As April nears each year, we start to think about what sets the closing season apart from all of the others, and we start to think about what we need to work on over the off-season to make the following year that much better. As we pour over our guest surveys, we pick up on themes that reflect our successes and those that reflect areas for growth and improvement. We reminisce memorable moments with one another, and we look back fondly on the closing season.
At the start of the season in mid-November, we welcome our employees from across the country. Some are new and some returning, yet they all share the same sparkle in their eyes, the look of excitement and energy, which is what we require to provide our guests with the best experience possible.
Soon after we are staffed, we quickly enter the holiday season and typically welcome a snowstorm or two. This year was no different as mid-to-late-December saw a series of storms roll through town. It’s always nice when Mother Nature is on our side. Holiday visitors were treated to a collection of holiday-themed events including a scavenger hunt for children, holiday movies in the Saloon, our traditional Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and New Year’s Buffets, and of course a visit from Santa Claus for the kids Christmas morning.
As the holidays wind down, we move into January and find ourselves settled into a nice rhythm. The employees are fully trained, and many of our guests find themselves returning for their second visit. This January, we were honored to host one of our longtime guest as he proposed to his girlfriend in the Top of the Lodge Restaurant. We also received weekly refills of snow, which of course we always celebrate.
Spring sprung early this year and February brought warmer temperatures and vibrant blue skies though it wasn’t completely void of “The Greatest Snow on Earth”, nor was it void of après fun in the Saloon. What is it about sunny ski days that make après so enjoyable? A cold beer after a day on the slopes is just unbeatable.
With spring returned winter and we received more of the “greatest snow on earth” if that makes any sense at all. We always seem to see an abundant return of snowfall once the calendar claims spring is near. We wouldn’t have it any other way and always say spring skiing is some of the best skiing. This year proved to be no different.
And just like that here we are. Alta Ski Area’s first closing days marks the closing day at the Lodge. It’s always strange for the first few weeks after the Lodge shuts down, but just like always we’ll adjust and stay busy preparing for next season. As we mentioned above, the off-season allows us to reflect and regroup making sure we are on target to provide you the best experience possible.
We will stay in touch over the months, and we hope you do as well. Before we know it, we will be rejoicing over those first few snowflakes and your return. Until then, we wish you an adventurous off-season and a fast return to winter.
xoxoxo