These 17 Ski Resorts Have Already Announced Their Opening Dates For 2024

I love skiing year-round. As fall approaches and the air gets crisp, I eagerly await even colder weather and snow-covered mountains. It’s exciting that many mountains already saw snow in early September this year, promising great early-season skiing and earlier opening dates. 

But did you know that many resorts have already announced their projected opening dates? Keep in mind these dates might shift depending on the weather, but here are the current opening dates for many of the top resorts across North America.

1. Breckenridge

A black diamond ski run at Breckenridge.

Breckenridge Ski Resort will be one of the first resorts to open in the United States on November 8th. While we are eagerly awaiting a few more resorts to open in mid-October, those have not been officially released yet, so riders can at least expect to enjoy snowy slopes in Breck during the first part of November, which is extremely exciting.

2. Brian Head

Fresh powder at Brian Head ski resort in Utah.

Brian Head Resort is a lesser-known resort that’s definitely worth checking out. It sits in southwestern Utah, not far from Zion National Park and Bryce Canyon National Park. This hidden gem is known for its legendary power and will open on November 8th of this year. 

3. Vail

Vail Village with snow and the river running through.

Following a week later, Vail has announced that it will be opening November 15th. This is great news for those wanting to plan a ski trip to Vail over the Thanksgiving holiday!

4. Purgatory

Snowy mountain views from Purgatory in Colorado.
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Purgatory Resort is a Colorado resort that often flies under the radar. It sits in the southwestern part of the state, not far from Durango, so not many people know about it. But it’s a great place to visit for those looking for awesome runs and fewer crowds. This resort has announced that it will be opening on November 16th, 2024.

5. Whistler Blackcomb

Two skiers going down a slope at Whistler Blackcomb.
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The biggest ski resort in North America, Whistler Blackcomb, has announced that it will open on November 22nd of this year! This is fantastic news for those looking to ski at one of the top resorts in Canada early in the season. 

6. Heavenly

Fresh powder and snow covered trees.
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Next on this list is Heavenly Mountain Resort, which will open on November 22nd. Heavenly is one of the most popular ski resorts in the Lake Tahoe area. It is famous for having 80% of its terrain intermediate runs and fabulous views of Lake Tahoe below. It’s a great choice for those who head to Tahoe early in the season.

7. Northstar

Northstar Ski Resort from an aerial view.
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Another resort in Lake Tahoe, Northstar, is set to open on November 22nd. This resort is more of a hidden gem; it often lives in Heavenly and Palisades Tahoe’s shadows, but it deserves some recognition. 

This resort is known for its expert terrain, so it’s an excellent place for experienced skiers and snowboarders to ride. If you want to take advantage of the more challenging terrain, though, I’d wait to visit until a little further into the ski season so that more runs open up for you!

8. Park City

A ski obstacle at Park City on a powder day.
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Park City, a huge resort in Utah with 7,300 skiable acres, is scheduled to open on November 22nd this year! While it’s exciting for those eager to explore such a vast area, I’d recommend waiting until later in the season. That way, more ski runs will be open, allowing you to enjoy the whole terrain.

9. Alta Ski Area 

Fresh tracks at Alta in Utah on a cloudy day.

Alta Ski Area is a skiers-only paradise that will open on November 22nd, 2024. If you are looking to enjoy incredible powder, a local atmosphere, and terrific ski trails, this is the perfect option. The cherry on top is that it’s not far from Salt Lake City, making it a convenient and easy resort to get to. 

10. Beaver Creek

A skier going down the mountain on a bluebird day in a red jacket.
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Next up on this list is Beaver Creek, which has announced its projected opening date of November 27th. This resort often flies under the radar compared to its neighbors Vail and Breckenridge, but it’s well worth a visit for a local atmosphere, epic runs, and, let’s not forget about the warm chocolate chip cookies that are served each day at 3:00 PM. 

11. Crested Butte

A skier going down a groomed run in a yellow jacket.
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Another Colorado resort that has announced its opening date is Crested Butte. This resort is set to open on November 27th! The resort is a bit off on its own, it takes 4 hours to get to from Denver and 3 hours and 30 minutes to get to from Colorado Springs. 

However, this is an excellent option if you are looking for a more local mountain full of local businesses and a great sense of community. I recommend planning a ski trip to actually stay in the Crested Butte area so that you don’t have a giant commute from one of Colorado’s big cities.

12. Snowbird

The sign pointing to Snowbird.

One of my favorite resorts in Utah has also announced its opening date: Snowbird will open on November 28th of this year! This is a great place for skiers and snowboarders to ride, especially if you are looking for plenty of powder and expert runs.

13. Snowbasin Resort

A snow covered tree at Snowbasin Resort.
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Snowbasin Resort is another ski resort that has already announced its opening date: November 29th! This resort is known for its convenient location not far from Salt Lake City, its variety of terrain, and for hosting the Winter Olympics in 2002. 

Did you know it’s set to hold the Olympic Games in 2034, too? I’m so excited they are coming back to this awesome resort! I’d definitely add this resort to your list. There’s a reason why the Olympic Games are coming back: It’s so awesome here. 

14. Sundance Mountain Resort

Snowy slopes and mountain views from Sundance.
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Sundance Mountain Resort will be opening on December 2nd of this year. While this resort is a bit more under the radar, it’s definitely worth a visit for its artsy spirit, amazing terrain, and excellent snow. It’s situated in Utah and only 20 minutes from Provo!

15. Kirkwood

A skier going down a steep slope of powder.
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Kirkwood is about an hour south of Lake Tahoe and has announced it will open on December 6th. This is a great option for those in California wanting to hit the slopes and a great option overall for those looking for expert terrain. If you are looking to hit the black diamond runs, I’d recommend waiting until later into the season so that all of them can open up.

16. Stevens Pass

Snow covered trees and a field on a cloudy day.
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Stevens Pass is located in Washington state, about 40 minutes from Leavenworth and 1 hour and 30 minutes from Seattle. This iconic resort has announced its opening date of December 6th. It is a great place to come for incredible skiing and snow-capped mountain views. 

17. Deer Valley Resort 

A skier in a yellow jacket looking down the ski resort in Utah.
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Deer Valley is another resort that has announced its opening date for the 2024 season. This legendary resort will open on December 7th. It is a great place to come for those looking for high-end accommodations, lavish amenities, and an overall upscale atmosphere. 

It’s also a skiers-only mountain, so snowboarders must strap on skis or pick another mountain to enjoy!

Which Of These Resorts Are You Most Excited To Hit This Season?

A beautiful bluebird day at a ski resort with snowy mountains off in the distance.
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Let us know in the comments!