October Snow Brings Early Start to US Ski Season, but There’s a Catch

Colorado’s ski season officially begins Wednesday, October 28, after falling temperatures and fresh mountain snow helped usher in winter. But skiers rushing to make their first turns will find a much smaller mountain than they might expect.

Arapahoe Basin Ski Area is opening at 11 a.m. with just one intermediate trail available, becoming the first Colorado ski area to announce an opening this season. The resort is also launching its 80th winter with a significant change for Ikon Pass holders.

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According to Arapahoe Basin’s opening announcement, reported by POWDER, the Black Mountain Express lift will serve High Noon, a blue-rated intermediate run. The lift is scheduled to operate until 4 p.m.

The early opening follows a stretch of challenging snowmaking weather. A storm Sunday night delivered three inches of natural snow, but resort officials emphasized that artificial snow was essential to getting the mountain ready.

Communications manager Shayna Silverman told SnowBrains that “it’s really snowmaking that gets us to our early season opening.”

Additional terrain will open as conditions permit. For now, visitors should expect limited skiing rather than a full-mountain experience.

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A Major Change for Ikon Pass Holders

The opening brings another surprise: both full Ikon Pass and Ikon Base Pass holders now receive unlimited access to Arapahoe Basin throughout the 2026–27 season.

Previously, the Base Pass did not offer that unlimited benefit.

“We’re kicking off the Ikon Pass 26/27 season on a high note with our 80th anniversary,” said Alan Henceroth, the resort’s president and chief operating officer, in the October 28 announcement.

“As we celebrate this milestone, offering unlimited access to A-Basin to both Ikon Pass and Ikon Base Pass holders this winter, skiers and riders have plenty of days ahead to see why we’ve been the Legend for 80 years,” Henceroth added.

The resort plans to operate daily, while snowmaking crews work to expand available terrain.

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Opening-day parking reservations are not required. The resort expects to introduce weekend parking reservations from January 2 through May 2, 2027, according to SnowBrains.

Arapahoe Basin is also celebrating its anniversary with $80 Wednesday lift tickets and special events throughout the season.

The takeaway: Colorado skiing is officially underway, but opening day is about getting back on snow, not chasing deep powder. Check the resort’s website for updated terrain availability before traveling.

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Related: Trainer: How to Ski Stronger This Winter

This story was originally published by Men’s Journal on Oct 28, 2026, where it first appeared in the News section. Add Men’s Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.