Spring Lift Hours Start February 26

STEAMBOAT SPRINGS, CO-February 21, 2011-Extended spring lift operating hours go into effect starting Saturday, February 26th at the Steamboat Ski Resort providing up to an additional 30 minutes to enjoy the slopes.

With the extended spring hours, Morningside and Pony Express chairlifts will now close at 3:30pm; Storm Peak Express, Sundown Express and Sunshine Express at 3:45pm; Burgess Creek, South Peak and Thunderhead Express at 4:00pm; and Elkhead at 4:15pm. Check the daily grooming sheet for daily lift status as some lifts may close based on business levels for that day.

In addition to spring hours taking hold Saturday, Steamboat’s signature Bud Light Rocks the Boat Free Concert series also kicks off on Feb. 26th with The North Mississippi Allstars at 3:00pm in Gondola Square.  The 2011 Bud Light Rocks the Boat Free Concert Series, now entering its 12th season, brings the nation’s biggest bands to Ski Town, U.S.A.® throughout the spring. 

“Although more snow is in the forecast, we all know spring is around the corner with long sunny days and warmer temperatures,” said Chris Diamond, president and chief operating officer for Steamboat Ski & Resort Corporation.

The 2010/11 season started with a powdery bang as the Steamboat Ski Area surpassed the 100-inch milestone on Nov. 30th due in large part to the snowiest November on record, which saw 7.5 feet of Champagne Powder® snow pile up at mid-mountain. Steamboat has seen 21 inches in October; 90 inches in November; 73 inches in December; 68 inches in January; and 67 inches in February for a combined mid-mountain total of 319 inches (26.5 feet).

Enjoy all the snow with the Springalicious Pass which offers out-of-this-world 4-day spring photo pass for any four days from Friday, April 1st till Closing Day, Sunday, April 10th for just $99. The pass is non-transferable, non-refundable and valid only for the pass holder. In addition, passes may only be purchased online at www.steamboat.com/spring, 24-hours prior to the first day of use. The Steamboat Ski Area closes the 2010/11 season on Sunday, April 10th.

The Champagne Powder snow isn’t the only thing piling up in Steamboat, so are serious savings. Feel like a Steamboat Olympian with the Olympian Package which offers 20% savings on lift and lodging, plus a special Olympian Card for additional discounts on Ski & Snowboard School, Retail/Rental and Restaurant Outlets. Additional restrictions may apply; contact Steamboat Central Reservations® for details at 800-922-2722 or visit steamboat.com/Olympian.

To stay up to date on Steamboat’s events and snow conditions visit www.steamboat.com, view the Mountain Cam, featured photos, movie archives and register to receive the Straight Talk Mountain Report and newsletters. Snow conditions will be updated as conditions change and can be accessed by calling 970.879.7300 or steamboat.com.

-www.steamboat.com-