Colorado’s Arapahoe Basin is being acquired by Alterra Mountain Company, the parent company of the Ikon Pass.
A-Basin, which had partnered with Vail Resorts on various passes since 1998, including the later developed Epic Pass, left their partnership in the 18/19 season citing a desire to reduce skier numbers on the mountain.
Then the following winter the mountain joined with Alterra to offer a limited number of days on the multi-resort Ikon pass.
A-Basin currently offers 5 days on the Ikon Base Pass and 7 days on the Ikon Pass. There are no changes to the current Ikon Pass 23/24 winter access at this time.
Whether A-Basin will become unlimited or reserved days on the Ikon Pass in 24/25 has yet to be announced.
The big mountain destination has a cult local following drawn to the resorts laid back vibes and boasts the longest season in Colorado. Iconic terrain includes Pallavicini, the East Wall, and the Steep Gullies, plus the Beavers and Montezuma Bowl, some of North America’s newest terrain. The Beach, a stretch of prime real estate at the base, transforms into one of Colorado’s longest-standing après traditions.
“Arapahoe Basin is considered legendary for a reason. From its unparalleled terrain to its commitment to sustainability, A-Basin has a team that has a passion and commitment for this unique place and its traditions, making it an ideal fit for the Alterra Mountain Company family,” said Jared Smith, President and CEO, Alterra Mountain Company.
“A-Basin was a key addition to the Ikon Pass in 2019 and we have since then worked alongside their dedicated team and look forward to continuing our shared goals and values.”
Alan Henceroth, A-Basin’s Chief Operating Officer who has been with A-Basin for 36 years and has been the steward of the mountain’s unique culture, will continue on to lead the resort. He will oversee daily operations as well as leadership of future capital improvement plans, which include expanding parking and snowmaking.
“A-Basin has a long-time and loyal following among skiers and riders in Colorado and we care deeply about the culture of A-Basin that brings them back,” said Alan Henceroth, COO of Arapahoe Basin.
“We have worked with Alterra Mountain Company since 2019 when we joined the Ikon Pass community, and we have every faith that Alterra is committed to helping us maintain A-Basin’s authenticity.”
Over the last 27 years, Dream, together with the Arapahoe Basin management team, expanded the ski area to 1,428 acres, replaced all of the lifts and most of the buildings, and opened the two highest elevation restaurants in North America, Il Rifugio and Steilhang Hut.
In 2018, A-Basin pledged to be carbon neutral by 2025 and, recently, the resort made a huge step toward that goal by officially using 100% renewable electricity.
