Colorado Ski Season, Epic Pass, Keystone Opening Day, Breckenridge, Vail, Beaver Creek, Crested Butte, Colorado Springs Weekend Trips
Vail Resorts has announced target opening dates for several Colorado mountains, pending early-season snow and temps. Keystone aims for mid-October. Breckenridge is targeting Nov. 7, Vail Nov. 14, and Beaver Creek and Crested Butte Nov. 26. These resorts are accessible on the Epic Pass, with prices increasing after Sept. 1. Vail Resorts Newsroom Real Vail
What this means for Colorado Springs skiers
- Early laps likely at Keystone. Keystone often leads Colorado’s openings, and Vail Resorts again lists a mid-October target, weather permitting. Vail Resorts Newsroom
- Front Range favorites on deck. Breckenridge (Nov. 7) and Vail (Nov. 14) give planners two solid November windows for early trips. Vail Resorts Newsroom
- Thanksgiving options. Beaver Creek and Crested Butte are targeting Nov. 26—good timing for holiday travel. Vail Resorts Newsroom
Pass updates & deadlines
- Epic Pass pricing: Lowest fall price ends Sept. 1. After that, prices increase for the season. Vail Resorts Newsroom
- New perk—Epic Friend Tickets: Pass holders get 6–10 50%-off “Epic Friend Tickets” to share with friends, replacing and upgrading prior Buddy/Ski With A Friend structures. Quantity depends on when the pass was purchased. Epic Pass+1
- Day option: The Epic Day Pass lets you pre-buy 1–7 days at up to ~65% off window rates. Vail Resorts Newsroom
Tip for trip timing
A-Basin and Loveland traditionally race to open first in Colorado, sometimes in October. If you’re chasing true first turns, keep an eye on their announcements, too. Wikipedia
Original article: The Gazette (Colorado Springs), Aug. 20, 2025.
Primary source press release: Vail Resorts Newsroom — Winter is Coming: Vail Resorts Announces 2025/26 Winter Opening Dates. Vail Resorts Newsroom
Related coverage: RealVail recap. Real Vail
Want a quick guide to the best early-season family-friendly runs, lodging, and rental spots from Colorado Springs? Reach out for a planning checklist and local tips.
