Ski Season Starts in 1 Month-Here Are the U.S. Resorts That Open First

"It may feel like summer just ended, but in the mountains, the hype is just beginning. Long-range forecasts are out, skiers and riders are swapping predictions, and the countdown is on with lifts ready to start spinning before you know it. And luckily, mountain enthusiasts won't have to wait long to rip with some resorts across the United States planning to open as early as next month."

"This year, Keystone Resort hopes to be that mountain, targeting a mid-October opening date, Vail Resorts, which owns the ski area, shared with Travel + Leisure. Keystone has been getting a lot of attention ahead of the opening thanks to the Kindred Resort, a brand-new luxury hotel expected to welcome guests in December. The ski-in/ski-out property is set at the base of the River Run Gondola and will feature 107 rooms, a slope-side outdoor heated pool, a ski valet, and more."

"To ski Keystone, you'll need an Epic Pass, which is currently on sale for $1,097. The company also offers a Keystone Plus Pass, which provides unlimited skiing at Keystone (with a few holiday blackout dates) along with limited access to Breckenridge and Crested Butte for $437. Based on historical opening dates, the Loveland Ski Area may open next with an average opening date over the past five years of Oct. 29, according to the mountain."

Multiple U.S. ski resorts, especially in Colorado, plan early openings this season, with some aiming for mid-October. Keystone Resort targets a mid-October opening and will be complemented by the new Kindred Resort, a 107-room ski-in/ski-out hotel with a slope-side heated pool, ski valet, and direct River Run Gondola access. Keystone access requires an Epic Pass ($1,097) or a Keystone Plus Pass ($437) for unlimited Keystone skiing with limited access to Breckenridge and Crested Butte. Loveland averages Oct. 29 openings over five years. Arapahoe Basin advertises the longest ski season in Colorado with high elevation and advanced terrain. Wolf Creek opened Oct. 22, 2024.

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