Arapahoe Basin, CO – After a week of cold temperatures for snowmaking and several fresh inches of natural snow, Arapahoe Basin ski area officials announce that opening day for the Colorado resort’s 2011-12 ski and snowboard season will be tomorrow.  The ski area has only been closed 100 days since last season ended on July 4, 2011.

Black Mountain Express will open to the public at 9:00 a.m. on Thursday.  Skiers and riders can expect an 18-inch base on the intermediate High Noon run along with several features in the High Divide Terrain Park.  There will be no beginner skiing available at this time.

A tribute to Arapahoe Basin founders Marnie Jump and Max Dercum, who passed away last month at the age of 98, will take place before the lifts open to the public.

Opening day adult lift tickets will be available for $59, youth tickets age 15 – 18 will be $49 and child tickets age 6-14 will be $30.  The ski and snowboard rental shop, tune shop, food and beverage service, the 6th Alley bar and retail shop will be open to the public.  Snowsports lessons will be available on a limited basis.

Local radio station, KYSL will be doing a live morning show and giving away lift tickets on-air.  KSMT will also be on site in the base area with a live remote, playing music and handing out give-aways.