March 31, 2015 (BOISE, ID)– After weathering another mild winter, the departure of its general manager and a sharp decline in season pass sales, Bogus Basin’s Susan Saad remains optimistic about what the future holds for this nonprofit mountain recreation area that has been a treasured asset in our community for 72 years. Bogus closed for the season March 13th, nearly a month earlier than last year.
“Given the unseasonably warm conditions we experienced at the height of the pass sale, we’re not too surprised that we didn’t hit our sales target,” Saad said. Revenue from the annual pass sale is critical to Bogus Basin’s operating budget, and accounts for approximately 60 percent of annual revenue.
“A strong season means we can make improvements, and an average season means we can maintain operations. If we have an off-season, we have to consider our alternatives, including curtailing operations. This was definitely an off-season.”
-Nate Shake, Interim General Manager
A second-chance season pass sale launches Monday with a telephone campaign during which members of Bogus Basin’s board of directors, recreational association, staff, and other volunteers will reach out to community members to ask for their support by renewing their season pass. In addition to the near-lowest season pass price of $259, a number of perks will be offered, including:
- $20 in Bogus Buck giftcards
- Two half-price day tickets to Brundange Mountain ($60 value)
- Entry to win a Go-Pro Hero3 Silver ($300 value)
Bogus Basin’s season pass prices, currently $259 for adults, are among the best values in the industry. Bogus keeps pass prices low to accomplish its nonprofit mission of providing accessible and affordable recreational opportunities, according to Saad, the area’s Director of Development. By contrast, 2015/2016 season passes at areas near Boise range from $299-$1999. Saad explained that there has historically been a close correlation between ski conditions and pass sales, such as in the snow drought years of 1988 and 2001, when pass sales dropped prior to opening the next winter. However, Saad says each fall there is a surge of interest in passes when the first snow appears high in the foothills.
Despite the short term challenges, Bogus remains focused on long term goals: First, get more families outside. Increase activities & events that draw people to the mountain in the summer, and find new ways to entice newcomers to the joy of skiing/snowboarding in the winter. Second, engage with the community. Broaden partnerships with schools, businesses, parks & recreation, hospitals and others to connect more people– especially kids, with mountain programs and activities that combine learning and fun. Third, think “beyond 75.” With a 75th year celebration coming up in 2017, the staff and board at Bogus have got big plans in store. A new look, and a fresh perspective are in the works. “Stay tuned on that,” said Saad.
About Bogus Basin
Bogus Basin is a 501(C)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to engaging the community to provide accessible, affordable, and fun year-round mountain recreation and education. Opened in 1942, Bogus Basin offers 2,600 acres of daytime skiable terrain, and 165 acres for night skiing; seven lifts and two people-moving carpets; and an 800-foot tubing hill. The Nordic Center offers 37 kilometers of groomed trails. Summer activities include mountain biking, amphitheater events, disc golf, private events, and hiking. Bogus Basin is located 16.5 miles north of Boise, Idaho and operates under a special use permit with the Boise National Forest. www.bogusbasin.org.
