The season pass sale starts Monday, Feb. 18, and the price of for an adult pass has increased for the first time in 15 years from $199 to $229.

The increase is needed to maintain basic mountain operations, said Alan Moore, Bogus Basin CEO.

"Everything has gone up from diesel fuel to seasonal labor to operation of the high-speed quads since the $199 pass was introduced," Moore said. "We need a little extra to pay the bills."

In addition to making the decision to raise the price, Moore said, Bogus has had to deal with "not an over abundance of snow" this season.

Low snow fall has affected attendance, which is currently at 85 percent of normal, he said.

Bogus was also hampered by late snow during the 2011-12 season and had its latest opening ever. As a result, the ski area offered returning season passholders the $199 season pass for $179 in 2012 during the traditional Presidents Day week sale.

Attendance might have been worse this season if it hadn't been for the inversion in the Treasure Valley. Skiers and snowboarders kept coming to the mountain to escape the gloom and enjoy blue skies and warm temperatures.

"People on the deck at the J.R. Simplot Lodge looked like they thought they were in the Bahamas," Moore said.

To keep people coming to the mountain, Moore said, the ski area is trying to make the price increase as small as possible so as not to price out families and the long-time season pass holders.

PRICE DETAILS

• The cheapest prices are from Monday, Feb. 18 until Sunday, Feb. 24.

• People can buy the 2013-14 season pass now and use it for the rest of the current season.

• To buy a pass, go to bogusbasin.org, the office, 2600 Bogus Basin Road, or call 332-5162.

• Feb. 18-Feb. 24: $229, individuals (12-69); $916, families; $59, 7 to 11; free, preschool/seniors (6 and under and 70 and older).

• Feb. 25-March 31: $259, individuals; $1,036, families; $59, 7 to 11; free, preschool/seniors.

• April 1-Sept. 30: $299, individuals; $1,196, families; $59, 7 to 11; free, preschool/seniors.

• Oct. 1-Nov. 30: $389, individuals; $1,556, families; $59, 7 to 11; free, preschool/seniors.

• Dec. 1- during season: $429, individuals; $1,716, families; $59, 7 to 11; free, preschool/seniors.