New Whiteface Beginner Lift to Be Called “Owl Express”
Last week, updates to Whiteface’s website revealed that its new Bear Den beginner area lift will be called the Owl Express. The new quad will have a loading carpet that allows for faster run speeds, but its “Express” branding is misleading.
Master Plan Deep Dive: Snow King
Last week, Snow King received approval from the USFS to proceed with its master plan, clearing a major hurdle to implement the ambitious expansion. In the wake of this news, we decided to take a look at the plan’s most notable proposals and potential impacts for seasons to come.
Homewood Announces 2020-21 Operational Updates, Confirms Ellis Chair Will Run Next Season
California’s Homewood resort has announced a number of upgrades and operational changes for the 2020-21 season. Most notably, the Ellis chair will return with major refurbishments and a faster ride time.
Alta Releases 2020-21 Season Details, Will Limit Capacity Through First-Come, First-Serve Parking
Earlier today, Utah’s Alta ski area announced their operating plans for the 2020-21 season. To manage crowds in the wake of COVID-19, the resort says it will limit parking capacity on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Winter Park Express Ski Train Suspended for the 2020-21 Season
In a joint statement today, Amtrak and Winter Park announced the suspension of all Winter Park Express train service for the 2020-21 winter season. Plans call for the Denver-to-resort service to return in January 2022.
Big Sky Announces 2020-21 Operating Plans, May Add Bootpack to Lone Peak
In a letter to skiers and riders today, Big Sky released their initial 2020-21 winter operating plan. Season passholders will not need to make reservations, although Ikon and Mountain Collective passholders will.
Alterra Releases 2020-21 Lift Ticket and Ikon Pass Reservation Policies (Many Resorts Don’t Require One)
Alterra released their initial ticket and pass policies for the upcoming winter today. Many Ikon resorts, including the overwhelming majority of unlimited destinations, will not require reservations. However, multi-day pass products for Alterra-owned mountains will be severely limited.
Arapahoe Basin Releases 2020-21 Season Details, Will Not Require Reservations
On the heels of recent announcements from multiple other resorts, Arapahoe Basin announced their operating plans for the 2020-21 season today. Passholders will not need to make reservations, but the resort will cap parking capacity if need be.
Killington Announces Operating Plans for the 2020-21 Season
In the wake of continued COVID restrictions, Killington announced its plans for the upcoming winter today. Visitors will need to reserve parking in advance, and indoor facilities will only offer limited services.
Jackson Hole Adding Bootpack to Rendezvous Peak, Details Additional Operational Plans
Jackson Hole provided additional information on 2020-21 season operations today. Guests will be able to hike to Rendezvous Peak on account of tram restrictions, and passholders will not need to make reservations.