Part of the main slope going into the quarter pipe
Note: Skiing/boarding will not run simultaneously as tubing.