Snowbasin extends ski season

HUNTSVILLE — The exceptional snow totals and cooler weather prompted a Wasatch Front ski resort to extend its season. For the first time, Snowbasin reopened in June.

Beginning Saturday, the resort welcomed skiers and snowboarders again and will remain open for as long as snow conditions allow.

"Cool temperatures and a significant amount of late season snow has kept our base over 100 inches deep at mid-mountain, so it only seems natural for Snowbasin to reopen on weekends," said Snowbasin general manager Kent Lyons.

Snowbasin said passes from the past 2010-11 season will not be honored, but single-day lift tickets are available for purchase.

The warmer-weather deep snow was a big attraction to snow enthusiasts who hit the slopes.

"The shred is amazing … it's awesome to be out here in June," said snowboarder Rachel Webb. "It's so warm!"

While the snow was a bit slushy by mid-morning, Snowbasin's first-ever June opening drew in a decent crowd.

"I was completely surprised," said snowboarder Ryan Wicknick. "I had no idea they would do something like this."

Typically, the resort would be open for mountain biking, along other spring and summer activities, but the unexpected snowpack prompted a change in plans. And management said the resort will stay open as long as possible.

"We're going to be open until the snow goes away," said Jason Dyer, Snowbasin public relations and marketing director. That was good news for hard-core skiers and snowboarders.

"I mean how much snow there is for June is crazy," Wicknick said.

Snowbird Ski and Summer Resort in Little Cottonwood Canyon also plans to maintain a weekend schedule as long as conditions allow — promising to stay open at least through the July 4.

Email: jlee@desnews.com