Post #478148 by JOHN-O on Wed, Aug 19, 2009 1:13 PM

On 2009-08-19 08:23, IKABOD wrote:
Suggestions? Connections? Insider knowledge?

IKABOD,

I can provide some guidance here. I've been affiliated with an LA-based ski club and have been running weekend bus trips to Mammoth for almost 20 years. I have relationships with 2 moderately-priced condo complexes and well as a reputable bus charter company. I understand the logistics of getting 30-40 people up and back from Mammoth safely.

Here's a suggested itinerary

1. Friday, 6:30pm - Meet at a central location to board the bus. Van Nuys Fly-Away is a good location as it provides secured parking.
2. 5-6 hour drive to Mammoth - You can serve pre-mixed Mai Tai's while everyone socializes and/or watches Tiki-themed movies.
3. Friday, Midnight - Arrive at condos.
4. Saturday morning - The bus can take everyone to one of the lodges or late sleepers can catch a shuttle.
5. Saturday, 10am - Meet at the sign in front of McCoy Station (mid-mountain) for a group ski.
6. Saturday evening - Private Tiki event at Lakanuki.
7. Sunday morning - Back to the slopes.
8. Sunday noon - Outdoor Tiki BBQ.
9. Sunday, 4pm - Bus departs for LA.
10. Sunday, 9:30pm - Arrive back.

Cost for lodging and the chartered bus would be approx $6000. The bus can hold 45 people. If you get 30 people at $200 each, this would be the break-even point. This does not include lift tickets or event food/drinks.

The major issues are follows:

1. Getting pre-payment as you need to pay for the bus and lodging beforehand.
2. Liability. Ski clubs have insurance for a reason. If you organize a paid event open to the general public, you might have exposure. You should consult with a lawyer if you choose to run a formal event (like Tiki Oasis is).

Please feel free to PM me with your contact info if you decide to move forward with this.

What's Mammoth like in the Spring? Check this out......

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mO_eBYthO2k

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gy1MNJYQ6PA

JOHN-O