Mountain Travel Symposium Summit Award

The winners of the 2024 MTS Summit Award are SkiWelt Wilder Kaiser - Brixental and Vail Resorts, both of whom submitted truly outstanding entries. We would also like to extend an honorable mention to Ski Utah for their Discover Winter program. But it wasn't just the winners who impressed us. We were truly inspired by all of the nominations we received, which highlighted the incredible work being done in our industry. From cutting-edge technology to community-driven initiatives, we are proud to be a part of an industry that is constantly pushing the boundaries and striving for excellence. 

SkiWelt Wilder Kaiser - Brixental stands as one of the world's largest ski areas, boasting 82 modern lifts and 270 km of piste. Impressively, it has maintained its green credentials for over two decades by operating solely on renewable hydroelectric power. The area's commitment to sustainability is evident through pioneering projects, such as Europe's first solar-powered lift and extensive use of solar energy across various facilities. Water conservation is a priority, with 17 natural reservoirs integrated into the landscape for snow-making, utilizing snow melt, rain, and spring water. Innovative techniques, including GPS-equipped snow groomers, have led to a 25% reduction in water consumption since 2017. Additionally, SkiWelt harnesses solar power and waste heat to further minimize its environmental impact, with plans to expand these initiatives.

Recognized for its eco-friendly practices, SkiWelt has received prestigious awards and continues to strive for environmental excellence. Its commitment extends beyond operations to transportation, with convenient train and bus connections dating back over 75 years. As a pioneer in sustainable travel, SkiWelt offers a variety of eco-friendly options, including overnight trains and shuttle services from major cities, promoting green alternatives for visitors. With ongoing efforts to reduce its carbon footprint and innovative projects in the pipeline, SkiWelt remains dedicated to preserving the environment while providing world-class skiing experiences.

Vail Resorts, with nearly 55,000 employees across 41 mountain resorts, recognizes that providing an exceptional guest experience starts with ensuring their team feels supported. In mountain communities, mental health challenges are prevalent, impacting one in five adults. Understanding this, Vail Resorts launched Epic Wellness, prioritizing mental health prevention through comprehensive support. Epic Wellness offers an array of resources, including free therapy accessible from day one of employment, doubling its mental health care investment since 2022. Notably, it has expanded therapy options, introduced a mindfulness app, and provided confidential coaching for personal wellness goals. The clinical network now includes specialists for various populations and concerns, with more on-site therapists for easier access. 

Moreover, Vail Resorts' commitment extends to virtual peer support resources and events like Epic Wellness Month, promoting mental health awareness and community building. Dr. Corey Levy and Alexis Ramirez lead the dedicated Epic Wellness Team, emphasizing proactive support and reducing stigma. The company's goal is to make mental health care as normal and accessible as physical health care, ensuring employees can care for themselves and each other effectively. By investing in these initiatives, Vail Resorts aims to create a culture where mental wellness is prioritized, empowering employees to thrive personally and professionally.