GONDOLA GOSSIP

by:  local contributor 

As the first snow and snowmaking porn appears on social media many are wondering what to expect from el nino after last winter. While a lot has been made about a decline in pass sales and revenues one has to consider the ebb after massive pandemic surges, changing economic realities and one of the worst snow year's all converging. That said, many face the same challenge. Powder days come with traffic and parking problems.

This same reality limits every mountain resort community… capacity. The capacity of town infrastructure, restaurants and event venues remains the same. The unlimited access provided by season pass products brought big crowds and big revenues on weekends and powder days. In Colorado that means front range skier traffic on I-70 both directions, especially over the holidays and weekends. Snow and construction always add to the fun.

To be fair it's not just powder days causing traffic and parking issues. You don't need a season pass to show up for 4th of July Parades, Oktoberfests and other local tourism events the rest of the year. The reality is Colorado mountain communities are world-class resort destinations competing for visitors year-round… not just the winter. From concerts and festivals to weddings and corporate events… there's always something happening.

As the resorts race toward opening day only three questions really matter to skiers and riders gearing up for the season.

One: When will it snow? Two: Where will it snow? and... Three: How much will it snow?

In the mean time... let the speculation and the gossip begin!