Arapahoe Basin Ski Area Appoints First Female Patrol Director

Featured Image: Lucas Herbert, Arapahoe Basin

There's a new sheriff in town at Arapahoe Basin. And by sheriff, we mean Ski Patrol Director. Lizzy Schofield was recently promoted to Patrol Director, making her the first female to hold the position in the resort's history.

A seasoned veteran of The Basin, Lizzy Schofield has spent 15 years working in various departments such as Base Area, Snowmaking, Via Ferrata, and Ski Patrol. "Her broad mountain ops experience and dedication to team building make her the perfect hire for the job. We could not be more excited to promote Lizzy into this position," said A-Basin Communications Manager Shayna Silverman. 

The move isn't just a big deal for Lizzy, but a historic moment for the mountain itself. With this promotion, both the A-Basin Patrol Director and Assistant Patrol Director positions are held by women, a first for the ski area. Lindsay Weibold will continue as Assistant Patrol Director for the coming season.

Lizzy Schofield, A-Basin Ski Patrol Director | Photo: Courtesy of Arapahoe Basin

Unsurprisingly, Schofield told FREESKIER that she's both excited and extremely proud of the role, ready to take on the challenges that come with patrolling one of North America's most extreme ski resorts. She stressed the importance of equal opportunity when it comes to leadership positions in male-dominated fields, such as ski patrolling.

"When women join any industry and don't see other women in positions of power, it's discouraging. I'm honored to be able to be that person here that helps others feel welcomed, safe, and like they belong," said Schofield. She continued, "Previously, there have been women all across the ski world who were qualified for roles like this one, but the industry wasn't ready for them and they were looked over. Lindsay [Weibold] and I have both dedicated years to this patrol and have earned the opportunity to lead our team."

Schofield and Weibold will have plenty of opportunities to showcase their leadership in the coming season, as securing the terrain at A-Basin is no easy task. With over 2,500 vertical feet, nearly 1,500 skiable acres and a summit elevation of 13,050 feet, it's one of the most famous freeride destinations in the world.

With that prestige comes incredible challenges, but Schofield and Weibold have been learning the mountain inside out for years, and will no doubt continue The Basin's storied legacy. Snag your 2026/27 Arapahoe Basin pass before winter hits!