The North American ski season has officially kicked off in Colorado. After weeks of anticipation and early snowmaking, two Colorado resorts have begun spinning lifts and ushered in the new ski year. Both Keystone Resort and Arapahoe Basin Ski Area are welcoming skiers and riders to carve fresh turns across the Rockies.
Being first to open is always a tight race with Colorado resorts competing neck and neck to claim bragging rights for the year. This year Arapahoe Basin announced on Saturday October 25th that they would open the following day Sunday, October 26th. Only for Keystone Resort to one up them by announcing day of that they would open Saturday October 25th at 3pm, narrowly beating out A-Basin for first resort to open. In addition to claiming the title of first to open for the 2025-26 season, Keystone also set a record as its earliest opening since 1997!
While Colorado resorts typically claim first, a few years ago a small ski hill out of Massachusetts surprised everyone by beating out the big Colorado resorts and opened October 22nd with a $5 lift ticket. Every skier can appreciate a some light hearted competition, but regardless of who goes first I think we’re all just happy to welcome back ski season. For more resort opening dates from Ikon resorts check here, for resort opening dates from Epic resorts check here.
Get Ready for Ski Season: Your Early-Season Checklist
The lifts are spinning, the air is crisp, and if you haven’t already, it’s time to get your gear — and your body — mountain-ready. Early season is the perfect time to prep for the months ahead so you’re not scrambling when the snow really starts to fall.
1. Tune Your Gear
Pull out your skis or board and give them a fresh wax and edge tune. Check bindings, tighten screws, and make sure boots still fit comfortably after a long summer in storage.
2. Layer Up Smartly
October and November conditions can swing wildly — think frosty mornings and sunny afternoons. Refresh your layering system with moisture-wicking base layers, an insulated mid-layer, and a shell that can handle both snow and wind.
3. Check Your Tech
Recharge your GoPro batteries, update your ski app, and make sure your pass is linked in your resort’s app for easy lift access. If you use Strava or Slopes, get them synced before your first run.
4. Build Back Strength
A few weeks of squats, lunges, and core work go a long way toward avoiding that dreaded day-two soreness. If you’ve been hiking or biking all summer, transition into ski-specific movements — balance and mobility are key. We love the ski specific workouts from The Ski PT.
5. Plan Your Mountain Weekends
Early season travel deals often pop up before the holiday rush. Book lodging near lifts now, or mark your calendar for upcoming resort openings across the West — from Utah’s high alpine peaks to California’s Sierras.
Passes and Plans: Where to Ride This Season
Colorado’s dueling resorts also highlight a familiar rivalry — the Epic Pass vs. the Ikon Pass.
Keystone Resort, part of Vail Resorts’ Epic Pass, gives skiers and riders access to more than 40 destinations worldwide, including Breckenridge, Whistler Blackcomb, and Park City. For those planning to chase early-season turns or mid-winter powder days across North America, Epic’s network makes it easy to hop between mountains.
Just down the road, Arapahoe Basin remains a proud Ikon Pass partner, offering one of Colorado’s longest ski seasons. The Ikon Pass also connects skiers to legendary destinations like Jackson Hole, Alta, Big Sky, and Mammoth.
Whether you’re Team Epic, Team Ikon, or prefer a mix of local passes, now’s the time to finalize your plans before prices rise and blackout dates kick in. Many passes only stay on sale until Thanksgiving and can sell out earlier depending on demand. The key to a great ski season isn’t always being first, the key is planning early and setting yourself up for success!
