Bogus Basin’s General Manager Receives Governor’s Lifetime Achievement Honor

Lieutenant Governor Scott Bedke presented Brad Wilson, General Manager of Bogus Basin Mountain Recreation Area, with the Governor’s Lifetime Achievement Award during an evening reception at the Idaho Conference on Recreation and Tourism (ICORT) on Tuesday. The Governor’s Lifetime Achievement Award recognizes individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the development, management, or conservation of Idaho’s recreation resources, and/or to the development, management, or promotion of tourism within the state.

Brad Wilson is the seventh General Manager at Bogus Basin, a beloved recreation hub for the Treasure Valley since 1942. In the last decade, Bogus Basin has undergone a remarkable transformation, with $70 million reinvested into the mountain.

“[Brad Wilson is] a testament to unwavering dedication. He’s an exceptional leader, and has made many invaluable contributions to our state… We are in the presence of a remarkable leader.”

Lieutenant Governor, Scott Bedke
Significant capital improvement projects include installing Idaho’s second-largest snowmaking system, replacing the Morning Star, Coach, and Bitterroot chairlifts with updated quad chairlifts, and a major exterior remodel of Pioneer Lodge, set to open this winter. In 2017, Bogus Basin broadened its year-round appeal with attractions like The Glade Runner Mountain Coaster, The Basin Gravity Park — the Treasure Valley’s only lift-served bike park – The Explorer Basecamp, and most recently, The Mineshaft Challenge Course, which opened in 2023. 

Bogus Basin’s continued growth has made positive impacts on the Idaho community, from increased employment opportunities to expanded environmental education and youth outreach programs that engage and support the next generation of outdoor enthusiasts.

“I saved the best for last in my career. Idaho is remarkable, the Treasure Valley is really a treasure, and I am surrounded by a group of individuals every day that are absolutely incredible.” saod Brad Wilson, General Manager

In his speech, Brad touched on the challenges facing the outdoor recreation industry, including unpredictable weather patterns, variable snowpacks, wildfire threats and the soaring insurance costs associated, liability protection and skier statutes, and the sale of Federal Lands. Bogus Basin leases 2,800 acres of public land from the U.S. Forest Service, and works closely with the agency to responsibly care for the Boise National Forest.

“Challenges are nothing new to outdoor recreation, and they are surely not anything new to the ski industry. I know that we can beat these challenges.” added Wilson, 

Wilson’s career reflects a deep commitment to outdoor recreation, and ensuring that future generations can enjoy the landscapes and experiences that make Idaho special. For more information, please visit Bogus Basin’s website at bogusbasin.org.