Vail Mountain is scheduled to spin its lifts for the 2026–27 season on Friday, November 13, 2026 — one of the earlier openings in Colorado.
Vail Resorts confirmed Vail Mountain's target opening day of Friday, November 13, 2026 in its August 2026 season announcement. As always, the date is subject to weather and snow conditions, but an early-season powder cycle has fans optimistic about first chair.
Opening day at Vail means the return of the season's first turns on the front side, a buzzing base area, and the kickoff of a winter of skiing and riding across one of North America's largest resorts. The village comes alive as skiers and riders gather for the first laps of the year.
Lift access requires a valid lift ticket or Epic Pass; village festivities and the on-mountain atmosphere are free to soak in. Early-season terrain is weather-dependent and expands as snow builds through November and December.
Opening Day Highlights
- Target opening: Friday, November 13, 2026 (weather permitting)
- First chair and the season's first turns on Vail Mountain
- Season-kickoff energy across Vail Village and the base areas
- Early-season terrain that expands as snow builds
- One of the earlier Colorado resort openings for 2026–27
Know Before You Go
- When: Friday, November 13, 2026 (target date, subject to conditions)
- Where: Vail Mountain, accessed from Vail Village and Lionshead
- Admission: Lift access requires a lift ticket or Epic Pass; village atmosphere is free
- Check the resort snow report for the exact opening date and open terrain before you go
- Dress for cold, variable early-season weather and pack layers
Explore more Summit County & Vail Valley events
From festivals and concerts to seasonal celebrations, there is always something happening across the mountains.