Arapahoe Basin, which has a reputation as one of the last independent, locals-focused major ski areas in Colorado, said yesterday that it is selling to Alterra Mountain Resorts. If the sale goes through, something that is expected to take place by the end of the year, the Summit County mountain will now join with Winter Park and Steamboat, which Alterra also operates.
Alan Henceroth, who is the public face and COO of A-Basin, said he believes that Alterra will keep “the vibe alive” at The Legend (the ski area’s nickname), which is typically the first mountain to open every year and last to close — not to mention its black diamond runs, party-like atmosphere and hidden quirks. “I am certain of their commitment to our history, culture, and attitude,” he said.
Related: Arapahoe Basin wants to build a second “via ferrata” climbing route
But skiers and snowboarders? They’re not so sure, as evidenced by their comments on A-Basin’s social media pages. Concerns ranged from a fear of higher prices to the perception that corporate ownership will ruin a good thing. What do you think?