Spring Skiing Guide 2026
Spring skiing offers some of the best conditions of the year—warm sun, soft snow, empty slopes, and après-ski on the deck. Here's where to go.
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When Resorts Close (2026 Projected)
| Close Date | Resorts |
|---|---|
| Early March | Most small regional resorts |
| Late March | East Coast (Killington holds late) |
| Mid-April | Most Colorado, Utah resorts |
| Late April | Park City, Vail, Breckenridge |
| May | Snowbird, A-Basin, Mammoth |
| June | A-Basin, Mammoth (if conditions allow) |
| July | Mammoth (big snow years only) |
Best Spring Skiing Destinations
1. Mammoth Mountain, CA (Open until June+)
Mammoth is the king of spring skiing. The high elevation (11,053 ft summit) and massive snowfall (400" average) keeps it open well into summer.
- Typical closing: Late May to early July
- Why it's great: Warm weather, bikini skiing, corn snow
- Spring conditions: Soft snow AM, slush PM
- Crowds: Much smaller than peak season
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2. Arapahoe Basin, CO (Open until June)
A-Basin is Colorado's spring skiing champion, reliably open into June.
- Typical closing: Late May to mid-June
- Elevation: 10,780 - 13,050 ft
- Vibe: Party atmosphere, tailgating in parking lot
- Spring ritual: "The Beach" - parking lot BBQs
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3. Snowbird, UT (Open until Memorial Day+)
Snowbird's steep terrain and massive snowfall make it a spring staple.
- Typical closing: Late May
- Average snowfall: 500+ inches
- Spring conditions: Excellent steep skiing
- Tip: Tram opens at 9am—catch early soft snow
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4. Killington, VT (Latest in the East)
Killington pushes later than any East Coast resort, often operating into May.
- Typical closing: Late April to mid-May
- Elevation: Highest in Vermont
- Spring conditions: Variable—can be icy mornings
- Savings: Deep spring discounts
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5. Whistler Blackcomb, BC (Glacier skiing into July)
Whistler's glacier allows skiing into July, though with limited terrain.
- Glacier closing: July
- Main mountain: Late May
- Best for: Combining spring skiing with summer activities
- Vibe: European-style après scene
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Spring Skiing Conditions
What to Expect
| Time | Conditions |
|---|---|
| 8-10am | Firm, fast snow (can be icy) |
| 10am-1pm | Perfect corn snow—soft but not slushy |
| 1-3pm | Progressively softer, more slush |
| After 3pm | Very soft, "mashed potato" snow |
The Goal: Corn Snow
Corn snow is perfect spring skiing—soft, round granules that feel like butter. It forms when snow melts during day and refreezes at night. How to find it:- South-facing slopes morning (warm first)
- North-facing slopes afternoon (warms later)
- Follow the sun around the mountain
What to Wear Spring Skiing
Ditch the Heavy Gear
- Base layer only or light fleece
- Water-resistant pants (you'll get wet)
- Sunscreen - UV is intense at elevation
- Light gloves - Not mittens
- Helmet - Still non-negotiable
Don't Forget
- Sunglasses or bright light goggles
- Lip balm with SPF
- Water bottle (dehydration is real)
- Waterproof phone case (slush splashes)
Spring Skiing Deals
Resorts offer big discounts in spring:
| Resort | Spring Deal |
|---|---|
| Mammoth | 2-for-1 Tuesdays |
| A-Basin | $59 spring tickets |
| Snowbird | Discounted 3+ day packages |
| Killington | 50%+ off late April |
Season Pass Value
If you have an Ikon or Epic pass, spring is when it pays off—resorts included stay open late while day ticket prices stay high.---
Planning Your Spring Trip
Best Weeks
- Early April: Most terrain open, warming temps
- Late April: Smaller crowds, good deals
- May: Die-hard skiing, party vibes
Avoid
- Easter Week: Peak spring crowds
- Closing Weekend: Crowded celebration
Pro Tips
- Book lodging way in advance—spring visitors fill limited remaining rooms
- Arrive early (first chair) for best snow
- Take a long lunch and skip the soft afternoon snow
- Bring après clothes—no one wears ski gear to the deck
FAQs
Is spring skiing worth it? Absolutely. Warm weather, soft snow, and empty slopes make it one of the best times to ski—especially if you dislike cold. What's corn snow? Frozen granules that soften in spring sun, creating smooth, forgiving skiing. It's the goal of every spring ski day. When should I stop skiing in spring? When the snow gets too soft and slushy—usually mid-afternoon. Take a break and enjoy après! Are terrain parks open in spring? Most close partially, but Mammoth and others maintain parks into June.---