The Christie Peak Express Lift fired up at 8:30 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 22, loaded up with happy skiers and riders.
Video of the first six in line on Opening Day
Video of the 10-second countdown to opening day, courtesy MTN TV
First in line was Ethan Maines, a 9th grader at Steamboat Springs High School and Nordic Combined skier with Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club.
“I got here at 6:30 at night. It’s important for me to get here for first chair because it’s awesome. First chair. It’s opening day.”
Ethan was watching the livestream of the base area Tuesday night and noticed crews setting up the sound system. He thought it was someone getting first in line so he jumped on his bike, with his skis, and two backpacks full of gear to spend the night, and he biked over to the ski area base.
His dad, Adam, showed up a few hours later to keep him company. They camped out in front of the chairlift all night.
One thing that was tough was when the snowmaking machine right next to the lift went on at about 10 a.m.
Others started showing up at 3 a.m. to catch the first chair with Ethan and his dad.
The lift line was full when resort officials rang the bell to start off the season. Skiers and riders, both from Steamboat Springs and from out of town, quickly made it up the hill to take a few turns on the first day of the 2023-2024 season.
Ethan was interviewed by all local media. Here he is being interviewed by Tom Skulski with the Steamboat Pilot.
The Christie Peak Express Lift is running serving seven trails and 25 acres of terrain. The resort sends word that the forecast calls for prime snowmaking conditions Saturday through Tuesday which could mean around-the-clock snowmaking to get more terrain opened up.
The Steamboat Gondola is open for scenic gondola rides. Dining will be available up at Thunderhead on Saturday and Sunday.
STEAMBOAT ANNOUNCES TERRAIN AVAILABLE ON OPENING DAY