When Does Ski Season End?
The 2024/25 ski season is drawing to a close, with many resorts across the United States already shuttered for the summer. However, a few ski areas are still spinning their lifts, offering die-hard skiers and snowboarders a final chance to make some turns.
So when exactly does ski season end? The answer varies depending on the resort and the region, but most ski areas aim to stay open as long as conditions allow. Factors like elevation, snowfall totals, and temperature all influence a resort’s projected closing date.
Overview of Ski Season Duration
In general, the ski season in the United States runs from late November to early April. However, the exact start and end dates fluctuate each year based on weather patterns. A few high-elevation resorts, like Timberline Lodge in Oregon, even offer skiing through the summer months on their permanent snowfields.
Most ski areas need a solid base of snow to operate, usually around 20 inches. Once that base is established, resorts can stay open as long as temperatures remain cold enough to prevent the snow from melting. Late season storms can sometimes extend the ski season by weeks or even months at certain resorts.
Factors Influencing Ski Season End Dates
As mentioned, elevation plays a big role in how long a ski resort can stay open. Higher elevation areas tend to hold onto their snow longer, as temperatures are colder at altitude. That’s why you’ll see resorts in the Rocky Mountains or the Sierra Nevada often spinning lifts well into May or June.
Snowfall totals are another key factor. A resort that receives 300+ inches of snow in a season will likely have the coverage to stay open later than one that only gets 150 inches. It comes down to how deep the snowpack is and whether it can withstand spring’s warmer temperatures.
And of course, temperature is critical. Once daytime highs start climbing consistently above freezing, the snow begins to melt rapidly. Resorts can combat this with grooming and strategic snow farming, but eventually Mother Nature wins out. Many ski areas choose to close once conditions become too slushy or bare spots start appearing.
So in summary, a resort’s closing date each season depends on its unique geographical characteristics combined with the whims of the weather. Skiers and snowboarders hoping to extend their season should aim for high-elevation areas known for ample snowfall.
Projected Closing Dates for Major Ski Resorts
Wondering how much longer you have to make turns this season? Here’s a region-by-region breakdown of projected closing dates for some popular North American ski resorts, weather permitting.
California Ski Resorts
California ski areas saw an epic winter, with the Lake Tahoe region in particular shattering records. Many Tahoe resorts hit over 600 inches of total snowfall, setting them up for a long spring season.
As of May 2025, Mammoth Mountain and Squaw Valley are still going strong, celebrating one of their latest closing dates in recent history. The current projected closing date for most California ski resorts is May 26, with outliers like Mammoth aiming for June.
Bear Valley and Boreal Mountain have already packed up for the season, but the state’s other major resorts are still spinning lifts on weekends at minimum. If you’re looking to get a few more turns in California, now is the time!
Utah Ski Resorts
Utah’s ski season got off to a slow start, but a series of powerful spring storms bolstered the snowpack and extended the season at many resorts. Alta, Snowbird, and Brighton were all still open on weekends in April, with Alta aiming to stay running through May 10, weather dependent.
Park City also had a strong finish to the season, though most of its terrain is now closed. Crowds were sparse at these areas in late April and May, so there was plenty of untouched corduroy and leftover powder to be found. However, Utah’s winter is now coming to a close as daily highs climb above freezing, melting the snowpack.
Still, it was an excellent season for Utah skiers and riders overall. The state tends to get hammered with snow in March and April, which helped make up for the below average early season and kept skiers happy through the spring.
Tahoe Ski Resorts
Tahoe ski areas have some of the most generous closing dates in the country this season, thanks to the massive snowfall totals and chilly spring temperatures in the Sierra. Many resorts have already announced their projected closing dates:
| Resort | Closing Date |
|---|---|
| Palisades Tahoe | May 29 |
| Heavenly | May 21 |
| Northstar | April 14 |
| Kirkwood | April 9 |
| Sugar Bowl | April 23 |
| Homewood | April 14 |
| Soda Springs | April 14 |
As you can see, skiers and riders in Tahoe will be making turns well into May at the bigger resorts. But even the smaller ski areas had a great late season run, with most staying open until at least mid-April.
If you want to get in on the Tahoe spring skiing action, book your trip soon. Many resorts stop running lifts on weekdays after mid-April, so weekends will be your best bet. And keep an eye on the forecast – a late season storm could extend the season even further!
Spring Skiing Opportunities
For skiers and snowboarders, spring is a bittersweet time. The warm sunshine and slushy snow signal the end of another winter, but they also provide some of the most fun conditions of the season. Spring skiing is all about soft turns, goofy costumes, and long afternoons on the patio.
Best Resorts for Spring Skiing
Some resorts are better equipped for spring skiing than others, thanks to their high elevation, north-facing slopes, and massive snowfall totals. A few of the best:
- Mammoth Mountain, CA – With a peak elevation over 11,000 feet and 400+ inches of average annual snowfall, Mammoth is often one of the last resorts to close in North America.
- Arapahoe Basin, CO – A-Basin has such reliable spring coverage that it’s able to stay open until June or even July in good snow years, earning it the nickname “The Legend.”
- Timberline Lodge, OR – Timberline is the only resort in North America that offers skiing 12 months a year on its Palmer Snowfield, making it a go-to for diehards and summer racers.
- Squaw Valley, CA – With north-facing slopes and a peak elevation of 9,050 feet, Squaw Valley holds onto its snow well into spring, often staying open until late May.
These resorts are famous for their spring skiing scene, with plenty of sundrenched terrain and lively apres parties. Of course, they can still get hit with late season storms – so keep an eye on the forecast before you book your trip.
Tips for Planning a Spring Ski Trip
If you’re hoping to squeeze in a few more days on the slopes before summer hits, here are a few tips to make the most of your spring ski trip:
- Book lodging and lift tickets early. Many resorts offer spring skiing discounts, but prices go up as availability dwindles. You’ll get the best deals by planning ahead.
- Be prepared for variable conditions. Spring snow can range from icy hardpack in the morning to slushy corn in the afternoon. Bring layers and adjust your technique as needed.
- Aim for north-facing slopes. South-facing trails tend to get sun baked and melt out faster. Stick to the shady side of the mountain for the best spring coverage.
- Stop when you’re tired. By the time spring rolls around, most skiers are not in peak form anymore. Listen to your body and don’t overdo it, especially in heavy slush.
With a little planning and flexibility, a spring ski trip can be the perfect way to end your season on a high note. Enjoy those soft turns, wear sunscreen, and don’t be afraid to sport a wacky costume on the slopes!
Resources for Ski Trip Planning
Ready to book a last-minute ski vacation this spring? Be sure to check out these helpful resources before you finalize your plans.
Real-Time Snow Reports and Webcams
When spring weather is variable, it’s important to know exactly what conditions you’re getting into. These websites provide real-time snow reports and mountain webcams, so you can see if your target resort is worth the trip:
- OpenSnow – Provides detailed snow forecasts, snow reports, webcams, and commentary from local experts across North America.
- OnTheSnow – Aggregates snow reports, trail maps, webcams, and user reviews for ski resorts worldwide.
- Snow.com – The official snow reporting site for Vail Resorts, including interactive webcams and a snow alert signup.
And don’t forget the ski resort’s own website and social media channels – they often have the most up-to-date info on conditions and closures.
Social Media Updates and Alerts
Social media is also a great place to get real-time updates on ski resort status and events. Most major resorts have active Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram accounts where they post everything from snow totals to après specials.
Additionally, many ski towns have dedicated social media channels that aggregate resort updates and local events. Some to check out:
- @SkiTahoe on Twitter – Posts updates on Tahoe area resorts, road conditions, and events.
- @SkiUtah on Instagram – Features photos and reports from Utah’s ski resorts.
- Colorado Ski Country USA on Facebook – Provides snow reports, event listings, and articles for Colorado resorts.
By following these accounts, you can stay in the loop on last-minute changes and get inspired for your next ski trip. Just be sure to double check critical info like closures directly with the resort.
So while the end of ski season is bittersweet, it also comes with plenty of perks – from discounted lift tickets to abundant sunshine. If you time your spring skiing trip right and follow the key resources, you could be in for some of the most memorable turns of the year. Here’s to squeezing every last drop out of winter!
