Arapahoe Basin kicks off 80th season as Colorado's first resort to open

Arapahoe Basin began its 80th winter season on Wednesday morning, making it the first destination in the Ikon Pass network to open for the 2026-27 campaign. The mountain is located in Colorado and welcomed visitors for a day of limited operations.

Officials confirmed that skiers and riders have access to a single blue run called High Noon. This trail is accessed via the Black Mountain Express. Snowmaking crews continued working on the front side of the mountain, with plans to expand open terrain as conditions allow.

The resort marks a milestone as it enters its 80th year of operation. Both Ikon Pass and Ikon Base Pass holders have unlimited access to the mountain this winter. Alan Henceroth, the president and CEO of Arapahoe Basin, stated that the opening celebrates the anniversary while providing guests with plenty of days ahead to experience the resort.

Wednesday's schedule included live music in the base area throughout the day. Staff distributed giveaways in the lift lines to attendees. The 6th Alley Bar & Grill opened at 9 a.m., while the Black Mountain Lodge opened later in the afternoon.

Other ski areas across Colorado have targeted opening dates for the coming weeks. Keystone and Winter Park Resort aim to open as soon as possible in late October. Loveland Ski Area has no set date, though its average opening over the past five years is November 5. Breckenridge and Copper Mountain are scheduled for November 6, and Vail Mountain for November 13.

Later in the season, Powderhorn and Purgatory Resort are set to open on November 20. Steamboat follows on November 21. Beaver Creek, Crested Butte, and Granby Ranch are all scheduled for November 25. Aspen Mountain, Snowmass, and Telluride are targeted for November 26.

December openings include Monarch Mountain in the early to mid-month window. Ski Cooper is scheduled for December 9, Sunlight Mountain Resort for December 11, and both Aspen Highlands and Buttermilk for December 12. Silverton Mountain has the latest date, set for December 31. Resort officials note that all these dates are subject to change based on weather and conditions.