• Your Guide to the Start of Ski Season

The first hints of winter are arriving in the mountains, and another ski season will be here before we know it! Whether you are counting down to opening day, planning your family’s first ski trip or simply trying to remember which Breckenridge peak is which, now is the perfect time to start getting ready.

Here is what owners should know as we look ahead to the 2026–2027 ski season.

Mark Your Calendar

Breckenridge Ski Resort is scheduled to open on November 6, 2026. Opening dates for other Summit County and nearby resorts have not all been officially confirmed, but current projected opening dates are:

  • Arapahoe Basin: October 24, 2026
  • Keystone Resort: October 31, 2026
  • Copper Mountain: November 6, 2026
  • Breckenridge Ski Resort: November 6, 2026
  • Vail Mountain: November 13, 2026
  • Beaver Creek Resort: November 25, 2026

As always, opening dates depend on weather, snowmaking and mountain conditions. Early-season terrain is typically limited and expands as natural snowfall and temperatures allow. Before heading out, check the resort’s current lift and terrain status to see what is open.

LIFT & TERRAIN STATUS

Get Your Gear Ready

This is also a good time to pull your gear out of storage. Check that boots still fit comfortably, inspect helmets and goggles, and schedule a ski or snowboard tune before shops get busy. Here are a few of our favorites:

If you need equipment during your stay, reserve rentals ahead of time for the best availability and a smoother start to your ski day.

SKI RENTALS

Plan Ahead for the Slopes

A little planning can make your first ski day of the season much easier. Take care of lessons and lift access before your visit, especially if you are traveling during a holiday or school break.

If you still need a season pass, Epic Day Pass or lift tickets, purchasing early is usually your best option. Lift tickets may be limited, and prices generally increase as your ski date approaches. The pass comparison tool can help you find the option that makes the most sense for the number of days you plan to ski.

Whether you are stepping onto skis for the first time or hoping to sharpen your skills, a lesson can help you feel more confident on the mountain. Breckenridge Ski and Snowboard School offers group lessons, private lessons, seasonal programs and specialty programming for a variety of ages and ability levels.

Popular dates can fill quickly, so make reservations as soon as your travel plans are set. Standard lessons do not automatically include lift access or equipment, although discounted lift tickets and rentals may be available with select group lessons. Explore current options through Breckenridge Ski and Snowboard School.

Before your visit, download the My Epic app to access Mobile Pass or Mobile Lift Tickets from your phone. The app also includes lesson check-in and updates, trail maps, lift information, weather, mountain alerts and personal stats.

PASS COMPARISON

  • photo: BR Maguire

Prepare for Your First Day Back

A little preparation now can make those first days on the mountain much more enjoyable. Start adding leg strength, balance, flexibility and cardio work into your routine several weeks before your first ski day. Even a few short workouts each week can help you feel stronger and more comfortable when you return to the slopes.

Before leaving for the mountain, remember to pack:

  • Warm, waterproof layers
  • Gloves or mittens
  • Helmet and goggles
  • Sunscreen and lip balm
  • Water and snacks
  • Your pass or a phone with the My Epic app ready to go

Colorado weather and road conditions can change quickly. Check COtrip before traveling, allow extra time and make sure your vehicle is prepared for winter driving.

ROAD CONDITIONS

Remember Your Owner Benefits

Day Use becomes especially popular once ski season begins. Owners can make Day Use reservations in Grand Central beginning one week in advance. Reservation opening times vary by resort:

  • Grand Colorado on Peak 8: 7 a.m. MT
  • Grand Lodge on Peak 7: 7:15 a.m. MT
  • Grand Timber Lodge: 7:30 a.m. MT

If resort parking is full, owners may still enjoy Day Use by parking in town and using the BreckConnect Gondola or local transportation. Be sure to review current Day Use information and transportation schedules before arriving.

Opening day will be here soon. Get your gear ready, make those reservations and start dreaming about your first turns of the season. We cannot wait to welcome you back to Breckenridge for another winter filled with fresh snow, mountain adventures and time together!

VISIT GRAND CENTRAL

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