DILLON – Arapahoe Basin announced Monday that it will end its partnership with Vail Resorts for the 2019-20 season.
The ski area attributed a rise in popularity and more crowds as the driving reasons behind the decision.
“While the mountain still has plenty of room for skiers and riders, the ski area is feeling a pinch on parking and facility space. Due to these constraints, Arapahoe Basin believes its staff can take better care of its guests by separating from Vail Resorts,” A-Basin said in a statement provided to News5.
The move will not affect season pass holders for the 2018-19 season, meaning Epic Pass holders will still be able to ski and ride at A-Basin this season.
In response to the announcement, Vail Resorts announced a new ski pass option designed to replace Vail’s current Keystone-A-Basin pass. The new pass, named the Keystone Plus Pass would provide unlimited access to Keystone, five days at Crested Butte and would allow unlimited late season skiing at Breckenridge starting on April 1. Blackout dates would apply.
The Keystone Plus Pass is priced at $369 for adults and $259 for kids. The pass will go on sale this spring, when Vail begins selling its Epic Passes.
A-Basin has not yet announced any new partnership and the ski area said it is still exploring its options.
“We want to thank Arapahoe Basin for their partnership for over 20 years,” Kirsten Lynch, chief marketing officer for Vail Resorts. “We are disappointed but given the success they have had and their recent investments into the resort, we respect that this is the right time for them to move in a different direction.”
