Vail Resorts Inc. said the ski season got off to a stronger-than-expected start at its Colorado resorts, boosting its potential ability to pump almost $100 million into its mountain venues in 2007.

The Broomfield-based resort operator's net income rose by 23 percent to $53 million, or $1.35 a share, on revenue of $361 million. That compares with income of $43 million, or $1.12 a share, with revenue of $288 million in the same quarter ended Jan. 31 last year.

The company's stock responded by jumping 6 percent, and hit a 52-week high.

Vail expects to spend as much as $95 million on capital investments this year, with about $40 million going into maintaining its five ski resorts, which include Vail, Beaver Creek, Breckenridge and Keystone in Colorado.

The company, which already charges premium prices for lift tickets, expects its continued investments to allow it to continue to charge more for its offerings. Its forecast for 2007 represents an increase of about $20 million over last year's planned capital expenditures.

"The more that we put into the experience, the better the experience - and the more guests will be willing to pay," Vail CEO Rob Katz said.

The company's financial performance has allowed it to invest more capital than rival ski areas, some which have been trying to catch up in recent years.

"They set a standard," RRC Associates' Nolan Rosall said of Vail Resorts. "They excel in putting money back into the product."