Mount Washington Alpine Resort will not operate a mountain bike park this summer.
The resort has decided biking is not a viable operation at this time due to escalating costs such as insurance, fuel and labour, and the elevated risk associated with mountain biking. Another factor is an ongoing decline in participation at the bike park.
"It is unfortunate that we have to close the park," Don Sharpe, director of business operations and marketing, said in a news release.
"We have invested a great deal of time and money to create a great riding product but over the last few years the numbers have not been there to support the elevated operational costs."
All mountain bike passes that have been sold will be refunded, he said.
The bike park had operated more than 15 years. Over the years the resort had added the Hawk Chair to be the primary bike access lift, and developed a series of trails to cover all ability levels including the Green Line, a beginner-style trail.
A series of events built around biking had taken place including a jump jam series, Canada Cups, and BC Cup downhill and XC races. The BearClaw Invitational continues to call Mount Washington home.
The resort opens for summer business June 28. It will continue to offer activities such as Mile High chair rides, the bungee trampoline, hiking, Fat Teddy’s Grill, and events such as the Tapped beer fest, and the Wine and Food Festival.
A new music festival that was in the making has been cancelled.