Monday, Dec. 03, 2007

Badger Pass not going anywhere

2007-08 SKI SEASON PREVIEW

Badger Pass begins the 2007-08 season with a message to the ski world: We're going nowhere.

Rumors circulated throughout the ski industry last season about the possibility that Badger, the winter-sports playground of Yosemite National Park, had become a financial drain and would be closed in the near future.

Not so, said Badger spokesman Kenny Karst.

"Erroneous rumors," he said. "We're open for the long downhill run."

Badger Pass, the West's oldest ski-snowboard facility (1935), also is one of its smallest. It has always been cost-unfriendly for day-trippers, who are double-hit by park admission and lift tickets. Badger caters more toward customers who are staying at Yosemite properties.

That said, the intimate resort is cloaked in charm and history. Hollywood's A list, including Bing Crosby, frolicked there during the late 1930s and '40s. Photos from a half-century ago decorate the rustic lodge.

If Badger ever closed, it would take a lot of history with it. Karst insists, however, the final closing day won't happen in the near future.

Delaware North, Yosemite's primary concessionaire from Buffalo, N.Y., remains under contract. Karst also believes the people's affection for Badger is another reason to keep it alive.

"There's a tremendous amount of passion for Badger. It is not going away," Karst said. "Badger Pass is not a revenue-driven machine, and the history is incredible. We've seen generation after generation come here and learn how to ski. That is going to continue."

Karst also emphasized plans in 2008 to repave the road connecting Highway 41 and Badger, along with recent maintenance on chairlifts.

"We have stay-and-ski packages where your park admission essentially is rebated," he said. "One of our biggest marketing campaigns is to let people know that Badger is still there."

Badger's scheduled season, conditions pending, will begin Dec. 14 and close April 6.