The Northface jackets and the Uggs are out in full force, a true sign that winter is coming. However, don’t get the winter blues just yet – the snow in the forecast and the dropping temperatures can only mean one thing: ski season is here.
On Sunday, Oct. 13, Arapahoe Basin opened its lifts and its trails to the public, drawing numerous DU students back to the slopes. Last year, Arapahoe Basin was the first mountain to open as well, but opened on Oct. 17.
The mountain was the first one in the state to open, and proved to be a huge success, drawing some of DU’s most avid skiers, according to students in attendance. The lifts began taking guests up the mountain at about 8:30 a.m. and drew a large crowd excited for the 2013-14 ski season. Two trails were open, satisfying the eager guests.
Hunter Rich, a senior economics major from Barrington, Ill. with a passion for skiing, attended the opening on Sunday and loved being back on the mountain.
“It was awesome to be back on the mountain. Everyone was celebrating and there was even free beer. I am very excited for this ski season and am praying for lots of powder. I have my Epic Pass ready to go.” said Rich.
With the opening day of Arapahoe Basin proving to be a success, ski season is just starting and DU students couldn’t be more excited.
Lauren Van Solkema, a sophomore Strategic Communications major from Chicago, is ready to hit the slopes, and is extremely excited about her recent purchase of the Epic Local Pass. Right now, the pass is $569 for those 19 and up, and $429 for those who are 18 and under.
The pass allows unrestricted skiing or riding at Breckenridge, Keystone and Arapahoe Basin, in addition to ten days at Vail and Beaver Creek. The pass also includes six “with a friend days,” allowing those with the Epic Local Pass to bring a friend at a discounted price.
“I am super excited to ski. I have my Epic Local Pass and can’t wait to be able to go up to the mountains on the weekends and just have fun with my friends. I can’t wait for Breckenridge to open. I’ve gone skiing there with my parents and it’s definitely my favorite mountain,” said Van Solkema.
Although dates have yet to be set for other opening days for different mountains, students are digging out their ski and snowboard gear and getting ready to go. Many students are excited to relieve some stress on the mountains, getting fresh air and spending quality time with friends away from the worries of school.
When asked about the snow in the forecast, Alex Moller, a sophomore computer science major from Albuquerque, N.M. said that although he is sad that the temperatures are dropping, he cannot wait for ski season.
“Of course, I love summer, but we are in Colorado, who doesn’t like to ski? I’m so stoked to hit up the mountains on the weekend. It’s going to be so much fun,” said Moller.
For those that do not know how to ski or snowboard yet, all the mountains offer lessons for beginners People of all ages are encouraged to attend.
Arapahoe Basin offers special adult lessons for those who are 15 and up. A half-day two and a half hour lesson is $79, not including a pass and ticket fees. Morning lessons begin at 9:55 a.m. and afternoon lessons start at 1:15 p.m. and are specifically geared towards first-time skiers and snowboarders. Those interested need to reserve a place in the lesson ahead of time, and can do so on the Arapahoe Basin website (arapahoebasin.com). There are only 6 students per instructor, so students are able to receive one-on-one attention.
Do not get bummed out about the winter just yet. Students can get an Epic Pass, grab friends and hit the slopes this winter.
For those interested in the Epic Pass, visit: snow.com/epicpass.aspx
