Gondola One Opens for Scenic Rides

by: Paul Swansen - June 5th, 2013   Filed under: Colorado, Ski Colorado, Vail Add Comment

Vail’s Gondola One Opens for Scenic Rides this Weekend, June 7-9

Vail Gondola One

Vail Gondola One (Photo credit: proforged)

Vail Mountain, the largest ski resort in the United States, will open Gondola One in Vail Village for scenic rides this weekend, June 7-9, during the GoPro Mountain Games. Guests are reminded that due to the events taking place, bike hauls will not be permitted for the weekend.

In addition, Sarge’s outdoor barbeque at Mid-Vail will be open for the first two weekends of Gondola One’s summer operation schedule.

Starting Thursday, June 20 the majority of summer operations, including signature summer activities at Adventure Ridge and on-mountain dining, will be based out of Eagle’s Nest atop the Eagle Bahn Gondola.

Scenic rides will be offered on both gondolas for the summer. Bike hauls will also be offered on both gondolas as soon as conditions permit and trails are opened. Both Gondola One and the Eagle Bahn Gondola will operate according to the following summer schedules:

Gondola One*

  • Weekends-Only: June 7-9 and 14-16
    • 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Friday through Sunday
  • Daily: Thursday, June 20 – Monday, Sept. 2
    • 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

*Bikes will be allowed up the gondola until 4 p.m. (except during the weekend of June 7-9).

Eagle Bahn Gondola and Adventure Ridge**

  • Daily: Thursday, June 20 – Monday, Sept. 2
    • 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Sunday through Wednesday
    • 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., Thursday through Saturday
  • Weekends-Only: Sept. 6-8, 13-15, 20-22 and 27-29.
    • 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Friday through Sunday

**Bikes will be allowed up the gondola until 6 p.m.

For more information about Vail Mountain visit www.vail.com, or stop by the Mountain Information Center, open daily from 9 a.m.–4 p.m., or call (970) SKI-VAIL (754-8245).

About Vail Mountain
Coveted as the largest ski resort in the United States with more than 5,200 acres of skiable terrain, seven legendary Back Bowls spanning seven miles, and the most groomed terrain on the planet, Vail has been an extraordinary winter vacation destination for passionate skiers and snowboarders for more than 50 years. It is home to world-class athletes during the U.S. Ski Team early-season training sessions in Golden Peak, the Burton US Open Snowboarding Championships and the future 2015 World Alpine Ski Championships. Under blue skies more than 300 days each year, friends and families reconnect and celebrate here from year to year and generation to generation. The vacation experience is exceptional, from the Vail Ski & Snowboard School to events, activities and festivals, shops and spas, abundant culinary experiences and luxurious accommodations. Coupled with the vision inherent in the spirit of Vail’s founders, and a modern day commitment to excellence in all aspects of guest service and operations, Vail is a mountain resort like nothing on earth. www.vail.com.

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Mountaintop Express Lift Replacement

by: Paul Swansen - June 4th, 2013   Filed under: Ski Colorado, Vail Add Comment
  • Mountaintop Express

    Mountaintop Express (Photo credit: sevenblock)

    New Mountaintop Express Lift (#4) will feature first loading conveyor system for a high-speed, six-passenger lift of its kind in North America

  • Gopher Hill Lift (#12) replacement also approved
  • Both lifts will open to the public for the 2013-2014 winter ski and snowboard season

Vail Mountain, the largest ski resort in the United States, announced that it has received approval to construct a new high-speed, six-passenger Doppelmayr chairlift, replacing the four-passenger Mountaintop Express Lift (#4) from Mid-Vail to Patrol Headquarters. Construction will begin immediately and the lift will be operational for the 2013-2014 ski and snowboard season.

The Mountaintop Express Lift (#4) will feature loading gates with a right angle load and a loading conveyor system, which has been shown to reduce the number of lift stops and slows, thereby increasing the efficiency of the lift. The systems have been widely used throughout European resorts for years and this will mark the first loading conveyor on a high-speed, six-passenger lift of its kind in North America. The new lift will result in a 33 percent increase in capacity, or 3,600 people per hour, which is the same capacity as Vail’s new Gondola One. The old Mountaintop Express Lift (#4) was installed in 1985 and provides access to Patrol Headquarters and a number of surrounding areas including the legendary Back Bowls and Blue Sky Basin.

“The Mountaintop Express Lift is one of the busiest lifts on Vail Mountain,” said Chris Jarnot, senior vice president and chief operating officer of Vail Mountain. “Upgrading it to a six-passenger lift and adding capacity will make a noticeable improvement in wait times and skier/snowboarder circulation. The use of the loading conveyor, which is a common feature at top European resorts, is an added luxury and reduces the frequency of misloads as well.”

The new lower lift terminal of the Mountaintop Express Lift (#4) will be located approximately 90 feet to the east of the previous terminal, resulting in a lift maze configuration that will decrease cross-traffic of skiers and snowboarders in the surrounding area. The upper terminal location will undergo minor adjustments to accommodate a more efficient circulation of skiers and snowboarders.

The resort has also received final approval to replace the Gopher Hill Lift (#12), a fixed-grip double chairlift, with a fixed-grip triple chairlift. The Gopher Hill Lift (#12) in Golden Peak – a fixed-grip double Riblet chairlift installed in 1974 – will be replaced by the old Rose Bowl lift (#4) from Beaver Creek, which was removed in the spring of 2011. The fixed-grip triple Doppelmayr lift will increase capacity by 50 percent over the existing lift, which predominantly provides access to the Golden Peak area for beginners as well as access to Vail Village. The lower terminal will be adjusted slightly in both location and elevation to allow beginner guests easier access to the lift and to facilitate better use of both the west and east lift mazes.

“The new triple lift in Golden Peak will allow for twice the capacity of our three to six year olds enrolled in lessons, as they are required to ride the lift with an adult,” said Chris Jarnot, senior vice president and chief operating officer of Vail Mountain. “While this upgrade may seem small to our more experienced guests, it’s a critical improvement for our newest and youngest visitors to get them on the hill and learning faster.”

The majority of the both old lifts will be recycled and some components will be kept as spare inventory for Vail or other Vail Resorts mountains.

For more information about Vail Mountain, visit Vail.comor contact the Mountain Information Center at (970) SKI-VAIL (754-8245).

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Vail’s Annual Mountain Cleanup Scheduled

by: Paul Swansen - May 30th, 2013   Filed under: Colorado, Ski Colorado, Vail Add Comment

Vail’s Annual Mountain Cleanup Scheduled for Tuesday, June 18

Ski Runs

Vail Mountain and Vail Resorts Echo invite community volunteers to join employees for the annual mountain cleanup, scheduled for Tuesday, June 18.

“Vail’s mountain cleanup is a great opportunity for employees and the community to give back and get our beautiful mountain ready for summer guests to enjoy,” said Adam Bybliw, environmental manager for Vail Mountain. “We look forward to seeing a great turnout of volunteers to lend a helping hand this year. With the cleanup based out of Vail Village via Gondola One we’re also looking forward to accessing different areas of the mountain than in years past.”

Volunteers are highly encouraged to pre-register with the Mountain Information Center and complete release waivers prior to cleanup day. On cleanup day, all volunteers should meet at the base of the Gondola One in Vail Village by 9 a.m. with their own work gloves, water, sun block, hat, snacks, sturdy hiking shoes and clothing for inclement weather. A limited supply of gloves for cleanup will be made available. Teams will be transported up the mountain at 9 a.m., provided with trash bags and directed to specific cleanup sites. In the case of severe weather, a decision will be made the morning of the clean up whether or not to continue or postpone the cleanup.

Beginning at 12 p.m., the Vail Mountain dining staff will host a complimentary barbecue at Sarge’s Grill at Mid-Vail for all volunteers, at which time a single-day complimentary lift ticket voucher for the 2013-2014 winter season will be distributed to volunteers. After lunch, teams will meet again to continue cleaning and hike down to the base area on assigned trails. Those who choose not to walk down the mountain may download the gondola.

To pre-register, provide your name and the number of people in your party to the Mountain Information Center in Lionshead, open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. and daily beginning Thursday, June 20. Or, call (970) 754-VAIL (8245). All volunteers will need to complete and sign a liability release form and bring it with them on the day of mountain cleanup in order to participate. Liability releases are available in the Mountain Information Center or online at www.vail.com/mountaincleanup.

Vail Resorts Echo, the Company’s social responsibility and environmental stewardship program encompasses three core efforts – charitable giving, volunteerism and environmental stewardship. For more information, visit www.vailresortsecho.com. For more information about Vail visit www.vail.com.

All volunteers will receive a single-day lift ticket voucher for 2013-2014 winter ski season

  • Guests are encouraged to bring their own gloves, water, sun block, hat, snacks and sturdy hiking shoes.

 

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Vail Valley Partnership Reveals Enhanced Online Business Resources

by: Paul Swansen - May 29th, 2013   Filed under: Colorado, Current Events, Customer Service, Ski Colorado, Vail Add Comment
North side of Vail Mountain, and Vail Valley.

North side of Vail Mountain, and Vail Valley. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Regional Chamber’s Economic Development Section Provides Current and Prospective Area Businesses with Professional Tools, Information & Statistics

 

Together, Vail Valley Partnership
(VVP) and the Economic Council of Eagle County have rolled out an enhanced
online Economic Development
section, dedicated to providing local business information,
statistics, relocation information and small business resources. As
the regional chamber and economic development organization, the Partnership
is the official resource and advocate for businesses in the Vail Valley
and provides both current and prospective businesses with the tools
and resources to succeed.

A joint project between VVP and the Economic Council
of Eagle County, the Economic Development section provides relevant
economic data and analysis, offering economically focused programming
and promoting relationship building between governments and the private
sector. It is the goal of VVP and the Economic Council to promote long-term
economic health for Eagle County by focusing on countywide retention
of workforce and recruitment of sustainable new business.

The new section includes research and statistics
in the area of demographics, housing reports, labor force, tourism research
and real estate, as well as professional & business development
information, access to capital, local sales tax and state information
for small businesses. The enhanced section also includes a detailed
list of Vail Valley job openings, both part-time and full-time. With
an incredible array of diverse communities and unique business offerings,
the Partnership strives to connect helpful and local information to
businesses that are interested in learning more about the Vail Valley.

“Business success is key to our continued economic
health and future economic growth. The Partnership will continue to
build a comprehensive online portal for our current business, as well
as prospective businesses to help navigate the various resources available
at a local, regional and state level,” said Chris Romer, CEO and President
of Vail Valley Partnership.

To learn more about the Economic Development section,
please visit http://www.vailvalleypartnership.com/members.asp?id=9. For questions on local research and statistics,
please contact Chris Romer, CEO and President at cromer@visitvailvalley.com or 970-477-4016.

About Vail Valley Partnership:

Vail Valley Partnership is a 501(c) (6) non-profit
organization that serves as the chamber and destination marketing organization
for Eagle County, Colorado and the Vail Valley. Vail Valley Partnership
(VVP) is a regional leader in sustaining and enhancing the Vail Valley
as a tourism destination. Through group and leisure sales efforts, the
VVP takes on a leadership role to bring groups, meetings, events and
visitors to the Vail Valley for both the economic benefit of the member
businesses we serve and the overall economic vitality of the community.
In 2012, the Partnership’s destination sales and marketing efforts resulted
in $69,000,000 of direct spending in the Eagle River Valley. For more
information on the Vail Valley Partnership, please visit http://www.vailvalleypartnership.com/.

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Canyons will be included in the Epic Season Pass

by: Paul Swansen - May 29th, 2013   Filed under: Current Events, Customer Service, Ski Colorado, Vail Add Comment
View from the Short Cut fixed triple chairlift...

View from the Short Cut fixed triple chairlift at The Canyons resort in Park City, Utah (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Canyons will be included in the Epic Season Pass for the 2013-2014 winter season.
Vail Resorts enters into a long-term lease with Talisker for first mountain resort in Utah.
Vail Resorts today announced that the Company has entered into a long-term lease with affiliate companies of Talisker Corporation for Canyons Resort in Park City, Utah. Under the lease, Vail Resorts has assumed all of the resort operations of Canyons while Talisker has retained its development rights for four million square feet of real estate at the resort.

“With 4,000 skiable acres, easy access to the town of Park City and $75 million in recent resort improvements, Canyons is a perfect complement to our collection of world-class mountain resorts,” said Rob Katz, chairman and chief executive officer of Vail Resorts. “I commend the Talisker and Canyons team for the outstanding work they have done to redevelop the resort, which is reflected in a top 10 ranking by SKI Magazine and #4 ranking by Outside Magazine. We look forward to building on that momentum and including Canyons in our industry-leading season pass products, which next season will offer guests access to Colorado, Tahoe and Utah on one season pass, a first in ski industry history. We will also leverage our guest database and domestic and international sales and marketing efforts to continue to drive Canyons’ growth. Talisker has an outstanding track record of high-end resort development and we look forward to working together to create something truly extraordinary with Talisker’s four million square feet of remaining approved residential and commercial density at Canyons.”

The transaction also incorporates the potential for the lease, without additional consideration, to include the land under the ski terrain of Park City Mountain Resort that is adjacent to Canyons and is currently owned by Talisker and is subject to pending litigation. “We look forward to the litigation being resolved and hope that Vail Resorts can play a constructive role in helping to arrive at a solution that offers the best outcome for guests of both resorts,” Katz added.

“We are thrilled to be able to bring in Vail Resorts to partner with us on our vision for Canyons,” said Jack Bistricer, chief executive officer of Talisker. “Vail Resorts is the clear leader in the mountain resort industry and I am confident that they can replicate at Canyons the success they have delivered at resorts such as Vail, Beaver Creek, Breckenridge and Northstar. I am incredibly proud of all that our team has accomplished at Canyons over the past five years and am confident that together with Vail Resorts, we can create one of the greatest mountain resorts in the world.”

The Company also announced that purchasers of the Epic Pass for the 2013-2014 winter season will receive unlimited and unrestricted access to Canyons, as well as to Vail, Beaver Creek, Breckenridge, Keystone, Northstar, Heavenly and Kirkwood. The 2013-2014 Epic Pass is on sale now at $689 for adults, compared to the season pass price of $849 at Canyons this past year.

The lease has an initial term of 50 years with six 50-year renewal options. The lease provides for $25 million in annual fixed payments, which increase each year by an inflation linked index of CPI less one percent, with a floor of two percent per annum. In addition, the lease includes participating contingent payments to Talisker of 42 percent of the amount by which EBITDA for the resort operations, as calculated under the lease, exceeds approximately $35 million, with such threshold amount increased by an inflation linked index and a 10-percent adjustment for any capital improvements or investments made under the lease by Vail Resorts. The Company will be finalizing the accounting for the lease in the coming months but expects to record an obligation on the balance sheet of approximately $305 million in long-term debt (including capital lease obligations).  The Company expects incremental annual Resort EBITDA from Canyons of approximately $15 million in fiscal year 2014 (excluding transition and integration costs) increasing to approximately $25 million in fiscal year 2017, not including any potential benefit the Company may receive from the Park City Mountain Resort land which is subject to ongoing litigation.

Conference Call
Vail Resorts will host a conference call at 2 p.m. Eastern Time on Wednesday, May 29, 2013, in which Vail Resorts executives will discuss the Canyons transaction.

The call will be broadcast over the Internet at www.vailresorts.com. To listen to the call, go to the website and select the Investor Relations section. Those wishing to participate via telephone should dial (877) 941-0844 to be connected. Participants outside of North America should dial (480) 629-9835.

In addition, a replay of the call will be available two hours following the conclusion of the conference call through June 12, 2013, at midnight. To access the replay, dial (800) 406-7325 (domestic) or (303) 590-3030 (international), pass code 4618918. The call also will be archived at www.vailresorts.com.

About Canyons Resort
With thrilling adventures across thousands of acres and nine mountains of majestic terrain, Canyons Resort is Utah’s largest and most dynamic ski and snowboard resort. Located in stunning Park City, Canyons is ranked as a “Top 10 North American Resort” in SKI Magazine’s annual reader survey. Canyons’ lively resort village bustles with nine hotels including Talisker’s Waldorf Astoria Park City, and two dozen dining restaurants like the award-winning farm-to-table venue, Farm at Canyons. The Orange Bubble Express, North America’s only enclosed and heated chairlift; Ski Beach, a lively après ski gathering area; Iron Mountain, featuring 300 acres of new terrain; and the fast-paced Zip Tour make Canyons a must-visit year-round resort. With Salt Lake City International Airport just 35 minutes away, Canyons is conveniently accessible from anywhere in the world. For more information, visit www.canyonsresort.com.

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EGE Air Alliance Secures New, Non-Stop Flight

by: Paul Swansen - May 25th, 2013   Filed under: Current Events, Customer Service, Ski Colorado, Vail Add Comment

EGE Air Alliance Secures New, Non-Stop Flight on United from Houston to
Vail’s Eagle County Regional Airport this Summer
Inaugural Summer Flight Scheduled for June 27

 

Mike Brown, chairman of the EGE Air Alliance, today announced that the organization secured new summer

English: A photograph of the terminal at Eagle...

English: A photograph of the terminal at Eagle County Airport in Colorado, United States. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

service on United Airlines from Houston (IAH) to Eagle County Regional Airport (EGE) five days a week beginning June 27, 2013. The non-stop flight will operate from Houston to EGE Thursday through Monday beginning Thursday, June 27, with southbound service from EGE to Houston Friday through Tuesday starting Friday, June 28. The service will operate until Monday, Aug. 26.

“Houston is a natural extension of our summer flight market,” said Brown. “There is a large second homeowner base in South Texas and we believe the times of the flight will provide easy connections for our guests from Mexico and Latin America. We are excited to partner with United on this opportunity, which we believe is a great addition to the existing, year-round service they provide from Denver to EGE.”

The northbound flight will depart Houston at approximately 5:50 p.m. with an arrival at EGE at 7:20 p.m. The flight to Houston will depart EGE at approximately 7:20 a.m. with an arrival at 10:40 a.m. The flight times make it ideal for connecting to other major cities such as New York, Newark, Tampa, Washington D.C, Austin, San Antonio, New Orleans and international destinations such as Mexico City and Guadalajara.

Travelers will be flying on a Boeing 737-700 with 118 seats – 106 in coach and 12 in first class.

The EGE Air Alliance was able to secure this flight due to community support from more than 50 businesses; an historic level of support. The Eagle Air Alliance is a 501c6 not-for-profit entity dedicated to creating a vibrant flight service program at the Eagle County Regional Airport. The Eagle Air Alliance is a public-private partnership with participants including local municipalities and private business stakeholders.

For reservations, please visit www.united.comor call (800) 864-8331. For more information on year-round service into EGE, please visit www.FlyVail.com.

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Vail Resorts Names Taylor Ogilvie General Manager

by: Paul Swansen - May 25th, 2013   Filed under: Colorado, Ski Colorado, Vail Add Comment
English: Mt. Brighton Ski Hill, Mt. Brighton, MI.

English: Mt. Brighton Ski Hill, Mt. Brighton, MI. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Vail Resorts today announced the appointment of Taylor Ogilvie, as general manager of Mt. Brighton, where he will oversee the ski area operations at Mt. Brighton. He will begin his new position on June 10.

Ogilvie is originally from the Chicago suburbs and grew up skiing Midwest ski areas.  After attending college at the University of Colorado at Boulder, Ogilvie started his career at Vail Resorts as a ski instructor and worked his way through the ranks at the Vail and Beaver Creek Ski & Ride Schools and most recently held the position of general manager where he oversaw all operations at the Vail Mountain Children and Teen Ski & Ride School in Lionshead.

“We are thrilled to have someone with Taylor’s ski resort management experience become general manager of Mt. Brighton,” said Eric Simon, Vice President and General Manager of Urban Ski Areas at Vail Resorts.  “Taylor has had tremendous success working across all mountain operations and will bring remarkable insight on the Vail Resorts guest experience to Mt. Brighton. Plus, growing up skiing in the Midwest, Taylor understands how special ski areas like Mt. Brighton are and will work to preserve its legacy and enhance the ski and snowboard experience.”

Ogilvie will also oversee Vail Resorts $10 million capital improvements at Mt. Brighton this summer which will significantly enhance the ski and ride experience for next season. This includes improvements in snowmaking to open the ski resort earlier, extend the season and provide a more consistent and high-quality snow surface; make lift upgrades including a new quad chairlift; create state-of-the-art terrain parks with extensive new features and rope tows; energize and modernize the base area facilities; and add Vail Resorts’ signature EpicMix and EpicMix Racing technology to personalize the guest experience.

Ogilvie will soon relocate to the Mt. Brighton, Michigan area with his wife and two daughters.

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Vail Resorts Closes on Sale of Land

by: Paul Swansen - May 24th, 2013   Filed under: Breckenridge, Ski Colorado, Vail Add Comment
English: View of Lake Chutes at the Breckenrid...

English: View of Lake Chutes at the Breckenridge Ski Resort from the top of Peak 8. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Vail Resorts Closes on Sale of Land

 

Vail Resorts, Inc. (NYSE: MTN) finalized the sale of approximately 2.1 acres of land at the base of Breckenridge Ski Resort’s Peak 8 to an affiliate of Breckenridge Grand Vacations Inc. The sale price was $11.1 million in cash.

Breckenridge Grand Vacations is the developer of several premier timeshare properties in Breckenridge, including the popular Grand Timber Lodge and Grand Lodge at Peak 7. The Peak 8 property will be developed as a 75-unit, ski-in/ski-out timeshare resort with a host of amenities including a public restaurant and full-service spa. The project will also improve skier circulation at the base of Peak 8 by widening certain key ski trails.

The timeshare development is the latest addition to the overall master plan and vision for developing vibrant base areas on Peaks 7 and 8 and creating a strong connection to Breckenridge’s historic Main Street. To date, The Breck Connect Gondola, One Ski Hill Place, Crystal Peak Lodge and The Grand Lodge at Peak 7 have been developed under the Peak 7 and 8 Master Plan.

Breckenridge Ski Resort also recently announced its plans to greatly enhance on-mountain summer activities, subject to applicable regulatory approvals, and is in the final stages of the Peak 6 expansion accessing 543 acres of new terrain which is scheduled to open next ski season.

“This is an exciting time for Breckenridge Ski Resort, with continued investment both on the mountain and at our base areas,” said Alex Iskenderian, senior vice president and chief operating officer for Vail Resorts Development Company. “Improving the bed base at Peaks 7 and 8, and having a gondola taking our guests to and from town, has transformed the Breckenridge experience.”

In addition to enhancing the look and experience at Peak 8, the timeshare project is expected to generate $2.5 to $3.0 million to the Town of Breckenridge through real estate transfer tax revenues, said BGV’s Rob Millisor. “I would like to thank Vail Resorts for the opportunity to bring such a visionary project to life, as well as the Town of Breckenridge for its partnership and thorough development review process,” Millisor said.

The Peak 8 timeshare development will be at the site of the Bergenhof Day Lodge, which will be torn down this spring. Vail Resorts has committed to partnering with the Summit County Recycling Center to recycle materials that are eligible for recycling and Breckenridge Grand Vacations plans to incorporate reclaimed materials into its new building. Some grading and utility work in the area will begin this summer and vertical construction of the timeshare project will begin in the spring of 2014.

“Breckenridge Grand Vacations has been a great partner at the Grand Lodge at Peak 7, and we look forward to continuing that partnership at Peak 8,” said Iskenderian.

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Keystone Resort Announces Headliner Events.

by: Paul Swansen - May 14th, 2013   Filed under: Colorado, Current Events, Customer Service, Ski Colorado, Vail Add Comment

Keystone Resort Announces Headliner Events for Summer 2013. The mountain fun at WelcomeKeystone Resort doesn’t end when the snow melts; a summer of adventure awaits in the stunning Rocky Mountains. Throughout the season, Keystone offers a variety of events and activities for every kind of family or group. For adrenaline junkies, challenging downhill and endurance-testing adventure races allow you to push the limits while enjoying the spectacular natural surroundings. For those looking to enjoy the mountain splendor at a slower pace, Keystone offers a lineup of signature Village festivals, featuring perfect pairings including Wine and Jazz and Bluegrass and Beer. With a plethora of activities and exciting events, everyone in your family or group can appreciate the mountain environment at their speed. Don’t forget to check out Keystone’s abundance of daily on-and-off mountain activities from white water rafting to golf, to hiking, to scenic gondola rides. Keystone’s amazing assortment of lodging options and diverse fine and casual dining offerings provide the perfect way to reconnect or reminisce after a day spent pursuing passions separately, or together. With a new adventure available around every turn, choose a weekend event to enjoy and extend your stay to revel in all that Keystone has to offer by taking advantage of great summer packages and Play for Free activities included with a two night stay or more.

Summer 2013 Headliner Events

Blue Ribbon Bacon Tour
Dates: June 22-23
Location: River Run Village
Back for a third-year, Keystone Resort will host the Blue Ribbon Bacon Tour in River Run Village Saturday, June 22-Sunday, June 23 from 1p.m.-6p.m. This weekend-long festival brings in thousands of pounds of bacon from well-known bacon purveyors such as Tender Belly, Eden Farms and Denver Bacon Company as well as Keystone food vendors serving up creative bacon inspired dishes. Enjoy tastes ranging from salty bacon wrapped scallops to sweet bacon sprinkled s’mores while sipping on a cold beer or a bacon bloody mary. Listen to bands such as Hamilton Loomis and the Steeldrivers while meandering through the many bacon tents or find a patio deck to relax on while munching on the tasty treats. For children, the festival provides kids craft sessions along Ina’s Bridge and for adults, Warren Station Center for the Arts will be hosting a bacon seminar from 3p.m.-4p.m. each day. Advance tickets start at $30 per person and include an event koozie, a pair of commemorative sunglasses, bacon bucks for vendor tents and unlimited bacon tasting at purveyor tents. Buy now at www.keystonefestivals.com. Lodging packages start at $80 per person and include one night of lodging and one day ticket for the festival. To book now visit www.keystoneresort.com.

Snake River Festival
Dates: June 29-30
Location: River Run Village and Keystone Mountain Bike Park
Rocky Mountain Endurance (RME) presents the Snake River Festival taking place Saturday, June 29-Sunday, June 30 in River Run Village and in the Keystone Mountain Bike Park. Great for the entire family, the Snake River Festival will not only host a weekend of RME mountain bike racing, but will also provide guided group rides, individually self-guided marked course rides, coaching clinics, kids activities, music, yoga, food, a beer garden, bike movie and more. The festival is not only for avid mountain bike riders, but also for those who wish to either evolve into being a better mountain bike rider or for families who want to spend more time on two-wheels together. On-site registration is available for a $10 fee. For more information visit http://www.warriorscycling.com/races/snake-river-mtb-festival.

Big Mountain Enduro
Dates: July 6-7
Location: River Run Village and Keystone Mountain Bike Park
The Big Mountain Enduro Series presented by Yeti Cycles is an authentic multi-stage, multi-day annual Enduro series throughout the most picturesque vacation destinations in Colorado, Utah and New Mexico. Stopping at Keystone Saturday, July 6-Sunday, July 7, this much anticipated competition offers some of the biggest and most challenging terrain in the Keystone Mountain Bike Park. The race will follow a mix of the European formats; tying in epic backcountry on big terrain, as well as lift-accessed stages blended in along the way. Courses will feature predominantly downhill timed “special” stages linked together by non-timed liaison climbing stages. This rapidly growing discipline combines the physical endurance of cross-country riding with the technical difficulty and excitement of downhill racing. The 2013 Big Mountain Enduro Series will encompass over 40,000 vertical feet of descending world-class singletrack throughout the entire season. Keystone’s course is specially designed to give participants a unique riding experience, including high altitude trails and long descents that will test athlete’s pure strength, endurance and bike handling skills. In sum, this unprecedented race will showcase some of the best trails at Keystone Resort, while hosting many of the top all-around mountain bikers from across the globe, ultimately catering to all types of riders in an entertaining atmosphere for the entire family and local communities to enjoy. For more information visit www.warriorscycling.com.

Wine and Jazz Festival
Dates: July 12-14
Location: River Run Village
Beginning Friday, July 12-Sunday, July 14 Keystone Resort will host the annual Wine and Jazz Festival in River Run Village from 1p.m.-5p.m. Saturday-Sunday and 7p.m.-10p.m. Friday. The Reserve Wine Tasting Dinner in Warren Station Center for the Arts will kick-off the festival Friday evening with an array of the world’s finest wines, classy entertainment and gourmet food. Saturday and Sunday will feature over three-hundred wines readily available for tasting amongst the many vendor tents throughout the Village as well as educational wine seminars happening in Warren Station Center for the Arts. Wine Seminars include options such as “Chocolate & Wine,” “Great Summer Wines for Any Occasion,” and “Champagne on a Sunday Morn.” Musical performers will hit the plaza stage Saturday and Sunday during the festival, featuring Jazz musicians such as Joel Rodney, Will Donato, Mia Boarders, Jackiem Joyner and Dotsero. Early bird ticket pricing starts at $55 for a one-day ticket and includes an official Keystone Wine and Jazz tasting glass, unlimited sampling of over 300 wines and five gourmet food tickets. Buy tickets now at www.keystonefestivals.com. Lodging packages start at $105 per person and include a one-day tasting ticket and one-night of lodging at the Inn at Keystone. Book now at www.keystoneresort.com.

XTERRA Wild Running Festival
Dates: July 13-14
Location: Lakeside Village
XTERRA in-conjunction with Keystone Resort announces a weekend of running events for every age and skill level Saturday, July 13-Sunday, July 14 in Lakeside Village. The weekend will consist of seven trail races ranging from silly to serious as well as music, food, beer & wine, trail running clinics and nightly gatherings. XTERRA has a myriad of trail races on tap for the weekend including their signature event, the XTERRA Wild Obstacle Course Run—inspired by Mother Nature, the course will be tough, muddy and fun with a series of man-made and natural hazards for runners to navigate and conquer. Other races happening throughout the weekend will include an XTERRA Night Run, XTERRA Run to the Sun: an uphill trail challenge featuring 2,000 ft. of climbing, XTERRA Keystone 5K/10K, XTERRA Snake River Relay: a team-oriented dash-n-splash and XTERRA Wild Kids K: fun for the wee ones. Visit www.runningusa.org/xterra-wildfor more information.

Bluegrass and Beer Festival
Dates: August 2-4
Location: River Run Village
For the 17th year in a row, Keystone Resort will host the annual Bluegrass and Beer Festival Friday, August 2-Sunday, August 4 in River Run Village. Beginning Friday at 8p.m. Warren Station Center for the Arts will present the Blugerass Kick-Off Party with Della Mae. Saturday and Sunday will consist of Bluegrass Seminars at Warren Station Center for the Arts starting at 9a.m. followed by the Shock Top Beer Garden, Festival Food and Kids Crafts running from 12p.m.-5p.m. each day. The instructional bluegrass seminars, costing $10 each or free to lodging guests, will range from Mandolin Seminar with John Frazier to Fiddle Seminar with Phoebe Hunt offering festival attendees the chance to learn the art of Bluegrass. Live music will hit the stage at 12:30p.m. daily with a line-up consisting of acts such as Spur of the Moment, Hackensaw Boys, Hit and Run, Sierra Hull and Fruition. Beer tasting will begin at 1p.m. and run until 5p.m. Saturday and Sunday offering featured beers from over 30 microbreweries such as Boulder Beer Co., Breckenridge Brewery, New Belgium Brewing Co. and Left Hand Brewing Co. Tasting day tickets start at the Early Bird Price of $35 per day inclusive of an official Keystone Bluegrass and Beer sampling mug and unlimited tasting of over 30 breweries specialty beers. Buy tickets now at www.keystonefestivals.com. Lodging packages start at $102 per person and includes one night of lodging and on day tasting ticket. Visit www.keystoneresort.comto book now.

Cirque Du Wheels
Dates: August 31-September 1
Location: River Run Village
For the first time, Rocky Mountain Endurance is bringing a circus on wheels to Keystone Resort Saturday, August 31-Sunday, September 1 in River Run Village. This weekend-long festival’s main act consists of a 12 hour bike relay race that will begin Sunday morning at 7a.m. and finish at 7p.m. Sunday night. Prior to the big relay race, Saturday’s activities line-up consists of plenty to do including a costume cruiser ride, circus procession on wheels, a beer garden, bonfire, prizes and live music. Beginning Saturday night at 7p.m. live music will hit the stage for a concert to top off the first day of festivities. During the relay race on Sunday the festival will feature carnival games with a ringmaster, live performers as well as an awards ceremony after the finale of the relay race. Registration info and more details coming soon at www.keystoneresort.com.

Taste of Keystone
Date: September 1
Location: Lakeside Village
Coming back to Lakeside Village for the 25th year in a row, The Taste of Keystone happening Sunday, September 1 from 11a.m.-3p.m. allows Keystone festival goers the opportunity to sample a wide variety of cuisine from Keystone’s best restaurants. Featuring tastings from Keystone’s signature AAA four-diamond rated restaurants—Alpenglow Stube, Ski Tip Lodge and the Keystone Ranch as well as food treats from other restaurants such as the Bighorn Steakhouse and the Black Bear Grill, the one-day festival will offer a wider range of flavors in bite-size tastings. Free music and children’s activities will be available throughout the event as well as a silent auction benefitting Mountain Mentors. Tasting tickets cost one-dollar each with samples generally ranging from two-five tickets. Visit www.keystoneresort.com for updated information throughout the summer.

A51 River Run Rail Series: Backyard BBQ Rail Jam
Date: September 7
Location: River Run Face
Back for its second-year due to popular demand, The Backyard BBQ Rail Jam, part of the A51 River Run Rail Series will take place at the base of the River Run Face across from the Summit Express Chairlift Saturday, September 7. Featuring a multi-rail set-up, participants will have the chance to throw-down their best tricks in front of the judges to snag the top spot and take home sweet prizing. Real snow will be brought in for the event making skiing and snowboarding on the rail set-up similar to in-season conditions. Live music, food and beer will be available throughout the day as well as crowd-giveaways. Sponsor tents will be available for browsing the latest equipment while enjoying the earliest rail jam in Summit County. Entry into the rail jam costs $20. Visit www.keystoneresort.comfor updated information throughout the summer.

For full event listings and details throughout the summer season please visit the Keystone Resort website at www.keystoneresort.com.

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Austria Is Now Epic.

by: Paul Swansen - May 8th, 2013   Filed under: Arapahoe Basin, Beaver Creek, Breckenridge, Colorado, Customer Service, Keystone, Ski Colorado, Vail Add Comment
English: St. Anton am Arlberg as seen from the...

English: St. Anton am Arlberg as seen from the Galzig slopes (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Austria Is Now Epic

Vail Resorts, Inc. (NYSE: MTN) announced an epic partnership with the one of the most famous ski regions in the world, Arlberg, Austria, home to legendary mountain resorts of St. Anton, Lech-Zürs, St. Christoph and Stuben. The Epic Pass now features five free consecutive days of skiing and riding in Arlberg, bringing the total access to 15 world-class mountains in three countries and further enhancing the already exceptional value of the world’s greatest ski pass. At only $689, the Epic Pass is the best value on a lift pass in the industry. Epic Pass holders have the opportunity to extend their winter from the U.S. to Europe—for the second consecutive year—and experience both Verbier, Switzerland, and now Arlberg, Austria, in addition to Vail, Beaver Creek, Breckenridge, Keystone, Arapahoe Basin and Eldora in Colorado, and Heavenly, Northstar and Kirkwood in Lake Tahoe. Boasting an average annual snowfall of 23 feet, the Arlberg area is legendary among skiers and riders from around the globe as the cradle of skiing, revered for the world-class experience and innovation in the sport that it affords while maintaining its traditional, Alpine character.

“We are pleased and proud to announce our partnership with Arlberg as Epic Pass holders can now ski the best resorts in the world in three countries on one pass. Vail Resorts continues to look for opportunities to enhance the incredible value of the Epic Pass that our guests already receive and enjoy. In March, we announced that we increased the number of free days of access to Verbier, Switzerland, from three to five for the 2013-2014 season and we added, Eldora, a local Colorado ski area to the Epic Pass,” said Kirsten Lynch, executive vice president and chief marketing officer of Vail Resorts. “Epic Pass holders already enjoy an incredible experience with unlimited, unrestricted access to Vail Resorts’ seven world-class resorts in the United States, including Vail, Beaver Creek, Breckenridge, Keystone, Heavenly, Northstar and Kirkwood, as well as Arapahoe Basin and now Eldora, but the addition of world-class skiing in both Austria and Switzerland makes the Epic Pass even more compelling for our guests looking to take a ski vacation to Europe.”
Boasting 174 miles of marked ski runs, 112 miles of open free riding terrain, 94 gondolas and lifts, and approximately 23 feet of annual snowfall, The Arlberg is arguably Austria’s most popular mountain resort group. Modern and vibrant, St. Anton am Arlberg also maintains its traditional Tyrolean charm. The Arlberg ski area will be open from Dec. 6, 2013 – Apr. 27, 2014.

“Arlberg and Vail Resorts are arguably the world’s premier ski resorts, offering exceptional experiences on the mountain and an unparalleled level of customer service,” said Hermann Fercher, chief executive officer of Lech-Zürs. “We are looking forward to a successful partnership and welcome Epic Pass holders to Austria next winter”, chief executive officer of St. Anton am Arlberg, Martin Ebster, went on to say.

Skiers and riders can lock in the lowest guaranteed prices for only $49 down on next season by purchasing their passes before May 27, 2013. The following is a guide to help skiers and snowboarders choose the best season pass options for them, based on how much they plan to ski and ride. All passes are available for purchase at www.epicpass.com.

Take Multiple Ski Vacations in the United States and Europe Throughout the Winter Season for a Great Value

· The Epic Pass™: Ski as much as you want, whenever you want at $689 for adults and $359 for children (ages 5-12). The Epic Pass provides unlimited skiing or riding at nine resorts including Vail, Beaver Creek, Breckenridge, Keystone, Arapahoe Basin and now Eldora in Colorado and Heavenly, Northstar and Kirkwood in Lake Tahoe. New this year, the Epic Pass also comes with five free days of skiing or riding at the renowned Verbier Resort in Switzerland and an additional five free days of skiing and riding in Arlberg, Austria. No restrictions. At this spring rate, the Epic Pass pays for itself in just over five days.

· The Epic Local Pass™: Perfect for people who can navigate a few more restrictions on their winter vacation. The Epic Local Pass at $529 for adults and $269 for children (ages 5-12) offers unlimited and unrestricted skiing at Breckenridge, Keystone and Arapahoe Basin with limited restrictions at Heavenly, Northstar and Kirkwood. The Epic Local Pass also includes 10 days at Vail and Beaver Creek with holiday restrictions. At this spring rate, the Epic Local Pass pays for itself in just over four days.

Ski or Snowboard Any Day of the Season for a Great Value

Vail Resorts also offers options for guests who don’t plan to ski or ride more than seven days next winter:
· New this year, The Epic 4-Day™:Perfect for people who only plan to take one ski vacation. The Epic 4-Day at $349 for adults and $199 for children (ages 5-12) offers four unrestricted lift tickets for skiing and riding at Vail, Beaver Creek, Breckenridge, Keystone, Heavenly, Northstar, Kirkwood and Arapahoe Basin. At the spring rate, the Epic 4-Day pays for itself in less than three days.

· Epic 7-Day™: Perfect for people who don’t plan to ski more than seven days. The Epic 7-Day gives skiers and snowboarders a total of seven unrestricted days of skiing at Vail, Beaver Creek, Breckenridge, Keystone, Heavenly, Northstar and Kirkwood, plus Arapahoe Basin, anytime during the season at $529 for adults and $269 for children (ages 5-12). At this spring rate, the Epic 7-Day pays for itself in just over four days.

Pay $49 Down Now and Lock in the Lowest Price Available

Vail Resorts is making it as easy as possible for guests to lock in the lowest guaranteed pass prices with a $49 down payment now and the remaining balance due in mid-September 2013. The lowest guaranteed 2013-2014 season pass prices with the option to put $49 down are only available through May 27, 2013.

Season Pass Insurance Option: Protect Your Pass Investment in the Event of Unexpected Circumstances

Vail Resorts encourages guests to purchase pass insurance. All of the Company’s season pass products are non-refundable and non-transferrable; however, pass insurance covers pass holders in the event of unexpected circumstances including sickness, injury and job loss. Pass insurance is $20 for adults and $10 for children (ages 5-12). Coverage applies for all season passes and the Epic 7-Day and Epic 4-Day valid for the 2013-2014 ski season.

Prices on Vail Resorts season passes are guaranteed for a limited time only, so act now. For more information or to purchase your pass, visit www.epicpass.com.

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