• Ski Season Countdown

With over two feet of snow and freezing temperatures, winter has officially arrived in Summit County! Resorts are opening, and we are gearing up for a big season ahead. Get yourself ready for another season of shredding powder, cruising groomers, and spending quality time outdoors with friends and family. Here is our ski season kickoff countdown checklist: everything you’ll need for those first days on the slopes.

Get Excited

If you’re not excited yet, it’s time! Arapahoe Basin was the first resort to open in Colorado- opening Sunday, October 29. Keystone opens on November 1, Breckenridge and Vail are expected to open on November 10, and Copper Mountain on November 13! In the early season, the terrain will open as natural snow, snowmaking, and temperatures allow, so be sure to keep an eye on the lift and terrain status.

LIFT & TERRAIN STATUS

Get Your Gear Ready

Have your skis or board been sitting in the garage since April? Us too. Our little ski town has tons of options to choose from to get your board waxed, tuned, and ready to go for those first turns. Here are a few of our favorites:

Get Your Pass

If you haven’t bought your season pass yet, this is your sign! Prices go up on November 19, so get yours before then. The full Epic pass will grant you unlimited access with no blackout dates, whereas the Epic Local will have unlimited access to Breckenridge, with restrictions at other resorts. If you are visiting for just a few days during the season, the Epic Day pass might be a better option! Check out the pass comparison tool to find the pass that works best!

PASS COMPARISON

Get In Ski Shape

Did you know you can burn up to 500 calories per hour while skiing?! While it’s recommended to begin conditioning for ski season 6-8 weeks in advance, it’s never too late to get your body prepared for the season and avoid injury. Here are a few ways you can physically prepare for ski season:

  1. Flexibility: Improve flexibility and avoid injury by incorporating stretching into your daily routine!
  2. Balance: Improve balance with yoga, balance boards, and other stabilization drills.
  3. Strength: It’s no surprise that skiing and snowboarding work your legs! Build up strength conditioning for better days on the hill.
  4. Cardio: Build up your endurance and stamina to stay out longer. You’ll be better prepared for the hike-to terrain!

Get To The Slopes

The time is finally almost here; now you just need to get yourself to the mountains! Check out our ski day checklist for a checklist of everything you’ll need to bring for your day on the mountain.

Driving in the winter presents its own set of challenges. Be sure to look at CO-Trip for road conditions, or take the Bustang for a greener alternative.

Now that ski season is upon us, Day Use reservations will be more popular. Owners can reserve their Day Use parking reservations starting at 7 a.m. MT, one week in advance. If parking is full, owners can still utilize Day Use by parking in town and riding the gondola or taking the shuttle!

Related Articles

, , , ,

Summer Hiking Essentials

Get your hiking shoes ready because summer is just around the corner! This warm weather has us excited for alpine lakes, scenic vistas, and time on the trail. Hiking is a great way to get some exercise and experience the outdoors but it is important…
, , ,

Staying Safe in Moose Country

Spring is here! Flowers are blooming, rivers are flowing, and our local wildlife is making appearances around town! Moose are among the most majestic and fascinating creatures we share our mountain town with. Seeing a moose in the wild is a…
, , ,

Après Sweets

Are you one of those people with an insatiable sweet tooth? Don't worry- we've got you covered! Whether you are looking for a spot to après with the kids or need an after-dinner treat, this list will give you everything you need for your craving.…
,

Sledding & Tubing Adventures

Searching for a winter adventure that's ideal for the entire family, away from the ski resort hustle? Look no further than the excitement of sledding or tubing in Breckenridge and beyond! Escape the crowds and embrace the joy of the great…
, ,

Pedal Through The Powder

Looking to make the most out of winter? Want to try out a unique snowsport? Love spending time outdoors in the mountains? Give fat biking a try! In recent years, this snow-season innovation has become a staple in our mountain communities, nordic…
,

Ice Fishing on Dillon Reservoir

Looking to try a new winter activity off the slopes? Ice fishing has grown in popularity in Colorado over the last several years, and for good reason! It is a relaxing way to get outside and enjoy the solitude and beauty of the Rocky Mountains!…
,

Dog Sledding with Good Times Adventures

Discover the snowy charm of Breckenridge with Good Times Adventures on an exciting dog-sledding excursion! Traverse six miles of scenic winter trails winding through the serene Swan River Valley. Led by knowledgeable guides, guests learn the…
Elaine Collins
, , ,

International Snow Sculpture Championships

The International Snow Sculpture Championships returns to Breckenridge this January! Twelve teams from ten different countries will be creating beautiful works of wintery art over the course of five days- created entirely from snow and using…
, ,

Ice Skating in Summit County

Let's veer off the beaten path of skiing and snowboarding for a moment and dive into another family-friendly activity that Summit County has to offer: ice skating! Nestled amidst the stunning peaks of the Rockies, Summit County isn't just a…