McCall, ID - Brundage Mountain Resort is offering free chairlift rides on Thursday, July 2nd as the Idaho ski and snowboard resort stages a special celebration to kick off its 2009 summer season.


The Grand Opening Celebration takes place Thursday, July 2nd from 12:00 noon to 5:00 p.m. Visitors can stop by the ski area's Bike Shop to get their free scenic lift or mountain bike tickets for a ride up the Blue Bird High Speed Quad to Brundage Mountain’s 7,640 foot-summit. Brundage Mountain has a new fleet of mountain bikes available for rent.

Idaho's Brundage Mountain ski resort will offer free summer chairlift rides for mountain biking or sightseeing on July 2nd. (photo: Brundage Mountain Resort)

Trail crews are already hard at work getting the ski area's more than 20 miles of single track whipped into shape for great summer riding. Those who don’t bike can enjoy the mountain greenery on the way up, and enjoy 360-degree views from the summit that include the Payette Lakes, Long Valley, Meadows Valley, the Seven Devils, and even Oregon’s Eagle Cap mountains.

“We want to build excitement for the summer season by giving everyone a chance to experience the summer beauty of Brundage Mountain,” said resort spokesperson April Russell. “There’s nothing like great food and a free ride to encourage people to come celebrate with us, then spread the word about how much fun they had.”

Beer and brats will be available for purchase, thanks to the brand new Salmon River Brewery. Visitors will find a variety of artisan beer styles, Double Smoked Bacon Brats, Volcanic Brats, kettle chips, and more.

Regular summer lift hours are Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with a bonus day to close the season on Monday, September 7th.