Arapahoe Basin Sneaks Keystone By Opening Yesterday Afternoon
Yesterday, October 11, there was a ton of buzz around the news that Keystone Resort on Colorado was going to be open Saturday morning, October 12. It seemed that they had the race to open all locked up. However, in a last-minute move, neighboring Arapahoe Basin Ski Area opened yesterday afternoon, making them the first in North America to have lifts spinning.
"The race to be the first to open in Colorado and the country is always a treat. Vail has announced that Keystone is opening tomorrow. I know Loveland is right on their tail. Congratulations to both resorts." - From Al's Blog, COO Alan Henceroth
The Black Mountain Express lift was opened at 3:30 PM local time yesterday after a very last-minute announcement was made. The lift was open for two hours and a ticket cost $15. The season continues this morning with normal operating hours and ticket pricing.
Arapahoe Basin boasts the longest season in the state, typically running from mid-October into June. During the record-setting season of 2018/2019, A-Basin was open on October 19, 2018, and closed up shop on July 4, 2019. Since that July 4th, the mountain has been closed for only 99 days, the shortest amount of time in its history.
Just as a note, it could be said that this sneak attack to the first mountain open is part of the mega pass rivalry. This year Arapahoe Basin is part of the Ikon Pass, while Keystone Resort in on the Epic Pass. Could it have been Ikon trying to beat out the competition for sales and bragging rights? Possibly. However, from the look of the photo below, the snow is just too good to stay closed.
Photo Credits: Arapahoe Basin Ski Area
Comments
Post a Comment