Colorado Ski Resort Opening Dates 2025–26: When & Where to Hit the Slopes
- liliaasenova
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
Updated: 24 hours ago
The countdown is on - Colorado’s ski season is almost here! Whether you chase the early snow at Arapahoe Basin or save your legs for that perfect powder day in Vail or Aspen, now’s the time to start planning your first run of the season.
To make it easier, we’ve rounded up Colorado’s top ski resorts, their opening dates, and which season passes get you access.
The Epic Pass: Colorado’s Classic Ski Experience
If your dream ski trip includes unlimited access to Vail, Beaver Creek, Breckenridge, Keystone, or Crested Butte, the Epic Pass is your golden ticket. You’ll even get 7 days at Telluride, one of Colorado’s most scenic ski towns.
2025–26 Epic Pass: Colorado Ski Resort Opening Dates (Estimated):
Keystone: Early November (often one of the first to open)
Breckenridge: November 7
Vail: November 14
Beaver Creek: November 26
Crested Butte: November 26
Telluride: November 28
Dates are conditional on snow/weather and may shift. Check resort websites close to your travel date.
Epic Pass Benefits:
Epic Mountain Rewards: 20% off food, lodging and more.
Epic Coverage: Refund protection for injuries, job loss, or closures.
Friends & Family Tickets: Save 50% off for your crew.
Summer Perks: Free scenic lift rides and 20% off activities at participating resorts.
Epic Pass Prices (2025–26 Season)*:
Adult (13+): $1,121
Child (5–12): $572
*Note: Prices tend to go up late in the year. Early purchases = best value.
From high-end après ski at Vail’s Chasing Rabbits to fireside cocktails in Beaver Creek, the Epic resorts deliver that blend of glamour and alpine adventure that defines Colorado’s ski scene.
The Ikon Pass: For the Adventurous Skier
The Ikon Pass opens the door for unlimited skiing in Steamboat Springs, Winter Park, Copper Mountain, Arapahoe Basin (new expanded access), and Eldora - plus 7 total days at Aspen’s legendary four mountains: Aspen Mountain, Snowmass, Buttermilk, and Aspen Highlands. (Remember that Aspen lift reservations are required!)
2025–26 Ikon Pass: Colorado Ski Resort Opening Dates (Estimated):
Arapahoe Basin: October (often the first in Colorado to open)
Copper Mountain: November 7
Winter Park: November 8
Eldora: November 14
Steamboat Springs: November 22
Aspen / Snowmass: November 27
Aspen Highlands: December 13
Buttermilk: December 13
Dates are conditional on snow/weather and may shift. Check resort websites close to your travel date.
Icon Pass Prices (2025–26 Season)*:
Adult (23+): $1,519
Young Adult (13–22): $1,179
Child (5–12): $449
4 and under: $149
*Note: Prices tend to go up late in the year. Early purchases = best value.
Ikon Pass Benefits:
Up to 50% off for Friends & Family (12 discounted tickets)
15% off food, beverage, and retail at select destinations
Defer your pass: Unused passes can be deferred for credit until Dec 11, 2025
2 Free Bike Park Days at select resorts
Extra discounts from partner retailers and travel brands
Ikon resorts tend to have a more local, community-driven vibe - perfect for travelers who love big snow without big crowds. From the champagne powder of Steamboat to the culture and luxury of Aspen, Ikon’s lineup is unbeatable for variety.
Early Season Tip
Colorado’s snowmaking teams usually fire up by late October. Arapahoe Basin and Keystone often compete to be the first resorts to open in the U.S., so if you’re eager to click into your skis early, that’s where you’ll want to start.
As the season unfolds, Vail and Aspen typically open around Thanksgiving - just in time for the holiday crowds and fresh snowfall.
Plan Your Ride to the Slopes
Wherever your pass takes you, we’ll make sure you get there comfortably. From private SUVs for couples’ getaways to luxury vans for group trips, our chauffeurs take the stress out of your winter travel - so all you have to think about is fresh powder and après plans.
From Our Team to You
Every season, we’re reminded how lucky we are to help people create unforgettable moments in the Colorado mountains - whether it’s a first ski trip, a family tradition, or a reunion on the slopes. We can’t wait to be part of your winter story!
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