Industry News
After 27 years of ownership, Dream Unlimited Corp. has announced that it will sell Arapahoe Basin Ski Area, Colorado, to Alterra Mountain Company. The deal is expected to close later in 2024, adding Arapahoe Basin to Alterra’s portfolio of destinations in Colorado.
Arapahoe Basin’s Chief Operating Officer, Alan Henceroth, will remain at the helm managing resort daily operations as well as future capital investments which include plans for expanded parking and snowmaking.
“Change is a rich part of our history at A-Basin. Through different ownerships and eras, we’ve always been able to keep the vibe alive at our mountain. Since 2019, we’ve worked alongside Alterra as a destination on Ikon Pass and I am certain of their commitment to our history, culture, and attitude.”
— Alan Henceroth, Arapahoe Basin Chief Operating Officer
Arapahoe Basin was founded by Colorado Ski Hall of Famer Larry Jump in 1946 as one of the state’s original ski areas. In 1997, after several changes of hand, Arapahoe Basin was purchased by Dundee Realty, later known as Dream. At the time, the resort only had 490 skiable acres. Over the last 27 years, Dream and Arapahoe Basin expanded the ski area to over 1,400 acres, replaced every lift, many of the buildings, and opened the two highest-elevation restaurants in North America, il Rifugio and Steilhang Hut. The historic A-Frame building has remained the same and become one of the most iconic lodges in the ski industry.
At its core, Arapahoe Basin represents the true skier and rider’s mindset with big mountain challenges, a welcoming base area, home-cooked meals, and the friendliest staff in the business all equating to a uniquely authentic experience.
Alterra Mountain Company’s destinations offer premium ski, snowboard, and all-season activities across seven states and three Canadian provinces. At each destination, Alterra leaders are empowered to be decisive, creative and bold in order to retain each mountain’s authentic character. Recognizing the innate value of the unique culture found at each of the mountain communities, Alterra Mountain Company’s goal is to preserve, sustain, and support its two most important resources: the mountains and the people.
Until the closing of the deal, all Arapahoe Basin staff still work for Dream with the primary objective to deliver the same incredible experiences the ski area has provided for the last 27 years under the Canadian realty company. There will be no changes to the 23/24 Ikon Pass winter access or any of the Arapahoe Basin passes.
