Longtime Vail Epic Pass partner Arapahoe Basin leaving the fold

Vail Resorts’ Epic Pass will be gaining one basin and losing another next season. Arapahoe Basin in nearby Summit County announced on Tuesday that it’s pulling out of the Epic Pass for next ski season (2019-20) after Vail Resorts recently announced it’s adding Snowbasin, Utah, and Sun Valley, Idaho.

A little bit of history here. Current Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser was at the U.S. Justice Department in the 1990s and worked on the anti-trust case that saw Vail Resorts compelled to spin off A-Basin from its purchase of Breckenridge and Keystone from Ralston Purina. The DOJ felt Vail controlled too much of the Colorado skier market.

A-Basin was picked up by Toronto-based Dundee Realty USA, with offices in Avon, Colo., but was always included in early versions of the Epic Pass.

Now that pass program has become so successful that it’s put too much pressure on the parking and facilities at A-Basin. Here’s the release from A-Basin COO Alan Henceroth:

“We are very proud of how wonderful Arapahoe Basin has become from the unparalleled skiing and riding to the incredible scenery. 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. 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,” said Arapahoe Basin Chief Operating Officer Alan Henceroth.

A-Basin has seen exceptional growth both in popularity and skier visitation after investing 40 million dollars over the last 15 years. While the mountain still has plenty of room for skiers and riders, the ski area is feeling a pinch on parking and facility space. Due to these constraints, Arapahoe Basin believes its staff can take better care of its guests by separating from Vail Resorts.

“Our focus has always been to provide an extraordinary mountain experience for our guests. With consistent snowfall and one of the nation’s highest and most stunning settings, we offer an environment that is totally unique. From Montezuma Bowl to The Beavers and from Black Mountain Lodge to the 6th Alley Bar and Grill, there are few resorts that can match The Basin’s scenic landscape. Looking forward, we strive to provide ready and easy access for our guests. Our goal is to minimize waiting and crowding and maximize experiences and fun,” said Henceroth.

At this time, there are no new partnerships to announce. In the coming months the ski area 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. 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.

Please note that 2018-19 Vail Resorts season passes that are currently valid at A-Basin will continue to be valid for the remainder of the 2018-19 season.