Ski Season Kicks Off in Colorado

Colorado’s 2014/15 ski season is now underway!  Friday, skiers and snowboarders celebrated at Arapahoe Basin Ski Area atop an 18-inch base of packed powder when the Black Mountain Express high-speed quad chairlift began delivering eager snow riders to the top of the intermediate High Noon run for their first turns of the year.

Several resorts in Colorado have taken advantage of cold nighttime temperatures to commence their winter operations over the past several weeks. Copper Mountain began making snow on the evening of Monday, September 29, and in addition to Arapahoe Basin, Loveland Ski Area, Winter Park Resort, and Telluride Ski Resort have made snow since then as well. Ideal snowmaking conditions and recent natural snowfall at high elevation allowed Arapahoe Basin to win the friendly Race to Open for the third consecutive year.

Following a record year for skier visits in Colorado, and a summer of major upgrades and improvements at Colorado Ski Country USA (CSCUSA) member resorts, Arapahoe Basin’s opening has skiers and riders looking forward to the season ahead. “Since the first high country snowstorms several weeks ago, snowmakers and groomers have been working diligently to deliver a memorable Opening Day, and we’re thrilled to see our guests enjoy their first day of the season”, said CSCUSA President and CEO Melanie Mills. 

Colorado’s ski areas are aiming to build on last year’s successful season with capital improvements, program upgrades, and new technology. “As always, Colorado resorts are focused on delivering a great guest experience”, continued Mills. “From innovative instructional programs and award-winning dining facilities to groundbreaking smartphone apps and multi-mountain pass products, our resorts’ ongoing dedication to quality, safety, and value is what keeps visitors coming back to Colorado season after season.”

  

The race to host Opening Day is one of the highlights of the ski season, a title often held by Colorado’s Arapahoe Basin or Loveland Ski Area. Both resorts are perched atop the Continental Divide, giving them higher elevations, earlier frosts, and colder temperatures. This also allows them to stay open long into the spring, giving Colorado one of the longest ski seasons in the country.

Check out a current list of scheduled opening dates for CSCUSA member resorts* after the jump.

Colorado Ski Resorts Raise the Bar on Guest Experience for 2014/2015 Season

In the wake of a memorable 2013-14 Colorado ski season that set a record for statewide skier visits, Colorado Ski Country USA (CSCUSA) member resorts are aiming to maintain that positive momentum by investing in guest-facing amenities and operations improvements that will further enhance every facet of the skier and snowboarder experience, on and off the slopes.

From major investments in hotels, on mountain dining and learning centers for young skiers and snowboarders, to new chairlifts, groomers, and snowmaking systems; CSCUSA resorts continue to hold guest satisfaction in the highest regard and make concrete improvements that will maintain and enhance the premier skiing and snowboarding experience at Colorado resorts.

After the jump is a summary of the many upgrades at CSCUSA resorts guests will enjoy during the 2014-15 ski season.

2013/14 Ski Season Noted as Best Year on Record for Colorado

Colorado Ski Country USA (CSCUSA) announced recently at the association’s 51st Annual Meeting that statewide skier visits totaled an estimated 12.6 million for the 2013/14 ski season, thereby making it the best season on record in the state. This estimation shows Colorado being up more than 10 percent compared to last season and more than 8 percent compared to the five-year-average.

“Seeing our visitation punch through the 12.5 million level and best our prior mark demonstrates the vibrancy of Colorado’s ski industry and the passion of our resident and visiting skiers and snowboarders,” stated Melanie Mills, president & CEO of Colorado Ski Country USA. “With two consecutive years of growth, momentum is certainly in our favor as our resorts continue to set the industry standard in terms of snow quality, skier safety and guest service.”

Colorado resorts outperformed the ski industry nationally, which saw the Pacific regions heavily impacted by drought. Colorado resorts also bested the growth rate of 6.4 percent in the Rocky Mountain region of the U.S. where snow conditions were more comparably favorable.

“Owning 22 percent of the national skier market speaks volumes to the reputation of our state as the top ski destination. Visitors choose to come here because of what our resorts have to offer; superior skiing, easy access, resorts of every variety, and resort staff who provide unparalleled guest service,” said Mills.

There's Still Plenty of Spring Skiing and Snowboarding to Be Done!

It’s spring, which means the temperatures are getting a little warmer, the sun is staying out a little longer, and in Colorado the skiing and snowboarding is getting even better. Spring skiing in Colorado means heading to the mountains, making smooth carves on fresh groomed runs, pushing around late season powder, and enjoying the many fun resort events and activities. Below is a roundup of springtime celebrations happening at CSCUSA resorts through April and beyond.

Even though spring has arrived there is still a lot of ski season left. March and April are historically Colorado’s snowiest months, which is part of the reason why Colorado has one of the longest ski seasons in the country, often stretching well into May. Keep up to date on snowfall totals with the CSCUSA snow report updated by the resorts themselves: http://www.coloradoski.com/snow-report. Keep up to date on resort closing dates, subject to change, by checking here: http://www.coloradoski.com/resort-season-dates.

Breckenridge Announces Plans to Extend Ski Season

Good news for local gay skiers and snowboarders wanting to get in a few more hours on the slopes before heading to OutBoard 2014. Breckenridge Ski Resort officials announced last week that they will extend the resort’s ski season by one additional week, from Monday, April 21 through Sunday, April 27, due to a deep snow pack and terrific conditions that can be expected at Breck’s elevation in the spring. In January, Breck was the snowiest resort in the U.S. and has received more than 28 feet of snow so far this season.

During the past two years Breck has extended their regular season with extra weekends tacked on, and with this year’s significant snowfall, resort officials made the decision to include the extra weekdays as well.

“It’s been such an amazing season for snowfall in Breck that even with a month and a half to go in the regular season, we are confident that we will be able to offer terrific conditions in the extended week,” said Pat Campbell, executive vice president and COO at Breckenridge Ski Resort. “This additional week will be a great way for us to thank our loyal passholders, our locals, and our destination visitors, who now will have the option to book their spring vacations the week after Easter as well.”

Breck will open three of the resort’s signature peaks during the extended week, Peaks 6, 7 and 8, with Rip’s Ride, 5 Chair, Colorado SuperChair, T-bar, Imperial SuperChair, Independence SuperChair, Zendo Chair, and Kensho SuperChair all slated for operation. In past years’ extended seasons, only terrain on Peak 8 was open. This year’s package will give guests another chance to be able ski or ride Breck’s newly-added terrain, Peak 6, during the final days of its inaugural season.

Fresh Powder Marks the Beginning of March in Colorado Ski Country

The remarkable 2013-14 ski season in Colorado continued this weekend as Colorado Ski Country USA (CSCUSA) resorts enjoyed another new round of snowfall. This most recent storm was widespread, blanketing the high country in fresh snow just in time for skiers and snowboarders to enjoy great conditions over the first weekend of March.

Since Thursday, CSCUSA resorts have enjoyed an average of 17 inches of new snow. Eighteen CSCUSA resorts enjoyed double-digit snow totals over the weekend, and five resorts enjoyed more than two feet of powder.

Mid-season Snowstorm Covers Colorado Ski Country in Deep, Dry Powder

The second half of Colorado’s skiing and snowboarding season started in style this weekend as all 21 Colorado Ski Country USA (CSCUSA) resorts reported significant new snowfall. With an additional 3-6 inches of snow expected Monday, snowriders in Colorado are enjoying the best conditions in North America with the two historically snowiest months still to come.

Since Thursday, CSCUSA resorts have enjoyed an average of 22.5 inches of new snow, with more on the way. By the time this most recent storm dissipates later today, it will have dropped double-digit accumulation totals on 19 CSCUSA resorts, 2+ feet at 10 resorts, and 3+ feet at five resorts, leaving skiers and snowboarders with a pristine playground of powder.

This weekend’s storm traveled from the Pacific Ocean to the central mountains of Colorado and stalled at the continental divide, leaving snow totals that have to be seen to be believed. Monarch Mountain has received a foot or more of snow for four consecutive days, leaving 55 inches of new powder since last Thursday, and Arapahoe Basin has recorded 41 inches of new snow in the same time period. Crested Butte has welcomed 37 inches of new snow, and Loveland Ski Area and Eldora each saw 35 inches of fresh powder.

Colorado Ski Season is Underway!

Colorado’s 2013/14 ski season is underway as Arapahoe Basin yesterday opened its chair lift to crowds of animated skiers and snowboarders. At 8:30a.m., with an 18-inch base and lifts running, Arapahoe Basin became the first resort in North America to open for the 2013/14 ski season. Arapahoe Basin’s opening, along with recently announced pass deals and new improvements at Colorado resorts, has skiers and riders eager for the season ahead.

Several resorts in Colorado have taken advantage of cold nighttime temperatures and ideal humidity conditions over the past several weeks. Arapahoe Basin and Loveland Ski Area began making snow on the evening of Friday, September 27, and have made snow or received natural snow most days since then. New snowmaking equipment upgrades, ideal snowmaking conditions, and recent natural snowfall have added to Arapahoe Basin’s base accumulation resulting in the resort’s current packed powder conditions. Today skiers and riders accessed the Black Mountain Express lift and enjoyed skiing on intermediate run High Noon.

“Seeing skiers and snowboarders taking their first turns of the season is one of the highlights of the year,” said Colorado Ski Country USA President and CEO, Melanie Mills. “Since the first high country snowstorms several weeks ago, we’ve seen the enthusiasm in skiers and snowboarders building towards this day. Thanks to helpful weather patterns and the hard work of Snowmakers and groomers, all of Colorado’s resorts will open with top notch products our guests will enjoy.”

The recent autumn snow storms and early winter season conditions brought a robust crowd to Arapahoe Basin today, signifying skiers and riders are more than ready to enjoy Colorado’s signature winter sports. “Resorts continue to focus on the guest experience, with everything from safety to service,” continued Mills. “Whether the emphasis is on families, learning or value, visitors can expect the same qualities from resorts this year that keep them coming back to Colorado season after season.”

Amid all of the Opening Day celebrations, Colorado’s Governor, John Hickenlooper, congratulated Arapahoe Basin on being first to open saying, “It’s still fall but the 2013/14 ski and snowboard season is open for business in Colorado.” He continued, “Tourism and recreation are some of our most visible and important industries in Colorado, not to mention key economic drivers, and with today’s grand opening we are looking forward to a fun-filled and snowy year on the slopes.”

The race to host Opening Day is one of the highlights of the ski season, a title often held by Colorado’s Arapahoe Basin or Loveland. Both resorts are perched atop the Continental Divide giving them higher elevations, earlier frosts and colder temperatures. This also allows them to stay open long into the spring giving Colorado one of the longest ski seasons in the country.

After the jump is a current list of scheduled opening dates for CSCUSA member resorts*.

Early-Bird Ski Vacation Deals & Flights Announced by Crested Butte, Colorado

As summer begins to gracefully turn into the golden days of autumn, there are big benefits to planning ahead and thinking of blissful powder days, a fun-filled family vacation on the slopes and a romantic snowy getaway to Crested Butte, Colo. Three outstanding deals with early-purchase dates offer tremendous values to experience “Colorado’s Last Great Ski Town, and an expanded flight schedule for this winter features new Chicago air service along with direct flights from Dallas-Fort Worth, Houston and Denver.

The ski season launches on Nov. 23 for Crested Butte Nordic Center and Nov. 27 for Crested Butte Mountain Resort in this pristine mountain valley known for its friendly, free-spirited vibe and outstanding winter recreation that also includes snowshoeing, tubing, dog sledding, horseback riding, ice skating and hot air ballooning.

Finding winter vacation deals at properties throughout the Gunnison-Crested Butte Valley is easy all season long by going to www.GunnisonCrestedButte.com/packages. Check out a sampling of early-bird offers already posted after the jump.

Colorado Skiers Reap Rewards of Weekend Storm

Snow continues to blanket resorts in Colorado Ski Country giving skiers and snowboarders plenty of powder to enjoy. The first of two storm waves swept across the Colorado Rocky Mountain region over the weekend and left mounds of snow in its wake. The second snow storm is expected to further blanket the mountains leaving skiers and snowboarders another Colorado powder day.

The southwest part of the state received the bulk of snow from the weekend storm. As of this morning Purgatory at Durango Mountain Resort had nearly 2 ½ feet of new snow as they amassed 29 inches over the weekend. Nearby Wolf Creek benefitted with 22 inches and Silverton Mountain and Telluride Ski Resort were both rewarded with 17 inches.

On the Western Slope, Colorado Gem resort Powderhorn reported 16 inches from the weekend storm, while in the northwestern part of the state, Steamboat totaled 12 new inches. Monarch Mountain piled up 11 inches of snow, Arapahoe Basin saw 10 inches and Snowmass gathered 9 inches. Eight and a half inches fell at Winter Park, 7 inches at Eldora Mountain Resort, and Howelsen Hill, Loveland Ski Area, Ski Cooper and Sunlight all saw 6 inches.

Aspen collected 5 inches from the storm while Aspen Highlands and Buttermilk both saw 4 inches of fresh. Copper Mountain, Crested Butte both collected 3 inches and Ski Granby Ranch saw 1 inch.

Forecasters are calling for more snow to move into the mountains this week with measurable amounts expected Wednesday night through Friday morning. To see up to date terrain opening and snowfall information, as well as events and deals check out www.ColoradoSki.com.

Snow Accumulation Coats Colorado Resorts

The recent storm that blanketed the state left Colorado Ski Country resorts with copious amounts of snow, and presented guests with much anticipated powder days. Skiers and snowboarders across the state were delighted with the effects of the storm, and took full advantage of Mother Nature’s generosity. Aspen and Winter Park each benefitted from more than a foot of snow, while a number of other resorts, such as Eldora, saw double digit totals deposited. The widespread precipitation allowed for more terrain to be opened throughout the state.

With the holiday season approaching, Colorado Ski Country now has 13 resorts open, and anticipates all resorts to be open by Christmas. Below is a resort-by-resort list of opening dates.

 

Get ready for OutBoard 2012!

Grab your snowboard (or skis) and get ready for OutBoard 2012, as the event returns to Steamboat Springs, CO, March 27-April 1, 2012.

Recently named the "Most Laid Back" and "Most Affordable Gay & Lesbian Ski Week" by TripOutGayTravel.  OutBoard focuses on fun, well organized events, both on and off the hill as well as creating a great environment to meet like-minded, fun-loving snowboarders and skiers.

 “The difference between OutBoard and other ski weeks is that our events center around making sure everyone is fresh to ride the best terrain the next day. We take snowboarding seriously and it’s always our focus” said Ryan Miller, Director of Events and Operations.  “We have a blast socializing and hanging out, but save something for the freshies the next day.”

This year’s event schedule is still being finalized, however OutBoard 2012 attendees can look forward 5 days of incredible snowboarding the original “Champagne Powder” on one of North America’s largest resorts boasting nearly 3000 acres of terrain over 6 peaks. as well as daily “Kickstart” breakfasts, group lunches at the Thunderhead Lodge, Après events at the Steamboat Grand’s giant hot tubs, private dinners in town and on the mountain, and of course the OutBoard closing party with a guest DJ.  OutBoard 2012’s host lodging property will once again be the Steamboat Grand just steps from the gondola and featuring slope side equipment check, in house dining, and some of the largest hot tubs you’ll ever see.

For all the event descriptions, details, access to exclusive Outboard 2012 discounted rates, and to register, visit www.outboard.org. 

Colorado ski season off to a slow start

Colorado Ski Country USA’s (CSCUSA) 22 member resorts reported a decrease in skier visitation for the beginning of the 2011/12 ski season. Skier visits at CSCUSA resorts were off by 10.65 percent during the first period of the ski season, defined as opening day of the season through December 31, 2011, compared to the same period last year.

CSCUSA President and CEO Melanie Mills sites variable snow conditions as a contributing factor. “We had a promising start in October with several robust storms giving resorts a solid base and allowing some to open earlier than planned,” explained Mills. “But we faced inconsistencies in weather patterns for most of November and December, leading to slower visitation especially by in-state skiers at some ski areas.”

There is a lot of skiable terrain available. Combined, CSCUSA’s 22 members have about 80 percent of their lifts open, servicing approximately 17,609 acres of terrain with several resorts 100 percent open or very close. “Skiers and snowboarders are taking advantage of the beautiful weather, being outside, enjoying the terrain that is open and having fun with friends and family,” said Mills.

Colorado is at an advantage for managing snow. “Resorts have been able to maintain the big snows we received early on, thanks to Colorado’s higher elevations and colder temperatures. This also allows resorts to make snow where needed,” continued Mills. “Investments in state-of-the-art snow making and grooming equipment, along with the best snow maintenance experts in the industry give our resorts an advantage in providing a quality product which skiers have come to expect in Colorado.”

Resorts were busy over the holidays. During Christmas and New Year’s, travelers visited Colorado resorts and diversified their ski vacations with other attractions resorts offer. “Colorado is known for our world class resorts, and part of the reason is the wide range of off-snow and non-skiing activities they offer guests,” continued Mills.

The ski season in Colorado is long, with the state’s snowiest months still ahead. “When comparing this year to last year, remember that last season was exceptional, with several of our resorts breaking the 500 inch mark for snowfall, and we were skiing until the 4^th of July,” explained Mills. “In our weather-dependent business, we feast in the big snow years and suffer a bit when it’s dry. But we’ve got lots of the season still ahead including a bonus leap year ski day on February 29.”

Colorado Ski Season kicks off this week

Colorado kicked off ski season this week with the opening of its first ski areas and a winter storm that blanketed much of the state with its legendary powder. To celebrate the start of winter, many of our towns and resorts are offering enticing early season lodging and activity packages with prices starting as low as $50 per person, per night.

• Southwest Airlines Skis Fly FreeTM: Book your flight with Southwest Airlines and your skis or snowboard fly free to Colorado.  www.southwest.com
  
• Crested Butte 50/50 Package: In celebration of 50 years of skiing and riding, Crested Butte Mountain Resort is offering 50 percent off lift tickets and $50 per person, per night for lodging. Valid November 23 through December 16, 2010. 800-600-2803; www.skicb.com 
  
  
• Glenwood Early Bird Ski, Swim & Stay Package: Ski at Sunlight Mountain Resort, enjoy unlimited swimming at the World’s Largest Hot Springs Pool and stay in the conveniently located Hot Springs Lodge. Prices start at $100 per person. Valid December 4 through 16, 2010. 800-537-7946; www.hotspringspool.com
  
• Winter Park Ski Free: Book one night lodging (two night minimum stay) and receive a free adult lift ticket. Stay more nights, get more free tickets. Valid November 17 through December 25, 2010. 800-979-9874; www.playwinterpark.com
  
• Denver Twice the Fun for the Price of One: The brand new Four Seasons in Denver is offering a package where your  companion stays free, which includes a two-night stay, and the second night is complimentary. Dine together in the hotel’s restaurants or make a Spa date, and your companion's charges are on the Four Seasons. www.fourseasons.com/denver 
  
• Keystone Condo Giveaway: With every purchase of a lift ticket, night of lodging, Ski & Ride School lesson and $20 or more at an on-mountain restaurant, you’ll get an exclusive Keystone Scratch Ticket for a chance to win unlimited use of a 2-bedroom condo and other instant prizes like hotel stays, lift tickets, skis, Ski & Ride School lessons and more. Valid November 5 through December 19, 2010. www.keystonecondogiveaway.com
  
• Boulder Ski Escape: The Boulder Ski Escape Package, in conjunction with Eldora Mountain Resort, includes discounted Boulder hotel rooms and lift tickets. Prices start at $67.50 per person, per night. www.boulderskiescape.com
  
• Telluride $89 Stay and Ski: Enjoy three days of skiing the legendary terrain of Telluride Ski Resort, and stay for five nights. Prices start at $89 per person, per night. 800.355.8743; www.visittelluride.com/places-to-stay/packages 
  
  
• Breckenridge Ski Free, Stay Free: Four people can stay four nights in a two-bedroom condo and ski three days during Breckenridge’s early celebration of the holidays. Prices start at $70 per person, per night. Valid November 29 through December 19, 2010. 877-593-5260; www.gobreck.com
  
• YMCA of the Rockies Stay Two Nights, Get the Third Night Free: Stay two nights and get the third night free at Estes Park Center or Snow Mountain Ranch for the month of November. Applies to cabins, lodge rooms and yurts. Valid November 1 through 30, 2010. 800-777-9622
  
  
• Aspen Snowmass First Tracks MVP: The First Tracks MVP (Mini-Vacation Package) offers buy 2, get 3 on lift tickets, equipment rentals and group lessons (levels 4 and up, ages 7 and up). Valid November 25 through December 16, 2010. 888-649-5982; www.stayaspensnowmass.com
  
• Devil’s Thumb Ranch Fall Back Package: Play a little hooky with a package that includes a lodge room, breakfast for two and $50 in Ranch Bucks to use at any Ranch venue – spa, activities center for cross country skiing or snowshoeing and/or lesson or equipment rental, dining and more.  Prices start at $125 per person, per night. Valid Sunday through Thursday through December 20, 2010. 800-933-4339; www.devilsthumbranch.com
  
• Monarch Stay, Ski & Soak: Package includes lodging at the Salida Super 8, a full-day lift ticket to Monarch Ski Area, breakfast and a one day pass to Mt. Princeton Hot Springs. Prices start at $54 per person, per night. Valid November 24 through December 16, 2010. 719-539-6689

Next up, Telluride Gay Ski Week

Telluride Gay Ski Week (TGSW) is an annual week-long gay ski event produced by StraightOut Media & Marketing with support from the Telluride Mountain Village Owners Association and benefitting the Telluride AIDS Benefit locally and the Mathew Shepard Foundation nationally.  Ranked the #1 gay ski week in the USA by gay.com, TGSW bills itself an alternative to other gay ski weeks that provides a unique vacation experience in a spirited and unpretentious ski town.  Nestled in a box canyon surrounded by the majestic 13,000 ft peaks of the San Juan Mountains, Telluride Gay Ski Week brings the charm of Telluride together with the European-style town of Mountain Village. 

Judy Shepard will appear at several events in Telluride open to the public on Feb. 23 and 24, including a public address, a book signing for "The Meaning of Matthew," and a special benefit dinner banquet to benefit the Foundation's ongoing program work to Erase Hate.

UPDATE: OUTAboundz

The OUTAboundz gay and lesbian winter sports event that was scheduled to come to Steamboat Springs this March 3-7 has been cancelled, according to event organizer John Farnum. 

Farnum says OUTAboundz will instead be focusing on a more family-focused event to be held later in the year.

Early bird deals on tickets to Elevation: 8th Annual Mammoth Ski Week

With more gay ski events than ever before, 2010 is turning out to be a gay winter sports (and party) fan's dream.

Snag some discount tix for Mammoth Gay Ski Week at CircuitTicket.com before February 1.

Things to do in Denver when you're gay: Cross-country skiing at Devil's Thumb Ranch

Spend a day with the Gay and Lesbian Sierrans cross-country skiing at Devil’s Thumb Ranch just north of Winter Park and Fraser, Colorado.

This is fairly level terrain, great for beginning and first-time skiers. There is an $18 day-use fee and ski equipment can be rented at their Nordic Center. Check out the website at www.devilsthumbranch.com for more information and contact Tom at tarrison@usa.net or 303-832-3430 to RSVP.

Win a free ski weekend at OUTAboundz

Click the pic to embiggen and read details and then click here to register for your chance to win a fabulous ski vacation at OUTAboundz. - via Out Front Colorado

Enter to win lift tickets ... and so much more

Click the link to enter yourself to win some lift tickets to Vail and other cool stuff. Must be 21.