Drive up early for a special tribute to A-Basin co-founders Marnie Jump, who died in June at the age of 92, and Max Dercum, who died last month just shy of his 99th birthday.
Here's this morning's stoke message from A-Basin spokeswoman Leigh Hierholzer:
After a great week of snowmaking and several fresh inches of snow, Arapahoe Basin ski area officials announce that opening day for the 2011-2012 ski season will be Thursday, October 13, 2011. The ski area has only been closed 100 days since last season ended on July 4, 2011.Black Mountain Express will open to the public at 9:00 a.m. on Thursday. Skiers and riders can look forward to an 18-inch base on the intermediate High Noon run along with several features in the High Divide Terrain Park. There will be no beginner skiing at this time.
A tribute to Arapahoe Basin founders Marnie Jump and Max Dercum who passed away this year will take place before the lifts open to the public.
Opening day adult lift tickets will be available for $59, youth tickets age 15 - 18 will be $49 and child tickets age 6-14 will be $30. The ski and snowboard rental shop, tune shop, food and beverage service, the 6th Alley bar and retail shop will be open to the public. Snowsports lessons will be available on a limited basis.
Local radio station, KYSL will be doing a live morning show and giving away lift tickets on-air. KSMT will also be on site in the base area with a live remote, playing music and handing out give-aways.
A-Basin's Bonus Passes are available while supplies last for $389. The Bonus pass holder receives unlimited skiing or riding at A-Basin for the 2011-2012 ski season and five non-transferable ski days at Keystone or Breckenridge. One of those days can be used at Vail or Beaver Creek (some restrictions apply). A-Basin only passes are also available at great prices. To purchase your pass or check snow conditions go to www.arapahoebasin.com.
