As the winter season draws to a close, many skiing enthusiasts look forward to spring skiing in North America. The period is marked by soft turns under clear skies and outdoor events that ski areas host to welcome the warmer weather. However, conditions can change rapidly, requiring skiers to have some skill and knowledge for an optimal experience.
Several ski resorts across North America extend their operations well into spring. Arapahoe Basin in Colorado, often referred to as “A-Basin,” typically closes on June 8. It offers challenging terrain with 73% classified as “expert.” Breckenridge, also in Colorado, remains open until May due to its high elevation and features a mix of terrains for different skill levels.
Mammoth Mountain in California is renowned for its deep snowpack, sometimes allowing skiing until July. During the 2022-23 season, it remained open until August 6. On the East Coast, Killington in Vermont keeps lifts running into May or even June. Known as the “Beast of the East,” it provides diverse terrain across seven peaks.
Whistler Blackcomb in British Columbia boasts expansive terrain and often extends its season into May on the Blackcomb side. Timberline Lodge in Oregon offers year-round skiing except for fall, with advanced terrain accessible via the Palmer lift opening late April.
Snowbird in Utah is known for reliable spring skiing due to its average annual snowfall of 500 inches. Meanwhile, Banff Sunshine Village in British Columbia has Canada’s longest non-glacial ski season from November through May.
These destinations offer varied experiences for those seeking extended skiing opportunities as winter ends.
