Killington Resort concludes the ski season on Saturday — experts only.
Temperatures are warming, but Vermonters can still hit the slopes. Killington Resort will offer skiing and riding for one final day on Saturday, June 4, their latest closing day since 1997.
Following recent warm weather and rain, conditions won’t be ideal, but snow enthusiasts can still hop aboard the Superstar Express Quad beginning at 9 a.m. Saturday. The lift will run “for at least a few hours,” with only expert skiers and snowboarders encouraged to ride.
“We are determined to offer June skiing and snowboarding this year, but Mother Nature seems a little less enthusiastic,” Killington’s website reads. “The experience is not going to be for everyone, as it will require skill negotiating steep, rocky patches with gear in hand.”
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For nonpassholders, ticket prices will be $25, with all proceeds going to Pride Center VT to kick off Pride Month. Those who make the trek will also be offered commemorative tie-dyed T-shirts while supplies last.
Each year, Killington’s goal is to operate its lifts into June, though it’s not always feasible. After skiers and riders enjoyed favorable conditions over Memorial Day weekend, the resort's leaders decided it could stay open through Saturday. The last time the resort was open this late was in 1997, when it closed on June 22.
Killington made snow at every opportunity this season, from mid-October through the end of March, said spokesperson Kristel Killary. Killington has significantly invested in recent years in its snowmaking system, which is able to generate 12 inches of fresh snow every 24 hours. The resort also receives roughly 250 inches of natural snow every year, helping the lifts stay open well into the spring.
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The final day of skiing and riding will put a bow on an “absolutely successful year,” Killary said.
Killington's summer offerings, including golf and mountain biking, are also open to the public.
Contact Blaise Siefer at 978-505-4363 or BSiefer@freepressmedia.com. Follow him on Twitter at @Blaise_Siefer.
This article originally appeared on Burlington Free Press: Vermont's Killington ski resort ends season with Pride Month benefit
