Big Mountain changes hours, Hellroaring Basin now open

Big Mountain Resort has implemented new lift-operating hours this winter in an effort to ensure the continued safety of its guests.

The resort previously operated the Glacier Chaser (Chair 1) to the 7,000-foot summit with a last ride at 4:20 p.m. daily. Big Mountain is now operating Chair 1 with a last ride at 4 p.m. during Dec. and Jan. and with a last ride at 4:30 p.m. beginning Feb. 1.

"I made the decision to close Chair 1 at 4 p.m. in December and January due to the short daylight hours during those months," said Fred Jones, president of Big Mountain. "The decision was made out of a concern for the safety of our guests and our ability to effectively handle situations that required assistance in getting a skier or boarder off the hill in the late hours of the afternoon."

Big Mountain Resort has opened 550 acres of terrain in Hellroaring Basin, including the Hellroaring Lift (Chair 11) and Hellfire Ski Run (3.5 miles long), bringing the resort to 99 percent open status, with only two small inbound closures.

The resort will welcome the New Year with a variety of events and celebrations, from ski and snowboard contests to festive parties.

Big Mountain's Events Department has announced a "Rockin' Rail Jam" on Dec. 31, an event to debut the new 20-foot rail and battleship box for ski and snowboard stunts. Located just above the T-bar for great spectator viewing, the competition will commence at 5 p.m. and end just before the torchlight parade and fireworks show at 7 p.m. Judges will score the best two jam sessions per rider.

At 7 p.m., the Torchlight Parade will commence with skiers and snowboarders gliding down Ed's Run in an "S" formation with lighted flares for an exciting and magical stream of light. A fireworks show will top off the event.