Snowbird's Extended Season
Nestled in Utah's Little Cottonwood Canyon, Snowbird is a premier destination for spring skiers eager for extended runs. With a projected closing date
of May 25, 2026, and the potential for extensions based on snow conditions, this mountain offers an ideal springtime experience. Its location benefits from lake-effect snowfall, ensuring substantial snowpack that holds up beautifully throughout the season. This means skiers and snowboarders can often find fresh, enjoyable conditions late into spring, making it a fantastic choice for those looking to maximize their ski days and enjoy the longer daylight hours.
Whistler's Vast Terrain
Whistler Blackcomb in British Columbia, Canada, stands as one of North America's largest ski resorts, presenting a compelling option for extending your ski season. With Blackcomb Mountain aiming to close on May 18, 2026, and Whistler Mountain on April 19, 2026, it offers varied end dates. This vast resort consistently boasts impressive early-season snowfall, building a robust base that sustains the ski season. Moreover, March is a particularly strong month for fresh powder. The resort also hosts an annual event in early April, celebrating the arrival of warmer spring weather and the opportunity for T-shirt skiing.
Breckenridge's High Altitude
Breckenridge, Colorado, situated at an impressive 12,840 feet, is perfectly positioned for an extended ski season with abundant fresh powder. While no official closing date is set, the resort plans to remain open as long as snow permits into May. Skiers can access the upper bowls on Peaks 6, 7, and 8 for advanced thrills. However, it's important to note that beginner terrain is not available during the spring season, so intermediate and advanced skiers will find the most enjoyment. For beginners, skiing is available until mid-April, offering a compromise for those still developing their skills.
Crystal Mountain's Views
Crystal Mountain, Washington State’s largest ski area, offers a remarkable 2,600 acres of terrain with a projected closing date of May 25, 2026, subject to snow conditions. Much of its extensive terrain remains accessible for weekend skiing throughout April. Skiers and riders can revel in breathtaking views of Mount Rainier while enjoying pleasant, warmer weather. The resort also provides engaging spring activities, including backcountry clinics and special early access for Ikon Pass holders in April, enhancing the overall spring skiing experience.
Mammoth's Snowfall Power
Mammoth Mountain, located in California's Eastern Sierra Nevada, is a legendary spring skiing destination, often staying open until late May or even mid-June, and famously extending into August in exceptional snow years, like 2023. Topping out at 11,053 feet, it receives some of the nation's highest snowfall totals, frequently exceeding 400 inches annually. This ensures a long season and allows for deep spring conditions. Furthermore, the mountain offers attractive off-season pricing starting in mid-March and hosts numerous spring skiing events, making it a popular choice for late-season enthusiasts. It's advisable to check their event schedule before planning a visit.
Banff's Rocky Mountain Charm
Sunshine Village in Banff, Alberta, Canada, is set to close on May 18, 2026, offering skiers and snowboarders incredible vistas of the Canadian Rockies. The spring season here is particularly appealing with its dry, light snow, reduced crowds, and milder temperatures extending through April and well into May. Situated at 7,200 feet, Sunshine Village shines during the spring, providing forgiving snow conditions that are excellent for beginners or those preferring easier turns. The combination of stunning scenery and enjoyable snow makes it a top pick for spring adventures.
Killington's East Coast Grit
Killington, Vermont, known as 'The Beast of the East,' is a testament to East Coast spring skiing, with no official closing date set for 2026, but historically remaining open until mid-May or even early June. In 2024, it stayed open until June 1, offering extensive skiing across its 155 trails. Its impressive 3,050-foot vertical drop contributes to its reputation for a long season. For those seeking the ultimate East Coast spring experience, mid-April is ideal, as the mountain hosts its renowned competition, drawing enthusiasts and celebrating the season's end.
Arapahoe Basin's Longevity
Arapahoe Basin, or 'A-Basin,' in Colorado's Summit County, is renowned for having one of the nation's longest ski seasons, opening early and closing late, often into mid-June. Its high-altitude location, with a base at 10,780 feet and a summit at 13,050 feet, is key to its extended operational period. A-Basin truly embraces the spring spirit with its annual Pride celebration, known as 'Pond Skim,' scheduled for May 30–31, marking the culmination of its event calendar with vibrant festivities.
Mt. Hood Meadows' Snowfall
Mt. Hood Meadows in Northern Oregon is a West Coast gem that receives an extraordinary average of 430 inches of snow annually, ensuring it remains open well into the spring season, with a planned closing date of May 2, 2026. Its expansive trails and panoramic views of the Cascade Range are complemented by a welcoming atmosphere on and off the slopes. This destination provides ample opportunity for spring skiing and enjoying the mountain landscape under favorable conditions.
Timberline's Summer Skiing
Timberline Lodge, located on the south slope of Mt. Hood, Oregon, offers a unique proposition: summer skiing. It boasts the longest ski season in the nation, having remained open until mid-August in 2024/25. This family-operated resort provides a diverse range of terrain, from gentle beginner slopes to challenging advanced glacier skiing. Despite its smaller size, Timberline delivers a wealth of activities and is known for its ski and snowboard clinics, allowing visitors to hone their skills even as the summer months approach.
