Colorado Ski Resort Opening Dates for the 2025–26 Season

We’re Making Family Skiing More Affordable

Ski More, Spend Less: CSCUSA Passes Give You More Mountains for Your Money

Calling all families who want to ski or snowboard together this season: Colorado Ski Country USA has expanded its pass lineup to make it easier than ever to get on the slopes together. The fan-favorite Ski Passport now includes kids in kindergarten through 2nd grade in addition to grades 3–6 — meaning your youngest rippers can join in the fun with four days at 19 resorts across Colorado. Add in the Gems Teen Pass, Gems Parent Pass, and Gems Discount Card, and you’ve got a whole menu of flexible, high-value options that keep skiing and snowboarding within reach for families of every size and schedule.

“As a mom, I know how special those early ski days are. Expanding the Ski Passport to our youngest kids means more families can make memories together from the very start,” said Sarah Beatty, Director of Communications for CSCUSA. “It’s also a direct investment into Colorado’s ski community, and the carrying forward of our mountain traditions for generations to come.”

The Pass Lineup

EXPANDED: Ski Passport (K–6)

Grades K–2: $67
Grades 3–6: $72
4 days each at 19 CSCUSA member ski areas (that’s up to 76 days on snow!)
Valid at: Arapahoe Basin, Aspen Highlands, Aspen Mountain, Buttermilk, Cooper, Copper Mountain, Echo Mountain, Eldora, Granby Ranch, Howelsen Hill, Loveland, Monarch Mountain, Powderhorn, Purgatory, Snowmass, Steamboat, Sunlight, Telluride, and Winter Park.

Gems Teen Pass (ages 12–17)

$207
2 uses each at 10 Gems ski areas (Arapahoe Basin, Cooper, Echo Mountain, Eldora, Granby Ranch, Loveland, Monarch, Powderhorn, Purgatory, and Sunlight)

Gems Parent Pass

$337
2 uses each at 10 Gems ski areas
Limit 1 per household with the purchase of either a Ski Passport or a Gems Teen Pass; quantities limited

Gems Discount Card

$49.99
Two discounted visits at each of the 10 Gems ski areas

All Gems products and the Ski Passport share the same blackout dates:

December 25, 2025 – January 1, 2026
January 18–19, 2026
February 15–16, 2026

Want unlimited, unrestricted access to 19 of Colorado’s world-class mountains, all season long?

Consider our Gold Pass. With unlimited, unrestricted access to 19 of Colorado’s world-class mountains all winter long, it’s your ultimate ticket to ride (and ski!) in Colorado Ski Country USA. Even better, it’s fully transferable — so you can hand it off to a friend, share it with family, or keep it in your pocket for every powder day. No blackout dates, no limits, just the freedom to ski where the season takes you.

Plan Ahead for the Best Deals on Colorado Skiing and Riding

Why Planning Ahead Pays Off

Snow on the ground means it’s time to get serious. Planning ahead saves money, locks in perks, and guarantees your family plenty of time on the slopes. With a little preparation, your ski trip shifts from stressful to seamless, giving you more time to chase bluebird skies and a little extra cash to enjoy après.

Score the Best Ski Pass Deals Early

Pass prices are always lowest before the season starts. From the CSCUSA Ski Passport (NOW K–6!) to Gems products for parents and teens, buying early guarantees unbeatable value.

Ski Passport: Kids get up to 76 days at 19 Colorado ski resorts for just $67 (K–2) or $72 (grades 3–6).
Gems Teen Pass ($207): 2 days each at 10 classic Colorado ski areas.
Gems Discount Card ($49.99): Discounted lift tickets for two visits at each Gems resort.

Lock In Lodging Specials Now

There’s nothing better than waking up right at the base, ready to click into your skis. The trick is snagging those slopeside stays before everyone else does. Booking early means better choices and bigger savings. Right now, Winter Park is offering up to 50% off winter lodging for a limited time, a perfect excuse to plan your trip sooner rather than later.

Take Advantage of Ticket Packs

If you’re not quite ready to commit to a full season pass, multi-day ticket packs are one of the best ways to save.

Loveland’s Unrestricted 4-Pak: Four fully transferable lift tickets with no restrictions and no blackouts.
Powderhorn’s Mission Affordable 4-Pack: Four flexible tickets valid any day of the season.
Winter Park 2 – 4 Day Flex Ticket Packs: Pick your number of days and enjoy discounted lift access.
Eldora’s Alpine 4-Pass: Ski or ride any four days during the 2025-26 season.
Copper Mountain’s Four Pack: Four unrestricted, non-transferable days of skiing/riding during the 25/26 season with no blackout dates.

Save on Gear & Lessons Before the Rush

Fall is prime time for ski swaps, preseason sales, and early-bird rental packages:

Larson’s Gear Swap is coming up October 4-5; The 20th Annual Wilderness Exchange Gear Swap is scheduled for October 11; The Denver Ski Swap will be held from November 14-15.
Check out Powder Daze at Christy Sports and enjoy up to 60% off gear before the season kicks off.
Each CSCUSA Ski Passport comes with 2 Free Junior Rentals courtesy of presenting sponsor Christy Sports.

Families can also take advantage of special lesson programs that bundle huge value:

Arapahoe Basin’s Legendary Learning Package includes four lessons with lift access and rentals, making it one of the most affordable and effective ways to get kids or adults started on snow.

Travel Smart: Book Flights & Prep Cars Early

Flights into Denver International Airport and Colorado’s regional airports climb in price as winter approaches, so booking now locks in better fares and more options. United Airlines offers frequent flights straight into Colorado’s mountain airports—including Eagle, Gunnison, Montrose, and Hayden—putting you just minutes from the slopes. If you’re driving from the Front Range or nearby states, take advantage of preseason tire and car-care specials, it’s the best way to make sure a flat tire doesn’t cost you a powder day.

Future You Will Thank You

Put a few pieces in place now and let winter take care of the rest. Follow Colorado resorts on social and check their websites regularly; when a limited offer drops on lodging, ticket packs, or lessons, you’ll be ready to pounce.

The Righteous Gems Slopes

Cash In On a Gold Mine of Skiing & Riding at the Gems

Colorado is home to a handful of Bucket List resorts. You probably know them by name: Aspen. Snowmass. Steamboat. Telluride. They’ve earned their fame for a reason, and those reasons are sound and borne out by the experience you’ll undoubtedly have should you visit these storied ski areas (and we recommend that you do!).

But here in the great, glorious state of Colorado, in this state where snow falls so light and dry it’s been compared to champagne, where you can see it rainin’ fire in the sky, the Bucket List resorts are not your only option. If you want powder without the pretense, lifts without liftlines, and ticket prices that leave you with plenty of Pueblo-chile-and-fries money, look no further than our Gems.

You might not find them in your typical guidebook, but you will find them to be as quintessentially Colorado as, well… a bowl of Pueblo chile and a side of fries.

And you can ski or ride all of them with our Gems passes and cards.

Have Gems Discount Card (or Gems Teen or Parent Pass), Will Travel.

With 10 resorts to choose from, the CSCUSA Gems represent the heart of Colorado skiing. Your Gems Discount Card (or your Gems Teen or Parent Pass) will get you on the slopes (quite affordably, if we do say so ourselves) of the most laid-back, most bona fide, most legit local ski areas in the state.

Let’s take a tour, shall we?

Arapahoe Basin is a crowd favorite for a number of reasons, not the least of which is that it boasts one of the longest ski seasons of any mountain in Colorado and, in really good years, in all of North America. Tucked away just over Loveland Pass and perched on the Continental Divide, Arapahoe Basin gets snow, snow, and more snow—hence, a storied history as the Opening Day headliner season after season. There’s terrain aplenty for everyone, no matter your skill level, but A-Basin is especially known for an abundance of moguls, steep and deeps, chutes, and tree runs.

Ski Cooper is the very definition of authentic Colorado skiing. It’s fun, friendly, and perfect for families. With the softest snow surface in the state and terrain for all abilities, from learning-to-ski on up to pushing-personal-limits, Cooper has a little something for everyone. What doesn’t Cooper have? Lift lines, high prices, and hordes of tourists, just to name a few. Plus, their outstanding ski and ride school will get you going or tweak your skills, if you’re looking to jump to the next level.

If live in Denver and you want to sneak in a weekday of skiing (Go on! We won’t tell your boss.), Echo is your mountain. Located less than an hour from the city and off the beaten-down-by-traffic path of I-70, Echo’s claims to fame include proximity, affordability, and hospitality, plus beautiful views of the Continental Divide. Want to ski after dark? You can do that five nights a week at Echo. Feeling the need for speed? Echo’s quick tubes are about as close as you can get to bobsledding, if you prefer to go downhill on your derrière. Want to try something new, make mistakes, and have some fun? We recommend [cups hand to ear] Echooooo–Echooooo-Echooooo!

Just 45 minutes west of Boulder in Nederland, Eldora is CU Boulder’s backyard mountain. Spanish majors will know that “Eldora” means gilded one, and if there’s not gold in them thar hills, there’s certainly lots of snow. Little Hawk Mountainside is the perfect place for beginners to get started, and Challenge Mountain is, well… a challenge, even for expert skiers and riders. Eldora is the only ski resort served by RTD, Colorado’s largest public transportation system, and that, combined with the ski area’s commitment to doing all they can to both protect the environment and support the surrounding community, make Eldora a real treasure.

Granby Ranch is a family-owned ski resort designed and operated with families in mind. Laid out across two mountains, East and West, this Gem of a ski area offers terrain of all types and tiers. Granby’s East side is designed for beginner and intermediate skiers, while the West side’s vibe is a little more wild, wild, er… West. Whichever direction you go—West, young man, or East-bound and down—all trails lead back to the base. (And if you’re anything like this directionally-challenged reporter, you know that means you can’t get lost.)

Family owned and operated for nearly 60 years and a locals’ favorite for as long as anyone can remember, Loveland, located just before the Eisenhower tunnel on I-70, wraps around the interstate and is proof that somebody up there loves Coloradans. How else to explain the winter wonderland that is Loveland. Just starting out? Look to Loveland Valley, a stand-alone area designed for beginners, complete with its own lifts and gentle slopes. Looking for thrills and chills? Look no further than Loveland Basin, which offers bowl skiing, a terrain park, and acres and acres of pristine snow that’ll have you head over heels—metaphorically speaking, that is. You don’t fall, my friend.

Situated 20 miles west of Salida on U.S. Highway 50, Monarch sits majestically atop the Continental Divide and offers a king’s ransom of terrain. [Editor’s note: watch for falling puns.] There’s 130 acres of extreme, double-black-diamond skiing in Mirkwood Canyon; Tilt and Steel City, two terrain parks for beginners and advanced riders respectively; uphill access; and cat skiing with access to wide open bowls, steep chutes, beautiful glades, and tree skiing galore. In short, we recommend that you give yourself the royal treatment with a visit to Monarch Mountain.

Looking for a family-friendly ski area in the western part of the state? Allow this reporter to toot Powderhorn‘s, um… horn. [Editor’s note #2: we can’t make her stop; we’ve tried.] Sitting alongside the northern edge of Colorado’s Grand Mesa, the world’s largest flattop mountain, Powderhorn offers breathtaking 360-degree views and over 1,600 acres of mountain terrain. Powderhorn is justifiably proud of its groomed runs, but if your tastes run to the more wild and wooly, there are bumps and trees for the ambitious skier or rider.

This reporter is thrilled to report that she’s found a copywriter punnier than herself: our newest Gem Purgatory is, by their own reckoning, Closer to Heaven and Fun as Hell, and honestly, said reporter is a little miffed she can’t claim authorship for that doozy. Lexical lyricism aside, there’s nothing infernal about the hella great resort in Colorado’s southwest corner. With a blend of steep tree-skiing trails, wide-open cruisers with stunning views, and an average of 260 inches of snow annually, Purgatory is a family-friendly, winter wonderland. Need more reasons to go? They’ve expanded their free parking lots and added new equipment—including Burton snowboards—to their rental shop inventory.

Our last-but-not-least Gem is Sunlight Mountain, located above Glenwood Springs, with views of the Elk Mountain Range and Mt. Sopris. Let your little light shine on Sunlight Mountain’s 2,010 vertical-feet and 680 acres of groomers, steeps, and aspen groves. You’ll park for free, walk to the lifts, and never stand in line at Sunlight, making it a delightful destination for you and your ski tribe to experience an exceptional day on the slopes. In light of all that, we hereby give you the green light to ski Sunlight. [Editor’s note #3: sigh]

2025 Double Diamond Award Winners

Double Diamond Awards Celebrate Standout Snow Pros from the 2024-25 Season

Colorado Ski Country USA (CSCUSA) announced the winners of its 2024-25 Double Diamond Awards in front of an audience of industry leaders and partners at its annual meeting on June 5, at Infinity Park. Sponsored by Leitner-Poma, the Double Diamond Awards, which have been given annually since 1999, honor the men and women who dedicate their seasons to making Colorado winter sports enjoyable, safer, and fun-filled.

“The recognition of the Double Diamond Awards is richly deserved by each and every one of the award winners,” said CSCUSA President and CEO Melanie Mills. “In partnership with our sponsor Leitner-Poma, we take a moment to celebrate the professionals who make skiing and snowboarding safer and more enjoyable for everyone, each day of the season.”

And the 2025 Double Diamond Awards go to…

Kristin Mueller | Food & Beverage Professional of the Year
Monarch Mountain

Kristin traded a corporate career for what was supposed to be one short winter in Colorado and never looked back. Her warm hospitality, signature cocktails, and uncanny ability to remember guests by name have made the Monarch bar a beloved gathering spot. When Kristin’s pouring, you’re guaranteed a great drink—and an even better conversation.

J.R. Spies | Guest Services Professional of the Year
Purgatory Resort

A lifelong skier and seasoned leader who’s the calm in the storm on even the busiest powder mornings, J.R. sets the tone for guests’ entire day—answering questions, solving problems, and doing it all with a smile. Whether he’s directing traffic, troubleshooting tickets, or mentoring new team members, he infuses kindness and clarity into every interaction—and Purgatory’s guests feel like they’re in heaven.

Mike Cravens | Patroller of the Year
Winter Park

Excellence in patrol work means calm under pressure, deep operational know-how, and an unshakable dedication to guest safety and team wellbeing—all things Mike brings to the job every day. Born and raised in Colorado, Mike now leads the very patrol team he grew up admiring. His steady leadership and support for his team shine brightest during the toughest moments—proving why safety is truly a service.

James Arnold | Snow Groomer of the Year
Copper Mountain

There’s a reason people rave about the corduroy. Behind every perfect run is someone like James “Jim Bob” Arnold, Slope Maintenance Foreman at Copper Mountain and this year’s Groomer of the Year. With a career that started in 1980 and that has spanned resorts nationwide, Jim Bob is known for tackling the toughest jobs first, mentoring others, and pioneering grooming practices still used today.

Jenn Weier | Instructor of the Year
Aspen Snowmass

Our 2025 Ski Instructor of the Year, Jenn Weier, Ski Pro and Alpine Certification Lead Trainer at Aspen Snowmass, brings elite technical skill and compassionate mentorship to everything she does. From a tiny hill in Wisconsin to the peaks of Aspen, Jenn has shaped not only great skiers but great teachers—making snowsports more welcoming for everyone.

Pauly Borichevsky | Snowmaker of the Year
Winter Park

Pauly stands out as this year’s Snowmaker of the Year, for nearly a decade of braving frigid nights to flip compressors, fine-tune guns, and deliver early, reliable terrain. His leadership was key to expanding and modernizing Winter Park’s snowmaking system, boosting efficiency and getting guests on snow sooner. Pauly was unable to attend the ceremony. His award was accepted by members of the Winter Park team on his behalf.

Cole Brantner | Terrain Park Specialist of the Year
Eldora
A former liftie turned snowcat maestro, Cole (pictured, third from left) is now the Terrain Park Cat Operator at Eldora. He brings both creativity and precision to every feature he shapes, and by riding what he builds, he keeps fun, flow, and safety in perfect sync—making sure every park day is a good day.

Jeff Hanle | President’s Award
The 2025 President’s Award, which is given annually to a person who has made significant and positive contributions to the trade association, went to Jeff Hanle, whose 25-year career extended far beyond the grounds of the four storied mountains of Aspen Snowmass. He’s given much to the industry, on the record, behind the scenes, and in his commitment to mentoring the next generation, and he leaves behind a legacy of extraordinary contributions to Colorado Ski Country USA.

Scott Fitzwilliams | Chair’s Award
The 2025 Chair’s Award was presented to Scott Fitzwilliams, former Forest Supervisor of the White River National Forest. For more than 15 years, Scott guided the nation’s most-visited national forest, balancing recreation, conservation, and community across 2.3 million acres and 11 world-class ski areas. His collaborative approach to stewardship and sustainable planning has helped ensure that the landscapes we love will thrive for generations to come.

All photos courtesy of Cort Muller

Your Guide to Summer Fun at Colorado Ski Resorts

Someone in a baseball cap enjoys a wide open mountain view with yellow wildflowers and lingering snow.

Summer in Colorado Ski Country USA doesn’t slow down when the weather warms up. The high country is the perfect place to spend a day—or a week—when things heat up. Stay cool and connected with friends and family with our long list of summer activities, events, and adventures at resorts throughout Colorado Ski Country USA. Many activities are free or low-cost, making a mountain escape a budget-friendly way to spend the summer.

What can you do at Colorado ski resorts in summer?

Short answer: a lot. Longer answer: scenic lift rides, wildflower hikes, mountain biking trails, ziplines, alpine slides, mountaintop yoga, disc golf, fishing, paddleboarding, live music, outdoor festivals, and even go-kart tracks.

Colorado ski resorts have something for everyone all season long. Just swap skis for sneakers, and let the adventure begin.

What’s the weather like at ski resorts in the summer?

If you’re tired of triple digit heat, welcome to your high-elevation escape plan. Summer temperatures in Colorado’s mountains are often 10–20 degrees cooler than along the Front Range, ideal for everything from heart-pumping outdoor activities to laid-back lunches with a view.

Sun-drenched days and cool mountain breezes? Yes, please.

Affordable Colorado mountain summer activities

You don’t have to spend big to play big in Colorado Ski Country USA. Many resorts offer free or low-cost activities like hiking trails, live music, nature programs, and kids’ camps. Whether you pack a picnic or opt for mountaintop dining, it’s easy to spend a full day in the mountains at a pace—and price—that works for you.

Ready to explore? Check out our long, long list of summer activities. Then pack some layers, grab your sunscreen, and get on up there!

Scenic lift rides

Ski lifts keep spinning throughout the summer at many Colorado resorts, so you can trade powder days for picturesque panoramic views. Scenic lift rides are available at Arapahoe Basin, Aspen Snowmass, Copper Mountain, Howelsen Hill, Monarch Mountain, Powderhorn, Purgatory, Steamboat, Telluride, and Winter Park.

Mountain biking

From mellow cruisers to technical descents, ski resorts in Colorado offer bike trail networks that turn summer into a season of speed and scenery. Mountain biking is open at Arapahoe Basin, Aspen Snowmass, Copper Mountain, Granby Ranch, Powderhorn, Purgatory, Steamboat, Sunlight, Telluride, and Winter Park.

Hiking

Few things beat a summer hike surrounded by wildflowers and cool alpine air. Trails at resorts across Colorado are perfect for a laid-back stroll or an all-day trek. Go for a hike at Aspen Snowmass, Copper Mountain, Granby Ranch, Powderhorn, Purgatory, Steamboat, Telluride, and Winter Park.

Live music

With good vibes and live tunes, Colorado resorts turn up the volume in the summer with concerts that range from intimate acoustic sets to full-stage festivals under the stars. Enjoy live music at Aspen Snowmass, Copper Mountain, Granby Ranch, Powderhorn, Purgatory, Steamboat, and Winter Park.

Mountain coasters & alpine slides

Twist, turn, and zoom your way down the mountain, no snow required. These gravity-powered rides are a summer thrill for all ages. Up your adrenaline at Aspen Snowmass, Copper Mountain, Howelsen Hill, Purgatory, and Winter Park.

Golf

High-elevation golf means longer drives, cooler temps, and stunning backdrops for your best round yet. Play golf at Aspen Snowmass, Copper Mountain, Granby Ranch, Powderhorn, Purgatory, Steamboat, and Winter Park.

Festivals & events

Art shows, beer fests, food trucks, and full-blown mountain celebrations keep the calendar packed all summer long. There’s always something happening in Colorado Ski Country USA at Aspen Snowmass, Ski Cooper, Copper Mountain, Granby Ranch, Powderhorn, Purgatory, Steamboat, Telluride, and Winter Park.

Ziplining

Glide above the treetops and take in the views from a whole new angle. Zipline at Aspen Snowmass, Steamboat, and Telluride.

Ropes courses

Balance, climb, and scramble your way through ropes courses that challenge both kids and grown-ups. Test your skills at Arapahoe Basin, Aspen Snowmass, and Winter Park.

Climbing walls

Perfect your technique or just have some fun, these resort climbing walls offer a great way to scale new heights: Aspen Snowmass, Telluride, and Winter Park.

Yoga

Ascend to new heights with mountaintop yoga set against sweeping alpine views. Yoga is offered by Arapahoe Basin, Aspen Snowmass, and Copper Mountain.

Fishing

Cast a line in crystal-clear streams or still mountain lakes and soak up the kind of quiet you can’t find in town. Fishing is available at Aspen Snowmass, Purgatory, and Telluride.

Disc Golf

With wild fairways and stunning views, disc golf at altitude is easy to pick up and hard to put down. Play a round at Arapahoe Basin, Aspen Snowmass, Granby Ranch, and Sunlight.

Go-karts

Speed things up with a few laps around the track. Go-kart courses at Colorado resorts add a little friendly competition to your mountain day. Go on racing at Copper Mountain, and Purgatory.

Rivers & lakes

Cool mountain water is never far, and it’s perfect for paddling, skipping rocks, or just dipping your toes in. Enjoy the water at Purgatory, Steamboat, Telluride, and Winter Park.

Kids camps

Summer camps at ski resorts turn free time into forest time, with nature-based activities kids love. Available at Aspen Snowmass, Copper Mountain, Steamboat, and Telluride.

Horseback riding

Saddle up for a slower, scenic way to explore the trails at Steamboat and Telluride.

Jeep & ATV rides

Head off the beaten path with guided Jeep tours and ATV adventures that go beyond the pavement. Buckle up at Purgatory, Steamboat, Telluride, and Winter Park.

Via Ferrata

With secure cables, dramatic heights, and sweeping views, Via Ferrata routes offer a safe and guided way to experience alpine climbing. Offered by Arapahoe Basin and Telluride.

Event Venues

Looking for a backdrop that does the heavy lifting? From mountaintop weddings to team retreats, Colorado ski resorts turn events into experiences you’ll never forget. Available through Aspen Snowmass, Copper Mountain, Echo Mountain, Granby Ranch, Loveland Ski Area, Steamboat, Sunlight, Telluride, and Winter Park.

Image courtesy Aspen Snowmass

From Summit to Soil — How Copper Mountain Is Growing a Culture of Conservation

by Amanda Faison
skier, ski mom, lover of slopeside cuisine

In July, when Dustin Lyman, President of Copper Mountain, addressed a room full of sustainability managers from regional ski resorts, environmental scientists, Colorado media, and other interested parties at the fourth-annual Ski Conservation Summit, he kicked off his remarks with an anecdote. He and his family had recently returned from a summer trip to Oklahoma and at the end of their stay, they went to take their recycling out, only to find there was no such place in the near (or far) vicinity. The family was guilt-ridden about throwing their carefully sorted items into the garbage.

For Lyman, this unfortunate event underscored an opportunity. “We need to spread the word on responsible conservation,” he told the audience. “At Copper Mountain, we preach it, and when people come and visit us, they take something home.” And that is the exact point of the annual summit: to openly share information.

Thinking Big, Starting Small

This gathering of the minds was specifically aimed at those in the Colorado ski industry who are not only concerned about climate change but who are actively trying to do something about it. The summit, which is free to attend, provides a platform to share ideas, hear from scientists, and discuss how to advance land conservation and sustainability efforts. “Consider the holistic view. It’s the cumulative impact,” says Jeff Graser, Senior Sustainability Manager at Copper. “The challenges we’re facing are massive; we need to attack them at scale. All these little things eventually become scale and everyone adopts it.”

The summit also offered the opportunity for Copper to share details on its carbon sequestration study and seed collecting program, both of which are underway. These nature-based solutions are designed to use plants to draw down carbon and restore the health of the land. As Dr. Jennie DeMarco, an ecosystem scientist and assistant professor of biology at Southwestern University, explains it, “Soil stores a huge amount of carbon. Most of it is stored in the top one meter, which is often disturbed by human activity.” This is especially true at ski areas where the disturbed soil on established ski runs isn’t storing carbon as efficiently as untouched soil. Copper is not only studying this but also has large scale plans to implement its findings.

Seeding the Future

A quick hike to the site brought participants to one of the mountain’s five soil study sites. In place since 2022, Copper has four main goals for the data gathered: establish a baseline measurement of carbon storage on slopes; evaluate effectiveness of using different soil amendments and native seeds; scale up; explore the potential of using the data to inform a carbon offset or credit.

The second part of this program is native seed collecting and planting. “This is about restoring our natural environment,” says Olivia DeWitt, Copper’s On-Mountain Sustainability Lead, while explaining that a group of volunteers and Copper employees collect seeds from native species July to December. “It takes 100 hours of seed collecting for one hour of planting. In an hour, you can plant a million-plus seeds,” she says. Time is also spent removing invasive species, such as wild chamomile.

Taking Conservation Home

Here’s a great example of how information-sharing makes its way to guests in a meaningful way: In the summer, Copper teams up with the Friends of the Dillon Ranger District to host group seed-collecting hikes. These outings are a hit with kids and families—not only are they a fun outdoor adventure, but they also introduce visitors to the importance of protecting fragile ecosystems, often without them even realizing it. It’s a natural extension of Copper’s hands-on sustainability efforts like composting and recycling, which are modeled throughout the resort. It’s this kind of learning-through-doing that Lyman was referring to when he talked about guests taking small but impactful lessons home with them. The big takeaway? When people care about something, they’re more likely to protect it.

Local Legends and Carbon Goals: The A Basin Way

by Amanda Faison
skier, ski mom, lover of slopeside cuisine

A Local’s Mountain, Through and Through

Arapahoe Basin is nothing if not a community-first mountain, and loyalty runs deep. Regulars know all the lifties and parking attendants by name, not to mention the bartenders (and probably their spouses as well). On opening day, locals line up at 6 a.m. in hopes of nabbing one of the coveted glass mugs, as much for the bragging rights as the deals that come with it. And throughout the season, when skiers and riders spot Mike Nathan, head of mountain sustainability, on the slopes or in the lift line, they shout out “Recycle Michael!” This is a well-earned nod to Nathan’s #SustainabilitySunday reels and posts about the mountain’s practices and responsibility in combating climate change.

Keeping all this in mind, it’s not a leap to understand that A Basin believes in creating change from the ground up. “Our whole thing is small projects that ladder up,” says Shayna Silverman, Communications Manager for A Basin. “Our philosophy is that we are a localized ski area, and that’s how we approach sustainability too. We’re very grassroots, and every employee has a voice and a responsibility.”

People-Powered Progress (With a Boost from the Sun)

The mountain’s Green Team is one such example. This group of interested front-line employees (come one, come all!) meets regularly to discuss opportunities and concerns with Nathan and Sustainability Coordinator Helena Robinowitz. “The idea is to generate new ideas from those who are really doing the work,” Silverman says. The meetings have yielded incentives for carpooling, composting, and recycling. Take, for example, the problem of limited recycling in Summit County: A Basin encourages staff to bring in their own hard-to-recycle items such as plastic berry containers, which the resort has the resources to send to the right recycling center. “Our philosophy is that change starts at the bottom,” Silverman continues.

These seemingly small, day-to-day practices run in tandem with A Basin’s massive, sweeping mountain-wide initiatives, such as operating with 100 percent renewable electricity as of October 2023. The use of solar panels (including the world’s highest on Il Rifugio’s roof at 12,456 feet), community solar farms, and subscription-based utility programs to power chairlifts, snowmaking, buildings, and electric vehicle chargers, allowed A Basin to achieve another monumental goal: to become 100 percent carbon neutral in April 2024. That is nearly a year ahead of schedule.

Past the Peak of Carbon Neutral

Even with big goals achieved, A Basin isn’t sitting back. The mountain continues to push forward. “Right now we’re using carbon offsets for things like our diesel- and gas-fueled fleet of snowcats, snowmobiles, and parking lot vehicles. But we know offsets aren’t the future,” Silverman explains. The next step is electrification of those vehicles, as well as concentrating on the smaller, employee-driven goals like waste diversion, improved transportation, and carpooling efficiency.

At A Basin, you can count on the fact that the buy-in to be better is not just front and center in all the mountain does, but part of the draw too.

Image courtesy Arapahoe Basin Ski Area.

Pass Masters: Why Smart Skiers Buy Their Passes in the Spring

If next ski season isn’t on your radar yet, it should be. Now’s the time to act!

The best deals and lowest prices are right now

Buying your 2025-26 season pass early is the ultimate hack for skiers and snowboarders who want to save money and score extra perks. Season pass prices are at their lowest right now, and many resorts are offering limited-time deals—like buddy tickets and exclusive discounts—that disappear faster than a fresh line on a powder day.

Skiers and riders are planners at heart (we see you, snow lover, checking the forecast three times a day). So don’t wait for next fall. Pass prices typically increase as the season approaches—sometimes more than once. The best time to buy a Colorado ski pass is in the spring.

All-In or À-La-Carte? How to Choose Between a Season Pass and a Lift Ticket Pack

Season passes aren’t the only ticket to ride next season. If you’re more into fireside chats and après drinks than chasing first tracks, lift ticket bundles and packs are calling your name. Perfect for those planning a few solid days on the hill, they offer flexibility without the full-season commitment. Now, if you’re the type who’s out there nearly every weekend, no question—a season pass is still your best bet.

Either way, deals on passes and ticket packs are starting to drop, and the best prices won’t stick around. Whether you’re a die-hard shredder or a casual cruiser, now’s the time to lock it in.

Early bird pricing won’t last

Waiting until fall to buy your season pass is like showing up to the après party after the hot tub’s full. Still fun, but not quite the same. And let’s be honest: there’s something incredibly satisfying about being ahead of the game. When you buy your Colorado ski pass early, you’re not just saving money, you’re buying peace of mind, priority, and powder days.

Curious about the cost to hit the slopes next season? Here’s a look at current 2025–26 season pass and ticket bundle prices across Colorado resorts. Keep in mind, prices and availability can change quickly—always check directly on each resort site for the most up-to-date info before you buy.

Arapahoe Basin Get unlimited, no-blackout-day access to Colorado’s longest ski and ride season with an A-Basin Season Pass—just $659 for adults ages 23 and up. Not going full send on a season pass? A-Basin’s multi-day packs and fall passes let you dip a ski boot in without diving all the way in.

Aspen Snowmass Season passes unlock access to all four Aspen Snowmass mountains, with options from unlimited skiing and riding to one- or two-day-per-week passes. Perks include discounts, bonus days, and added Ikon access with the Premier Pass.

Copper Mountain Unlimited, no-blackout-day access plus exclusive perks: the perfect choice for a full season of skiing and riding in the Colorado Rockies. $849 for adults ages 23+. If you’re just planning a few days, the Copper 4-Pack is a great value and gets you four days on the mountain with no blackout dates.

Eldora Invest in a season of fun with family & friends just a short drive from home. With pass options ranging from unlimited access to weekday and family bundles, Eldora has the perfect fit for every kind of skier and rider.

Granby Ranch Season passes offer unlimited access, perks like retail discounts and night skiing, and direct-to-lift convenience starting at $619 for new pass holders. The Family Ticket Pack is perfect for groups of up to four looking to share the mountain and save.

Monarch Mountain Ski two seasons with the Wings Pass at $699 for adults (ages 18–61); valid for the 2024–25 and 2025–26 seasons.

Powderhorn Continuing the initiative of the 2024–25 Price Freeze, Powderhorn’s 2025–26 Season Pass will be available at last season’s price ($429 for adults ages 13-74) through Monday, April 7.

Purgatory The Power Pass gets you unlimited skiing at Purgatory, Snowbowl, Brian Head, Sandia Peak, Sipapu, Pajarito, Nordic Valley, Lee Canyon, and Willamette Pass with no price increase over the last two seasons! Adult passes start at $429, if purchased by April 7, 2025.

Steamboat Resort There are plenty of ways to ski or ride at Steamboat—choose from the Ikon Pass, Ikon Base Pass, or Ikon Session Pass. Each Ikon Pass tier includes access to Steamboat, so you can pick the one that fits your season best.

Winter Park Ski or ride over 3,000 acres at Winter Park Resort all season long; adult pass starting from $719. For shorter visits, Flex Tickets are available now for just $79—no blackout dates and all the mountain access you need.

Colorado Ski Country USA passes, including our Ski Passport and Gems Parent and Teen Passes, drop in late summer!

Springtime is Snowtime in Colorado Ski Country USA

Sun, Snow & Endless Turns: Why Springtime Is the Right Time to Ski in Colorado

In Colorado Ski Country USA, springtime is the right time. Longer daylight hours mean more slope-time, warmer temperatures mean more of those famous bluebird days, and thanks to location, location, location, March and April are typically the state’s snowiest months. With snowpack reaching its peak and spring storms delivering the goods well into May—and often beyond—Colorado is at its sun-drenched best when other winter playgrounds are winding down for the season.

More than a dozen resorts keep the lifts spinning into April, and when Mother Nature cooperates, some stretch their seasons even further. Loveland Ski Area, perched atop the Continental Divide, shoots for mid-May, while Arapahoe Basin and Winter Park go full send into late May and even June. Winter Park’s motto? “As Late As Possible” (ALAP).

There’s nothing quite like skiing Colorado Ski Country USA in the spring: bright sun and clear blue skies, crystal clear vistas that stretch as far as the eye can see, crisp mountain air, and—when the sun begins to sink in the West and the shadows grow long—the camaraderie and conviviality of après-ski. With fewer visitors, skiers and snowboarders can enjoy less crowded slopes, affordable lodging and ticket prices (barring the spring break rush), and most importantly of all, plenty of pristine powder.

Send the Season Out in Style

Colorado Ski Country USA doesn’t just bid farewell to winter—it throws a full-blown fiesta. Aspen Snowmass goes all out with Buttermilk’s Bacon Appreciation Day (because everything is better with bacon) and the Elk Camp Surf & Snow Beach Party at Snowmass. Aspen Highlands turns up the energy with outrageous costume contests, while Aspen Mountain’s Sundeck party is a high-altitude bash where tropical vibes collide with alpine revelry. Over at Purgatory Resort, the Spring Fling Festival (March 17–April 13) wraps up with a legendary Pond Skim and Beach Party, complete with live music, contests, giveaways, and plenty of après-ski fun.

Springtime Perks

Late-season skiing means soft turns, sunshine for days, and wide-open runs with room to rip. Eldora is at its prime in March and April, with its deepest snowpack of the season, every trail open, and blissfully uncrowded slopes. And then there’s Arapahoe Basin, the reigning champion of the endless season, where the snow just keeps coming. Last year, A-Basin stayed open until June 16, proving once again why it’s the go-to spot for skiers and riders who like to keep the stoke alive. With spring storms delivering fresh powder dumps, the Basin is where the die-hards ride long after others call it quits.

Chasing Sunsets

Why head home early when you can ski into golden hour? Granby Ranch is making the most of spring with Spring Twilight Skiing, keeping lifts running until 5:30 p.m. from March 10–30. Plus, with a newly added train service, getting to this late-season paradise from Denver has never been easier.

Savor the Season

Whether you’re chasing fresh tracks in the morning or basking in après-ski bliss under the sun, Colorado’s spring skiing scene is unbeatable. From rowdy closing parties to uncrowded, powder-filled slopes, there’s no better place to squeeze in those last glorious turns of the season.