The Alterra Mountain company has added another ski resort to its fold, earlier this week announcing the acquisition of acquiring Arapahoe Basin Colorado.
Known as A-Basin by Colorado skiers and snowboarders, Arapahoe is located just 68 miles from Denver and annually has the longest season among Colorado ski resorts, frequently open through the Fourth of July.
Alterra Mountain’s ski resorts include two prominent California resorts – Palisades Tahoe and Mammoth Mountain.
Alterra also owns two other Colorado resorts – Steamboat Springs and Winter Park. The company offers all its ski resorts the Ikon Pass, which serves these mountains plus those owned by several other groups.
Founded in 1946, the A-Basin sits on the Continental Divide in the Rockies and offers some of North America’s highest elevation (13,050 feet at its summit) and most challenging terrain. Its iconic terrain includes Pallavicini, the East Wall, and the Steep Gullies, plus the Beavers and Montezuma Bowl.
“Arapahoe Basin is considered legendary for a reason. From its unparalleled terrain to its commitment to sustainability, A-Basin is a unique place and has traditions, making it an ideal fit for the Alterra Mountain Company family,” said Jared Smith, President & CEO, Alterra Mountain Company.
The addition of Arapahoe Basin will bring Alterra’s portfolio to 18 year-round mountain destinations throughout North America. The transaction is expected to close later in 2024, and is subject to certain closing conditions, including regulatory approvals. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.
Alan Henceroth, A-Basin’s Chief Operating Officer, has been with the ski resort for 36 years, serving as the steward of the mountain’s unique culture. He will continue to lead the resort and oversee daily operations.
“A-Basin has a long-time and loyal following among skiers and riders in Colorado. We care deeply about the culture of A-Basin that brings them back,” Henceroth said. “We have worked with Alterra Mountain Company since 2019 when we joined the Ikon Pass community, and we have every faith that Alterra is committed to helping us maintain A-Basin’s authenticity.”
Over the last 27 years, the Arapahoe Basin management team has expanded the ski area to 1,428 acres, replaced all of the lifts and buildings, and opened the two highest elevation restaurants in North America – Il Rifugio and Steilhang Hut.
