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Keystone Resort Opens First High Alpine Bowl Chairlift
Keystone Resort welcomes winter enthusiasts with its new high-speed 6-passenger Bergman Express Lift, offering access to 555 acres of diverse alpine terrain in Bergman and Erickson Bowls. This exciting addition caters to skiers and riders of all levels, from experienced beginners to experts. The lift, accessible via various routes, provides easy access to Bergman Bowl's gentle slopes and Erickson Bowl's challenging terrain, connecting to existing lifts. For those seeking untouched areas, 1,300+ acres of hike-to terrain remain available. The project also includes a sustainable patrol hut, improved snowmaking, and updated trail maps, marking Keystone's first lift expansion in over 30 years. Get ready for an unforgettable alpine adventure this winter season at Keystone Resort.
Keystone Resort Announces 1 November 2023 For Opening Day
Keystone Resort in Colorado is launching its 2023-24 winter season on November 1, featuring two miles of skiing and snowboarding on Schoolmarm and Silver Spoon trails. Early visitors can enjoy free donuts, coffee, and a chance to win prizes, with DJ entertainment throughout the day. The resort will expand its terrain as conditions allow and plans to open the Mountain House base area in mid-November. Keystone will operate daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and offer night skiing on Fridays, Saturdays, and holidays starting at Thanksgiving until 7 p.m.
Arapahoe Basin Opening Sunday October 29th - First In Colorado
Arapahoe Basin Ski Area has announced its winter season opening on Sunday, October 29, with plans to offer the longest season in Colorado. Opening day festivities include skiing on High Noon, a Halloween-themed band, and a costume contest. The resort will continue snow-making and expanding terrain. Lifts will operate from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on weekends (9:00 a.m. on weekdays) throughout the season, offering a continuous skiing and riding experience for visitors. Please note that opening day is not recommended for beginners, with learning terrain opening later.
Arapahoe Basin Chief Hints At Potential Future Resort Upgrades
Arapahoe Basin in Summit County, Colorado, is poised for an exciting transformation with the unveiling of their potential future master plan. The comprehensive plan focuses on improving the resort's arrival experience, introducing new parking facilities, a pedestrian bridge, a cutting-edge "pulse gondola" to replace shuttles, and revamping their beginner ski program. Additional lifts, expanded facilities, and a snowmaking system upgrade will enhance visitors' experiences, and new summer trails diversify the resort's offerings. Furthermore, Arapahoe Basin is committed to sustainability by sourcing 100% of its electricity from renewable sources. As they kick off snowmaking early to compete for the title of the first resort to open, Arapahoe Basin is set to become an even more accessible, exciting, and eco-friendly winter sports destination, providing unforgettable memories for all.
Vail Ski Resort Announces Parking Rates for Upcoming Season
Parking at Vail Mountain has been a challenge due to increased demand, necessitating overflow parking. Last year, prices for the premier pass skyrocketed by 65%, but this season, prices remain steady, with paid parking from November 10, 2023, to April 21, 2024, affecting several lots. Pricing varies for peak and non-peak days, including specific holiday periods. For those preferring season passes, prices remain unchanged from last year. These measures aim to balance supply and demand while providing an efficient parking experience, a relief for guests planning their winter visits to Vail Mountain.
Keystone, Vail & Beaver Creek All Start Snowmaking With Fresh Snow Falling
Ski resorts in Summit County and Eagle County, Colorado, have officially initiated snowmaking for the 2023/24 ski season, thanks to their advanced, fully automated snowmaking equipment. Keystone Resort and Vail Mountain, with their impressive snowmaking capabilities, lead the charge, with Beaver Creek also joining the snowmaking efforts. These resorts use sophisticated technology and weather data to make snow efficiently when conditions are just right. Keystone is particularly focused on an early October opening, and this season is special with the introduction of the Bergman Express chairlift, expanding skiing opportunities. Vail Mountain and Breckenridge Resort plan to open on November 10, while Beaver Creek is set for November 22.
Copper Mountain Resort's Exciting Developments for the 2023-24 Ski Season
Copper Mountain Resort is preparing for an exciting 2023-24 ski season following its 50th-anniversary celebrations. Notable developments include the expansion of the Far East parking lot, adding 900 spots to alleviate parking challenges, and the construction of The Aerie, a magnificent mid-mountain lodge with dining options and breathtaking views. Snowmaking improvements and trail upgrades promise better skiing and riding experiences, with two new ski trails added. The village area will see a new child care facility. Looking ahead, lift upgrades are planned for the 2024-25 season. These developments aim to enhance the visitor experience and establish Copper Mountain as a top destination in the Colorado Rockies. The resort is set to open on November 13th, welcoming winter visitors to explore these exciting enhancements.
Fastest 10-Person Gondola In North America Is Nearly Finished
Steamboat Resort in Colorado recently announced the successful completion of cable splicing for the Wild Blue Gondola expansion, slated to be North America's longest and fastest 10-person gondola. The first phase provided skiers access to various lifts last season, and now, the resort is finalising the second phase, connecting the mid-station to Sunshine Peak. The cable splicing process, shown in the video, is highly technical and typically involves a large crew. Steamboat aims to open the second leg of the Wild Blue Gondola in December, promising an exceptional mountain experience for visitors.
Aspen Unveils New Terrain Pod Named Hero’s
Aspen Skiing Co. has unveiled the highly anticipated "Hero's" terrain expansion at Aspen Mountain, Colorado, honouring individuals who have shaped the community and skiing destination. Spanning 153 acres, Hero's features a new high-speed quad chairlift and trails named after community figures, including the late Jim Crown. The expansion, a topic of past debate, will open for the 2023-24 season, marking the mountain's most significant addition since 1985. Strategically oriented for snow retention, it increases skiable terrain by 20%, promising resilience in the face of future climate challenges. This heartfelt tribute to Aspen's heritage is set to be a winter highlight in the upcoming season.
Winter Park Resort's $100 Million Upgrades For 2023/2024 Season And Names New Lift
Winter Park Resort in Colorado is investing over $100 million in upgrades for the 2023/24 winter season. This includes the completion of the Conifer Commons workforce housing complex, a new six-person lift called the Wild Spur Express, and various on-mountain and base-area enhancements. The resort aims to improve the employee and guest experience, with a focus on housing, terrain access, dining options, and rental services. These developments make Winter Park an exciting destination for the upcoming winter season, offering a wide range of improvements and conveniences for visitors and residents alike.
Copper Mountain Upgrading Timberline Lift
Copper Mountain Resort is set for exciting transformations, with the announcement of a new high-speed six-pack chairlift replacing the Timberline Express in the upcoming summer of 2024, promising enhanced capacity and access to Copper’s renowned Western Territory. This dynamic addition features impressive specs, including a 1,129-foot vertical rise, a 4,825-foot length, and a capacity of around 3,000 riders per hour. Additionally, plans for a forthcoming replacement of the Lumberjack chairlift have been hinted at. The resort's 2023-24 season is poised for unprecedented improvements, encompassing a new mid-mountain lodge, upgraded ski trails, advanced snowmaking equipment, a novel childcare facility, expanded parking, heated sidewalks, increased snowcats, and an extended COBUS bus lineup.
Vail Resorts Releases Planned Opening Dates For Western North American Resorts
Vail Resorts has released projected opening dates for their resorts in various regions. Colorado is expected to maintain its early ski season tradition into 2023-24, with key resorts like Keystone, Breckenridge, and Vail Mountain opening in mid-October and early November. California's Heavenly, Northstar, and Kirkwood resorts enjoyed successful seasons with extended closures, setting the stage for their November and December openings. In Utah, Washington, and Canada, resorts like Park City Mountain, Whistler Blackcomb, and Stevens Pass are also slated to open in November and December.
Lift Mechanic’s At Crested Butte Vote To Unionise
In a significant development, lift mechanics at Crested Butte Mountain Resort, a Vail property, have voted 7 to 3 in favour of unionising. This decision makes them the second group of ski resort lift mechanics in the United States to form a union, following in the footsteps of Park City Mountain Resort. The mechanics had previously submitted union authorisation cards to the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) to ensure a protected secret ballot vote, but Vail Resorts did not recognise their union, leading to the vote. By joining the Communications Workers of America (CWA) 7781, the Crested Butte Lift Maintenance aims to improve their working conditions and protect against employer retaliation.
Breckenridge, CO Upgrades Peak 8 With The New FIVE SuperChair
Breckenridge, CO, is undergoing exciting upgrades at the Peak 8 base area with the introduction of the FIVE SuperChair. This new high-speed quad lift will enhance the flow and accessibility within the resort's most popular base area. With the FIVE SuperChair joining the lineup, all four chairlifts at Peak 8 will be high-speed, providing faster access to the Five Peaks. This upgrade offers a clear progression path for skiers and riders, with dedicated lifts serving different skill levels. Additionally, the FIVE SuperChair will also serve the alpine slide during summer operations. Construction is underway, and the lift is expected to be ready for the 2023/24 winter season. Breckenridge continues to prioritise an exceptional skiing and riding experience for visitors, ensuring both winter and summer enjoyment in the picturesque mountains of Colorado.
Vail Celebrates Pride Month With Updated Trail Sign
In a refreshing turn of events, Vail Resort in Colorado has embraced a positive news story amidst the usual criticism it receives. The Pride Express lift, a long-standing feature at the resort since 1993, will proudly display a new rainbow adorned logo throughout the month of June to commemorate Pride Month. This wonderful initiative was suggested by several LGBTQ+ employees who have dedicated over a decade of service to the resort. Vail Mountain acknowledges the pivotal role their employees play in promoting inclusivity, expressing gratitude to Raquel, Ian, and their friends for fostering a welcoming environment. Visitors are encouraged to hike or ski past the Pride Express lift to celebrate and honour Pride and the LGBTQ+ community in Vail.
Colorado Ski Resorts Hit Record Season For Visitors
Colorado Ski Country USA (CSCUSA) recently announced a significant increase in skier visits at its 21 member ski resorts, with a nearly 8 percent rise compared to the previous year. The projected total of 14.8 million skier visits for the 2022-2023 season is expected to set a new statewide record, surpassing last year's record of 13.8 million visits. The success of the season can be attributed to favourable weather conditions, including consistent snowfall and below-average temperatures. Additionally, the industry witnessed investments in resort infrastructure, improved employee benefits, and a strong focus on sustainability. With these achievements, Colorado continues to cement its position as a premier destination for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts worldwide.
Winter Park Advises Season Closing Date
Winter Park Resort in Colorado has announced the upcoming closure of their skiing and snowboarding season on May 29th, 2023. The resort invites enthusiasts to enjoy their final runs and bid farewell to winter, while celebrating the memorable season and paying tribute to Mary Jane, one of their renowned slopes. Winter Park Resort's commitment to staying open as long as possible has resulted in a remarkable 210-day season, offering abundant opportunities for winter sports adventures. With a total snowfall of 397 inches, exceeding their annual average by 115%, the resort reflects on a successful winter filled with joy for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts.
Copper Mountain Announces Largest Single Year Investment in Over 10-Years
Copper Mountain has announced significant upgrades for the 2023-24 winter ski season, the most substantial investment in over a decade. The Aerie, a new mid-mountain lodge, is set to revolutionize the dining experience, while there will be upgrades to hiking and mountain bike trails, ski trails, snowmaking, and new snowcats. The resort will also open a new childcare facility, expand parking lots, add two new buses to the COBUS fleet, and install additional EV charging stations. Copper Mountain works closely with the United States Forest Service to ensure environmentally friendly projects.
Winter Park Commits To Riding As Late As Possible
Winter Park Resort in Colorado has reaffirmed its commitment to staying open for as long as possible, despite recent snowfall, which has brought the season total to 385 inches. Winter Park is one of the few resorts in the US to stay open as long as possible, depending on weather conditions. The Mary Jane area will remain open for the rest of the spring season, offering plenty of sunshine for slush bump skiing.
What Is Open At Breckenridge This Spring?
Breckenridge ski resort is one of the best places to experience spring skiing and riding in North America. Operating through April and into May, longer than most other major ski resorts in the country, Breck offers high alpine terrain, good vibes, and impeccable style. During the April and May operations, the high alpine is in its prime with approximately 1,000 acres of intermediate and advanced terrain across Peaks 6, 7, and 8 primarily accessed via the Peak 7 base and Independence SuperChair. Breck's base elevation of 9,600 feet above sea-level and the Imperial SuperChair offer spectacular spring snow conditions, making Breck one of the longest-running ski seasons of any major resort in the country.