US Authorities Examine Purchase of A-Basin by Alterra

14th July 2024

The U.S. Department of Justice cites potential anti-trust concerns.

Alterra already owns and runs Steamboat and Winter Park in Colorado.

Some fear that adding Arapahoe Basin to the portfolio would potentially limit consumer choice and drive prices up.

In 1996 the Department of Justice blocked an attempt by Vail Resort to acquire Arapahoe Basin.

Vail Resorts owns Breckenridge, Beaver Creek, Vail and Crested Bute in Colorado.

At the time it said it would “lessen competition substantially in the Front Range skier market.”

“The DOJ is committed to ensuring a fair and competitive marketplace,” said a department spokesperson.

“We will thoroughly investigate this proposed acquisition to determine its potential impact on skiers and snowboarders in Colorado.”

Arapahoe Basin, Colorado. Image © PlanetSKI

Alterra appears  to be confident the purchase will go through.

“We believe this acquisition will benefit skiers and snowboarders by providing them with more access and greater value,” said an Alterra spokesperson.

Arapahoe Basin, Colorado. Image © PlanetSKI