Pass openings

I'd be curious to see information on both pass closures as well as ski area openings.

For instance, I recall that Stevens Pass opened sometime in late October my sophomore year of high school - 1994. Does anyone else recall such an early opening that year? It seems anomalous, perhaps it's wrong.

Armed with data about ski area opening dates, we can all rationalize away the heartache of years like this, when ski areas open unusually - or so it seems - late.

I also wonder if the trend towards almost everybody having a season pass could lead to slightly later openings if they don't stand to make as much $$$ by opening earlier if the majority of the skiers & riders aren't buying tickets.  Of course they still need to be open by Christmas, but maybe it plays a role.   

I can't speak with any knowledge of Washington resorts, but I was lucky enough to witness the deliberations over closing dates for an east coast resort I used to work at. The operating costs (utilities and seasonal employees) began to exceed the sales revenue fairly early in the spring, long before the snow was gone. The resort decided to stay open longer specifically because the season passholders expected it, and they feared an early close would lead to a loss of season pass sales.

So, at least in that case, the number of season passes sold lengthened the season, not shortened it.

I'd be curious to see information on both pass closures as well as ski area openings.

For instance, I recall that Stevens Pass opened sometime in late October my sophomore year of high school - 1994. Does anyone else recall such an early opening that year? It seems anomalous, perhaps it's wrong.

Armed with data about ski area opening dates, we can all rationalize away the heartache of years like this, when ski areas open unusually - or so it seems - late.

1994 had heavy early season snows (NOV-DEC) then dropped off quick as the season progressed. Here is an article from Nov 3, 1994.

community.seattletimes.nwsource.com/arch...9941103&slug=1939492

Might be off a year but in about 1973 Crystal opened all lifts on Oct 17....and closed July 23. Awe ...... the good old days. Got my moneys worth out of that season pass!