Arapahoe Basin Ski Area announced Monday morning that it will not continue its pass partnership program with Vail Resorts next season.
In a statement announcing the news on its website, A-Basin pointed to “a pinch on parking and facility space” as a reason for the breakup.
“Due to these constraints,” A-Basin said in the statement, “Arapahoe Basin believes its staff can take better care of its guests by separating from Vail Resorts.”
“With diverse ski runs including some of the most intense terrain in North America and a culinary operation that is regularly listed among the top ten in the country, the ski area has developed a very special community that feels like home,” A-Basin chief operating officer said in the statement. “In order to continue to build on this spirit and the experience we have created, Arapahoe Basin and Vail Resorts will not be renewing their pass partnership for the 2019/2020 season.”
In the statement announcing the news of the end of the partnership, A-Basin mentioned the growth both in popularity and skier visitation the ski area has seen after investing $40 million over the past 15 years. On his A-Basin blog, the resort’s chief operating officer Alan Henceroth provided more explanation behind A-Basin’s perspective on the end of the partnership, and also said though there is that pinch on parking and facility space, he said the mountain “still has plenty of room for skiers and riders.”
“Looking forward,” Henceroth said in that blog post, “we strive to provide ready and easy access for our guests. Our goal is to minimize waiting and crowding and maximize experiences and fun.
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The COO added that currently the ski area has no new partnerships to announce, though, in the coming months, he said A-Basin will be discussing opportunities with several resorts and resort groups.
“Skiers and riders that call A-Basin home can feel good knowing the resort will still offer tremendous value and exceptional mountain experiences,” Henceroth said on his blog. “These actions are designed to preserve that special culture and vibe people expect when they choose to spend a day at The Basin. The future for Arapahoe Basin is very bright.”
Henceroth also clarified that the 2018-19 Vail Resorts season passes will remain valid at A-Basin for the remainder of this season.