Uphill access by means of skinning, snowshoeing and hiking has gained popularity at Arapahoe Basin in recent years. The ski area welcomes and supports individuals seeking to exercise and enjoy the beautiful, mountain setting. With increased use, however, many questions have risen about how to best manage and handle uphill access. Last spring A-Basin staff held a public open meeting and an employee meeting seeking feedback on uphill travel. Additionally, 372 participants completed an online survey regarding uphill access at Arapahoe Basin. As a result of this feedback, A-Basin modified its Uphill Access Policy in two ways:
1) There is a need to increase communication between uphill users and A-Basin staff about uphill access. As a result, all uphill users, whether travelling while the ski area is open or closed, are required to obtain a FREE Uphill Access Pass at the Season Pass Office. While obtaining the pass may seem like a pain, this is really an effort to help users and staff communicate better in regards to uphill access.
2) During operational hours, uphill access is restricted to the eastern edge of High Noon between the Base Area and Black Mountain Lodge. Access above Black Mountain Lodge is prohibited during operational hours. With the increase in uphill use and the narrow travel corridors and notable terrain transitions, we felt it was no longer appropriate to mix both uphill and downhill use above mid-mountain.
Please note that right now (very early season) uphill access will not be allowed during operational hours until additional terrain is available.
The complete Uphill Access Policy can be found on the "Runs Open" page of our website.
Many of us know what a really cool experience travelling uphill at A-Basin can be. My wife, Kay, and I regularly go for an afternoon/evening spin once the lifts close. With these simple modifications of the Uphill Access Policy and a cooperative spirit between users and employees, I am hopeful we can preserve this experience for a very long time.
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