Skiing and snowboarding are outdoor winter sports. The ski season in Tasmania runs from July to mid-September. Participants descend a snow-covered mountain on either skis or a snow board following a set course. Skiers have a long plank of semi-rigid material attached to each foot by ski boots, allowing them to glide forward on the snow. Snowboarders ride a smooth oval shaped board with strapped on boots, and glide sideways on the snow. Tasmania has two operating ski fields, Ben Lomond and Mount Mawson, both in National Parks. Participants will need to purchase a Tasmanian Parks Pass to access the ski fields. Mount Mawson is volunteer-run and equipment will need to be supplied by participants, as there is no equipment hire service.