MT. CRESTED BUTTE, Colo. – September 29 – Crested Butte Mountain Resort (CBMR) officially opened for skiing in November of 1961, and this year’s opening day marks the resort’s 50th birthday and the culmination of a year long celebration. To honor its golden year, CBMR is offering a free lift ticket valid on November 23, 2011, opening day for the 2011-2012 season. To sweeten the deal, the resort also is offering a free lift ticket for “your” birthday whenever it may fall during the winter season.

CBMR’s opening day birthday celebration includes live music with Drew Emmitt, fun events, a big birthday cake, and party favors. And, free skiing, of course; parties are tradition in “Colorado’s Last Great Ski Town.”

CBMR’s “Ski Free on Your Birthday” offer is valid throughout the 2011-2012 winter season. Skiers and riders must show a valid photo ID at the CBMR Adventure Center on the day they were born to receive a free day of skiing for that day. Participants must be 18 years of age or older with a valid photo ID to prove their official date of birth.

“We couldn’t think of a more appropriate way to celebrate our 50th birthday than with free skiing for all resort guests on opening day,” said Daren Cole, vice president of sales and marketing for CBMR. “The ‘Ski Free on Your Birthday’ offer is the icing on the cake.”

“Ski Free” was a long-time tradition at CBMR. The resort ran a special promotion for nine years between 1991 and 2000 and then again during the 2007/2008 season. Though resort operators have since discontinued the Ski Free program, resurrecting the offer for special celebrations may become a new tradition.

2011-2012 PACKAGES AND SPECIAL OFFERS

Early Season Package

It’s another La Nina year and that could mean exceptional early season skiing and riding at CBMR. From November 22 – December 2, the resort is offering lodging and lift tickets for $69 per person, per night. From December 3 – 15, the rate is $89 per person, per night. To reserve an Early Season Package visit www.skicb.com/specials or call Crested Butte Vacations at 800-600-2803 .

Half off Every 2nd Night at Elevation

Every second night is half off at the Elevation Hotel & Spa. Book one night get the next at half off. Price is subject to availability. This offer good for travel between December 16, 2011 to January 28, 2012 and cannot be combined with any other offer. Valid only on new reservations. For more information visit www.skicb.com/specials or call Crested Butte Vacations at 800-600-2803 .

About Crested Butte:

Nestled in the heart of Colorado’s Rocky Mountains, Crested Butte is committed to preserving the pristine landscape and mountain lifestyle. With vibrant Victorian store-fronts and expressive local characters, the small historic town remains true to its heritage and radiates an unparalleled welcoming and inviting spirit that celebrates a simpler life and time. Thanks to a widely diverse landscape outdoor enthusiasts of all levels will find a new challenge with each visit. From world-class mountain biking, to legendary skiing and snowboarding, to a secluded fly-fishing experience, Crested Butte is one of Colorado’s best-kept secrets.

For more information about Crested Butte’s lodging, conference, meeting facilities, and special packages, call Crested Butte Vacations, (800) 600-2803 or visit the website at www.skicb.com . For information on ski area real estate opportunities call (970) 349-4999 or (877) 805-6109 or visit the website at www.cbliving.com .