Closing day at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort saw 4000 skiers and snowboarders celebrating the last run and brought an incredible winter season to a close.
Final numbers will approximate 455, 500 skier days, smashing a previous record of 397,500 in 2004/05. Resort officials stated that the 3rd highest snowfall on record, last year of the aerial tram, outstanding events and great customer service have served as the backbone of this record breaking winter season.
“We would like to thank all our community partners who have played an important role in the success of this winter,” commented Jerry Blann, President JHMR. Without the continued commitment from JH AIR, lodging partners and other businesses throughout the valley we could not have made this happen.” he added. “Our local guests also played a very important role this winter. Strong season pass sales continued with the well received free pass for children 14 and under. Mountain Sports School had a record guide year and served close to 400 local children in various Kids Ranch programs.”
“This winter can be remembered as one of non-stop energy. With the great snow, the phones did not stop until the last day. A concentrated effort to introduce a new two week spring event “Jackson Hole Mountain Festival” resulted in the strongest closing weeks ever. We understand the closure of the tram drove a lot of the end of season business, but I am very pleased with the reaction to “Mountain Festival” as a community event and plan to continue it for future years.” Stated Blann.
On the heels of celebrating the winter season, JHMR officials are not slowing down. Immediate work will begin on capital projects including the NEW full service, on-mountain Bridger Restaurant, slated for completion December 2006. Pending Forest Service approval the temporary East Ridge Chairlift to the summit will be constructed during the summer months, while 18 more cabins for the Bridger Gondola will be installed. Aerial Tram replacement decisions are also anticipated by mid-summer.
Summer operations will include Teewinot Chairlift for mountain bikers to access beginner, intermediate and advanced single track, the Bridger Center, including the new Café 6311, as a one stop activities center for Teton Village offering shopping and food/beverage services, and the popular climbing wall and bungee jumping trampoline will return for kids. Planned summer events will hit a new high note this year. JHMR winter season pass holders can ride the aerial tram for free all summer beginning Saturday May 27, 2006.
