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Mt Hood Meadows Closes April 12 After Latest Opening Day in 30 Years

Michael Fulton

Mt Hood Meadows Closes April 12 After Latest Opening Day in 30 Years

Mt Hood Meadows will close April 12 following a season that didn't start until December 23 - the resort's latest opening in three decades. Insufficient snow coverage has forced the early closure, with pond skim and Pride events cancelled.

Oregon
Mt Hood Meadows
United States
Delta Adds Year-Round Austin to Bozeman Service From Winter 2026-27

Michael Fulton

Delta Adds Year-Round Austin to Bozeman Service From Winter 2026-27

Delta Airlines will extend its Austin to Bozeman route to year-round service from late 2026, providing direct access to Big Sky and Bridger Bowl during the ski season. The move is part of Delta's push to establish a stronger presence in the Texas market against competing airline hubs.

Big Sky
Bozeman
United States
Montana
Bridger Bowl
Copper Mountain Season Passes for 2026/27 Now on Sale from $699

Michael Fulton

Copper Mountain Season Passes for 2026/27 Now on Sale from $699

Copper Mountain has opened sales for 2026/27 season passes, with adult passes starting at $699 and expanded Kids Ski Free now covering children up to 17. The resort is hosting men's World Cup racing in November, but the real story is whether the pricing represents genuine value or just earlier sales windows.

Colorado
Copper Mountain
United States
Palisades Tahoe Abandons May Closing Date as Snow Drought Bites

Michael Fulton

Palisades Tahoe Abandons May Closing Date as Snow Drought Bites

Palisades Tahoe has scrapped its planned May 25 closing date, now targeting late April at best. The California resort is down to 15 of 39 lifts operating as early and mid-season snow shortfalls continue to take their toll on the 2024/25 season.

United States
California
Palisades Tahoe
Western U.S. Ski Resorts Close Early as Warm Weather Compounds Poor Snow Season

Michael Fulton

Western U.S. Ski Resorts Close Early as Warm Weather Compounds Poor Snow Season

A heat wave hitting the western United States has forced dozens of ski resorts to close early or abandon their seasons entirely. With below-average snowpacks across the region, the warm spell has ended operations at over 40 resorts from Arizona to Montana.

Oregon
Colorado
Washington
Idaho
United States
Utah
California
New Mexico
Wyoming
Montana
Arizona
Snowbasin to Close March 22 After Difficult Utah Winter

Michael Fulton

Snowbasin to Close March 22 After Difficult Utah Winter

Snowbasin Resort will close its 2025-26 season on March 22, weeks earlier than its typical mid-April closure. Warm temperatures and low snowfall drove the decision, with rain falling on Christmas Day compounding the challenges. The resort joins a growing list of operations cutting seasons short.

Snowbasin
United States
Utah
Killington's Snowdon Triple Chairlift Closes After 53 Seasons

Michael Fulton

Killington's Snowdon Triple Chairlift Closes After 53 Seasons

Killington's oldest operating chairlift ends its run on Saturday 21 March after more than five decades of service. The 1973-era Snowdon Triple will be replaced by a fixed-grip quad as part of ongoing infrastructure upgrades under the resort's new ownership.

United States
Vermont
Killington
Utah Billionaire Escalates Campaign Against Vail Resorts Ownership of Park City

Michael Fulton

Utah Billionaire Escalates Campaign Against Vail Resorts Ownership of Park City

Matthew Prince, Utah's wealthiest resident, has intensified his public criticism of Vail Resorts' management of Park City Mountain Resort. The Cloudflare CEO claims Vail's 10-year stock performance has been dismal and argues the company should sell off individual resorts. Vail says it's not selling.

United States
Utah
Park City
Two Lake Tahoe Resorts Close Early as March Heat Wave Decimates Snowpack

Michael Fulton

Two Lake Tahoe Resorts Close Early as March Heat Wave Decimates Snowpack

Sierra at Tahoe and Homewood have pulled the pin on their 2025-26 seasons weeks ahead of schedule as temperatures hit the low 20s celsius and California's snowpack drops to 28 percent of average in the northern Sierra - the worst levels since 2015.

Lake Tahoe
Sierra at Tahoe
United States
California
Homewood
Vail Resorts Drops My Epic Gear Membership Fee, Makes Premium Rentals Standard

Michael Fulton

Vail Resorts Drops My Epic Gear Membership Fee, Makes Premium Rentals Standard

Vail Resorts is scrapping the $50 My Epic Gear membership fee and rolling premium rental features into standard offerings. Starting next season, anyone booking Demo rentals at 12 resorts can select specific gear models online, access BOA ski boots and Step On bindings at no extra cost.

Colorado
Vail
United States
Utah
California
Inbounds Avalanche at Silver Mountain Raises Questions After Fatal 2020 Slide

Michael Fulton

Inbounds Avalanche at Silver Mountain Raises Questions After Fatal 2020 Slide

Two skiers were caught in an inbounds avalanche on a double black diamond run at Silver Mountain Resort in Idaho, despite patrol conducting avalanche mitigation earlier that day. Both escaped without serious injury, but the incident raises questions about a resort that permanently closed terrain following a fatal 2020 slide.

Silver Mountain
Kellogg
Idaho
United States
Steamboat Resort Introduces Paid Parking and Carpool Incentives for 2026-27

Michael Fulton

Steamboat Resort Introduces Paid Parking and Carpool Incentives for 2026-27

Steamboat is overhauling its parking system next winter, introducing $15 charges for solo drivers on peak days while keeping parking free for carpoolers with three or more people. The changes mark a significant shift for Colorado's second-largest resort.

Steamboat
Colorado
United States
Tamarack Resort Season Pass Pricing: What the Numbers Actually Mean

Michael Fulton

Tamarack Resort Season Pass Pricing: What the Numbers Actually Mean

Tamarack has opened sales for its 2026-27 season pass at $499, claiming it's the best deal of the year. We break down whether the early-bird pricing represents genuine value or standard industry tiering tactics, and what the cap on pass sales really means for access.

Idaho
Tamarack Resort
United States
Aspen Occupancy Down 5.5% as International Boycotts and Weak Snowfall Hit Bookings

Michael Fulton

Aspen Occupancy Down 5.5% as International Boycotts and Weak Snowfall Hit Bookings

Aspen's winter season is tracking 5.5% behind last year through January, with Australian tour operators reporting boycotts related to US politics and a 30% drop in American bookings. Hotels are maintaining revenue by raising rates, but the combination of political sentiment, unfavourable exchange rates, and Colorado's poor early-season snowfall has dampened what's typically the resort's strongest period for international visitors.

Colorado
United States
Aspen
Alpental Opens with New Edelweiss Triple Chairlift Completing Three-Year Lift Replacement Programme

Michael Fulton

Alpental Opens with New Edelweiss Triple Chairlift Completing Three-Year Lift Replacement Programme

The Summit at Snoqualmie's Alpental area opened for the 2025 season on January 7 with the debut of its new Edelweiss triple chair, replacing a 58-year-old Riblet double and completing a three-year lift modernisation. The upgrade promises more reliable upper mountain access for avalanche control, though whether it delivers on capacity claims remains to be seen.

Washington
United States
Alpental
Cole Murphy, 30 sadly died after an avalanche at Mammoth Mountain.

Michael Fulton

Mammoth Mountain Ski Patroller Dies During Inbounds Avalanche Mitigation Work

A 30-year-old ski patroller has died from injuries sustained during avalanche control operations at Mammoth Mountain on 26 December. The incident raises questions about patroller safety protocols during extreme storm cycles and marks the second fatal inbounds avalanche at the California resort in less than a year.

United States
California
Mammoth Mountain
The newly updated Deer Valley trail map.

Michael Fulton

Deer Valley Opens East Village Gondola and Pinyon Express as Expansion Takes Shape

Deer Valley's expansion reached its first operational milestone on 27 December with the opening of two new lifts. The 10-passenger East Village Gondola and Pinyon Express six-pack now provide access to previously inaccessible terrain, though five more lifts remain unopened this season.

United States
Utah
Deer Valley
Tamarack Resort Opens with Limited Terrain After Late Season Start

Michael Fulton

Tamarack Resort Opens with Limited Terrain After Late Season Start

Tamarack Resort in Idaho has opened for the 2025-26 season on December 22, running three lifts with upper-mountain-only access. The delayed opening follows limited early snowfall, with skiers restricted from accessing lower mountain terrain as operations teams work to expand coverage.

Tamarack
Idaho
United States
Loon Mountain Opens 60% of Terrain in Early December, Claims Historical Record

Michael Fulton

Loon Mountain Opens 60% of Terrain in Early December, Claims Historical Record

Loon Mountain has opened 44 trails across three peaks by mid-December, claiming the most extensive early-season terrain in New Hampshire. The resort attributes the opening to aggressive snowmaking operations supported by favourable temperatures and approximately 10 inches of natural snow.

Loon Mountain
United States
New Hampshire
Early Season North America: Which Ski Resorts Are Open Right Now?

Michael Fulton

Early Season North America: Which Ski Resorts Are Open Right Now?

The 2025-26 North American ski season is underway with resorts across Colorado, Alberta, and Vermont opening their lifts. From Keystone's surprise first-to-open move to Sunshine Village's impressive 38 runs already available, here's exactly what terrain you can access right now and which resorts are offering the best early season conditions.

Canada
Alberta
Colorado
United States
Vermont
Kirkwood Mountain Resort: Tahoe's Deep Snow and Advanced Terrain Destination for Serious Skiers

Michael Fulton

Kirkwood Mountain Resort: Tahoe's Deep Snow and Advanced Terrain Destination for Serious Skiers

Kirkwood Mountain Resort stands apart in Tahoe with the region's deepest snowfall (354 inches annually), 58% advanced/expert terrain, and a refreshingly uncrowded atmosphere. Discover why this remote alpine valley offers California's most authentic skiing experience, where challenging terrain and quality snow take priority over flashy amenities.

Lake Tahoe
United States
California
Kirkwood
10 Best Ski Resorts in Colorado Ranked for the 2025-26 Season

Michael Fulton

10 Best Ski Resorts in Colorado Ranked for the 2025-26 Season

Colorado stands as the undisputed capital of American skiing, combining reliable snowfall, varied terrain, and the legendary Rocky Mountain powder. With over 300 days of sunshine annually and some of the most accessible high-elevation skiing in North America, it's no wonder why Colorado draws skiers and snowboarders from around the globe.

Colorado
United States
Sun Valley Adds Multi-Day Adult Ski and Snowboard Camps for 2025-26

Michael Fulton

Sun Valley Adds Multi-Day Adult Ski and Snowboard Camps for 2025-26

Sun Valley has launched four multi-day camp programmes for adult skiers and riders, including an all-women's intermediate camp. The structured packages aim to capture a growing segment of the lessons market, though the pricing and value proposition remain unclear.

Sun Valley
Idaho
United States
Outside renderings of the residence at Chalet Alpina

Michael Fulton

Aspen's Chalet Alpina: Another Ultra-Luxury Development in a Saturated Market

Construction of Chalet Alpina, a new luxury hotel and residential complex, is underway at Aspen Snowmass. While promising high-end amenities and ski-in/ski-out access, it raises questions about affordability and the future direction of this already exclusive ski town.

Colorado
United States
Aspen
Deer Valley Four Seasons Development

Michael Fulton

Alterra's $400M Investment: Deer Valley Expansion Takes Centre Stage

Alterra Mountain Company announces a $400 million capital investment program, with a significant focus on expanding Deer Valley Resort in Utah. The plan includes doubling skiable terrain and adding new lifts, but questions remain about the impact on the resort's character and pricing.

United States
Utah
Deer Valley
Powder skiers get deep at Taos

Michael Fulton

Taos Ski Valley's 70th Anniversary Upgrades: Substance or Spin?

Taos Ski Valley marks its 70th season with infrastructure improvements and expanded air access. But do these changes genuinely enhance the skiing experience or just pad the marketing brochure?

United States
New Mexico
Taos Ski Valley
The summit of the Silverlode Lift at Park City

Michael Fulton

Park City Mountain's Lift Upgrade Plans Derailed by 1998 Agreement

A Utah court ruling has blocked Park City Mountain's proposed lift upgrades, citing a decades-old development agreement. This setback highlights ongoing tensions between Vail Resorts and the local community over infrastructure improvements and resort capacity.

Park City Mountain
United States
Utah
Pats Peak Hurricane Triple

Michael Fulton

Pats Peak's $5M Upgrade: New Quad and Beginner Area for 2025

Pats Peak in New Hampshire is investing heavily in infrastructure upgrades for the 2025-26 season, including a new quad lift and expanded beginner terrain. But what do these changes really mean for skiers and riders?

Pats Peak
United States
New Hampshire
Purgatory's Gelande lot sits empty despite April promises of a new triple chairlift. The resort announced the project would be finished before the 2025-26 season, but construction hasn't begun as of Thursday.

Michael Fulton

Purgatory's New Chairlift Plans Hit Bureaucratic Snag

Purgatory Resort's ambitious plan for a new front-side chairlift faces significant delays due to unexpected permitting hurdles, casting doubt on its availability for the upcoming ski season.

Purgatory
Colorado
United States
The summit of the legendary Jackson Hole aerial tram.

Michael Fulton

Jackson Hole's 60th Anniversary Ticket Sale: A Critical Look

Jackson Hole Mountain Resort's upcoming 60th anniversary ticket sale promises significant discounts, but savvy skiers should weigh the fine print against industry trends before rushing to purchase.

Jackson Hole
United States
Wyoming
Global Ski Industry Rankings: Nine Countries Control 366 Million Annual Visits

Michael Fulton

Global Ski Industry Rankings: Nine Countries Control 366 Million Annual Visits

The latest international ski tourism data reveals stark industry concentration, with just nine countries dominating global skiing. The USA leads with 60.5 million visits, whilst China shows explosive growth and traditional Alpine destinations face different challenges from climate change to currency strength.

China
Canada
Sweden
France
Japan
United States
Switzerland
Austria
Italy
The glaciers of Solden ski resort in Austria.

Michael Fulton

Austria Gains Ground on Switzerland for U.S. Ski Tourists

Austria's winter tourism sees modest growth, with U.S. visitors increasing 15.4% to nearly 1 million overnight stays. However, Switzerland still leads with 1.2 million U.S. stays, despite Austria's larger ski industry and more competitive pricing.

United States
Switzerland
Austria
New Mexico flooding rescuers searching for three missing people after homes and vehicles swept away

Michael Fulton

New Mexico Flood: Search Continues for Missing Residents

Severe flooding in Ruidoso, New Mexico has left three people missing as rescue teams work to locate those swept away by raging waters. The disaster has prompted evacuations and widespread damage to homes and infrastructure.

Ruidoso
United States
New Mexico
Deer Valley, UT, Developer Secures $600 Million Loan for New Four Seasons Luxury Alpine Village

Michael Fulton

Deer Valley's $600 Million Expansion: Four Seasons Resort Development

Extell Development Company has secured a $600 million loan for the construction of Four Seasons Resort and Residences in Deer Valley, Utah. This project marks the first new luxury alpine village development in North America in over 40 years.

United States
Utah
Deer Valley
Colorado Ski Resorts Had 13.8 Million Skier Visits During 2024-25 Season

Michael Fulton

Colorado Ski Resorts Achieve 13.8 Million Skier Visits in 2024-25 Season

Colorado Ski Country USA reports 13.8 million skier visits for the 2024-25 season, marking the third-highest total on record. The season saw varied conditions, from early snowfall to a snowy spring, with resorts adapting to provide quality experiences for visitors.

Colorado
United States
The Global Ski Industry Leaders: Top 9 Countries by Skier Visits

Michael Fulton

Global Ski Tourism: Top 9 Countries by Annual Skier Visits

Explore the world's most popular ski destinations as we analyse the top nine countries by annual skier visits. From the United States to Sweden, discover how these nations shape the global ski industry and attract millions of visitors each year.

France
Japan
United States
Switzerland
Austria
Arapahoe Basin, CO, Adjusts Parking Reservations for 2025-26 Amid Ikon Pass Changes

Michael Fulton

Arapahoe Basin Updates Parking System for 2025-26 Season

Arapahoe Basin Ski Area in Colorado is modifying its parking reservation system for the upcoming 2025-26 season, aligning with changes to Ikon Pass access. The new system aims to manage traffic and maintain the resort's unique atmosphere.

Colorado
United States
Arapahoe Basin
At Least 13 People Died on Colorado Ski Slopes This 2024-25 Season

Michael Fulton

Colorado Ski Slope Fatalities Decrease in 2024-25 Season

The 2024-25 ski season in Colorado saw 13 fatalities across its 27 ski areas, a slight reduction from previous years. This article examines the statistics and safety measures in place.

Colorado
United States
Loveland Ski Area, CO, to Replace Lift 7 for 2025-26 Season

Michael Fulton

Loveland Ski Area Upgrades Lift 7 for 2025-26 Season

Loveland Ski Area announces plans to replace the 42-year-old Lift 7 with a modern fixed-grip quad, enhancing the learning experience in Loveland Valley.

Loveland Resort
Colorado
United States
Construction Underway On Killigntons Superstar Chairlift Replacement

Michael Fulton

Killington's Superstar Chairlift Replacement Project in Full Swing

Killington Resort has begun replacing its Superstar Chairlift, with construction progressing rapidly. The project includes removing old components, installing new towers, and upgrading related infrastructure.

United States
Vermont
Killington
Washington Ski Resort Listens To Guest Feedback, Decides Against Paid Parking Reservations

Michael Fulton

Stevens Pass Revises Parking Plan After Guest Pushback

Stevens Pass ski resort has adjusted its parking policy for the 2025-26 season, offering a mix of free and paid options with some reservations available, following feedback from skiers and riders.

Washington
Stevens Pass
United States
POWDR Decides To Not Sell Mt. Bachelor

Michael Fulton

Mt. Bachelor to Remain Under POWDR Ownership

POWDR has decided to keep Mt. Bachelor as part of its portfolio, ending speculation about a potential sale. The company plans to invest in upgrades and introduce new pass options for the Oregon ski resort.

Mt Bachelor
Oregon
United States
Alyeska Resort Surpasses 600 Inches of Snowfall This Season

Michael Fulton

Alyeska Resort Surpasses 600 Inches of Snowfall This Season

Alyeska Resort in Alaska has recorded over 600 inches of snowfall this season, maintaining its reputation as one of North America's snowiest ski destinations. With a current base depth of 149 inches, Alyeska continues to offer exceptional skiing conditions.

Alyeska
Alaska
United States
Snowbird Launches 2025-26 Season Passes with Early Access

Michael Fulton

Snowbird Launches 2025-26 Season Passes with Early Access

Snowbird unveils its 2025-26 season pass offerings, featuring the return of the Freeloader Pass program and early access to current-season skiing for new passholders. Various pass options and benefits are available, including flexible payment plans and discounts.

United States
Utah
Snowbird