BROOMFIELD, Colo. — For those already planning their ski trips for this year, Vail Resorts just released their planned opening dates for this season.
Last season posed some challenges as the state saw a lack of snow.
▶️ Denver7's Danielle Kreutter headed to the high country to learn more about how Vail Resorts determined target opening dates
Vail Resorts saying last year was one of the most challenging winters in history, with the company reporting a 12.5% drop in skier visits this past season, and with third-quarter revenue falling sharply compared to the prior year.
"Does this last winter factor in at all?" asked Denver7 Reporter Danielle Kreutter.
"This past winter factors in in that it's a stark reminder for the investments that Vail Resorts needs to make in order to support skiing and riding," said Jake Marquardt, Communications Manager with Vail Resorts.
He said the company has spent more than $100 million since 2015 on snow making infrastructure across all locations.
Marquardt explained that looking at historical temperatures and snow levels helps them determine target opening dates.
This year, as we expect a Super El Niño, Vail Resorts is hoping the predicted wetter season will bring more powder to the slopes.
▶️ Watch Denver7's Lauren Lennon's report in the video player below.
“While no one can predict exactly what Mother Nature will deliver, the possibility of blockbuster snowfall has us feeling optimistic about the winter ahead,” said Bill Rock, President of Vail Resorts' Mountain Division in a recent press release.
The planned dates for when resorts will open for the 2026-2027 season are outlined below:
- As soon as possible in October – Keystone Resort (CO)
- November 6 – Breckenridge (CO)
- November 13 – Vail Mountain (CO)
- November 20 – Whistler Blackcomb (BC), Park City Mountain (UT), Heavenly (CA) and Northstar (CA)
- November 25 – Beaver Creek (CO) and Crested Butte (CO)
- December 4 – Kirkwood (CA) and Stevens Pass (WA)
The company notes the opening dates are subject to change based on weather and conditions.
"When does snowmaking happen if winter starts off warmer than usual?" asked Denver7 Reporter Danielle Kreutter.
"Here at Keystone, we're about 50 days out from snowmaking. We're counting on temperatures to be within about a 27 to 14 degree range for snowmaking. That's the optimal range for these newer snow guns to be at their highest level of efficiency," said Marquardt.
Rock adds that in addition to remaining optimistic about the conditions the Super El Niño will bring, they are taking an “aggressive approach” to snow making to make sure skiers have a good time regardless of what mother nature brings.
Though last season was difficult, resorts still shared a successful season amid the severe drought conditions.
