Your 2026–27 Colorado ski season preview: opening dates, new mountain experiences, and events worth planning a trip around.
It's happening. The first snow is flying in Colorado's Rocky Mountains, dusting the peaks in white. Temperatures are dropping, snow guns are firing up, and the countdown to opening day is on. Before you know it, you're checking mountain webcams with your morning coffee, watching the forecasts, and wondering whether this could be the winter.
Sound familiar?
There's nothing quite like the anticipation of a new ski season. And this year, there's plenty to get excited about beyond the promise of fresh snow.
From free early-season skiing for kids in Steamboat to new mountaintop experiences in Vail, world-class racing in Beaver Creek, and unique adventures in Breckenridge, the 2026–27 season is shaping up to be one worth planning for.
Here's your first look at what's happening in Colorado's mountains this winter.
The Countdown to Opening Day
We are excited for opening day at all of our resorts! Breckenridge Resort opening on November 6, Vail Resort opening on November 13, Steamboat Resort opening on November 21, and Beaver Creek Resort opening on November 25, 2026. Here we go!
Whether you're planning your first trip of the season or looking for a reason to revisit a favorite mountain, here's what's new and noteworthy across our four Colorado destinations.
Kids Ski Free, New Terrain & Big Adventures
Kids Ski Free | November 21–December 15
Families have a great reason to visit Steamboat early this season. Kids 12 and under can ski free during this limited-time window, with no accompanying adult lift ticket purchase required. Eligible children must obtain a free lift ticket through the resort.
New Beginner Terrain | Barrow's Bend
A new beginner-friendly trail connecting Rendezvous Lodge to the Sunshine Peak Lift gives newer skiers another way to explore the mountain.
New Guided Experience | Heli-Ready
Experienced skiers looking for their next challenge can explore Steamboat's new Heli-Ready Guided Experience, designed to develop skills for the demands of heli-skiing.
New Après Experiences, Live Music & Elevated Skiing
New Vail Ice Bar
A new outdoor gathering spot near the entrance to Vail's legendary Back Bowls brings another opportunity to enjoy the mountain atmosphere between runs.
Après All Day | Expanded Live Music
Vail is turning up the volume this winter, with more than 50 artists scheduled throughout the season, including performances at new mountaintop venues.
Epic Ascent | Premium Private Ski Experience
For guests seeking a more personalized mountain experience, the new Epic Ascent offering combines private ski instruction with dedicated concierge services.
World Cup Racing & Elevated Mountain Experiences
Birds of Prey World Cup | December 3–13
One of the most exciting events of the early ski season returns with an expanded format. Seven World Cup competitions across two weekends bring the world's best alpine racers to Beaver Creek.
New Culinary Experiences
New offerings, including the Last Drop Whiskey Tasting and Spruce Saddle Cabin Corner, provide additional opportunities to enjoy Beaver Creek's renowned mountain hospitality.
Epic Ascent | Premium Private Ski Experience
Beaver Creek is also introducing Epic Ascent, pairing private ski instruction with personalized concierge services for an elevated day on the slopes.
New Mountain Experiences & Winter Events
Climb and Dine | A Different Kind of Mountain Evening
This new experience combines a self-powered mountain ascent with a curated dining experience, offering an adventurous alternative to traditional on-mountain dining.
The Kingdom of Breck
Breckenridge is celebrating its independent spirit with a new identity inspired by the mountain town's colorful history and adventurous personality.
Toyota U.S. Grand Prix | December 10–13
Watch elite freeski and snowboard athletes compete in one of the season's premier early-winter events.
Opening day is almost here, and there's a whole season of mountain adventures ahead.
Whether you're planning a family ski vacation, gathering friends for a long-awaited getaway, or returning to your favorite Colorado slopes, now is the time to turn those winter plans into reality.
At Moving Mountains, we'll help you make the most of every moment, with exceptional luxury vacation homes, personalized guest services, and local expertise in each of our four mountain destinations.
The mountains are getting ready.
Now it's your turn.
