80 Years of the Legend

Since opening in 1946, A-Basin has earned a reputation as one of Colorado's most notorious ski areas. Known for steeps, deeps, and the most rugged inbounds terrain across Colorado's longest winter season, we've become synonymous with legendary lines, powder days, and a culture that couldn't be found anywhere else in the world.

While lifts have been upgraded, our boundary line expanded, and generations of skiers have come and gone, the philosophy remains simple: skiing and riding above all else. That's reflected in everything we do. Thoughtful crowd management helps preserve the experience on the mountain. Community-centered events keep us connected to the people who make this place special. Genuine hospitality ensures everyone feels welcome. A commitment to conservation and stewardship protects the mountain we all love.

The values that built The Legend 80 years ago continue to guide us today. And nearly a cenutry later, the soul of skiing and riding remains alive and well, welcoming all who value a challenge, individuality, and camaraderie. 

But more than anything, A-Basin has always been about the people. As we celebrate our 80th anniversary this winter, we'll mark the occasion with a season-long celebration of the people and culture that have shaped The Legend for generations, welcoming all who value a challenge, individuality, and camaraderie. While much has changed over the years, the spirit of A-Basin remains the same and that's worthy of a celebration that spans Colorado's longest winter season. 

 

Celebrate 80 Years at The Legend

Throughout the 2026-27 season, we'll be marking this historic anniversary with special events, exclusive deals, unique giveaways, and opportunities to celebrate the community that has made A-Basin what it is today.

 

80-Year-Olds Ski Free

Some of our guests have been part of A-Basin's story from the very beginning. To honor both your legacy and ours, anyone who is 80 years old can ski free every Wednesday throughout the 2026-27 winter season, as well as during our birthday weekend on December 5-6. It's our way of saying thank you to a generation that helped build the ski culture we know and love today.

 

$80 Lift Tickets

Celebrating 80 years shouldn't break the bank. Grab a limited-edition $80 lift ticket every Wednesday throughout the winter season and during our birthday weekend festivities. Early and late-season visitors can enjoy special $50 ticket pricing as well. Whether you've spent a lifetime skiing A-Basin or you're experiencing The Legend for the first time, this is one of the best opportunities all season to be part of our 80th anniversary celebration.

 

The 80-Day Scan Challenge

This season, every day on the mountain could turn into something legendary. During the first 80 days of the season, pass holders who scan their A-Basin Pass or Ikon Pass are automatically entered to win one of 80 prizes. The more days you ski, the more chances you have to win. Prizes range from gear and experiences to the ultimate grand prize: a trip to Mike Wiegele Helicopter Skiing. It's a celebration of what makes A-Basin special, showing up, taking laps, and being part of the community that lives for winter.

 

Join Us for Our Birthday Weekend: December 4-6

The centerpiece of our anniversary season will be an unforgettable birthday celebration honoring 8 decades of skiing, riding, and mountain culture. Dust off your retro one-piece, vintage sweater, or favorite throwback ski gear. Decades-inspired outfits aren't mandatory, but they're highly encouraged.

• Friday, Dec 4 
  • Uphill n’ Chill (on sale soon) 
• Saturday, Dec 5 
  • Free ski & snowboard demo village in Mountain Goat Plaza 
  • Afternoon live DJ in Mountain Goat Plaza  
  • 80th Anniversary Moonlight Dinner at Black Mountain Lodge (on sale soon) 
    • Skin, snowshoe, or ride the lift up under the stars for a multi-course meal and legendary celebration. 
  • Premiere of A-Basin's 80th Anniversary short film 
  • Burying of A-Basin time capsule 
• Sunday, Dec 6 
  • Free ski & snowboard demo village in Mountain Goat Plaza 
  • Prizes and giveaways at Lenawee Express 

 

Here's to the Next 80 Years

80 years ago, a small ski area opened high on the Continental Divide. What followed was the creation of a culture, a community, and a mountain experience unlike any other. As we celebrate this milestone season, we're not just looking back at where we've been. We're celebrating the values that continue to make A-Basin special today and will guide us into the future. The terrain remains challenging. The community remains authentic. The skiing and riding remain the focus.

Some things should never change. Here's to 80 years of The Legend, and many more turns to come.