Get Ready for First Tracks: The 2025/26 Ski & Ride Season Is Just Getting Started!

When Do Most Resorts Open?
 Here’s a quick reality check: for the 2025-26 season, many major ski resorts across North America are targeting early November openings—some as early as the first week of November, conditions permitting. That means if you’re counting down to powder days, now’s the time to get ready.

Early Birds Are Already Spinning Lifts
While the broader season opening window spans from early to mid-November, a few resorts that invest in snow-making and high-elevation terrain often open earlier—setting the stage for the season ahead. These early openers give you a heads-up: time to wax your skis, check your gear, and lock in that trip.

Where to Find the First Turns of 2025/26
If you’re ready to chase snow, watch these regions closely: the Rockies (Colorado, Utah), the Sierra Nevada, and other high-elevation areas where early snowmaking gives an edge. For example, resort announcements now list openings in November with some targeting the first week of the month. Meanwhile, many tougher to open areas are still in “pending” status—so check before you book.

What You Should Do Right Now

• Check your local resort’s official website for “Opening Day” updates—dates are often provisional and subject to weather.
• Confirm your travel bookings (lodging, lift passes) but choose refundable or easily changeable options.
• Check your gear: bindings, boots, wax job, outerwear—one early snow day can make or break the season.
• If you’re headed to an early-opening resort, expect cold temps and possibly limited terrain; be ready.

Final Tracks
The 2025/26 season is coming in hot—and whether you’re a skier or snowboarder, the early openings are your cue to get set. With blue sky ahead and first tracks waiting, the mountain is calling. Make sure you’re ready to answer.

UPDATE:

Here are 10 ski resorts with projected or confirmed opening dates for the 2025-26 season — great picks if you’re planning your early turns:

1. Breckenridge Ski Resort (Colorado) – Projected opening November 7, 2025. 

2. Copper Mountain Resort (Colorado) – Projected opening November 7, 2025. 

3. Heavenly Mountain Resort (California) – Projected opening November 21, 2025. 

4. Northstar California Resort (California) – Projected opening November 21, 2025. 

5. Big Sky Resort (Montana) – Projected opening November 26, 2025. 

6. Alyeska Resort (Alaska) – Projected opening November 29, 2025. 

7. Mount Norquay (Canada – Alberta) – Projected opening early November, 2025. 

8. Loveland Ski Area (Colorado) – Projected opening late October, 2025. 

9. Keystone Resort (Colorado) – Projected opening mid-October or as soon as conditions allow. 

10. Sunday River (Maine) – Projected opening November 15, 2025 for the East region.