Bogus Basin Announces Exciting Enhancements For The Winter 2024/25 Season

Bogus Basin has announced a variety of updates and exciting enhancements for the upcoming 2024/25 winter season. Focusing on creating a more welcoming environment for beginners and families, the latest improvements – including two brand new chairlifts – will significantly enhance the overall experience at the non-profit recreation area.

“The new lifts and improvements to the surrounding terrain create an ideal environment for learners at Bogus Basin. These upgrades, along with our talented team of instructors who are focused on enhancing the beginner experience, will solidify Bogus Basin as a top destination for families and newcomers to learn to ski.” said  Nate Shake, Director of Mountain Operations at Bogus Basin

New Chairlifts for Family-Friendly fun

In a significant upgrade, Bogus Basin replaced two of its oldest chairlifts – Coach and Bitterroot – over the summer. These enhancements create a more family-oriented atmosphere and eliminate congestion at the bottom of the popular Coach’s Corner chair. By doubling the capacity of the lifts and improving the runs that they serve, skiers will enjoy a much better initial experience.

The new Coach Lift, a SkyTrac fixed-grip quad, has been realigned and lengthened to provide access to the newly expanded Coach’s Corner run. This ultra-wide, beginner-friendly area has tripled in length, making it ideal for lessons and novice skiers. The lift enhancements also include improved lighting and snowmaking capabilities.

The upgraded Bitterroot Lift will now operate seven days a week, providing increased access to the northeast corner of Pioneer Lodge. A brand new SkyTrac fixed-grip quad chairlift will replace the outdated Riblet double lift, increasing the uphill capacity for guests.

New Trails for Every Skill Level

This winter, skiers can look forward to the addition of Wake Up Jim, a welcoming blue run in the Bitterroot Basin. This new trail features a steep initial pitch and connects seamlessly with existing runs, enhancing the skiing experience for families and intermediate skiers. 

An Entirely New Beginner Experience

Bogus Basin has entered an exciting new partnership with SNOW Operating to introduce Terrain Based Learning™ (TBL) to its slopes. This innovative program, renowned for its fun-first approach, utilizes specifically shaped snow features to naturally control speed and body position, making learning to ski or snowboard easier and more enjoyable. By alleviating the traditional fears and anxieties associated with first-time experiences on snow, TBL allows beginners to focus solely on the joy of sliding down the slopes. Employees from throughout the organization will undergo comprehensive training, reinforcing a top-down commitment to enhancing the guest experience at every level of the organization.

Facility and Infrastructure Improvements

In addition to the chairlift upgrades, Bogus Basin has made several facility improvements. Simplot Lodge has received a flooring upgrade to enhance durability and comfort. RFID technology is now implemented at all chairlifts, allowing quick and effortless access for guests.

The area has also invested in new rental equipment, including $57,000 in kids’ rental skis and $10,000 in Nordic skis.

Commitment to Sustainability

Bogus Basin is dedicated to environmental stewardship, and to further this commitment, new composting initiatives in partnership with Timber Creek Recycling and EcoProducts will reduce landfill waste by up to 25%. To support these efforts, guests will now find new waste-diversion stations throughout the lodges, making it easier to sort their waste properly.

The area will continue to offer priority parking to carpoolers on peak weekends and holidays. Public transportation from Nampa, Eagle, Meridian, and Boise, with new partner Durham School Services, will also be available on weekends and holidays.

Educational Programs and Community Engagement

Celebrating its 20th anniversary, the SnowSchool program anticipates breaking records by hosting over 3,500 students this winter. The program, which teaches students about winter ecology and outdoor skills, will be complemented by an expanded STEM Spring Break Camp.

Furthermore, Bogus Basin has partnered with the Sagebrush-Steppe Chapter of the Idaho Master Naturalist Program to provide conservation education and volunteer opportunities, fostering community engagement and environmental awareness.

Opening Date, Limited Season Passes Remaining

Bogus Basin plans to launch the 2024/25 Winter Season on Saturday, November 23rd. A limited number of season passes remain available for purchase, and equipment rentals as well as reservations for ski and snowboard school lessons. For more information visit bogusbasin.org.