October 10, 2017 (BOISE, ID)– With the 2017-18 winter season just around the corner, Bogus Basin is putting the finishing touches to a host of improvements on the mountain. Guests at the nonprofit recreation area will discover a range of new programs, amenities and activities this season. “Back to back great snow years has allowed us to fund these improvements, which will be a welcome surprise for our season pass holders and also attract an entirely new audience to the mountain,” said Brad Wilson, General Manager.
Over the last several months, Bogus Basin has invested over $5 million in the following area improvements:
“Glade Runner” Mountain Coaster: Construction is nearly complete on this highly anticipated 4,100 foot gravity-driven ride with bobsled like cars on elevated tracks, which will operate in both winter and summer. The coaster will load near the front (slope facing) entrance to Simplot Lodge, and wind its way up through the trees towards Pioneer Lodge, before returning on a downhill track to the base area. A fall 2017 opening is planned.
Improved/Expanded Beginner Terrain: The EZ Rider Magic Carpet has been relocated, and two new conveyed lifts have been installed near the Simplot base area, tripling uphill capacity for first-time skiers and boarders. The area between the Deerpoint and Coach chairlifts has been regraded, making it desirable terrain for beginners. A “Children’s Only” zone located in the newly regraded base area now offers the perfect, gentle slope for young first-time skiers. A $69 beginner lesson package, which includes a lesson, equipment rental and Coach area lift ticket is back by popular demand.
Remodeled Simplot Lodge Restrooms: The restrooms on the plaza level and main floor of Simplot Lodge have been completely remodeled, and new tile has been added in the foyer in the back entrance of the building. A family restroom has also been added.
Outdoor Plaza/Double R Ranch BBQ & Smokehouse: A 12,000 square foot heated plaza area, complete with new furniture and gas fire pits, has been built in front of Simplot Lodge. Construction is underway of the Double R Ranch BBQ & Smokehose, a permanent outdoor food kiosk located on the plaza that will feature smoked meats, full bar, and other offerings.
Larger Drop-Off Area: The drop-off area behind the Simplot Lodge has been expanded, which will help reduce traffic congestion and make turning around easier.
New Entry Walkway: An expensive paved walkway, extending from the main parking lot to the plaza level of Simplot Lodge, will improve ease of access to the base area.
Tubing Hill Improvements/Extended Hours: A new conveyer lift at the tubing hill will reduce lines at the bottom of the hill and double capacity. New evening sessions on Friday and Saturday will be added this year.
New Snowcat: Bogus Basin has a new addition to its fleet of snowcats: A Pisten Bully Park Pro 400. The new acquisition will increase the number of cats available per night, and enable one cat to be dedicated to daily grooming in the terrain parks.
Powder Alliance: Bogus Basin is now a member of the Powder Alliance, giving 2017-2018 Bogus Basin season passholders access to an additional 42 free days of skiing to 15 other participating resorts. This expands the number of resort partnerships beyond those included in the President’s Day season pass sale to 23 resorts.
New Fleet of Snowboards, and Demo Skis: Black Diamond Sports rental shop has purchased forty-five brand new pairs of free-ride and all-mountain Demo skis from Rossignol and Vokl. 250 new Rossignol snowboards will be available for rent this season.
Many of these improvements are included in a year-round master plan adopted by Bogus Basin’s Board of Directors in July 2016. The plan was created to bring sustainability to the area, which has struggled financially over its 75 year history, by reducing its dependency upon variable winter conditions. Future projects include additional winter amenity improvements, and snowmaking.
About Bogus Basin Bogus Basin Mountain Recreation Area is a 501(C)(3) organization dedicated to engaging the community to provide accessible, affordable, and fun year-round mountain recreation and education. Opened in 1942, Bogus Basin offers 2,600 acres of daytime skiable terrain, and 165 acres for night skiing; eleven lifts and three people-mover carpets; an 800-foot tubing hill. The Nordic Center offers 37 kilometers of groomed trails. Environmental education and community outreach programs serve over 20,000 individuals annually, primarily youth. Summer activities include the Glade Runner, a 4,251 foot mountain coaster, The Mine Shaft Challenge course, mountain biking, events, hiking and chairlift service for hike and bike transport. Bogus Basin is located 16.5 miles north of Boise, Idaho and operates under a special use permit with the Boise National Forest. www.bogusbasin.org
