Alterra Mountain Company, a prominent ski resort empire that owns the Ikon Pass and controlling 35% of national skier visits. It has disclosed plans to acquire Arapahoe Basin this year, as confirmed by official statements from both companies on Monday, February 5. The current proprietor of A-Basin is Dream Unlimited Corp., a Canadian real estate company headquartered in Toronto, which secured ownership of the ski area in 1997. If the proposed purchased is followed through, it would change Alterra’s ownership to 18 year round mountain destinations across North America. In the Colorado region alone, Alterra already boasts ownership of Steamboat Ski Resort and Winter Park Resort. Alan Henceroth the chief operating officer of Arapahoe Basin, showed optimism about the completion of the sale later this year. He assured stakeholders that there would be no alterations to Ikon Pass access at A Basin for the ongoing ski season.
In an interview with the Summit Daily News, Hencroth emphasized that discussions about the specifics of the future had not yet commenced. However, he asserted that Alterra’s interest in acquiring A Basin stemmed from their appreciation of the ski area and its operational strategies.A-Basin, known for its very laid back skiing experience and comparatively smaller weekend crowds, has carved a niche for itself as an anti-resort despite its associations with industry giants like Alterra and Vail. The shift from the Epic to the Ikon Pass in 2019 was motivated by a desire to alleviate overcrowding issues. A Basin offers five days of access on the Ikon Base Pass and seven on the full pass, effectively managing visitation and preserving a more intimate skiing environment. The ski area witnessed a reduction in visitation during the 2022-2023 season, reaching 75% of the levels experienced in the final season with the Epic Pass in 2018-2019.
Henceroth, with 36 years of service at ABasin, expressed confidence that the ski area’s distinctive atmosphere would persist under Alterra’s ownership. He is expected to continue as COO under Alterra, overseeing daily operations and future improvement plans, including expansions in parking and snowmaking facilities. Longtime patrons of A-Basin are hopeful that the ski area will maintain its affordable prices and uncrowded ambiance. The appeal lies in its non-commercialized feel, attracting skiers like Wendy Mccaffrey, who has been skiing at A-Basin since 1993, appreciating the lower prices compared to neighboring resorts.
A Basin regulars, such as Benji Perez and Aaron Landau, are drawn to the quieter atmosphere of the ski area, with Perez opting for a full-season A-Basin pass over larger resort passes. The concern among patrons is whether the change in ownership might lead to increased access for Ikon pass holders and a surge in skier traffic. Henceroth, however, reassures the skiing community that A Basin is committed to delivering a quality experience, emphasizing the necessity of maintaining an optimal number of visitors for an enjoyable skiing environment. Despite some apprehension surrounding the sale, Henceroth remains resolute that A Basin will retain its awesomeness under Alterra’s stewardship.
