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Cardona Expanding To Become Largest Ski Resort In New Zealand
In 2025, New Zealand's Cardrona Alpine Resort will become the largest ski area in the country with the launch of its new Soho Basin chairlift, expanding the resort to 615 hectares. This follows a partnership formed in 2018 between the resort's owners, RealNZ, and Soho Basin leaseholder John Darby. The project, which includes a high-speed six-seater chairlift providing access to 150 hectares of new terrain, has been in the works since the opening of the Willow's quad chairlift in 2021. Additionally, improvements are planned for parking, rentals, snowmaking, and other facilities to accommodate growing demand, with a focus on preserving the natural environment of Soho Basin.
Snowbird Resort Review | Best Ski Resort In Utah
Snowbird Mountain Resort in Utah offers a premier skiing and snowboarding experience, boasting the longest vertical drop in the state and substantial snowfalls. Situated in Little Cottonwood Canyon, Snowbird caters to all skill levels with 171 trails over 2,500 acres, mainly north-facing, and an annual snowfall of over 500 inches. This video provides a comprehensive guide to Snowbird, covering its history, resort zones, lift system, terrain, ticket pricing, lodging, and location.
Jackson Hole Opening More Lifts And Terrain As Resort Passes 100 Inches Of Snowfall
Jackson Hole Mountain Resort (JHMR) in Wyoming has expanded its offerings with the opening of four additional lifts and additional terrain after a substantial winter storm boosted the season's snowfall to over 100 inches. Following the Casper lift's opening on Dec. 6, the Bridger Gondola and Marmot lift opened on Dec. 8, and the Thunder and Sublette lifts are set to open on Dec. 9. Last weekend's storm brought 34 inches of snow since Dec. 1, with more expected. JHMR also introduced sightseeing on the Aerial Tram and announced the opening of various restaurants. The new Thunder Lift, installed in 2022, marks its first full season, providing faster access to legendary terrain. JHMR is enforcing capacity limits for the 2023-24 season, urging advanced ticket purchases and reservations, especially for pass holders. Ikon Pass and Mountain Collective pass holders require reservations, and JHMR emphasises the importance of early bookings. Season pass holders can enjoy flexibility on indicated days.
Brand New, Faster 6 Person Chairlift Coming To Perisher Resort
Perisher Resort has announced the introduction of a new and faster 6-person chairlift, named the Mt Perisher 6, set to replace the existing Mt Perisher Double and Triple lifts by winter 2025. This significant investment by Vail Resorts in Australia's largest ski resort aims to improve guest experiences by providing quicker access to higher points on the mountain, reducing lift wait times, and enhancing connectivity to various ski runs without traversing slopes. The Mt Perisher 6 will operate at 4.5 meters per second, cutting travel time from 10 to around five and a half minutes. With preparatory works beginning before the 2024 season, the completion date is set for 2025, marking a substantial addition to Perisher's ongoing infrastructure upgrades.
Sierra At Tahoe Unveils Updated Trail Map With Previously Closed Zones Now Open
The 2021 Caldor Fire had a profound impact on Sierra-at-Tahoe, altering its ski terrain significantly. The resort faced challenges, closing for much of the 2021-22 season but returned for the 2022-23 season with ample powder. To adapt to the changed landscape, Sierra-at-Tahoe updated its trail map, removing tree depictions, especially in the West Bowl. Ongoing efforts involved clearing more trees across various areas of the resort during the summer. The 2023 trail map reflects these transformations, showing substantial changes. Despite the loss of tree terrain, there's a positive note—the opening of previously restricted sections in the Avalanche Bowl and Huckleberry Canyon, allowing access to all 2000 skiable acres for the first time in years. Sierra-at-Tahoe stands resilient, though altered, in the face of adversity.
Brand New International Hotel Opens This Month In Furano
Discover the epitome of luxury and tranquility at Nozo Hotel in the picturesque ski town of Furano, Hokkaido. Opening its doors on December 19, this 78-room retreat, just minutes away from powder slopes, combines modern elegance with a nod to local nature. From bright, minimalist rooms to diverse dining experiences at Shirakaba Restaurant and the Buna Bar Lounge, Nozo Hotel offers a haven for both relaxation and culinary exploration. Guests can indulge in authentic Japanese bread at Cou Cou Bakery, unwind at the gender-specific Sugi Spa with indoor and outdoor onsens, and enjoy easy accessibility from Sapporo's Chitose and Asahikawa airports
Oregon Ski Resort Drops New Trail Map After 15 Years
Mt Hood Meadows has just unveiled a revamped trail map, marking the first update in 15 years. The new version features heightened detail, an improved perspective that accurately represents the resort's layout, and the seamless inclusion of Heather and Clark Canyons without the need for an inset map. Ski enthusiasts can download the full-size map on the resort's website, gearing up for an enhanced experience in the upcoming season.
Vail Resorts Purchases Second Resort In Europe
Vail Resorts, Inc. has announced its acquisition of Crans-Montana Mountain Resort in Switzerland, solidifying its presence in the heart of the Swiss Alps. With over 1,400 meters of skiable vertical terrain and 140 kilometres of trails, Crans-Montana is renowned as one of Europe's premier ski destinations, offering breathtaking views and hosting prestigious events. Vail Resorts plans to integrate the resort into its Epic Pass lineup for the 2024-25 season, providing added value for pass holders. The acquisition includes significant ownership stakes in key resort entities, reflecting Vail Resorts' commitment to the region's growth. With projected investments of CHF 30 million over the next five years, Vail Resorts aims to enhance the guest experience, expand snowmaking capabilities, and foster sustainable tourism, setting the stage for Crans-Montana's future success. The transaction is expected to close in the 2023-24 ski season, promising an exciting new chapter for this iconic Swiss destination.
Mt. Hood Meadows Installs EV Charging Station Ahead of 2023-24 Season
Mt. Hood Meadows is revolutionising the winter experience for electric vehicle (EV) owners with the installation of a state-of-the-art charging station for the 2023-24 season. In collaboration with Pacific Energy Concepts, the resort offers three FLO Level 2 Core+ Max charging pedestals, allowing up to six vehicles to charge simultaneously. Strategically placed at the main lot, near Sahale Lodge, the chargers boast weather resilience and a user-friendly experience. Operating on a first-come, first-serve basis from 7 AM to 10 PM during winter operations, users will be charged $0.42 per kW with a 4-hour session limit, after which a penalty fee applies. The FLO app and various partnering networks facilitate easy monitoring and payment processing, marking a significant step towards sustainability in winter recreation.
Ski Santa Fe Announces First High Speed Express Lift
Ski Santa Fe is set to transform the winter experience for visitors with the introduction of their first high-speed lift, the "Santa Fe Express," scheduled for the 2024-2025 season. Replacing the iconic Chair 1, Super Chief Quad, the cutting-edge Leitner-Poma Quad promises to reduce the mountain ascent to just over four minutes, significantly improving efficiency and reducing wait times. This marks the resort's first high-speed chairlift and the first new lift since 2005. With construction slated for April 2024 and completion expected by early November 2024, the initiative reflects Ski Santa Fe's commitment to innovation and an enhanced skiing environment, with gratitude expressed to the Santa Fe National Forest for their collaborative efforts in the approval process. The upcoming season is poised to offer an exhilarating experience for winter sports enthusiasts with the much-anticipated "Santa Fe Express."
Big Sky Sets Date For New Aerial Tram Grand Opening
In Big Sky, Montana, excitement is building as the Lone Peak Tram, the most significant on-mountain project in the town's history, is set to open on December 19, 2023. Big Sky Resort is auctioning off the first public tram cabin with 45 guest spots, and all proceeds will benefit three local non-profit organisations: Big Sky Community Organisation, Gallatin River Task Force, and Morningstar Learning Center. The auction offers a chance to be part of history and includes a professional photographer, a summit champagne toast, and a memento. The auction, open until November 15, is a unique opportunity to contribute to Big Sky's well-being and support organisations dedicated to recreation, river preservation, and early childhood education in the community.
Ruka Resort To Welcome Finland’s First 8-Person Chairlift Soon
Ruka Ski Resort in Finland is set to make a grand winter debut with its first 8-person chairlift, the Masto III, offering a speedy and high-capacity experience for skiers and snowboarders. The resort's newest addition will open in December, coinciding with Finland's Independence Day, and includes four new ski slopes and 40 snow cannons to boost snowmaking capacity. This €14 million project represents a significant expansion, increasing Ruka's slope count by 10% and its ski lift capacity by 15%. While the chairlift is ready, work on the slopes is ongoing, with a festive opening planned for the long weekend of December 6-10. Ruka's commitment to family-friendly amenities and its status as an early-season ski destination make it an alluring choice for winter adventurers.
Bear Valley, California Gets New Owner, Joins Cali Pass
Bear Valley Ski Resort in Northern California has exciting news as it's now under new management, having been acquired by the California Mountain Resorts Company (CMRC). This change means that Bear Valley is now part of the Cali Pass, allowing skiers and riders to enjoy unlimited access to three additional iconic California resorts: Dodge Ridge, China Peak, and Mountain High. Enthusiasts can seize this opportunity by purchasing or upgrading to a Cali Pass, providing them with an array of alpine adventures and ushering in an exciting era for Bear Valley and the wider skiing and snowboarding community in California.
Nakiska Ski Area Opening This Coming Weekend
Nakiska Ski Area in Alberta, Canada, is gearing up for the 2023-24 winter season by offering a special preview weekend on November 4th and 5th, 2023. This early opening sets Nakiska as the first Canadian resort to welcome winter enthusiasts for the season. The resort has recently received 25cm (10 inches) of fresh snow, and their snowmaking team has been diligently working to augment the natural snowfall. Located just 45 minutes from Calgary, Nakiska typically leads the way in opening among nearby resorts like Norquay, Sunshine Village, and Lake Louise, especially catering to race teams preparing for the season. Originally designed as a training and race centre, Nakiska is famous for hosting the 1988 Olympics and offers groomed runs served by four chairlifts, making it a prime destination for ski racers in the Bow Valley region. The opening weekend details include lift hours, food and beverage services, ticketing, and skiing information, with pricing to be confirmed soon.
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.
Sun Valley Showcasing Two New Lifts And Expanded Terrain On New Trail Map
Sun Valley Resort, North America's pioneering ski destination established in 1936, eagerly welcomes guests for its 88th winter season beginning on November 23, 2023. Exciting updates include the installation of cutting-edge Challenger and Flying Squirrel chairlifts, the expansion of the Lower Flying Squirrel trail, a revamped website for online bookings, and a new 6-pack Doppelmayr lift, the Challenger, boasting North America's largest vertical rise. The resort's annual Pray for Snow Party returns on November 11, offering fun and charitable activities.
Top 5: Best Advanced & Expert Resorts In Lake Tahoe
Are you an advanced or expert rider who thrives on tackling the most challenging chutes, cliffs, trees, and moguls available at ski resorts? If so, Lake Tahoe might be your next must-visit destination for a ski or snowboard trip. This region is home to 12 incredible ski resorts, ranging from small local hills to expansive destination resorts that collectively offer over 23,000 acres of rideable terrain. In this video, we explore the top five ski resorts that cater to advanced and expert riders, based on our experiences during our trip in February 2023.
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.
Sandia Peak, New Mexico Inks Joint Venture With Mountain Capital Partners
Mountain Capital Partners (MCP) and Sandia Peak Ski Company have formed a partnership to operate the Sandia Peak Ski Area near Albuquerque, New Mexico. This marks MCP's third ski area in the state, expanding their portfolio to 14 resorts. MCP brings its "Skiing First" philosophy to Sandia Peak, a ski area with a rich history but facing recent challenges leading to a temporary closure. The Sandia Peak management team, including Ben Abruzzo, sees MCP as a natural fit to continue the family's ski business, and the partnership promises to maintain the existing staffing while actively recruiting for key roles. Sandia Peak will also introduce a new season pass lineup and become part of MCP's Power Pass, providing pass holders with additional skiing opportunities.