Vail Resorts Announces Opening Dates, Reduces Epic Pass Prices Until Sept 6

Vail Resorts’ Okemo Mountain in Vermont is scheduled to open Nov. 20. For a limited time, you can purchase Epic Day Passes in the East for $67 © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

With the kids heading back to school and Fall around the corner, Vail Resorts announced resort’s opening dates for the ’21-’22 ski and ride season. Some of our resorts here in the Northeast, such as Wildcat in New Hampshire, are scheduled to open as early as November 19.

This Summer, in addition to making significant capital investments in the Northeast, Vail Resorts announced a significant price reduction of 20 percent in all Epic Pass prices for the upcoming season. The numerous pass options allow guests to save big when visiting the seven northeastern resorts they know well; and they can also travel west to any of the 30 additional resort destinations in our Epic Pass network – all on one pass.

Opening Dates Announced for 34 North American Resorts

Vail Resorts announced the opening dates of its 34 North American resorts, offering guests one of the longest ski seasons in the country with a focus on safety and the guest experience. The action kicks off at Keystone this October, with the resort set to open as early as possible thanks to recent investments in a state-of-the-art, energy-efficient snowmaking system. And with enterprise-wide investments in snowmaking technology in recent years, 15 of the company’s North American resorts – including Breckenridge, Vail, Whistler Blackcomb and Okemo – are set to open for skiing and riding in November.

“We are thrilled to welcome guests back this season for a fantastic winter of outdoor fun across our portfolio of resorts,” said James O’Donnell, president of the mountain division of Vail Resorts. “As always, our goal is to provide a safe and memorable experience of a lifetime for our guests and employees, and to do everything we can to provide incredible skiing and riding all season long.”

Vail Resorts’ Keystone Mountain Resort, Colorado, may open as early as October for the 21-22 ski and ride season © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

Rockies & West planned opening dates, which are subject to change:

·         October: Keystone (CO) – as early as possible, as weather and conditions permit

·         Nov. 12: Breckenridge (CO), Vail (CO) 

·         Nov. 19: Heavenly (CA), Northstar (CA), Park City (UT)

·         Nov. 24: Beaver Creek (CO), Crested Butte (CO) 

·         Nov. 25: Whistler Blackcomb (Canada)

·         Dec. 3: Kirkwood (CA), Stevens Pass (WA)

East planned opening dates, which are subject to change:

·         Nov. 19: Afton Alps (MN), Hunter (NY), Mt. Snow (VT), Stowe (VT), Wildcat (NH)

·         Nov. 20: Okemo (VT)

·         Nov. 24: Mt. Sunapee (NH)

·         Dec. 3: Attitash (NH), Crotched (NH), Jack Frost (PA), Mt. Brighton (MI), Wilmot (WI) 

·         Dec. 17: Big Boulder (PA), Liberty (PA), Roundtop (PA), Whitetail (PA)

·         Dec. 18: Alpine Valley (OH), Boston Mills and Brandywine (OH), Hidden Valley (MO), Mad River (OH), Paoli Peaks (IN), Snow Creek (MO)

Vail Resorts prioritizes the health and safety of its guests, employees and communities and will continue to monitor public health guidance surrounding COVID-19. Details of any necessary safety protocols will be communicated ahead of the season as the situation continues to evolve. At this time, Vail Resorts does not plan to have a mountain access reservation system.

Last Chance for the Best Deal in Skiing and Riding; Epic Pass Prices Reduced 20 Percent, Increase Coming Labor Day

As the winter season draws near, so does the last chance for skiers and riders to get the lowest price on the entire suite of 2021/22 Epic Pass products, which saw a major price reduction of 20 percent this year. Labor Day is the last day to get an Epic Pass, Epic Day Pass or any pass option at the lowest price this year – unlocking access to resorts across the Northeast, Rocky Mountains and Pacific Northwest, including Whistler Blackcomb, which is now open to fully vaccinated Americans.

Skiers and riders can get the best ski and snowboard pass deal by purchasing a pass before prices go up after September 6. Some of the most popular pass offerings include: 

·         Epic Pass ($783 vs. $979 last season) provides unlimited, unrestricted access to 34 North American resorts – including Vail, Beaver Creek, Breckenridge, Park City and Whistler Blackcomb – as well as access to many partner resorts, including Telluride, Snowbasin and Sun Valley.  

·         Epic Local Pass ($583 vs. $729 last season) provides unlimited, unrestricted access to 26 resorts – including Breckenridge and Keystone – from the East to the West coast, as well as holiday-restricted access to resorts like Park City, Heavenly and Stowe, and 10 days total to use at Vail, Beaver Creek and Whistler Blackcomb.  

·         Northeast Value Pass ($479 vs. $599 last season) provides access to 18 resorts across the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic, including Stowe, Okemo, Hunter Mountain, Mt. Snow and Liberty. 

·         Epic Day Pass is the best option for anyone who plans to hit the slopes only one to seven days next season. With Epic Day Pass, guests can visit premier resorts like Vail, Beaver Creek and Whistler Blackcomb for as low as $87 for one day, with discounts increasing as more days are purchased, and – a new option this year – resorts like Keystone, Heavenly and Stowe for as low as $67 for one day. 

In addition to reducing the cost of accessing the mountains, Epic Pass products provide significant savings on the rest of the mountain experience. Epic Mountain Rewards offers pass holders the best ski trip deals, including 20 percent off on-mountain dining, lodging, group ski and ride school lessons, equipment rentals and more at Vail Resorts’ 34 North American owned and operated resorts. All passes also include the Epic Coverage refund policy at no additional cost, providing refunds for certain resort closures and personal events such as job loss, injury or illness.  

Coast-to-Coast Experiences

·         East: Skiers and riders in cities across the East have access to an unbeatable network of resorts throughout the Northeast, Mid-Atlantic and Midwest. Those looking to sample the charm and tradition of New England skiing can use the Northeast Value Pass to visit seven iconic resort destinations in Vermont and New Hampshire – all within driving distance of one another – plus many more. Planning a trip out West? The Epic Local Pass gives access to ski or ride close to home and at world-class destinations out West all on one pass. Additionally, Okemo is undergoing a transformational upgrade, including two major lift upgrades that will make getting on and around the mountain faster and easier. Capital improvements to lifts, snowmaking, lodges and terrain are also underway at Attitash and Wildcat that will improve the experience for all guests.

·         Rockies: The North American ski season is set to kick off at Keystone in October. Summit County’s largest resorts provide skiers and riders an endless winter of fun and one of the longest ski seasons in North America, with Keystone opening as early as possible in October and Breckenridge closing the season in May. Vail Mountain’s industry-leading snowmaking enhancement project is prepared to deliver the Biggest Opening in Colorado. Guests can look forward to exploring new terrain for the whole family with Beaver Creek’s 250-acre terrain expansion – McCoy Park – and can ski and ride to new heights with new chairlifts at Breckenridge, Crested Butte and Keystone. Or, head to Utah to explore the endless terrain and stunning mountain vistas at Park City Mountain, the largest ski resort in the United States.

·         Pacific Northwest: Whistler Blackcomb continues to offer more terrain choices than nearly any other mountain destination in the world. With a combination of thrilling descents, exquisite scenery and a mountain town like no other, there’s something for everyone at the largest resort in North America. Book an Extremely Canadian Steeps Clinic, finally make heli-ski dreams a reality or book a private lesson with an Olympian. For guests looking to explore the area and make full use of their Epic Pass perks, Stevens Pass is only five hours away. Known for its deep powder, rolling groomed runs to steep slopes, surrounded by trees and nestled into the mountains, Stevens Pass is a picture-perfect ski area for families and seasoned skiers alike.

·         Tahoe: The #TahoeTrifecta of Heavenly, Northstar and Kirkwood offers skiers and riders three world-class resorts with more than 10,000 acres of terrain to explore. Heavenly is the social Lake Tahoe mountain playground with unparalleled lake views and truly inspiring beauty that spans two states (California and Nevada). Northstar is California’s ultimate destination to relax and recharge in a pristine setting. Kirkwood provides a pure mountain escape with an authentic community and access to advanced and expert terrain.

Vail Resorts, Inc., through its subsidiaries, is a leading global mountain resort operator. Vail Resorts’ subsidiaries operate 37 destination mountain resorts and regional ski areas, including Vail, Beaver Creek, Breckenridge, Keystone and Crested Butte in Colorado; Park City in Utah; Heavenly, Northstar and Kirkwood in the Lake Tahoe area of California and Nevada; Whistler Blackcomb in British Columbia, Canada; Perisher, Falls Creek and Hotham in Australia; Stowe, Mount Snow, Okemo in Vermont; Hunter Mountain in New York; Mount Sunapee, Attitash, Wildcat and Crotched in New Hampshire; Stevens Pass in Washington; Liberty, Roundtop, Whitetail, Jack Frost and Big Boulder in Pennsylvania; Alpine Valley, Boston Mills, Brandywine and Mad River in Ohio; Hidden Valley and Snow Creek in Missouri; Wilmot in Wisconsin; Afton Alps in Minnesota; Mt. Brighton in Michigan; and Paoli Peaks in Indiana. Vail Resorts owns and/or manages a collection of casually elegant hotels under the RockResorts brand, as well as the Grand Teton Lodge Company in Jackson Hole, Wyo. Vail Resorts Development Company is the real estate planning and development subsidiary of Vail Resorts, Inc.

Visit www.epicpass.com and www.snow.com.    

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Ski.Com Showcases Top Resorts for Best Spring Skiing, Events, Deep Discounts

Copper Mountain, Colorado, one of Ski.com’s featured resorts for spring skiing © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

Aspen, Colo. – February 25, 2020 – Spring is one of the best times to make a trip to the mountains – from sunny days to a continuous line-up of concerts and events. Ski.com recommends their top spring skiing destinations and signature event weekends in each resort – paired with deep savings, which could offer guests up to 40 percent off regular season pricing.

Many resorts have received above average snowfall this season, making for a great base which will last well into the spring months. In addition, many resorts continue to see significant snowfall well into April.

Ski.com has been customizing dream vacations for nearly 50 years at more than 120 of the world’s top ski resorts. All of the featured packages can be booked by visiting their corresponding links or by calling an experienced Ski.com Mountain Travel Expert at 1-800-525-2052.

Jackson Hole, Wyoming

With an average of 459 inches of snow per year, Jackson Hole typically offers fantastic spring conditions across its 2,500 acres of in-bounds terrain.

Since its inception in the ‘60s, Jackson Hole Mountain Resort has been known across the globe for being some of the most challenging—and rewarding terrain—there is. Tight chutes, like the iconic Corbet’s Couloir, big airs, deep snow and steep lines are what make Jackson Hole famous. However, there are dozens of wide-open trails for beginners and picture-perfect cruisers and progressive bump runs for intermediates, and much more.

While a Jackson Hole ski vacation will always be top-of-mind with expert skiers as a bucket list destination because of the advanced and extreme terrain on its slopes and easily accessed sidecountry, Jackson brings a lot more to the plate than just being a place for adrenaline junkies to jump off cliffs. Not only does Jackson Hole exude refreshing cowboy character, on and off the slopes, but its All New-All Blue terrain off of Casper chairlift is a game-changer for intermediates.

Ski.com’s Top Recommended Spring event:

Jackson Hole Rendezvous – March 26-28, 2020

Bob Weir, member of the Grateful Dead, will be headlining this year’s Jackson Hole Rendezvous festival with his band Bob Weir and Wolf Bros. Jackson Hole Rendezvous is a three-day spring lifestyle and music festival presenting concerts on multiple stages in Teton Village and the iconic Town Square in Jackson, WY from March 26-28, 2020, and is free of charge for general admission audiences across all venues.

Mountain Modern Motel – Fourth Night Free:

The boutique Modern Mountain Motel puts guests smack dab in the heart of downtown Jackson. The 135 guest rooms were designed with practical spaces for storing all gear and are set up to be an adventure basecamp with open floor plans and conveniences like mini fridges and microwaves. Parking and wi-fi are complementary.

Package Details:

Mountain Modern Motel

3 nights in a deluxe double queen room

2, 2-day lift tickets

Package price: $495.30 per person based on double occupancy

Sample dates: 3/26/2020 to 3/29/2020

https://www.ski.com/breckenridge-deals/401575

 

Squaw Alpine Meadows, California

Squaw Valley is one of Lake Tahoe’s most coveted resorts, with a deep seeded history in ski culture from being the home of the 1960 Olympics to the birthplace of extreme and big mountain skiing in the U.S. Squaw is the perfect mix of challenging skiing with a fun-loving California mountain vibe. 

Ski.com’s Top Recommended Spring event:

Winter Wondergrass, March 27-29, 2020

The warm California sun paired with experiencing music amongst the backdrop of Mother Nature, provides the perfect setting for Squaw’s biggest music festival of the season. With bluegrass headliners The Devil Makes Three and The Infamous Stringdusters paired with over 20 additional bluegrass acts – this is the signature spring weekend to combine great spring skiing with bluegrass music’s finest musicians.

Package Details:

Resort at Squaw Creek

3 nights in a king room

2, 2-day lift tickets

Package price:$839.49 per person based on double occupancy

Sample dates:3/27/2020 to 3/29/2020

https://www.ski.com/squaw-valley-lodging/resort-at-squaw-creek

 

Breckenridge, Colorado

Breckenridge, Colo. captures the heart of spring skiing in Colorado. Thanks to a base elevation of 9,600 feet above sea-level and the Imperial Express, the highest chairlift in North America, Breckenridge is often blessed with access excellent spring snow conditions, and now one of the longest running ski seasons of any major resort in the country. With extensive terrain for all levels of skiers, various terrain parks (which come alive in the springtime), a charming historic downtown with plenty of dining options, shops and nightlife, and plenty of spring events,  Breckenridge is the perfect location for family or friends to enjoy Colorado sunshine and spring skiing.

Ski.com’s Top Recommended Spring event:

Breck Pride Week, April 1 – 5, 2020

Breckenridge welcomes the LGBTQ community April 1-5, 2020 for Breck Pride, featuring daily après parties, on mountain guided tours and a spring beer festival.

Beaver Run Resort – Save up to 40 percent on lodging:

Boasting a long list of amenities and convenient access to the slopes, Beaver Run Resort and Conference Center is one of Breckenridge’s most popular properties. This ski-in/ski-out property is located on the ski run above the base of Peak 9, making it an excellent choice for the skier or snowboarder looking to get as much time on the slopes as possible.

Beaver Run Resort offers an indoor/outdoor heated pool, a second outdoor pool, seven outdoor hot tubs, an exercise room, video arcade, retail stores, mini market/deli, bars and restaurants, ski and snowboard rental shops, business center, and complimentary in-town shuttle.

Package Details:

Beaver Run Resort

3 nights in a studio room

2, 2-day lift tickets

Package price: $807.25 per person based on double occupancy

Sample dates: 4/2/2020 to 4/5/2020

https://www.ski.com/breckenridge-deals/401575

 

Vail, Colorado

Vail Mountain, is known for a robust line-up of springtime events and is just over an hour drive from Denver, allowing quick access to one of the largest resorts in the U.S.

With 5,289 acres, Vail offering skiing for every level of skier and many lodging options for just about every type of budget. In addition, Vail keeps the party moving with plenty of après, dining and live music options in the village, once the lifts stop turning for the day.

Ski.com’s Top Recommended Spring event:

Taste of Vail –  April 1 – 4, 2020

The Taste of Vail is the nation’s premier spring food and wine festival, which features food from the Vail Valley’s world-class restaurants and fine wine poured by winemakers and winery owners from top wineries around the globe. Events include interactive seminars, an auction and dance party, the Colorado Lamb Cook Off, après ski tastings and the mountaintop picnic on Vail Mountain.

Mountain Haus:

Nestled along the Gore Creek at the Covered Bridge in the heart of Vail Village, Vail’s Mountain Haus offers deluxe condominium and hotel accommodations just steps from world-class skiing, dining and shopping. At Mountain Haus, guests can quickly access the new Gondola One.

In addition to the amenities listed the Mountain Haus also offers their guests private balconies, spacious living/dining areas, fully equipped kitchens, equal number of bathrooms to bedrooms, stereo/TV/VCR/DVD, high-speed cable access, 24 hour front desk, daily housekeeping service and complimentary continental breakfast.

Package Details:

Mountain Haus, Vail

3 nights in a lodge room

2, 2-day lift tickets

Package price: $998 per person based on double occupancy

Sample dates: 4/2/2020 to 4/5/2020

https://www.ski.com/vail-deals/401580

 

Telluride, Colorado

A ski resort has to be doing a lot of things right to make SKI magazine’s shortlist as a top five destination in their annual Resort Guide. And while a Telluride ski vacation might require a bit more effort than visiting most other resorts, driving up the breathtaking box canyon in the San Juan Mountains is a priceless experience.

Besides its remarkably remote positioning, Telluride is surrounded by fourteen thousand foot peaks and is easily one of Colorado’s most gorgeous mountain towns. Rich in mining-era character and stocked with endless stashes, steeps, and deeps to explore thanks to nonexistent crowds, Telluride is a place skiers will never want to leave.

Ski.com’s Top Recommended Spring event:

Telluride Closing Weekend, April 3-5

With above average snowfall this season, Telluride has a great base moving into the spring season. Closing weekend features a pond skim and on-mountain dance party at Gorrono Ranch on April 5, followed by a concert by Main Squeeze in the Mountain Village Heritage Plaza.

Package Details:

The Peaks

3 nights in a Hotel Room Alpine Vista

2, 2-day lift tickets

Package price: $587.49 per person based on double occupancy

Sample dates: 4/3/2020 to 4/5/2020

https://www.ski.com/telluride-lodging/peaks-resort-and-spa

 

Aspen, Colorado

Aspen has seen great snowfall this season and is known for not only excellent coverage well into the spring and continued late-season snowfall, but also plenty of events on-mountain and in town, to keep guests entertained from first chair until their heads hit their pillowcase.

With three of Aspen Snowmass’ four area mountains being open until mid-to-late April, guests continue to have a choice of skiing/riding Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands and Snowmass during the package dates below – offering skiing options for every type of skier.

Ski.com’s Top Recommended Spring event:

Bud Light Hi Fi Series and Aspen Highlands Closing Day – April 9 – April 12

With on-mountain events including The Oasis, the roving champagne bar on Aspen Mountain, open Saturday and Sunday, a robust après scene and free concerts – this is the top recommended weekend to visit Aspen Snowmass according to Ski.com Mountain Travel Experts.

In Aspen on April 11, the Aspen Snowmass Bud Light Hi-Fi Series presents The Après – a free concert and street festival in the heart of downtown (the line up is to be announced soon). April 12 is Aspen Highlands Closing Day, which is one of the biggest parties on snow. On Aspen Highlands Closing Day, guests are encouraged to dress in their favorite 80’s ski gear or costume, hike-to the top of the 12,392 foot Highland Bowl and ski down, followed by on-mountain après at Cloud Nine mid-mountain restaurant. The day ends at the base of Aspen Highlands with a large dance party marking the end of another great season in Aspen.

Package Details:

Limelight Aspen

3 nights in a Grand Deluxe room, king

2, 2-day lift tickets

Package price: $602.50 per person based on double occupancy

Sample dates: 4/9/2020 to 4/12/2020

https://www.ski.com/aspen-deals/400806

 

Steamboat Springs, Colorado 

From its celebrated Champagne Powder to its deep Western heritage and Winter Olympic history – Steamboat is one of the most memorable ski towns in North America. Steamboat packs a punch for just about every on- and off-mountain interest: a nice mix of terrain, a casual, yet, high-quality dining scene. There’s a reason skiers of all ages have been calling Steamboat Springs one of their favorite ski resorts for the last 50 years.

Ski.com’s Top Recommended Spring event:

Steamboat Closing Weekend, April 10-12, 2020

With a great base from a powder-filled season, Steamboat is a great spring time destination featuring weekly on-mountain concerts and a robust event line up for it’s closing weekend, April 10-12, 2020. The Bud Light Rocks the Boat Free Concert Series on April 12 features a free concert by one of Colorado’s favorite bands – The Motet – from 3:30-5 p.m. at the Steamboat Stage in Gondola Square. Closing weekend is complete with the Cardboard Classic, a downhill race featuring homemade cardboard crafts, on April 11. The annual Splashdown Pond Skimming Championships will provide great entertainment for guests on closing day, April 12.

Steamboat Grand – Save 30 percent on lodging:

The Steamboat Grand brings a new level of service to one of the West’s best resorts for powder skiing. Steamboat Grand features 327 deluxe guest rooms and condos including hotel rooms, studios and one- to five-bedroom condominiums and penthouses featuring gas fireplaces, whirlpool tubs and walk-in closets. All units feature Direct TV and in room DVD players, stereo, coffee makers, dual phone lines with fax/modem and voice mail capabilities, hair dryers and iron and board. Many larger units include fully equipped kitchens with GE Profile appliances, hardwood cabinetry and granite countertops and much more.

After a satisfying, full day on the slopes, guests can find some R&R at the Grand Spa or soak in a hot tub. The Grand Hotel is also home to wonderful restaurants including The Grand Café, The Cabin Restaurant and offers an in room dining option. Additional hotel amenities include ADA accessible rooms, bathrooms, shuttle services, daily housekeeping, valet and bell service, underground parking and slopeside ski valet.

Package Details:

Steamboat Grand

3 nights in a Grand Deluxe king room

2, 2-day lift tickets

Package price: $473.60 per person based on double occupancy

Sample dates: 4/9/2020 to 4/12/2020

https://www.ski.com/steamboat-springs-deals/401252

 

Copper Mountain, Colorado

From its unique, naturally divided terrain, and world-class terrain parks and halfpipes, to its many low-key restaurants and bars, lodging options and family-friendly attractions, a Copper Mountain vacation will delight just about any skier. From first timer to expert, young to old, to those on a budget or those looking to splurge a little, Copper is a fantastic option. On average, most of Copper Mountain’s restaurants and accommodations sway towards laid-back, rather than upscale, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t plenty of world-class experiences to be had on a Copper Mountain vacation.

Ski.com’s Top Recommended Spring event:

Sunsation presented by 10 Barrel Brewing Co, April 18-19, 2020

For Copper Mountain’s closing weekend, the resort features free live concerts in the base village (acts to be announced soon) as well as Red Bull SlopeSoakers – a pond skim/rail jam hybrid event.

Passage Point – Third Night Free Lodging:

Convenient access to the best of everything Copper Mountain offers can be found at the Passage Point condos. Passage Point offers spacious living quarters in the Center Village. The units are located minutes from the ski slopes, just a short walk across a bridge to the American Eagle lift. Each unit comes with one unassigned garage space and balcony views towards the mountain and Center Village. Other amenities include a full kitchen and gas fireplace. Onsite amenities guests have access to include a ski locker, hot tub, laundry room, elevator, and fitness room.

Package Details:

Passage Point

3 nights in a One bedroom

2, 2-day lift tickets

Package price: $502.16 per person based on double occupancy

Sample dates: 4/16/2020 to 4/19/2020

https://www.ski.com/copper-mountain-deals/400859

 

Mammoth Mountain, California

Mammoth receives 400-plus inches of snow annually, and is home to a vast, and varied amount of terrain from steeps to one of the top terrain parks in the world. Located in the Eastern Sierra range, Mammoth boasts 3,500 skiable acres and has a robust village to keep guests entertained well after the ski day ends.

Ski.com’s Top Recommended Spring event:

Mammoth Mountain Annual Pond Skim – April 19, 2020

With ample snow through June and plenty of California sunshine, Mammoth is the perfect spring destination. Crowds fill up the slopes outside Canyon Lodge to watch the craziest costumed skiers and snowboarders straight-line it across an ice cold, 100+ foot pond.

Package Details:

Juniper Springs Resort

3 nights in a one bedroom

2, 2-day lift tickets

Package price: $640.59 per person based on double occupancy

Sample dates: 4/16/2020 to 4/19/2020

https://www.ski.com/mammoth-lodging/juniper-springs-resort

 

Founded in 1971 in the heart of Colorado ski country, Aspen-headquartered Ski.com is one of the largest providers of mountain vacation packages in North America and an industry leader in online travel technology. The company specializes in booking custom ski vacations at more than 120 of the most popular ski resorts and heli- and cat-skiing destinations in North America, Europe, Japan and South America and offers the largest collection of mountain lodging and ski-vacation components, including discounted lift tickets, flights, equipment rental, ski school, activities and more. Providing unsurpassed mountain-travel expertise, Ski.com’s 70 Mountain Travel Experts average 26 years of experience in the ski travel industry. Call 800-525-2052 or visit ski.com.

 

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Colorado Ski Country USA Resorts Offer Kids Ski Free Programs

Colorado Ski Country USA resorts across the state are offering various programs geared to families. At Winter Park Resort, kids five and under qualify for beginner lift tickets for $10 a day or $30 for the season with no black-out dates © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

Colorado Ski Country USA (CSCUSA) member resorts are offering Kids Ski Free programs across the state. Parents and families can take advantage of free and discounted lift tickets for children, specialized lessons and rental discounts to plan a ski vacation experience that won’t break the bank.

For example, Colorado Ski Country USA has a 5th and 6th Grade Passport Program which offers fifth graders the chance to ski or ride three days at 22 participating member resorts across the state absolutely free. That’s up to 66 free days on the slopes. Fifth graders who have never skied or snowboarded are eligible for the First-Class program which provides never-ever skiers and riders one free full-day beginner lesson and equipment rental at the resort of their choice. All Passport holders also receive one complimentary junior rental from Christy Sports. The corresponding 6th Grade Passport Program offers four days of skiing at the same 22 resorts for only $105 before November 30, or $125 through the end of the season. To register for the Passport Program visit:www.coloradoski.com/passport.

Resorts have their own programs as well:

Arapahoe Basin

Kids Free 2 Ski Pass: Children five and under ski free every day at Arapahoe Basin with a free Five & Under lift ticket from the ticket window. Children ages six to 12 can ski or snowboard for free any two days of the 2017-18 season with no blackout dates through the Kids Free 2 Ski Pass. Register online, at a Front Range ski show or at the mountain by December 18, 2017. For more information, visit www.arapahoebasin.com.

Aspen Snowmass

Kids Ski Free: Children six and under always ski free at Aspen Snowmass. For children ages seven to 12 years old, Aspen Snowmass allows kids to ski free when booking two or more nights of lodging through Stay Aspen Snowmass or renting children’s ski or snowboard equipment from Four Mountain Sports. There is no limit on the number of days children can receive free lift tickets when renting from Four Mountain Sports. The offer is valid January 1 – April 15, 2018. Mention kids ski free when you call 800-290-1326 or visit www.aspensnowmass.com for more information.

Cooper

Kids Ski Free: Children five & under always ski free at Cooper, and children six to 14 receive a discount on their daily lift tickets. Cooper also offers children’s group lessons, with several levels of instruction for age and ability, that include rentals for affordable rates. For more information, visit www.skicooper.com.

Copper Mountain

One, Two, Free! With Copper Mountain’s One, Two, Free! Package, kids 12 and younger ski free with the purchase of an adult two-day lift ticket. The deal also includes additional perks like a third night of lodging free, a third day of rentals free, a free half-day ticket on the day of arrival or departure, and free upgrade to the Secret! Pass for early access and shorter lift lines. Children five and under always ski/ride free at Copper Mountain. For more information, visit www.coppercolorado.com.

Crested Butte

Kids 12 and Under Ski Free: Children six and under always ski free at Crested Butte. All kids ages 12 and under visiting Crested Butte Mountain Resort Nov. 23 – Dec. 15, 2017 and Apr. 1 – 8, 2018 ski or ride free. No strings attached, no parent ticket required, no lodging stay required, no advance reservations, just a free ticket for kids. For more information, visit www.skicb.com.

Echo Mountain

Kids Ski Free: Kids five and under ski and ride free at Echo Mountain. The ski area also offers ski or snowboard package rentals for only $29 for kids, plus specialized private and group lessons for kids through Utivity. For more information, visit www.echomountainresort.com.

Eldora

Season Pass Deals: At Eldora, kids age five and under can purchase an alpine season pass for only $29. For more information,visit www.eldora.com.

Granby Ranch

Kids Ski Free: Kids five and under ski free. Granby Ranch also offers child’s ski or snowboard rental packages for only $15 per day. For more information, visit www.granbyranch.com.

Hesperus

Kids Ski Free Every Day Deal: Guests seven years old and younger get a free lift ticket every day, with no blackout dates. Just ask for the Ski Free Every Day deal at the ticket window.

4th Graders Ski Free: 4th graders (with report card) get a free lift ticket every day, with no blackout dates. Just ask for the Ski Free Every Day deal at the ticket window.

First Time; Free Lessons: Hesperus offers first-timers ages seven and older up to three free lessons with the purchase of one full-day, full-price lift ticket for $39. Available every day. For more information, visit www.ski-hesperus.com.

Loveland

Kids Ski Free: Children five and under ski free every day at Loveland. Children five and under can also purchase a ski or snowboard package equipment rental for $12.

3-Class Pass for Kids  is for all children, ages four to 14, of all ability levels. When guests pre-purchase or complete three full-day lesson packages, they receive a free unrestricted season pass to keep practicing their skiing or snowboarding skills for the rest of the season. Children’s full day lesson packages include a lesson, lift access, equipment rentals (ski or snowboard), helmet and lunch. For more information, visit www.skiloveland.com.

Monarch

Kids Ski Free and Free Lessons: Children six and under ski free at Monarch. Children between the ages of seven and 12 get a free lesson with the purchase of a lift ticket and a rental package. For more information, visit www.skimonarch.com.

Powderhorn

Season Pass and Lift Ticket Deals: Children six and under can purchase a season pass for only $94 during early-season promotions or $119 all season long. Or, kids six and under can go to the lift ticket window and pay only $18 for a full-day pass. Children 12 and under can purchase an EZ Rider pass for access to the beginner lift for only $12. For more information, visit www.powderhorn.com.

Purgatory

Kids and 4th Graders Ski Free: Kids seven years old and younger ski free every day at Purgatory Resort. Fourth grade students also ski free at Purgatory with proof of grade. For more information, visit www.skipurg.com.

Silverton

Silverton Winter Sports Club: A local youth program, the Silverton Winter Sports Club provides a season-long introduction to big mountain skiing and backcountry snow safety protocols. While there is a small participation fee for families, the Silverton Winter Sports Club is funded almost entirely by donations, including the support of Silverton Mountain and the Brill Family. For more information, visit www.silvertonmountain.com.

Steamboat

Kids & Grandkids Ski Free programs enable children 12 years of age and under to ski free the same number of days as their parent, grandparent, or legal guardian when the parent, grandparent, or legal guardian purchase a five-or-more day adult lift ticket. For season passes, one child (12 and under) is eligible to receive a free season pass with parent, grandparent, or legal guardian purchase of an adult Steamboat Season Pass. For more information, visit www.steamboat.com.

Sunlight

Carefree Skier Season Pass: Children age five and younger can receive a free Season Pass to Sunlight Mountain Resort. Children five and younger can also ski free every day by visiting the ticket window for a complimentary daily lift ticket.

Ski, Swim, Stay: With Sunlight’s Ski, Swim and Stay package, kids 12 and under ski free. Enjoy a full day on the slopes of Sunlight, a rejuvenating soak in natural hot springs, and a relaxing night’s stay at one of nine participating lodging properties. Packages start at just $99/night. For more information, visit www.sunlightmtn.com.

Telluride

Kids Ski Free: Free lift tickets are available at the Telluride ticket window for children ages five years old and under. Child lift tickets for children ages six to 12 are available online at discounted rates for two or more days of skiing when you purchase at least 48 hours in advance. Telluride also offers children’s ski school lessons divided into programs that offer age and skill specific learning experiences. For more information, visitwww.tellurideskiresort.com.

Winter Park

Kids and Beginners Ski for Less: At Winter Park Resort, kids five and under qualify for beginner lift tickets for $10 a day or $30 for the season with no black-out dates. These lift tickets are intended for beginners only and grant access to the Galloping Goose chairlift at Mary Jane. For more information, visit www.winterparkresort.com.

Wolf Creek

Tots and Children Discounts: At Wolf Creek Ski Area, the unrestricted season pass for Tots (children five and under) is only $54, while children ages six to 12 can purchase an unrestricted season pass for $385. For families looking for daily lift tickets, children ages five and younger can purchase a lift ticket for only $6. For more information, visit www.wolfcreekski.com.

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Vail Resorts’ Beaver Creek Opens Red Buffalo Park Learn-to-Ski Area

Tubing at the Adventure Center atop Beaver Creek Resort © Dave E. Leiberman/goingplacesfarandnear.com

Beaver Creek Resort, Colorado, renowned as a world-class luxury family mountain resort, is opening a new 200-acre Red Buffalo Park for the 2017-2018 season – an incomparable family learning area at the top of the mountain with 13 trails dedicated to beginner and learning terrain, serviced by a new Red Buffalo Express Lift (#5), a new Cookie Cabin, Kids’ Adventure Zones, snow sculptures, and a Ski School Skills Zone.

The new family and adventure learning area is designed to improve the experience for beginner and intermediate skiers and further establish Beaver Creek, part of Vail Resorts, as one of the world’s best luxury family resorts. Located at the mountain’s highest elevation, 11,440 feet, Red Buffalo Park provides 13 trails designated as a family learning area. At the heart of Red Buffalo Park, the new Red Buffalo Express Lift (#5), a high-speed quad, will improve the beginner experience by decreasing lift lines and providing a shorter, 4.3 minute ride to the top of the mountain.

Red Buffalo Park amenities include Kids’ Adventure Zones, snow sculptures, Park 101 and Zoom Room terrain parks, and a dedicated Ski School Skills Zone on Upper Sheephorn trail. Beaver Creek Ski & Snowboard School students will have access to the new Cookie Cabin, a mountaintop refuge serving Beaver Creek’s famed, fresh-baked chocolate chip cookies daily.

“Red Buffalo Park is all about more time skiing with your family in an area that focuses on beginners and intermediate skiers and riders. Upgrading Red Buffalo Express Lift will provide high-speed lift access to the amazing beginner terrain at the top of Beaver Creek, resulting in less time riding the lift and more time skiing,” said Beth Howard, chief operating officer of Beaver Creek Resort. “We expect this improvement to take significant volume off Cinch Express, Beaver Creek’s second most-popular lift, and it really is an improvement befitting of Beaver Creek’s luxury, family experience, as it enhances a key beginner and family area of our mountain.”

 

Red Buffalo Park

Unlike most beginner learning areas, Beaver Creek’s Red Buffalo Park is located at 11,440 feet, the highest point of the mountain. The gentle slope of the designated learning trails provides terrain fitting for beginner and intermediate skiers and riders, plus breathtaking panoramic views of the Gore Range. Guests can ride the new Red Buffalo Express Lift (#5), located at the heart of Red Buffalo Park, for quick access to all 13 trails.

The new Red Buffalo Express Lift (#5) is named after the signature, beginner Red Buffalo trail, which provides incredible views of the Gore Range and is named after two signature peaks of the Gore Range, the Red peak and Buffalo peak. The new lift will reduce ride time by 50 percent, from 8.6 minutes to 4.3 minutes, and will increase uphill capacity by 75 percent. With the upgrade, all primary lifts on Beaver Creek will be high-speed.

 

New Ski School Experiences at Red Buffalo Park

Cookie Cabin: Guests enrolled in Beaver Creek Ski & Snowboard School will have access to the Cookie Cabin, located at the top of Red Buffalo Express Lift (#5). Serving up Beaver Creek’s famed, fresh-baked chocolate chip cookies all-day long, the Cookie Cabin provides the perfect rejuvenation during a day on the slopes.

Sheephorn Ski School Skills Zone: Upper Sheephorn, a signature trail in Red Buffalo Park, is designated as a Ski School Skills Zone. The wide trail with sweeping views of the Gore Range is the perfect place for guests to refine their skills. After mastering the Sheephorn Skills Zone, guests can move on to explore the rest of the mountaintop terrain offered at Red Buffalo Park. 

Activities & Events in Red Buffalo Park

Snow Sculptures: Explore Red Buffalo Park to discover various snow sculptures located alongside the trails. Watch as the sculptures grow in size throughout the season – guests might even see Beaver Creek’s master snow sculptor at work.

Kids’ Adventure Zones: With banked turns, covered wagons, teepees and more, these fun areas are perfect to build confidence and challenge children’s skiing and riding abilities. Discover a sense of adventure on these runs designed just for kids within Red Buffalo Park.

• Jack Rabbit Alley: This is a perennial favorite for kids of all ages. This trail starts at the very top of the mountain and winds its way through the trees of Red Buffalo Park challenging advanced and intermediate skiers.
• Wild West Trail: A little bit of the Wild West built into Jack Rabbit Alley. Ski through a covered Calistoga wagon or explore the inside of a Native American teepee.
• Mystic Maze: A fun interpretive trail winding through the lower trees just off the Ski School Skills Zone. This is a great piece of terrain for intermediate skiers to explore and learn about the animals on Beaver Creek Mountain.

Terrain Parks

• Park 101: This beginner terrain park is great for people who are just learning the basics of freestyle snowboarding or freeskiing. The entry-level park contains small jumps, boxes, rails, and stall features designed for beginner riders and skiers to learn the basics of a terrain park.
• Zoom Room: An intermediate-level park designed to flow through a variety of different and unique features including boxes, rails, log-slides, stall features, and jumps. Zoom Room is the natural progression once skiers and riders get comfortable with the basics.

Ski With A Ranger
Join partners from Walking Mountains Science Center and the United States Forest Service on a fun, engaging and complimentary tour of the beautiful natural surroundings here at Beaver Creek. Come learn more about the forest around you including wildlife, plants, history and the mountain ecosystem in winter. The tour will meet every Monday, starting December 11, at 1:30 p.m. at the top of Red Buffalo Park for an hour long educational adventure. Ability Levels 3 and up, open to all ages.

Vail Resorts’ Beaver Creek Resort  is renowned as a luxury family resort and for legendary attention to detail, World-Cup mountain pedigree, intimate alpine village, and reputation for world-class service. Just 30 minutes east of Eagle Airport (EGE) and 2.5 hours west of Denver International Airport (DIA), Beaver Creek offers luxury accommodations throughout three villages and ski-in, ski-out luxury lodges and hotels. More than 40 in-resort and slope-side restaurants, elegant village boutiques, cherished daily traditions and activities such as world-class downhill skiing and snowboarding spanning 1,832 acres with 3,340 vertical feet of descent, snow shoeing, Nordic skiing, and ice skating in the Beaver Creek village. Visit BeaverCreek.com for additional information and vacation planning.  

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Last Chance to Purchase Vail Resorts’ Epic Pass is Nov 19 for Access to 45 Iconic Mountain Resorts Worldwide

Skiing Park City Utah, largest ski area in the US. Vail Resorts’ Epic Pass provides unlimited access to 15 resorts, coast-to-coast and in 3 countries © 2017 Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

BROOMFIELD, CO– The deadline to purchase Vail Resorts’ 2017-2018 Epic Pass is Sunday, Nov. 19. The Epic Pass provides one of the best values in skiing and snowboarding, offering unlimited, unrestricted access to 15 resorts in three countries, including Whistler Blackcomb in Canada, the largest resort in North America, and Vail Resorts’ first East Coast mountain resort, Stowe in Vermont, plus limited access to 30 European ski resorts.

In addition to unlimited, unrestricted access at Whistler Blackcomb and Stowe, for $899, the 2017-2018 Epic Pass also includes unlimited, unrestricted access to Vail, Beaver Creek, Breckenridge, Keystone and Arapahoe Basin in Colorado (with the longest ski season in the country); Park City in Utah (largest ski resort in the US); Heavenly, Northstar and Kirkwood at Lake Tahoe; Perisher in Australia (for summer 2018); Afton Alps in Minnesota; Mt. Brighton in Michigan; Wilmot Mountain in Wisconsin.

Season pass holders save more than 40 percent compared to lift ticket window prices, and can pay for itself after just five days skiing.

2017-2018 Ski and Snowboard Season Pass Options

• Epic Pass™: Ski unlimited and unrestricted from opening day to closing day for only $899. The Epic Pass pays for itself in just over four days of skiing or snowboarding. Enjoy full access to Vail, Beaver Creek, Breckenridge, Keystone and Arapahoe Basin in Colorado; Park City in Utah; Heavenly, Northstar and Kirkwood at Lake Tahoe; Stowe Mountain Resort in Vermont; Afton Alps in Minnesota; Mt. Brighton in Michigan; Wilmot Mountain in Wisconsin; Whistler Blackcomb in Canada; and Perisher in Australia for the 2018 season. The Epic Pass grants limited access to Les 3 Vallées, Paradiski and Tignes-Val D’Isere in France; 4 Vallées in Switzerland; Arlberg in Austria and Skirama Dolomiti in Italy. A child pass (ages five to 12) is $469.
• Epic Local Pass™: For $679, receive unlimited and unrestricted skiing or riding at Breckenridge, Keystone, Arapahoe Basin, Wilmot, Afton Alps and Mt. Brighton with limited restrictions at Park City, Heavenly, Northstar and Kirkwood, plus a total of 10 days at Vail, Beaver Creek, Stowe, and Whistler Blackcomb with holiday restrictions. The Epic Local Pass pays for itself in just over three days. A child pass (ages five to 12) is $359.
• Epic 4-Day™: A convenient option for a short ski trip. The pass pays for itself in just over two days and includes a total of four unrestricted days valid at Whistler Blackcomb, Vail, Beaver Creek, Breckenridge, Keystone, Park City, Heavenly, Northstar, Kirkwood, Stowe and Arapahoe Basin, plus four additional free days at Afton Alps, Mt. Brighton or Wilmot Mountain. The Epic 4-Day Pass is $459 for adults and $249 for children (ages five to 12).

The deadline to purchase a 2017-2018 season pass is Sunday, Nov. 19. For additional information on season pass options and to purchase, visit EpicPass.com.

Vail Resorts, Inc., through its subsidiaries, is a leading global mountain resort operator. Vail Resorts’ subsidiaries operate 11 world-class mountain resorts and three urban ski areas, including Vail, Beaver Creek, Breckenridge and Keystone in Colorado; Park City in Utah; Heavenly, Northstar and Kirkwood in the Lake Tahoe area of California and Nevada; Whistler Blackcomb in British Columbia, Canada; Perisher in Australia; Stowe in Vermont; Wilmot Mountain in Wisconsin; Afton Alps in Minnesota and Mt. Brighton in Michigan. Vail Resorts owns and/or manages a collection of casually elegant hotels under the RockResorts brand, as well as the Grand Teton Lodge Company in Jackson Hole, Wyo. Vail Resorts Development Company is the real estate planning and development subsidiary of Vail Resorts, Inc. Vail Resorts is a publicly held company traded on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: MTN). The Vail Resorts company website is www.vailresorts.com and consumer website is www.snow.com.

See also:

Vail Resorts Unveils Major Improvements at Network of Ski Destinations

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Park City’s Grand Summit Hotel to Undergo $15 Million Renovation and Join RockResorts

A view of Park City’s Canyons Village in spring. Vail Resorts, which owns Park City resort plans a $15 million renovation of the Grand Summit Hotel at Canyons Village and to flag it as a RockResorts property © 2017 Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

Grand Summit Hotel at Canyons Village in Vail Resorts’ Park City mountain resort in Utah, will undergo an extensive $15 million renovation this spring and subsequent flagging as a RockResorts property. The renovations will bring the hotel up to par with both its unrivaled location at the base of the largest ski resort in the United States and the modern luxury its guests expect in a travel experience. The property will temporarily close from April 17, 2017 – in conjunction with the close of Park City Mountain’s ski and snowboard season – through mid-summer.

“We couldn’t be more excited to bring the interior of the Grand Summit Hotel up to the same caliber as the world-class resort that’s just steps away from the property,” said Jim Dullanty, president of the Grand Summit Homeowner’s Association. “This transformation will undoubtedly elevate the experience for all of Grand Summit Hotel’s guests as well as the unit owners themselves.”

The renovation will include a complete overhaul of all 212 suites, including new interior finishes, furnishings, soft goods, appliances, artwork and technology. The property’s communal spaces will also be incorporated into the renovation, including the lobby and front desk, full remodel of the on-site spa, café and general store, and refresh of the conference and meeting spaces.

The interior design work will be conducted by Boulder, Colo.-based TRH Interior Design, which has also designed and transformed other Vail Resorts properties such as Crystal Peak Lodge in Breckenridge, Colo., as well as other luxury mountain properties such as the Westin Snowmass Resort and the Lumiere Hotel in Telluride.

Following the extensive renovation, the Grand Summit Hotel will be flagged as a RockResort.

RockResorts, a division of Vail Resorts, owns and operates a collection of premium properties, lavish RockResorts Spas and distinctive dining options in iconic mountain locations.

“We are thrilled to add Grand Summit to the RockResorts collection,” said Ron Neville, Vail Resorts’ vice president of hospitality. “The RockResorts brand represents the hallmark of casually elegant properties with exceptional service in our mountain resort locations. We’re looking forward to continuing to deliver extraordinary service and experiences to our guests at the Grand Summit.”

The Grand Summit Hotel sits majestically in the heart of Canyons Village at Park City. Its 212 lock-off suites provide guests with more than 290 lodging options, including hotel rooms, studios, one-, two- and three-bedroom suites and expansive luxury penthouses. Many rooms have balconies, fireplaces, double showers and full kitchens with service for eight guests. The Grand Summit’s heated outdoor swimming pool is an ideal place to relax after an adventurous day of exploring the outdoors year round. More information about Grand Summit Hotel can be found here.

RockResorts, a wholly owned subsidiary of Vail Resorts, owns and operates luxury resorts that offer casually elegant accommodations, lavish RockResorts Spas, renowned golf courses, award-winning dining and a variety of exciting outdoor adventures. The RockResorts collection includes The Arrabelle at Vail Square and The Lodge at Vail in Vail, Colo.; The Osprey at Beaver Creek and The Pines Lodge in Beaver Creek, Colo.; and One Ski Hill Place in Breckenridge, Colo.

Vail Resorts, Inc subsidiaries operate 10 world-class mountain resorts and three urban ski areas, including Vail, Beaver Creek, Breckenridge and Keystone in Colorado; Park City in Utah; Heavenly, Northstar and Kirkwood in the Lake Tahoe area of California and Nevada; Perisher in Australia; Whistler Blackcomb in Canada; Afton Alps in Minnesota, Mt. Brighton in Michigan and Wilmot Mountain in Wisconsin. The Company owns and/or manages a collection of casually elegant hotels under the RockResorts brand, as well as the Grand Teton Lodge Company in Jackson Hole, Wyo. Vail Resorts Development Company is the real estate planning and development subsidiary of Vail Resorts, Inc. Vail Resorts is a publicly held company traded on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: MTN). The Vail Resorts company website is www.vailresorts.com and consumer website is www.snow.com.
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Vail Resorts Plans to Add Stowe Vermont to 2017-18 Epic Pass Giving Northeastern Skiers New Reason to Buy

 

 

Park City, Utah, which now encompasses The Canyons making it the largest ski resort in the United States, is one of 10 world-class Western resorts that are part of the Vail Resorts collection, all included on the Epic Pass. Now, the pending acquisition of Stowe, Vermont, gives Northeastern skiers added reason to purchase the pass © 2017 Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

Vail Resorts just announced that the Epic Pass plans to offer unlimited, unrestricted access to Stowe Mountain Resort for the 2017-2018 winter season, subject to the closing of the acquisition. Purchasing the 2017-2018 Epic Pass now through Sunday, April 9 ensures that skiers and snowboarders will lock in the lowest price, combined with the most benefits, such as six discounted lift tickets (“Buddy Tickets”) for family and friends.  Stowe will be the newest resort among 45 of the world’s most iconic mountain destinations to be offered with the Epic Pass (subject to the closing of the acquisition) – which includes 10 world-class Western destination resorts, among them Vail, Breckenridge, Park City, and Whistler Blackcomb.

The addition of Stowe, for the first time gives Northeastern skiers an even better incentive to purchase the Epic pass, which pays for itself after just five days of skiing, especially if they take advantage of the early bird discounted rates.

Available for $639, the Epic Local Pass offers unprecedented value to guests who are willing to plan around a few restrictions. Skiers and snowboarders would receive a total of 10 days at Stowe (subject to the acquisition closing), Vail, Beaver Creek, and Whistler Blackcomb with holiday restrictions; unlimited, unrestricted skiing or riding at Breckenridge, Keystone and Arapahoe Basin; and access with limited restrictions at Park City, Heavenly, Northstar and Kirkwood.

Available at $859 for adults, the 2017-2018 Epic Pass offers access to 45 of the world’s best mountain resorts – including Stowe Mountain Resort in Vermont, subject to the acquisition closing; Vail, Beaver Creek, Breckenridge, Keystone and Arapahoe Basin in Colorado; Whistler Blackcomb in Canada; Park City in Utah; Heavenly, Northstar and Kirkwood at Lake Tahoe; Perisher in Australia; Afton Alps in Minnesota; Mt. Brighton in Michigan and Wilmot Mountain in Wisconsin. Epic Pass holders will again enjoy limited access to 30 European ski resorts including Verbier and Les 4 Vallées in Switzerland, Les 3 Vallées in France; Arlberg in Austria; and Skirama Dolomiti Adamello Brenta in Italy. Each resort delivers an iconic experience, unique alpine traditions and impeccable service. Purchasing the 2017-2018 Epic Pass this spring ensures skiers and snowboarders the lowest price, combined with the most benefits, such as six discounted lift tickets (“Buddy Tickets”) for family and friends.

For guests interested in skiing Stowe exclusively, Vail Resorts anticipates offering limited Stowe-specific season pass options.  Details about pricing, access and benefits will be announced after the close of the acquisition.

“We look forward to welcoming Stowe to our family of world-class resorts, to continue providing our guests with exceptional experiences, and to build upon the unprecedented value of the Epic Pass,” said Kirsten Lynch, chief marketing officer of Vail Resorts. “With the addition of Stowe, the Epic Pass would provide guests access to the East Coast’s most iconic skiing, as well as unlimited, unrestricted access to the best of the West – including Vail, Breckenridge, Park City and Whistler Blackcomb, among many additional world-renowned destination resorts throughout North America.”

You can purchase season passes and start planning their next winter vacations at EpicPass.com.

2017-2018 Ski and Snowboard Season Pass Options

Epic Pass™: Ski unlimited and unrestricted from opening day to closing day for only $859. The Epic Pass pays for itself in just over four days of skiing or snowboarding. Enjoy unlimited, unrestricted access to Stowe (subject to the closing of the acquisition); Vail, Beaver Creek, Breckenridge, Keystone and Arapahoe Basin in Colorado; Whistler Blackcomb in Canada Park City in Utah; Heavenly, Northstar and Kirkwood at Lake Tahoe; Perisher in Australia; Afton Alps in Minnesota; Mt. Brighton in Michigan, and Wilmot Mountain in Wisconsin for the 2017-2018 season. The Epic Pass grants limited access to Arlberg in Austria; Les 3 Vallées, Paradiski and Tignes-Val D’Isere in France; Skirama Dolomiti in Italy and 4 Vallées in Switzerland. No restricted dates. A child pass (ages five to 12) is $449.

Epic Local Pass™: For $639, receive 10 days at Stowe (subject to the closing of the acquisition), Vail, Beaver Creek and Whistler Blackcomb with holiday restrictions; unlimited and unrestricted skiing and snowboarding at Breckenridge, Keystone and Arapahoe Basin; and skiing and snowboarding at Park City, Heavenly, Northstar and Kirkwood with limited restrictions. The Epic Local Pass pays for itself in just over three days. A child pass (ages five to 12) is $339.

Epic 7-Day™: Perfect for skiers in search of a week of skiing. The pass pays for itself in just over three days and includes a total of seven unrestricted days valid at Stowe (subject to the closing of the acquisition), Vail, Beaver Creek, Breckenridge, Keystone, Whistler Blackcomb, Park City, Heavenly, Northstar, Kirkwood and Arapahoe Basin, plus seven free days at Afton Alps, Mt. Brighton or Wilmot Mountain. The Epic 7-Day Pass is $639 for adults and $339 for children (ages five to 12).

Epic 4-Day™: A convenient option for a short ski trip. The pass pays for itself in just over two days and includes a total of four unrestricted days valid at Stowe (subject to the closing of the acquisition), Vail, Beaver Creek, Breckenridge, Keystone, Whistler Blackcomb, Park City, Heavenly, Northstar, Kirkwood and Arapahoe Basin, plus four free days at Afton Alps, Mt. Brighton or Wilmot Mountain. The Epic 4-Day Pass is $419 for adults and $229 for children (ages five to 12).

Those who purchase the Epic Pass or Epic Local Pass prior to April 9 will receive six Buddy Tickets that are automatically loaded onto your Epic Pass or Epic Local Pass – the best discounted rate for lift tickets that pass holders can give to friends or family to use.

Season Pass Insurance: Vail Resorts encourages guests to purchase pass insurance. All of the Company’s season pass products are non-refundable and non-transferable; however, pass insurance covers pass holders in the event of unexpected circumstances including sickness, injury and job loss. Find out more at EpicPass.com.

For those who want to ski Stowe exclusively, Vail Resorts anticipates offering limited Stowe-specific season pass options.  Details about pricing, access and benefits will be announced after the official close of acquisition.

Vail Resorts, Inc subsidiaries operate 10 world-class mountain resorts and three urban ski areas, including Vail, Beaver Creek, Breckenridge and Keystone in Colorado; Park City in Utah; Heavenly, Northstar and Kirkwood in the Lake Tahoe area of California and Nevada; Perisher in Australia; Whistler Blackcomb in Canada; Afton Alps in Minnesota, Mt. Brighton in Michigan and Wilmot Mountain in Wisconsin. The Company owns and/or manages a collection of casually elegant hotels under the RockResorts brand, as well as the Grand Teton Lodge Company in Jackson Hole, Wyo. Vail Resorts Development Company is the real estate planning and development subsidiary of Vail Resorts, Inc.

Visit www.snow.com for more information.
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North America’s Highest Chairlift Opens at Breckenridge; Book by Jan. 1 for 25% Savings on Lodging

Breckenridge Resort © 2016 Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

BRECKENRIDGE, Colo. – Thanks to the more than six feet of snow that has fallen on Breckenridge Ski Resort throughout December, Breckenridge is excited to announce the opening of Imperial Express SuperChair, the highest chairlift in North America. Imperial Express SuperChair gives skiers and snowboarders access to some of Breck’s famous above tree line terrain in Imperial Bowl.

The Imperial Express SuperChair tops out at 12,840 feet after a quick 2.7 minute ride to the top of Imperial Bowl. The chairlift offers easy access to three high-alpine bowls and hike-to access to the renowned Lake Chutes, Snow White, Whale’s Tail and Peak 7 Bowl areas, once those areas open.

Breckenridge Ski Resort expects all of its five peaks to be open by Friday, Dec. 23 just in time for holiday skiers and snowboarders. More than 70 inches of snow has fallen in December, total month-to-date snowfall to 183 percent of average – favorably above average. Breckenridge is also at more than 100 percent of average snowfall season-to-date with more than eight feet of snow so far this season.

Watch Breckenridge’s live snow stake cam to see the snow pile up throughout the season or visit Breckenridge.com for the latest terrain updates, snow reports and more.

Breckenridge Ski Resort requires all skiers and riders to observe all posted signs and warnings. Closed trails may contain hazards due to limited natural snow coverage and snowmaking operations. Please keep off closed trails and out of closed areas for safety reasons.

Book by Sunday, Jan. 1 and Save up to 25 Percent on Lodging
Ski season is here and it’s time to lock in a Breck vacation with the beautiful white snow and sunny days Colorado is best known for and save up to 25 percent on lodging. Choose from an in-town condo, a slopeside retreat or anything in between. Book now at www.BreckResorts.com.

Purchase Lift Tickets In Advance to Save the Most
Skiers and snowboarders looking for the best prices on lift tickets can use their smartphone or computer to purchase tickets online in advance at www.snow.com/lifttickets. By purchasing lift tickets seven or more days in advance online, guests will receive the biggest savings – up to 25 percent – and the lowest price, guaranteed. Advance purchase tickets can be sent directly to a guest’s mailbox, allowing them to bypass the ticket window. Or guests can easily pick up their tickets at the resorts’ Epic Day Express windows. Once a guest has a hard card ticket, they can even load more days onto the card by purchasing additional days online. Guests can also save by booking ski school lessons online in advance at www.snow.com/skischool.

Stay Connected
Visit Breckenridge.com for terrain updates, snow reports, lodging deals, event details and the lowest priced lift tickets guaranteed. Stay connected all year long at Facebook.com/Breckenridge and follow @Breckenridgemtn on Instagram and Twitter.

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Vail Resorts’ Colorado Resorts Start Season With More than a Foot of Snow, More on the Way

Keystone Resort is already able to offer top-to-bottom skiing and snowboarding, thanks to early snows © 2016 Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

VAIL, Colo. – Dec. 7, 2016 –  Vail Resorts’ four Colorado resorts – Vail Mountain, Beaver Creek Resort, Breckenridge Ski Resort and Keystone Resort – already have received a good base of snow, and are preparing for 10 days of additional snowstorms. Vail Mountain and Beaver Creek Resort received 7 inches of new snow in the last 24 hours and 13 inches in the last 48 hours, bringing the seven-day snowfall total for the two resorts to 18 and 19 inches, respectively. Keystone and Breckenridge both received 11 inches of new snow in the last 48 hours. The current extended forecast is calling for consistent snowfall in Colorado until Sunday, Dec. 18.

“The flow of moisture from the Pacific will continue for most of next week and next weekend, through about Sunday, December 18,” said OpenSnow Meteorologist Joel Gratz. “It might not snow every second of every day between now and the 18th, but it might. It’s going to be a great storm cycle for base building and opening more terrain.””

In Eagle County, Vail Mountain opened its legendary Back Bowls last weekend and debuted the new Sun Up Express (#9), which marks the ninth new chairlift in the last 10 years. Vail is currently offering 1,285 skiable acres accessed via 11 chairlifts.

Beaver Creek Resort will begin operating Rose Bowl Express Lift (#4) on Thursday, accessing additional intermediate and advanced terrain in that area and bringing the total skiable acres to 513. On Saturday, Beaver Creek will open four additional chairlifts, including Strawberry Park Express Lift (#12), Riverfront Express Gondola (#7), Upper Beaver Creek Mountain Express Lift (#18), and Lower Beaver Creek Mountain Express Lift (#15). Downloading will be required on Lower Beaver Creek Mountain Express Lift (#15) to access The Landing, shuttle system, and parking lots. The additional terrain opening associated with these lifts will provide skiing access between Beaver Creek Village and Bachelor Gulch and will provide guests with more than 600 skiable acres of terrain.

In Summit County, Keystone Resort and Breckenridge Ski Resort woke up to 5 and 6 inches of new snow, respectively. Both resorts anticipate opening additional terrain during the next week and are currently offering top-to-bottom skiing and snowboarding.

Watch as the snowfall continues throughout Colorado by searching and using the hashtag, #giftofsnow. Resorts, skiers and snowboarders will continuously post images directly from the mountains to offer a minute-by-minute look at the Gift of Snow.

All guests are reminded that they must observe all posted signs and closures, especially during the early-season. Closed trails may contain hazards due to early snow coverage. Accessing closed terrain is a violation of the Colorado Ski Safety Act and will result in the loss of skiing privileges and could involve prosecution and a fine.

Dew Tour – Dec. 8-11, 2016

At Breckenridge, the much-anticipated kick-off event to winter, Dew Tour, returns to the resort for its ninth year this Thursday through Sunday, Dec. 8-11, 2016. Experience the new Dew Tour experience on the mountain and in town with concerts, the Powder Awards, TransWorld SNOWboarding Riders’ Poll Awards, slopestyle and new Adaptive competition on Peak 8, night streetstyle event in downtown Breck and more. See the full schedule on www.DewTour.com.

Snow Daze – Dec. 9-11, 2016
Vail is continuing its celebration of the start of winter with snow, après, and free concerts at Vail Snow Daze from Dec. 9-11. After a day spent exploring the mountain, visit the sponsor expo village and demo the latest gear, après at parties throughout the village, and wrap up the night with free live concerts by Michael Franti Trio, Turntable Review, Lettuce and Marvel Years. For a complete event lineup, visit www.vail.com/snowdaze.

Keystone Kidtopia Mountaintop Spectacular – Dec. 16-18, 2016

Keystone presents the inaugural Kidtopia Mountaintop Spectacular, a weekend of festive on-mountain fun for the entire family. This free event will showcase a variety of activities and Kidtopia programs that make the resort a top destination for families, including nightly firework displays, a torchlight ski parade led by Keystone’s Ski & Ride School, and a mountaintop celebration where guests can enjoy free snow tubing, snowcat photo opportunities, live music, hot cocoa and fireside stories with Santa. Kidtopia, Keystone’s season-long free family programming, will animate the mountaintop with bigfoot adventure walks and a ski patrol-dog meet and greet, plus a special lighting ceremony of the world’s largest Snow Fort to create an unforgettable weekend.

Ski and Snowboard Lessons

Vail resorts offer world-class ski and snowboard lessons for every beginner, intermediate and advanced skill level. Whether it’s your first time on snow or you are a seasoned skier looking to improve your skills, time with a professional will take your abilities to the next level. Additional information about Ski and Snowboard lessons at Vail Resorts can be found here.

Skip the Line and Buy Online

Hit the slopes at Vail Resorts with advance purchase lift tickets. Buy early for the best rates for your ski vacation. Vail Resorts guarantees the lowest prices when you purchase your lift tickets online at least 7 days in advance of your visit. For additional information on lift tickets and to purchase tickets, visit here.

Vail Resorts, Inc., through its subsidiaries, is the leading global mountain resort operator. Vail Resorts’ subsidiaries operate ten world-class mountain resorts and three urban ski areas, including Vail, Beaver Creek, Breckenridge and Keystone in Colorado; Park City in Utah; Heavenly, Northstar and Kirkwood in the Lake Tahoe area of California and Nevada; Whistler Blackcomb in British Columbia, Canada; Perisher in Australia; Wilmot Mountain in Wisconsin; Afton Alps in Minnesota and Mt. Brighton in Michigan. Vail Resorts owns and/or manages a collection of casually elegant hotels under the RockResorts brand, as well as the Grand Teton Lodge Company in Jackson Hole, Wyo. Vail Resorts Development Company is the real estate planning and development subsidiary of Vail Resorts, Inc.

See www.snow.com for more information.

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Keystone Mountain Resort Expands Family-Friendly Programming

The famous snow fort that is part of Kidtopia at Keystone Mountain Resort, Colorado © 2016 Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

Keystone Resort, one of the easiest major resorts to reach from Denver International Airport, one of the few major resorts that offers night skiing, as well as combined access to Arapahoe Basin with its lift ticket, is famous for its family-oriented Kidtopia programs.

Keystone Resort offers a wide variety of comfortable and family-friendly lodging options, from affordable hotel rooms to welcoming, family-sized condominiums. Plus, an unmatched Kids Ski Free program, free daily events, and unique offerings and special events perfectly complement the more than 3,000 acres of skiing and snowboarding terrain.

Here are some of the many things to look forward to this winter at Keystone, one of the Vail Resorts (and included on Vail Resorts’ Epic Pass, details at EpicPass.com):

Keystone’s Kids Ski Free Program Turns 5
Keystone has long been the place where kids rule, and this year the resort’s unmatched Kids Ski Free program turns 5 (which just so happens to be the same age that kids can officially become a part of this awesome program). With more than 100,000free kids’ lift tickets provided to families since the inception of the program in 2012, there is a whole lot to celebrate as Kids Ski Free enters its fifth year. This year guests can look forward to free Kidtopia events and parties, including a special weekly birthday bash with Ripperoo, plus free skiing of course! Every day, all season long kids 12 and younger ski for free at Keystone with no blackout dates when parents book just two or more nights in one of Keystone’s numerous accommodation options, which span from affordable hotel rooms to family-sized condominiums. When it comes to family, no one does it better than Keystone!

Keystone’s Mountain House is Base Camp for Families
Having served as the original base area when Keystone’s founders, Max and Edna Dercum, first brought their family to the resort, this winter the Mountain House base area is ready to welcome a new generation of ski families to Keystone. Centrally located, the Mountain House base area offers an oasis for ski families and the perfect base camp for any ski day, offering smaller crowds, free and convenient family parking and an updated family restaurant concept. Plus, with free preferred parking just for families at Mountain House, it’s easy to get from the lots to the lifts, providing direct access to the resort’s family ski and ride zone, The Schoolyard. Families can also take advantage of conveniently located lift tickets, rentals and Camp Keystone – the resort’s kid-centric Ski and Ride School experience, where interactive displays, game-aided learning and a 24-foot slide that propels kids into their adventure on the snow will have little rippers begging to go back to “school.” When you’re ready to hang up the skis and boards for the day, relax fireside or continue the fun with Kidtopia activities that take place twice-a-week at Mountain House during Sunday’s Ice Cream Birthday party with Ripperoo and Wednesday’s Giant Snowball Launch.

NEW Kidtopia Mountaintop Spectacular – Dec. 16-18, 2016
Keystone’s Kidtopia continues to redefine the family resort experience with free activities and events on and off the snow every day of the week starting Friday, Nov. 25. This winter Keystone presents the inaugural Kidtopia Mountaintop Spectacular, a weekend of festive on-mountain fun for the entire family. This free event will showcase a variety of activities and Kidtopia programs that make the resort a top destination for families, including nightly firework displays, a torchlight ski parade led by Keystone’s Ski & Ride School, and a mountaintop celebration where guests can enjoy free snow tubing, snowcat photo opportunities, live music, hot cocoa and fireside stories with Santa. Kidtopia will animate the mountaintop with Bigfoot adventure walks and a ski patrol-dog meet and greet, plus a special lighting ceremony of the world’s largest Snow Fort to create an unforgettable weekend.

The Kidtopia Experience March 5-11, 2017
With the addition of the Kidtopia Mountaintop Spectacular, this winter season is bookended by two awesome Kidtopia events as the Kidtopia Experience returns for an extended week-long celebration. Start your family spring break early and be a part of all the kid-centric festivities and live outdoor music at the Kidtopia Experience, March 5-11.

Behind-the-Scenes Chocolate Tours with Keystone’s Very Own “Willy Wonka”
Keystone Resort’s executive pastry chef Ned Archibald welcomes guests for a unique behind-the-scenes glimpse into his world of decadent desserts and chocolate making at the resort. Take a break from the slopes one morning to experience these can’t-miss tours designed for kids (and parents), and meet the man himself, tour his chef’s workshop and make delicious treats of your own to take home. No golden ticket required; these Chocolate Tours are free to attend. Offered on select dates throughout the season. Schedule TBD.

On-Mountain Family Adventures, Minus the Skis and Boards

Adventure Point, just steps away from the Kidtopia Snow Fort, features up to eight lanes of high-speed tubing action for kids and kids at heart. © 2016 Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

With Keystone’s enclosed River Run Gondola, mountaintop adventures like snowcat tours, snow tubing and fondue dinners are accessible to the whole family regardless of skiing ability. The Mountaintop Snowcat Tour is a must-do family activity that provides an exclusive glimpse of Keystone’s high-alpine bowls, where breathtaking views of the Continental Divide and surrounding mountain ranges await. Adventure Point, just steps away from the Kidtopia Snow Fort, features up to eight lanes of high-speed tubing action for kids and kids at heart. To cap off an evening of mountaintop adventure, guests can enjoy two gondola rides en route to Keystone’s North Peak, where Der Fondue Chessel offers an exciting and interactive dining experience for the whole family, complete with accordion-wielding musicians in lederhosen, all at 11,640-feet elevation.

Experience the Mountain Together with a Family Private Lesson
Whether your family is new to skiing and snowboarding or you’re seasoned snow veterans, those looking to develop new skills, improve technique or explore the mountain like never before can enjoy the Keystone Ski & Ride School’s Family Private Lesson together. Taking advantage of shared on-snow time, bonding is just an added bonus to these specially designed lessons. Private lessons can be reserved for up to six family members (or friends) of similar ability, and with instructors who specialize in working with the whole family you can rest assured that everyone’s ski and snowboard needs will be met on the snow.A family private lesson at Keystone is the perfect way to create memories together and take your shared passion to the next level, so this new product is a can’t-miss for snow-loving families.

Keystone Resort’s more than 3,000 acres of skiable terrain, average of 300 days of sun a year, convenient lodging and variety of on- and off-snow activities all combine to provide the ideal location for winter vacations. As one of the closest ski resorts to Denver, Keystone is the ultimate family resort destination. Convenient touches like free parking, including front-row family parking, and complimentary red wagons to help parents tote gear and kiddos to and from the slopes help make a winter family visit to Keystone easy and hassle-free. For more information visit keystoneresort.com.

 

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