Afton Alps, a ski resort located next to Afton State Park, invites college students to join them for winter festivities by offering discounts for college students on Wednesday nights in February.
The College Nights at Afton Alps offer lift passes for $39, half of the original price, and rentals on skis and snowboards for $5, all with the presentation of a college ID. The ski resort offers a picturesque landscape as a backdrop for the activities.
“We want to continue to grow the sport and make it more affordable for college-age guests to come and visit,” said Manager of Communications at Vail Resorts, the parent company to Afton Alps, Pamela Hoye.
Night passes are available from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., allowing students to have an adrenaline-filled study break after they are done with their classes for the day. Food specials are also offered to give skiers and snowboarders a chance to warm up and save a bit of money.
“Normally a visit to Afton Alps would cost me over a hundred dollars, which is a big reason why I don’t snowboard as often as I used to. Going tonight is a lot more doable and affordable for me,” said University of Wisconsin – River Falls student Haiden Adams.
While not every chairlift was running, every hill in the park was open to go down and explore. Terrain parks are also open with boxes, pipes, rails and jumps to allow for an even more exhilarating experience.
In addition to the excitement of skiing and snowboarding, these College Nights help students develop a sense of community and friendship. It is an opportunity to interact with peers who share a common interest in winter sports.
Everyone is made to feel at home at Afton Alps regardless of experience. The friendly environment allows for students to help each other out on the slopes.
“It’s unbelievably nice out. I think it’s like 50 degrees and sunny. This feels like spring skiing but it’s February,” said Hamline University student Nick Bennigan.
Despite the warm weather, the hills of Afton Alps were covered in fake snow that was surprisingly good quality. While you may not find a heavy layer of powder, you will not need to bundle up to stay warm.
The next college night will be on Wednesday, Feb. 28, and the Afton team is hoping to offer more college discount nights in the future. No matter how tight a budget is, students can enjoy the excitement of skiing and snowboarding.
