Killington 'beasts' North America with Sunday opening

Vermont Business Magazine Killington only closed up in June and now it's all downhill from here. Killington kicked off its 2015-16 winter season at noon on Sunday, becoming the first North American resort to open for skiing and snowboarding.The first turns of the season were dedicated exclusively to Season Pass and Express Card holders, and the resort welcomedthe general public on Monday, October 19, at 9 am. Killington’s operating schedule for the remainder of the week will be updated in real time atwww.killington.com/conditions.Killington Resort isthe largest four-season resort in Eastern North America. It's called "The Beast of the East."

On Sunday, the K-1 Express Gondola provided uploading and downloading to open terrain for skiers and snowboarders from noonto 3 pm and on the North Ridge Triple until 3:45 pm. Skiers and snowboarders used the Peak Walkway to access open terrain and return to the K-1 Express Gondola for the trip down to the base area when finished for the day.

Early season conditions will exist, and snowmaking and other on-mountain operations may be in progress throughout the day on open terrain. Skiing and snowboarding will be on advanced terrain only, providing roughly 600 vertical feet of open trails. Terrain park features will be available beginning on Sunday. No easier terrain will be available at this time.

The Snowshed Sales Center and K-1 Guest Services were open one hour prior to lift opening on Sunday, selling Season Passes and Express Cards for same-day access to the slopes. Express Card holders will only be charged $25 for all ages on Opening Day, and children ages 6 and under will receive a Kids Ski Free ticket if accompanied by a season pass holder. No other passes, tickets, vouchers or reciprocal discounts will be accepted on this day.

Season Pass and Express Card holders were invited to an exclusive appreciation luncheon at K-1 Café on Sunday.

In addition to skiing and snowboarding, the Killington Mountain Bike Park, Beast Mountain Coaster, Skyeride and scenic gondola rides will still operated through Sunday as scheduled, offering multi-sport potential during peak foliage season from 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Beginning on Monday, October 19, 2015, K-1 Express Gondola lift hours will be 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. (for uphill loading). The North Ridge Triple will allow uploading until 3:45 p.m. Lift ticket rates will be $49 for adults (19-64), $38 for Youths (7-18) and $42 for Seniors (65-79). Express Card holders will receive 50% off window rate for midweek, and 25% off weekend rates.

Killington will remain open to the public for skiing and snowboarding as conditions permit. Skiers and riders can prepare for opening day by purchasing lift tickets, season passes and Express Cards now at www.killington.com and 1-800-621-MTNS (6867).

About Killington Resort

Killington Resort is a four season destination sitting on 3,000 acres in the heart of Central Vermont’s Green Mountains. Killington boasts 92 miles of diverse snow sports terrain spread across six peaks including Pico Mountain, and served by the most expansive lift network and snowmaking system in Eastern North America. After the snow melts, Killington features an 18-hole championship golf course, the family-friendly Snowshed Adventure Center, 35 miles of mountain biking trails and 15 miles of hiking trails. The seemingly infinite après, dining, and lodging options have made Killington a world-class destination for East Coast skiers and riders for over 55 years. Visitwww.killington.comfor more information and be social with #beastwinter and #beast365.

KILLINGTON, Vt. (October 16, 2015)– Killington Resort