Want first crack at the runs in Aspen? The Aspen Skiing Co. is offering an "Ultimate Ski Pass" that will let you have unlimited first tracks before chairlifts open to the public — for $25,000.
The exclusive passes also allow holders to meet members of the U.S. Women's Ski Team when they race in Aspen on Thanksgiving weekend. And they include breakfast with Aspen native Bill Marolt, president of the U.S. Ski and Snowboard Association.
The Ultimate Ski Passes have perks for more than just the few who can afford them. Proceeds from the pricey passes will be split between supporting public schools in the Roaring Fork Valley and helping present events tied to World Cup ski racing in Aspen.
"Philanthropy with rewards is the idea behind the Ultimate Ski Pass, which strengthens Aspen's unique community" while offering holders some VIP privileges, Skico said in a promotional piece for the passes.
It's the third year the ski resort has sold the high-cost ski passes. Aspen Skiing Co. says it is offering 18 of the passes this season and has sold one, The Aspen Times reported.
"We've typically sold two or three (of the passes per season) so we don't have an expectation that we will sell them all," said Matt Hamilton, Skico director of sustainability.
The passes are transferable and valid at Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, Snowmass and Buttermilk.
The Ultimate Pass morphed out of the Foundation Mountain Pass, which raised funds for the Aspen Community Fund and a foundation connected to the owners. In that program, a pass good for four seasons was sold for $135,000.
