If skiing or snowboarding is part of your life next winter, April is when the smartest planning starts.
Resorts have begun rolling out season pass products, early pricing windows are open, and next winter is starting to come into focus. It’s also when skiers and riders have the best chance to compare options, think through how often they realistically plan to ski, and make a move before prices start climbing.
The best time to plan next winter’s ski days is right now.
At this point, nearly every Colorado Ski Country USA member resort has released its 2026–27 season pass information, so there is plenty to look into. The main exception is Telluride, which is expected to release pass details in August. For Winter Park and Steamboat, season pass access is available through Ikon Pass products.
Many resorts also have bundled ticket products available now, which is helpful for people who know they may not need a full pass next season. Either way, right now is the best time to start comparing options and following your favorite resort on social media for updates, deadlines, and new details as they roll out.
Season pass links: Arapahoe Basin – Aspen Snowmass – Ski Cooper – Copper Mountain – Echo Mountain – Eldora – Granby Ranch – Loveland – Monarch Mountain – Powderhorn – Purgatory – Steamboat – Sunlight – Winter Park
April is a sweet spot for season pass shopping. It gives skiers and riders a rare combination of flexibility and opportunity: time to compare options, space to think about next season, and a chance to lock in value before prices begin to rise.
Buying early also makes the rest of winter easier to plan. Once your pass is in place, it’s much simpler to think through trips, schedules, partner mountain access, and the overall shape of the season ahead.
Not every skier or rider needs a season pass. But for people planning to ski or ride regularly next winter, buying one early can make a lot of sense.
A simple way to think about it: if next winter includes six to ten days or more on the mountain, a season pass is worth a close look. Beyond a handful of visits, a full pass often starts to make more sense than piecing together day tickets or smaller bundles.
A bundled ticket product, like a 4-pack or similar multi-day option, can be a better fit for people who expect to ski or ride just a few days next winter. It can also work for skiers and riders who want to keep things flexible, are trying out a new mountain, or simply are not ready to commit to a full season pass. Many of those bundled ticket products are on sale now too, so it is worth checking resort websites and social channels for the latest details and timing.
A season pass can open more doors than people realize.
At many Colorado resorts, passes come with added benefits at partner resorts, whether that means discounted lift tickets or a few days to explore somewhere else. For skiers and riders who like to mix in a road trip, ski with friends at different mountains, or just keep their options open, these benefits can go a long way.
Because details vary from one ski area to the next, now is the time to start comparing. The earlier you look, the easier it is to spot the extras that could shape your winter.
Season pass products can change between spring launch and next winter. Prices shift, new benefit details may be added, and bundled ticket products can continue to roll out.
Your best bet is to keep an eye on resort websites and follow your favorite mountains on social media as you consider options. It’s the easiest way to stay current on pass details, partner benefits, timing, and any updates that may shape your decision.
See you on the slopes!
