Back in the day, it was a friendly competition between two smaller ski resorts, Loveland and Arapahoe Basin, to see which resort would open first. Usually in October, after some serious snow making, some natural snowfall and a dip in the temperatures, one of these resorts would announce opening day and the other would follow shortly thereafter. The larger resorts such as Breckenridge, Keystone and Vail would have set opening dates, usually in mid-late November that would be widely available on their websites and you could be assured that they would open when they said they would. The big resorts would reliably close in April, with Arapahoe Basin usually holding on until sometime in June. Times have changed.
For the first time in this local’s memory, Keystone has entered the “who will open first” race and has not posted an official opening day as of the writing of this post. Last season, Breckenridge stayed open until Memorial Day weekend.
If you’re going to venture out here to enjoy the extended seasons (whether on the early side or the late side), there are some things to keep in mind. First off, make sure you have the ability to ski on limited terrain. Just because the chairlifts are turning doesn’t mean that every skier or snowboarder should jump on for a ride down the mountain. With limited runs open, early and late season skiers will be sharing runs with skiers and boarders of all abilities. If you are a slow and easy green skier, you’re better off spending time in the bar watching football and enjoying a cold beer. You won’t have the room to make wide turns and there is no escape hatch. Conditions can be variable – generally icier and with more rocks and tree stumps to avoid – make sure you know your ability.
Second, ski or board with appropriate (read: old) gear. Don’t use the extended season as a chance to try out that fancy new board or shiny new set of skis. You’ll regret it (though the ski waxers won’t!). Tune up that old set of skis you “inherited” from your dad or an old college roommate and hit the slopes. If you get a ding from a rock or a stump on an old set of skis, you can show it off as a badge of honor. Make sure you layer up appropriately. Just like in the winter, the temperature swings can be severe.
And finally, go for the experience. Check the local listings for events and activities to enhance your ski day. Early and late season are great times to find fun bands playing apres ski, festivals and events on the mountain, and deals and steals at restaurants around town. Don’t forget to Instagram it!
We’ll see you on the slopes!