Introduction

In a stunning turn of events, ski patrollers and mountain safety workers at Park City Mountain have officially gone on strike, just as a significant snowstorm is blanketing the resort with up to two feet of fresh powder expected by the weekend.

Strike Details

Approximately 200 members of the Park City Professional Ski Patrol Association (PCPSPA) formed a picket line outside the resort's main entrance, citing grievances over bad-faith bargaining and violations of the National Labor Relations Act by Vail Resorts, the parent company of Park City Mountain.

Impact on Skiers

As eager skiers flocked to Canyons Village this morning, they were met not only with lift lines but also with the strike, which has caused the resort to delay lift openings in order to carry out necessary avalanche mitigation efforts.

Avalanche Risks

The Utah Avalanche Center has issued a looming Avalanche Watch through Monday, highlighting the HIGH avalanche danger due to forecasted strong winds and unstable snowpack conditions. Avalanches as deep as 2–4 feet and as wide as 100 feet are a real threat as the storm unfolds over the weekend.

Resort's Response

In a statement, Park City Mountain's Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, Deirdra Walsh, reassured guests: “Despite the union’s actions, we will remain open with safety as our top priority. Our planned terrain will still be accessible.”

Union's Stance

Quinn Graves, the business manager for the striking ski patrol union, addressed the situation, stating, “We walked out at 7:30 a.m. today. The company has forced this strike by repeatedly negotiating in bad faith.”

Conclusion

The strike comes during one of the busiest periods for the resort, notoriously branded as 'powder days' when skiers swarm the slopes for exhilarating fresh snow. Stay tuned for updates as this story develops!