Last checked: November 6, 2026
The first laps of the season are finally here. If your skis or snowboard have been sitting in the garage since spring, this is your sign to start getting your setup ready.
But before you load the car, check the latest opening updates. Mammoth, Arapahoe Basin and Keystone have started their seasons, while Breckenridge and Copper Mountain have pushed back their planned openings.
Below are selected U.S. Epic and Ikon Pass resorts that are open, plus announced opening dates to help plan your first trip. Future dates are tentative and depend on weather and conditions. Always check the resort's mountain report before heading out.
Which Epic and Ikon Resorts Are Open Now?
These three resorts are confirmed open for the season as of November 6. Open for the season does not mean every lift or trail is running.
| Resort | State | Pass | Current Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mammoth Mountain | California | Ikon | Open. Opening day moved up to November 5. |
| Arapahoe Basin | Colorado | Ikon | Open with limited terrain. |
| Keystone | Colorado | Epic | Open. Season began October 30. |
Mammoth's early start is good news for California riders eager to get back on snow. Its opening-day lineup included three trails, so check the latest terrain report before deciding whether the trip fits your ability and plans.
Arapahoe Basin also reports no beginner terrain available at the time of this update. If you're bringing someone for their first day, confirm that suitable terrain and lessons are operating before making the drive.
Official updates: Mammoth Mountain, Mammoth opening-day details, Arapahoe Basin and Keystone operating updates.
Two Opening Dates That Have Changed
Breckenridge: The original November 6 opening has been postponed. The resort now says it plans to open as soon as possible, with a replacement date still to be announced.
Copper Mountain: Copper has also delayed its planned November 6 opening and has not posted a replacement date in its latest opening update.
If either mountain is on your list, check the Breckenridge website or Copper Mountain website before booking around an opening day. Older calendars may still show November 6.
Ikon Pass Resort Opening Dates for 2026/27
| Resort | State | Target Opening |
|---|---|---|
| Eldora | Colorado | November 13 |
| Sunday River | Maine | November 15 |
| Alta | Utah | November 20 |
| Solitude | Utah | November 20 |
| Sugarloaf | Maine | November 20 |
| Steamboat | Colorado | November 21 |
| Sugarbush | Vermont | November 21 |
| Big Sky | Montana | November 25 |
| Palisades Tahoe | California | November 25 |
| Stratton | Vermont | November 25 |
| Aspen Mountain | Colorado | November 26 |
| Snowmass | Colorado | November 26 |
| Jackson Hole | Wyoming | November 27 |
| Snowbasin | Utah | November 27 |
| Snowbird | Utah | November 27 |
| Mt. Bachelor | Oregon | December 4 |
| Deer Valley | Utah | December 5 |
| June Mountain | California | December 19 |
Source: Ikon Pass opening dates. These are planned openings, not guarantees that the full mountain will be available.
Still waiting on a date: Winter Park, Brighton, Killington and Sierra-at-Tahoe remain listed as TBA on Ikon's schedule.
Planning a Big Bear trip? Bear Mountain, Snow Summit and Snow Valley have not confirmed opening day. Big Bear Mountain Resort specifically notes that dates available for lift-ticket purchases are not official opening announcements. Check the resort's latest update before making plans.
Snowboarders, keep in mind that Alta and Deer Valley are ski-only resorts.
Already planning the next trip? Here are announced target dates for selected Ikon destinations. All dates below are in 2026.
Epic Pass Resort Opening Dates for 2026/27
| Resort | State | Target Opening |
|---|---|---|
| Vail | Colorado | November 13 |
| Heavenly | California/Nevada | November 20 |
| Northstar | California | November 20 |
| Park City Mountain | Utah | November 20 |
| Beaver Creek | Colorado | November 25 |
| Crested Butte | Colorado | November 25 |
| Kirkwood | California | December 4 |
| Stevens Pass | Washington | December 4 |
Source: Vail Resorts' 2026/27 opening-date announcement. Check the individual resort's latest update before traveling.
Before You Head Out for First Chair
Opening weekend is exciting, but give your trip a quick reality check before packing the car.
- Look at open terrain. Check which lifts and runs are operating, including whether beginner terrain is available.
- Check your exact pass. Confirm that your pass product covers the resort and dates you want, along with any reservation requirements.
- Check the drive. Review road conditions, weather and parking arrangements before leaving.
- Go through your gear. Try everything on and check your goggles, gloves, socks and layers. It's easier to replace something at home than discover it's missing in the parking lot.
Get Your Gear Ready for the Season
Whether you're catching early laps at Mammoth or waiting for your home mountain to open, now is a good time to figure out what your setup is missing.
That's where SlopePak comes in. Our curated ski and snowboard gear boxes are built around your riding preferences, with apparel and accessories to help round out your mountain kit.
Take a look at the current options, get your gear sorted, and we'll see you on the slopes.
