Vail Resorts released its opening date lineup for the 2026/27 winter season on August 18, 2026. The announcement follows preseason forecasts regarding a potential Super El Niño that could deliver significant snowfall.
Planned opening dates for the upcoming season include Keystone Resort in Colorado as early as possible in October. Other scheduled openings include Breckenridge on November 6, Vail Mountain on November 13, and Park City Mountain on November 20. Other resorts scheduled to open on November 20 include Whistler Blackcomb, Heavenly, and Northstar.
Additional openings include Beaver Creek and Crested Butte on November 25, and Kirkwood and Stevens Pass on December 4. Vail Resorts stated that these dates are subject to change based on weather and conditions.
Regarding season passes, the lowest price for the fall ends on September 7. Vail Resorts introduced reduced pricing for young skiers and riders ages 13-30, offering a 20% discount on Epic Pass and Epic Local Pass.
Additionally, skiers and riders who visited any of the 37 North American Vail Resorts with a lift ticket or Epic Friend Ticket during the 2025/26 season can save up to $175 on select Epic Passes. Epic Pass holders will also receive five Epic Friend Tickets, which provide 50% off adult lift tickets and 25% off child lift ticket prices.
Vail Resorts is implementing an Epic Experience growth strategy involving investments in food, lessons, gear, and guest engagement. This includes the introduction of Epic Ascent to enhance private lessons with concierge services.
Upcoming events for the season include the Rockstar Energy Open snowboard competition at Breckenridge and a global snowboard and freeski halfpipe competition hosted by Shaun White and The Snow League at Park City Mountain.
The company continues to invest in snowmaking capabilities, having invested more than $100 million across its portfolio since 2015.
