Winter Park Opening Early on November 12

The snows have all of us revved up and ready to ride. Everyone’s boots are waiting at the door and their skis and boards are waxed and ready to go in the car! Winter Park Resort is responding to that enthusiasm! One of Colorado’s premier resort destinations, has announced that it will open four days earlier than originally planned on Saturday, on November 12, 2011. Skiing and riding will take place on 36 acres and five trails accessible via four lifts; Arrow, Gemini, Endeavour and depending on conditions, the Discovery lift for Winter Park’s 72nd Season.

“Winter Park Resort is responding to the high demand for early season access to the slopes from Colorado’s Front Range skiers and riders. Also, by opening ahead of schedule we are putting seasonal employees to work earlier than originally expected,” said Gary DeFrange, president and chief operating officer at Winter Park Resort. “Thanks to the hard work of our snowmaking and grooming crews, plus early season snowfall, the runs are primed and ready to go.”

First chair is at 8:30am on Saturday, November 12, 2011. Winter Park Resort will be open daily through April 22, 2012, 9:00am – 4:00pm weekdays and 8:30am-4:00pm on weekends. For opening weekend, lift tickets will be $69 adult and $49 child. Ski + Ride School and Winter Park Resort Rentals will be in full operation. Open restaurants include Starbucks and limited menus at Doc’s Roadhouse and Moffat Market. Opening day celebrations include Après ski specials and the new Red Bull Sugga vehicle will be onsite to provide videos and music. Don’t miss opening weekend lodging deals, Vintage Hotel rooms start at just $62 per night!

Winter Park Resort will provide free garage parking at The Village at Winter Park through Tuesday, November 15. The free Cabriolet lift will be running on opening day, connecting guests from free parking in the Vintage Hotel parking lot to The Village at Winter Park. The free shuttle, “The Lift”, will not be running routes until Wednesday, November 16, 2011.

Conditions are expected to change rapidly, especially during early season. Guests are encouraged to check the daily snow report for updates on terrain and lift openings, snow accumulation, events and other happenings in The Village at Winter Park.