Resorts to offer myriad of activities to kick off the season
Do your boots fit? Are your bindings adjusted? Are you stretched and ready to fly down the mountain on your skis or snowboard? If not, you better get pumped up because the snow is falling and the mountain resorts are getting ready.
For maps of the new expansions at Breckenridge and Copper visit:
November is the month that skiers and snowboarders wait for all year. It’s the month when the mountain resorts open their snow-covered doors for the exhilarating sport. Each mountain resort has its own way of celebrating the new winter season.
The first resort to open is Sierra-at-Tahoe on Nov. 8. Sierra-at-Tahoe hosts an annual “Pray for Snow” party where fans can win prizes during the beer chugging and clothing swap contests. This year, the festivities will take place at the Hard Rock Cafe in South Lake Tahoe.
“I don’t know if I have a favorite (ski resort), but Tahoe is pretty sweet,” Pete Lundeen, a sophomore studio arts major, said.
Keystone is the next big hit that was scheduled to open Nov. 10; however, a fall snowstorm delivered nearly two feet of snow overnight last week, which prompted Keystone to announce an earlier opening. Keystone will now be ready for skiers and snowboarders Nov. 3. It is kicking off the season with a “WinterFall Formal Opening Day Celebration.” During this celebration, guests can hit the slopes in prom attire and win prizes for the best dressed.
Breckenridge begins its season on Nov. 10, by flipping free pancakes from 8 a.m. until they’re gone. Live Music, giveaways and prizes from local radio stations will also take place at the foot of the mountain. All proceeds from opening day will benefit local charities.
Winter Park opens its doors on Nov. 15. With a new chairlift and seven new runs, Winter Park will have more to offer this season. Winter Park is launching into its 68th season, which makes it the longest continually running resort in Colorado.
Of course, not to forget Boulder’s neighbor, Eldora Mountain Resort, which officially begins its season Nov. 17.
“I have a pass to Eldora because it’s cheapest and close by,” Danielle Morris, a sophomore Spanish major, said.
Also opening on Nov. 17 is Vail Ski Resort.
Next in the line-up is Copper Mountain, opening Nov. 23. There will be the Leftover Yam & Jive Turkey Rail Jam to watch, or to burn off extra Thanksgiving dinner calories, take part in the Gobbler Chase Snowshoe Race. Copper will also celebrate the holiday season by hosting a holiday tree lighting with Santa.
“I’m a big fan of Mary Jane, Winter Park and Copper,” Brandon Rollin, a senior fine arts major, said. “They’re great big mountains. I can’t wait.”
Aspen and Snowmass kick off their seasons with a “Winternational and Bud Light Hi-Fi Concert Series,” featuring free snacks and beverages at many of the events and specials at certain restaurants. Opening day is Nov. 25.
