Summit County, Colorado boasts not only some of the country’s best ski resorts but one of the longest ski seasons. While other resorts throughout the country close their lifts come April, several Colorado resorts remain open for late spring skiing and riding. The high elevation and consistent snowfall in Summit County make Breckenridge and other resorts ideal for an April or late season visit.
Why late spring skiing?
- Sunshine and Warmer Temperatures: Gone are the frigid days of peak winter. Spring welcomes comfortable temperatures, often in the 50s and 60s Fahrenheit, perfect for enjoying the breathtaking mountain scenery without bundling up like a mummy.
- Softer Snow: The days may be longer, but the snow does not stay untouched for long. The sunshine warms the slopes, creating a forgiving, softer snowpack that is ideal for playful turns and honing your freestyle skills.
- Shorter Lift Lines and Relaxed Vibes: Spring usually sees a decline in crowds compared to peak winter. This means shorter lift lines, a more relaxed atmosphere on the slopes, and easier access to terrain.
- End-of-Season Festivities: Many resorts host end-of-season celebrations with pond skimming competitions, live music, and special deals that add a festive touch to your ski vacation.
Resorts in Summit County, Colorado are known for their late season closing dates, with some resorts staying open into June.
Colorado Resorts
Arapahoe Basin (A-Basin)
A-Basin holds the “longest season in Colorado” title, making it a haven for late-season enthusiasts. A sizable portion of A-Basin’s terrain is catered to more advanced skiers and riders; however, the resort does have opportunities for intermediate and beginner skiers. Here, spring skiing often extends well into June, making it a perfect choice for those chasing the last snow of the season. One year, A-basin even stayed open until August 10th!
Before you go, check out:
Trail Maps
Terrain and Lift Status
A-Basin hosts several spring events including:
Earth Day Sustainability Bash-April 20th: A-Basin’s Earth Day event includes ski and snowboard demos, a Rail Jam event, and the opportunity to learn about sustainability and support the local High County Conservation Center.
Moonlight Dinner Series #5– April 20th: Ski or snowshoe on the mountain, arriving at Black Mountain Lodge, where a chef awaits you with a delicious four course meal.
Spring Concert Series: Through the end of May, A-Basin features the DJs and live bands each Saturday as part of the Shakin’ at the Basin spring concert series.
Slush N’ Spokes-May 11th: This bike race represents the opportunity to cruise through snow and slush, as you race down A-Basin’s High Noon blue run.
Gay Basin-May 18-19th: Celebrate the LGBTQ+ Colorado community at A-Basin with a day filled with DJs, dancing, rail jamming, après, and of course skiing and riding.
A-Basin also hosts a parking area called the beach that is renowned as a place to hang out between runs, BBQ, relax, and have fun with friends and family. This area is especially fun during the spring season, as warmer temperatures make for an even better outdoor experience. Beach goers will show up in bright clothes, Hawaiian shirts, and costumes to celebrate the season with après.
Projected 2024 season closing date: June 2nd
Breckenridge Ski Resort
Breckenridge Resort offers an extensive terrain park, a lively base village with excellent après-ski options, and a reputation for staying open until late April or even Memorial Day. With its high alpine areas boasting reliable snow coverage, Breckenridge caters to a diverse range of skiers and snowboarders, from families to thrill-seekers. Learn more about types of skiers and best areas for each level at Breckenridge Resort.
Breckenridge adopts a late season operating plan, closing peaks 9 and 10. Be sure to read up on terrain and conditions before you hit the mountain.
Read more on Breckenridge Resort:
BSS’s Guide to Skiing in Breckenridge
Trail and Resort Maps
Lift and Terrain Status
Breckenridge Resort spring events:
April 27th and 28th Breckenridge hosts the Five Peaks Music Series with a pond skim event that Saturday. The weekend includes live music, the annual Pond Skim, and a chance to hang out and celebrate the end of another exciting season of skiing and riding. Join the fun and compete for the best overall skim, best costume, and biggest splash.
Projected 2024 season closing date: May 12th
Copper Mountain
Copper Mountain prides itself on its four distinct base areas, each with unique character. Spring skiing at Copper allows you to experience a variety of terrain, from the wide-open slopes of Copper’s West Village to the challenging steeps of the Resolution and Spaulding bowls. With a closing date typically in late April or early May, Copper Mountain strikes a perfect balance between spring skiing fun and convenience.
Copper Mountain spring events:
USASA National Championships – March 30th-April 11th: Copper hosts the USA Snowboard and Freeski Association National Championships where athletes compete in the world’s largest snowboard and freeskiing event.
Copper Live-April 20th: Copper’s free music series at the Center Village. This April weekend Copper is hosting Kevin Supina Band.
Sunsation April 27th – 28th: Sunsation is Copper’s spring festival celebrating another exciting season at Copper mountain with two jam packed days of live music.
Slush Rush-April 27th: Compete in a relay race in a team of three to conquer three unique events. These events will test your speed, coordination, and tricks, with the fastest overall team winning!
Projected season closing date: May 5th
Learn more about Copper Mountain:
BSS’s Guide to Copper Mountain
Trail and Lift Report
Trail and Area Maps
With events, festivities, and spring skiing still available at three resorts in Summit County, we are excited to celebrate the end of another epic season of skiing and riding in Colorado. Book your ski and snowboard rentals online through Breckenridge Ski & Sport and take 30% off rentals! For those looking who have sent it through enough powder this season, check out our bike rentals now available for summer, and be sure to book online for 25% off your summer rental.
Written by Rosa Canales, Copywriting Specialist.