As autumn settles across the Northern Hemisphere, skiers everywhere feel that familiar itch – it won’t be long before we’re back on the snow. One of the season’s biggest questions is: Which ski resorts will open first?
The answer depends on a mix of factors, from altitude and latitude to snowmaking capabilities and, of course, a little help from Mother Nature. While the weather ultimately calls the shots, some resorts have earned a reputation for getting their lifts spinning ahead of the pack. To fuel your stoke (and maybe even help you start packing your bags), we’ve rounded up 8 resorts around North America that will likely be opening their lifts early.
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Keystone's opening day can be a snowy affair. | Photo: Vail Resorts/KeystoneProjected Opening Day: Mid-October 2025
Keystone is once again gunning for the title of the first resort to open in the state, and maybe even the country. With one of the most advanced snowmaking systems in the Rockies, Keystone can fire up the lifts as soon as the temperatures drop, making those first turns of the season a real possibility. Last year, the resort came close to an October debut, officially opening on November 2, 2024. Beyond early-season laps, Keystone brings its signature terrain parks and a lively base village that buzzes with events and entertainment all season long.
Where to stay: The Kindred Resort checks every box for an epic mountain getaway. Unwind in the heated outdoor pool and hot tubs with gorgeous slopeside views and savor après at the on-site bars and restaurants.
The white ribbon at Arapahoe Basin on opening day 2024. | Photo: Arapahoe BasinProjected Opening Day: November 2025
With one of the highest summit elevations in the country, Arapahoe Basin – affectionately known as “A-Basin” or “The Legend” – has long been a frontrunner for Colorado’s first chair of the season. In a typical snow year, it’s a safe bet for early-season turns starting as soon as October, and when the storms line up just right, A-Basin has even claimed the honor of being the first place in the U.S. to offer lift-served powder. For those planning an early-season trip, it’s smart to bring rentals or rock skis, since conditions can be variable this time of year.
Where to stay: To maximize the value of your Ikon Pass, consider staying at the AC Hotel in Frisco, Colorado. This hotel serves as an ideal base for exploring not only Keystone but also Copper Mountain and Arapahoe Basin.
There's nothing like fresh powder at Breck. l Photo: Andrew Maguire/Breckenridge ResortProjected Opening Day: November 7, 2025
With its high elevation, reliable natural snowfall and snowmaking abilities, Breckenridge usually kicks off the season by mid-November – this year, they’re targeting a November 7 opening. The resort is also home to North America’s highest chairlift, the Imperial Express, a bucket-list ride for many skiers. While early-season terrain is typically limited to lower-elevation beginner and intermediate runs, those who embrace the early conditions are rewarded with the chance to kick off their season with some classic Breck turns.
Where to stay: Perched at the base of Peak 9, the Hotel Alpenrock is perfectly placed for beginners ready to learn and explore Breckenridge’s iconic terrain. Guests are welcomed with a signature chocolate chip cookie and enjoy Rocky Mountain views, an on-site rental shop and the convenience of ski-in ski-out, plus a ski valet steps from the lifts.
Vail Opening Day après party for 2024. l Photo: Madison Miller/Vail ResortProjected Opening Day: November 14, 2025
Vail Resort’s high-altitude setting and state-of-the-art snowmaking give it a strong advantage when it comes to starting the season early. The resort has already circled November 14, 2025, for opening day, inviting skiers to get a jump on winter in the heart of the Rockies. While terrain is usually limited in November, Vail often manages to serve up well-groomed runs on the front side, perfect for warming up the legs before the heart of the season. And when the early storms roll through, lucky skiers can even score fresh tracks in the Legendary Back Bowls – a rare treat this time of year.
Where to stay: Just a short quarter-mile stroll to the lifts, The Landmark offers quick access to Vail’s Lionshead Village with its endless dining and après options. Rooms are warm and well-appointed, many featuring in-room fireplaces for that perfect mountain ambiance. Outside, unwind on the expansive patio with a heated pool, spa and fire pits, all framed by sweeping alpine views.
Known as the "Beast of the East," you can rely on Killington for Thanksgiving shredding. | Photo: KillingtonProjected Opening Day: Mid-November 2025
Known as the “Beast of the East,” Killington has a long history of being the first resort to open in the Eastern U.S., often starting lifts by mid-November. Killington Peak, the second-highest point in Vermont at 4,241 feet, anchors the resort’s 7 interconnected mountains and delivers expansive views of the Green Mountains. While the resort averages 250 inches of natural snowfall each year, its powerhouse snowmaking system can cover 60 acres and is capable of pumping out up to a foot of fresh snow every 24 hours to keep early-season laps going strong.
Where to stay: The convenient ski-in ski-out Killington Grand Hotel comes with extra perks like the Grand Spa, offering a wide array of treatments, and the free hotel shuttle with access to the famous Killington Road for a variety of exciting dining and après options.
The feeling of being the first on the slopes on Opening Day can't be beat. l Photo: Park City ResortProjected Opening Day: November 21, 2025
Park City is often among the first Utah resorts to welcome skiers each winter, thanks to its massive, high-tech snowmaking system and high-altitude setting that helps snow stick around. As soon as late fall temperatures dip, the resort fires up its guns to blanket key runs in preparation for opening day, living up to its reputation of having the “Greatest Snow on Earth.” While the entire mountain won’t be ready right away, early-season guests can usually count on laps off Payday, First Time and 3 Kings in the Park City Mountain Village, along with Red Pine Gondola, Saddleback and High Meadow over at Canyons Village. It’s a great way to find those ski legs before the rest of Park City’s 7,300 acres open for the season.
Where to stay: Set in the heart of Canyons Village, the Grand Summit Hotel offers seamless ski-in ski-out access via the Orange Bubble Express. After a day on the slopes, unwind with amenities like an on-site bar and restaurant; soothing spa, sauna and steam room; plus in-room fireplaces for the perfect alpine retreat. A complimentary shuttle makes it easy to explore downtown Park City, adding convenience to comfort.
Heavenly delivers epic views of Lake Tahoe at almost every turn. l Photo: Anthony Cupaiuolo/Heavenly ResortProjected Opening Day: Mid-November, 2025
You know how some places are just so stunning, no photo can do them justice? Lake Tahoe is one of them. With a top elevation of 10,067 feet, Heavenly Resort showcases the highest peak in the Tahoe region, giving it an edge for early-season opening dates. Skiers can look forward to sweeping lake views, sunny cruisers that Tahoe is famous for and a fun après-ski scene that never disappoints.
Where to stay: With modern mountain-chic design, Zalanta Resort pairs sleek style with luxury alpine touches like gas fireplaces, deep soaker tubs and spacious balconies. Ski-in ski-out access to the Heavenly Gondola makes hitting the slopes effortless, while its prime location in Heavenly Village puts dining, shopping and entertainment right outside your door.
Photo: Tourism Whistler/Guy FattalProjected Opening Day: November 21, 2025
Boasting one of the longest ski seasons in North America, Whistler Blackcomb is also Canada’s largest ski resort and an annual contender for early-season snow. Planning a ski trip to Canada for your first turns of the season will set you up for short lift lines and some of Canada’s renowned powder. Whistler Blackcomb averages an impressive 38.5 feet of snowfall each year, with roughly 8 feet falling between mid-November and early December. Thanks to this early snow and top-notch snowmaking, the resort often opens a week or two ahead of schedule. For anyone chasing early-season powder, Whistler Blackcomb is a must-have on your list.
Where to stay: The 4-star Crystal Lodge is nestled in the Whistler Village and sets guests just steps away from the lifts. The hotel’s heated outdoor pool, hot tub and ski valet make the transition from shredding Canadian pow to après time a breeze.
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The time to book the perfect ski vacation is now! l Photo: David McColm/Heavenly ResortAcross North America, ski season typically kicks off as early as late October in high-altitude Western resorts, while most Eastern resorts start up lifts by mid- to late November. Whether you’re chasing first tracks on opening day or just counting down to your first run of the season, booking your ski trip early ensures you lock in the best lodging before it’s gone, and score the best rates on everything from lift tickets and rentals to airfare and more.
Related: Discover 5 Reasons to Book Your Ski Trip Early
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Cover Photo: Andrew Maguire/Breckenridge ResortAuthor
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