What a difference a year makes! Mother Nature has been generous this November with abundant snow and cold temperatures. We gave pass holders a special afternoon opening on November 10. Kicking things off fully on Veteran’s Day with free lift tickets to all active-duty, reserve, retired, and veteran military personnel. Being open for Veteran’s Day was special as many of our team members served in the military or had close family or friends that did. As always, we thank those serving or who have served this great country.
Opening a week early is thrilling but there are some limitations. We’ve had less time than planned to onboard and train some of our staff, and we’re still in the snowmaking process. We have a unique snowmaking system here at Solitude. A number of our key areas have snowmaking components in the ground in the middle of trails. That means when we stop making snow, groom the area, and open the trail, we can’t go back. We need to make sure we have the depth desired for our spring routes before we open that terrain. This year we hope to extend our season into May so it’s essential to have a good foundation in place.
That said, we plan to expand lift operations, Apex Express is opening today (11/12). More lifts and terrain are expected by next weekend.
The first of our two new terrain parks should open on November 18 with small features. Our new race shack is now in place, skiers left on Main Street. This will be the home of our new race arena and weekly race series.
Our opening weekend has had amazing turnout. Now is a good time to remember that parking at Solitude is limited. We encourage you to carpool. Fellow drivers will appreciate finding a space, and once paid parking kicks in on November 18, you’ll save money as well.
Speaking of November 18, that’s when our village operations begin and our restaurants, spa, and lodging facilities will be fully open for business. Until then, see you on the hill and enjoy your turns!
To catch up on previous Amber’s Updates, visit https://blog.solitudemountain.com/category/ambers-updates/