Where to Ski And Snowboard - A-Basin ends link with Vail Resorts

A-Basin ends link with Vail Resorts

19th February 2019, by Abi Butcher

Arapahoe Basin has invested USD40m in recent years, increasing its skiable terrain last year by one third

The ski area Arapahoe Basin in Colorado has split from its partnership Vail Resorts, with immediate effect. Arapahoe, otherwise known locally as A-Basin or “The Legend”, made the announcement yesterday after experiencing what it described as “exceptional growth both in popularity and skier visitation” after investing US$40 million over the past 15 years.

This season, Arapahoe Basin increased its skiable terrain by one third, adding 468 acres to its overall ski area — some of which is hike-to terrain suitable for experts only. The total acreage now is 1,428, and a new four-man chair was added last season.

“While the mountain has plenty of room for skiers and riders, the ski area is feeling a pinch on parking and facility space,” said A-Basin’s COO, Alan Henceroth, in a statement released yesterday. “Due to these constraints, we believe we can take better care of our guests by separating from Vail Resorts.”

Arapahoe Basin is the closest resort to Denver, from which it receives a large intake of weekend visitors, and it enjoys one of the longest seasons in Colorado — often being the first to open for the winter. Henceroth also says in his statement that the split with Vail Resorts is “designed to preserve that special culture and vibe people expect when they choose to spend a day at The Basin…our goal is to minimise waiting and crowding and maximise experiences and fun”.

Vail Resorts season passes (including the Epic Pass) will be valid for the remainder of this ski season, and while Arapahoe Basin says it has no new partnerships to announce, the resort says it “will be discussing opportunities with several resorts and resort groups” in the coming months.