Woke up this morning to snow dusting the peaks around Keystone. Every year it hits me the same way — summer's over, and ski season is officially on its way.
This morning's view — the first dusting of the season, with the aspens still hanging on.
So let's answer the question I hear every fall: when do the lifts actually start spinning around here?
The short answer
Keystone is projected to open October 31st. That's the target date the resort puts out, and most years they hit it or get close — it all comes down to temperatures cooperating for snowmaking.
If you can't wait that long, Arapahoe Basin (about 20 minutes from our place) is projected for October 24th and is usually one of the first resorts open in the country most years. Bonus early-season laps before Keystone spins up.
What "opening day" really means
Let's be honest with each other, because that's what this guide is for. Opening day isn't mid-January powder. It's typically a handful of runs on man-made snow, one or two lifts, and everybody in Summit County showing up at once because we've all been waiting since April.
And you know what? It's still great. There's nothing like that first chairlift ride of the season — legs burning by run three, grin on your face anyway.
Why early season is secretly the best deal
Here's the local cheat code: November and early December are some of the best-value weeks of the entire ski season.
- Fewer crowds than the holiday crush — you'll actually get laps in.
- Lower rates on lodging. Compare a random November weekend to Christmas week — it's not close.
- First tracks on the season's stoke without the lift lines.
The tradeoff is terrain — not everything's open yet. But if you're the type who just wants to be on snow, early season delivers.
When to book (from someone who watches the calendar)
Christmas week and Presidents' Day weekend are always the first to go. If you're eyeing the holidays, don't wait until December — those dates get claimed in October and November.
For everyone else: booking direct with us means no platform service fees, and our winter calendar is open right now. The chalet sleeps 10 with a private hot tub and a wood-burning fireplace — which hits different after a cold day on the mountain. ♨️
The Collegiate Peaks showing off this morning — worth the drive just for the view.
One honest caveat
Projected opening dates are projections. Resorts announce them, then Mother Nature gets a vote. Always check Keystone's and A-Basin's official sites before you lock in travel around opening weekend — and build in a backup plan. Hot tub, breweries, and a fireplace make a pretty good one.
Your hosts, Shane & Michelle
We live here, we ski here, and we'll point you at the good stuff — then have the hot tub hot when you get back.