Snowbowl announces earliest opening ever
It may be difficult to think of winter in the midst of summer, but season passes are now on sale for the Flagstaff ski area.
As monsoon storms loom on hot and humid days, it is difficult to imagine a season other than one where temperatures range from uncomfortable to unbearable.
But for those who are convinced summer will never end, here is the light at the end of your weather tunnel: Arizona Snowbowl will be ready for skiers starting Friday, Nov. 11, its earliest opening ever.
Due to the inherent unreliability of nature, slopes will sport a coating of machine-made snow thanks to an increasing investment in snow-making systems. The machines now cover more than 65 percent of Snowbowl's trails.
The Flagstaff ski resort also is installing its first high-speed lift that will zip riders up the mountain in six minutes, meaning more time to plunge down steep slopes on slats or boards offering just enough control to make the ride enjoyable.
The Grand Canyon Express — so named because you can see the scenic wonder from the lift on a clear day — is longer than a mile and climbs 1,546 vertical feet, providing access to 80 percent of the ski area. It should be ready within a week or two of opening day, officials said.
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Discounted season passes are for sale, and prices will increase as the season approaches. The most affordable for adults is the $529 Snowbowl Value pass, which includes blackout dates around holidays. The $649 Snowbowl Unlimited pass has no blackout dates.
The top-of-the-line $699 Power Pass allows unlimited skiing at Snowbowl as well as at its sister resorts — Purgatory Resort in Colorado and Pajarito Mountain and Sipapu Ski Resort in New Mexico.
And if you happen to be near Barcelona this winter, the Power Pass is good for three days at Masella Ski Resort. You’ll also get three free days at Eldora Ski Resort in Colorado, as well as at 17 other partner resorts. The $699 price is good through Friday, Aug. 5. For pricing after that date, contact the resort.
Visit the website for pricing and details on all season passes, as well as perks that include discounted dining and shopping.
Prices for day passes have not yet been announced. Last season, adult lift tickets were $69.
Details:arizonasnowbowl.com.