Ikon Resorts Update On Developments
The 21/22 season is in full swing and there’s plenty of exciting news and updates to discover from Steamboat and Winter Park in Colorado, Palisades Tahoe and Mammoth Mountain in California, and Utah’s Deer Valley.
TRANSFORMATIONS AND TRAIN TRAVEL IN COLORADO
Steamboat is currently undergoing the biggest renovation in its history. This winter, developments have included a new terminal at the lower gondola, improvements to Steamboat Square – making way for new restaurants, shops and an ice rink – and a new resort entrance featuring custom artwork that reflects Steamboat’s western heritage. The multi-million development is expected to be completed in its entirety by winter 23/24. Also new this season at Steamboat is Happy Camp, which offers ski and snowboard lessons for children aged 12 months – 4 years.
The Winter Park Express returned this month following a year hiatus. The two-hour train departs Friday – Sunday and takes skiers from Denver Union Station direct to the slopes of Winter Park. Running every weekend until 3 April, it’s never been easier for travellers to fly into Colorado and get on the slopes at one of the state’s most-loved resorts.
CALIFORNIA’S BEST EVER WINTER
Currently experiencing one of its snowiest seasons ever, Palisades Tahoe is enjoying this winter with a host of exciting events and experiences. On 22 February, couples looking to tie the knot can join in Double the Love, Double the Fun, a collective wedding ceremony on the mountain. The ceremony will conclude with celebratory ski down Mountain Run followed by a reception at the Plaza Bar. Construction has also begun on the new base-to-base gondola connecting Squaw Valley and Alpine Meadows mountains. Expected to complete for the 22/23 season, the gondola will take skiers between the mountains in approximately 16 minutes rather than the seven-mile drive currently needed.
Mammoth by name and mammoth by nature, this season’s events calendar at Mammoth Mountain is jam-packed. Returning 3-6 February is Mammoth Film Festival, a celebration of talented filmmakers from around the world, whilst 16-20 March will see the 20th anniversary of Elevation Mammoth, an LGBTQ+ weekend consisting of après, DJ sets, fancy dress parties and more. Thrill-seekers looking for a challenge can sign up to Mammoth Caldera Burn on 16 April, a high-endurance ski mountaineering race.
EXCITING NEW DEVELOPMENTS AT DEER VALLEY RESORT, UTAH
This season, work has begun on the new and improved Snow Park at Deer Valley Resort, one of the most aspirational ski destinations in the USA. The project has been years in the making and, one complete, will transform the base area to enhance the experience for guests. Facilities will include additional accommodation, new food and beverage options and an expansive ski beach. The thoughtful architecture and design of the new plaza will be inspired by the mountains.
All ski areas can be accessed with the Ikon Pass, a season pass which connects skiers to 47 destinations worldwide including three in Europe: Zermatt in Switzerland, Kitzbühel in Austria, and Italy’s Dolomiti Superski. This season, all Ikon Passes come with Adventure Assurance, designed to alleviate uncertainty and provide passholders with flexibility.
