Each year, there’s an informal race to see which ski resort will be the first in the United States to begin shifting lifts up and down the mountain.
Wolf Creek, Keystone and Arapahoe Basin often race to be the first to get those chairs uphill. Location, weather, and ability to make snow are often the things that determine who can pull it out fastest.
Although the race ended a little later than in recent years, we now have a winner for the first ski resort to open for the 2022-2023 ski season.
Arapahoe Basin (A-Basin) in Colorado just announced it will open for the first time this season on Sunday, October 23, at 8:30 a.m
However, if you Get ready for your first ski trip, you will need to wait a little longer as the beginning of the season is not the right time for beginners to ski, given the very limited terrain. On A-Basin’s opening day, only the Black Mountain Express and High Noon elevators will operate.
Tickets for the opening day must be purchased in advance, but the rental shop and three restaurants will be ready to welcome the first skiers and racers of the season.
Longer ski seasons are generally great news, but especially for ski season pass holders.
Arapahoe Basin is located on Mountain collective pass which includes two days at each participating mountain, and Ikon Pass.
However, those who have Epic Pass should keep a close eye on Keystone Resort, also in Colorado, which says it’s difficult to make 2 miles of snow School Marm Runway, usually the first run to open on that mountain.
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Related: 5 things to know before going on your first ski trip
If you’re thinking of skiing now, here’s a summary of major U.S. ski shows.
It’s also not too late to get some discounted ski days if you have kids in third through sixth through Colorado Ski National Passport. This pass is not limited to Colorado residents, so any child in those classes can take advantage of four days at each of the 20 participating Colorado ski resorts such as A-Basin, Steamboat, Aspen Snowmass, Telluride, Winter Park and more. That means up to 80 days of kids skiing for just $59 (with some days without power), which is pretty awesome.
Here are other ways kids can ski for free or discount. And here are some resorts that have free or discounted skiing for “premium” skiers.
Related: Best credit cards to use for ski passes and lift passes
While we are talking about “free”, here are some favorite ski-friendly hotels you can book with points. Plus, if you’re looking for another way to get to a resort in Colorado this year, here’s the story of how you can sledding all the way from Denver airport to Winter Park.
We’re waiting for a great ski season to come. If you haven’t mapped out your trips this year, here they are point and mile guide for ski holidays.
