Aspen is raising stakes on ski slopes

Multiday deals also to cost more

Joanne Kelley, Rocky Mountain News

Wednesday, August 1, 2007

Aspen Skiing Co. will charge $87 for a single-day lift ticket in the coming ski season, setting a record for Colorado resorts.

The company, which operates Aspen, Snowmass, Aspen Highlands and Buttermilk, revealed the price as it released details about discount passes and deals for the 2007-2008 season.

Last season, Aspen charged $82 for a daily ticket, while Vail charged the most: $85. Ski industry officials estimate about 10 percent of skiers pay full price while the rest take advantage of package deals and cheaper passes offered early in the season.

But even Aspen visitors who buy a four-, five-, six- or seven-day lift ticket will still pay dearly: between $76 and $81 a day.

The walk-up price for a day of skiing at Vail Mountain this year has yet to be determined.

"Believe it or not, we haven't set our price yet," said Vail Resorts Inc. spokeswoman Kelly Ladyga. "That's been happening later and later every year."

At Aspen, a full-season pass for an adult will go for $1,699 if purchased by Sept. 7, for $1,879 by Nov. 16, or $1,999 afterward.

Aspen also set prices for its Classic Pass, which targets Colorado skiers and must be purchased at specific locations in the Front Range this fall. Online and phone renewals begin today.

A pass for seven days (no restrictions) will go for $259, with the same offer available to 7- to 17-year-olds and college students for $199. A four-day pass will cost $159 for adults and $129 for youths/college students.

$87

Aspen Skiing Co.'s new single-day lift ticket price.

kelleyj@RockyMountainNews.com or 303-954-5068