The snow may not yet be falling, but excitement is already building for the 2025–2026 Vail ski season. Whether you’re a seasoned skier chasing deep powder, a family planning a holiday getaway, or a first-time visitor ready to experience the magic of the Rocky Mountains, the Vail Valley promises another unforgettable winter. From world-renowned terrain to cozy après-ski retreats, here’s everything you need to know to plan your trip.
Mountain Overview & Opening Days
Few names carry the same weight in the skiing world as Vail Mountain. With over 5,300 acres of terrain, legendary Back Bowls, and pristine glades, Vail is one of the largest and most beloved ski destinations on the planet. Its lifts are set to start turning on Friday, November 14, 2025, weather permitting. Early birds can look forward to crisp mornings, uncrowded slopes, and that unbeatable first-turn feeling.
Just down the road, Beaver Creek Resort delivers a different kind of mountain magic. Famous for its immaculate grooming, charming European-inspired village, and challenging Birds of Prey World Cup downhill course, Beaver Creek blends luxury with adventure. The resort plans to open on Wednesday, November 26, 2025, just in time for the Thanksgiving holiday.
Whichever mountain you choose, you’ll find powdery aspen glades, immaculate corduroy trails, and depending on how your trip lines up with snowfall, wide-open bowls filled with untouched, sparkling bliss.
Passes, When to Buy, and What’s New
If you plan on skiing multiple days this winter, the Epic Pass is your golden ticket. The full pass unlocks access to over 80 resorts worldwide and is priced just under $2K for adults. For those focusing mainly on Colorado (and a few other destinations), the Epic Local Pass offers broad access at a lower price point closer to $820.
If you know you’re making the trip, the smartest move is to buy your pass now. Prices began rising September 1, and are likely to climb as the season approaches. Plus, popular passes can sell out altogether. If you’re still unsure which pass fits your plans, the new Epic Pass Finder tool is designed to help tailor the choice to your needs.
Also new this year, Epic Friend tickets let you spread the ski-and-snowboard love to your friends with up to 50% off six lift tickets.
In addition to the new Epic Friend tickets, the 2025–2026 season introduces exciting new Ski and Ride School upgrades in the My Epic App. Ski & Ride School check-in is now easier than ever. Parents can register kids digitally, receive real-time updates and photos, track lesson progress, and even celebrate milestones with digital badges, all from their phone.
Where to Stay: The Inn at Riverwalk
A crucial part of your ski trip is where you return to at the end of the day. Nestled riverside in the heart of Edwards, The Inn at Riverwalk is just 5 minutes from Beaver Creek and 15 minutes from Vail. This boutique hotel strikes a balance between mountain charm and modern ease, offering thoughtful amenities designed with skiers in mind:
- Heated outdoor pool & hot tub to soak sore muscles under the stars.
- Complimentary shuttle to Beaver Creek so you can skip the parking hassle and head straight to the lifts.
- Cozy lobby complete with a fireplace and full Lavazza coffee and hot cocoa bar.
- Complimentary Gear Garage stocked with cozy comforts like bathrobes and board games, along with winter gear such as snowshoes and trekking poles.
- Dining and shops are just a short walk away, with options ranging from casual bites to fine dining.
- Peaceful setting that’s close to the action but away from the bustle of the resort crowds.
The Inn offers the perfect home base for your ski trip- a welcoming place to recharge, relax, and enjoy the best of the Vail Valley.
Best Times to Visit
No matter when you visit, the 2025–2026 Vail Ski Season promises something special. Each part of winter carries its own kind of magic. The peak holidays of Thanksgiving, Christmas through New Year’s, and Presidents’ Week bring the most bustle. Prices and lift lines are at their highest, but so is the festive energy that fills the villages and slopes with celebration and family fun.
For those hoping to avoid the busiest weeks, there are quieter times that locals love. Mid-December after the holiday tree lighting, early January before the Martin Luther King Jr. weekend, and late March into early April are considered “hidden gem” windows. These weeks often pair fewer crowds with excellent snow conditions. If you can ski mid-week, you’re more likely to enjoy minimal lines and wide-open runs.
The snow changes as the winter months pass. December usually offers lighter snow coverage but beautifully groomed runs. January and February bring the deepest snowpack and the height of powder season. By March and April, sunshine takes center stage, afternoon snow turns softer, and the relaxed vibe of spring skiing invites you to kick back during a long lunch on the deck.
Don’t-Miss Events & Highlights
The Vail Valley calendar is packed with signature events that bring the community and visitors together.
- Birds of Prey World Cup Races in Beaver Creek: Watch the world’s fastest skiers tackle one of the toughest downhill courses December 4-7.
- Vail Film Festival: Celebrate independent film and creative voices, returning in December 4-7.
- Kringle Crossing Holiday Village in Vail: A whimsical holiday market with chalets, lights, treats, and carolers lighting up Vail Village each December.
- Talons Challenge in Beaver Creek: If you’re a seasoned skier, conquer 26,000 vertical feet across 14 expert runs in one weekend, February 22-23.
- Après at The Amp in Vail: Usually slated for April, this end-of-season celebration brings live music to the Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater, pairing mountain-town energy with once-in-a-lifetime concerts as the sun sets.
Planning Your Perfect Season
From the first lift ride of November to the final sun-soaked turns in April, the 2025–2026 Vail Ski Season invites you to chase powder turns, savor après-ski evenings, or explore the villages with your family. Book your pass early, plan your stay at The Inn at Riverwalk, and mark your calendar for can’t-miss events. Whether you come for the mountain views, the village charm, or the holiday magic, this winter in the Vail Valley promises to be extraordinary.
