Big Sky Resort is celebrating after closing the season with nearly 340,000 skier visits, the most the resort has ever seen. The 2010/2011winter season saw a 15% increase in skier visits over last year and a 5% increase from the previous record season in 2005/2006.
“The longer season and lower pass prices were key – we added a tremendous value to our season passes,” said Taylor Middleton, Big Sky Resort’s General Manager. Big Sky Resort slashed season pass prices by 40% last year, prompting more skiers to buy full passes, and the season was a full two weeks longer than usual. Skier visits from season pass holders were up over 50% this season.
More skier visits means more business, and Big Sky Resort’s revenue was up nearly 20% this season. “This uptick in business not only means great things for the Resort, but great things for the community,” says Middleton. “We’re pulling out of the recession, and the more people we can draw to Big Sky, the more everyone benefits.”
In addition to the long season, the increase in skier visits can also be attributed to the great snow Big Sky received this year. Snowfall was up 150% over last year and 20% above average.
“When you take into account the terrain, snow, and number of ski days you get when you buy a season pass, these prices give you amazing bang for you buck,” said Chad Jones, the resort’s Public Relations Manager. “We’re so happy people are taking advantage of this, and the best part is, more skiers don’t equal crowds here. Our massive terrain and lift capacity maintain one of Big Sky’s best assets: no lift lines!”
