Vail Mountain Opening Day is TODAY! Vail Mountain opened at 9 am this morning, and was preceded by the opening of Vail’s new Gondola, Vail Gondola No. 1., at 8:30 this morning. Today marks the beginning of Vail’s 50th Season, and the opening of the new Gondola is just one of the many events that will make this 50th year for Vail a special one. The opening of the new Gondola was quite an event, as guests were greeted with cookies, hot chocolate and commemorative pins. After the Gondola was switched on, hats and mittens were thrown to the crowd as well in celebration of Vail’s 50th season. The gondola is at the base of the mountain in Vail Village, replacing the old #16 Vista Bahn Express Lift.
The Vail Lift Crew prepares to open the new Vail Gondola – Gondola No. 1
Some Fans of Vail dressed in costume for the Opening of the New Gondola – nice costumes guys!
People began to show up around 8 this morning, and the excitement grew until 8:30 when the ceremony began. A few fans showed up in costume to support the opening of the gondola, and others stood in the crisp morning air waiting for the gondola to open so they could take advantage of the heated seats – one of the major selling points of the new gondola. Christopher Jarnot, COO of Vail Mountain, said a few words to start and thanked all the staff and crew that helped this project become a reality. And it has been truly amazing watching the progress of the new Gondola, and finally seeing it in action. Soon after, Rob Katz, CEO of Vail Resorts, spoke and communicated his excitement about the new Gondola to the crowd, and made sure everyone knew that Vail has been here for 50 years now!! What an accomplishment!
This 50th Anniversary is a bit more special to some than others, mainly for the ones that were here on opening day 50 years ago. Some veterans did show up today, including members of the 1962 Ski Club Vail. The Ski Club was also founded in 1962, and helped produce many athletes that went on to join the US Ski Team and even win Olympic Medals.
Some of the original members of the 1962 Ski Club Vail
And here is what the Gondola they rode in 1962 looked like
The christening of the new Gondola and the inaugural “First Chair” ride took place shortly after the ceremonial ribbon was cut, and the Gondola was opened to the public shortly thereafter. Check out these pictures of the opening of Vail’s newest improvement, Gondola No. 1.
And the Ribbon is getting cut!
The Inaugural “First Chair” ride on Vail’s new Gondola No. 1
The members of the Inaugural Ride included Rob Katz, and friends and family of the founders of Vail
And they’re off! Congratulations Vail on opening the new Gondola No. 1!
This crowd of people were the first 100 or so to ride the Gondola!
View the complete photo album on the Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals Facebook Page – and if you like any of the photos, please “Like” or “Comment” on them!
Be sure to contact one of our Friendly. Knowledgeable. Locals.® today to plan your Winter Vacation to Vail to ride the new Gondola No. 1 – with wi-fi and heated seats!
