Celebrate the final days of KBL with a smashing good time March 20, spring skiing/riding won’t be adversely affected, resort says — and new lodge to open in November
They say all good things must come to an end, and after a run spanning more than six decades, the classic K-1 Lodge (formerly known as KBL) will soon be stripped, smashed and removed to make room for the final phase of construction of the new, state-of-the-art K-1 Lodge facility opening in November 2022.
Such a historic building must not go quietly, so the K-1 Lodge’s last hurrah will happen on March 20, with the official tear down party.
The resort encourages skiers and riders to stop by for fun events all day long including a free photo booth, swag giveaways, and an energetic live performance by Remember Jones from 3-5 p.m. There will also be a chance to leave your mark, with an open invitation to sign the walls of Mahogany Ridge—from the windows to the famous Wobbly Barn mural. And if you’d like to own a piece of K-1 forever, a virtual silent auction will take place for memorabilia from the lodge. The day will conclude with “a toast to end all toasts” (for all guests 21+), the resort announced in a press release, March 8.
As the home of the longest season in the East, Killington Resort stated that spring skiing and riding will not be hindered despite the lodge being gone. Fencing will be installed to safely separate the construction, and a wide strip of skiable terrain will remain in front of the lodge allowing access to the K-1 Gondola normally. A pedestrian walkway will also be maintained from the K-1 parking lot to Superstar Quad.
A ticket trailer will remain open in the K-1 parking lot, in addition to self-serve kiosks. (This trailer is also where 100 Day Club inductees can grab their swag.)
But, much like last season, it’s going to be best to use your car as a base lodge at K-1. (Pro tip: add a cooler, a plastic welcome mat and some folding chairs for the true tailgate experience. It’ll be the scene!)
The resort does however plan for midweek closures of upper Killington Road but access to K-1 will remain open via Vale Road.
To fuel up midday, the Beastro Food Truck will remain open seven days serving tacos, burritos and chili, and an additional temporary structure will be put in place, offering grab-and-go options. The resort also plans to expand outdoor seating options in the K-1 Base area, bringing in more picnic tables and the Roaring Brook Umbrella Bar will include a full-service bar and barbecue daily. An elevated stage will feature après entertainment (weather permitting). Portable rest rooms will also be put in place prior to lodge closure.
Additionally, the Ramshead Lodge will resume full services seven days a week after March 20, and the snow making team has been adding extra depth on Caper and lower sections of Great Northern to keep the skiing going as long as possible at this lower elevation.
“Of course, even the best laid plans are subject to change, but one thing that is for sure, the Beast is committed to keeping the spring energy and good vibes alive as long as the snow lasts,” the resort stated.
After the K-1 teardown party, March 20, the Beast’s spring celebrations include: the Bear Mountain Mogul Challenge April 2, the the Dazed & Defrosted/Season Pass Holder Appreciation event at the Roaring Brook Umbrella Bar on April 16, an Easter Sunrise service at the Peak Lodge on April 17, May Day Slalom on May 1 and a Memorial Day (May 28-30) kickoff to summer weekend (yes, you can ski/ride too, conditions permitting).
Why does it need to be taken down? Why not just add on so a building with history doesn’t need to be lost?