Park City Mountain set to open Friday despite ongoing labor negotiations

Members of the Park City Professional Ski Patrol Association (PCPSPA) stand united on Main Street, holding a sign that reads "Union Strong," as they continue contract negotiations with Vail Resorts ahead of the 2024-25 ski season. Photo: PCPSPA // Willie Maahs

PARK CITY, Utah — Park City Mountain is preparing to open its ski season on Friday, November 22, despite ongoing contract negotiations with its professional ski patrol union, the Park City Professional Ski Patrol Association (PCPSPA).

The unionized ski patrol will be working without a contract as discussions with Vail Resorts continue. Kate Lips, PCPSPA president, emphasized their commitment to maintaining full operations: “We are a professional group of ski patrollers and mountain safety patrollers who are ready to show up and do our jobs with or without that contract.”

While negotiations have been ongoing since March 2024, with 17 meetings already conducted, key economic issues remain unresolved. The union is prioritizing wage discussions and addressing the rising living costs that impact workers’ ability to sustain careers in the area.

Mike Lewis, vice president of mountain operations at Park City Mountain, stated that conversations have been “respectful and productive,” expressing confidence in delivering “a great experience this upcoming winter season.”

Despite the lack of a finalized contract, the ski patrol remains dedicated to their work. Preseason training is already underway, and the union has no plans to disrupt resort operations. As Lips noted, “We want the same thing as the company—we want this resort to thrive.”

The resort is scheduled to open this Friday, with negotiations continuing in the coming weeks.