Who Will Open First? Colorado Ski Resorts 2025 Race to First Chair

It’s a Colorado tradition: when fall temperatures drop, skiers and riders everywhere start asking the same question — who will open first? Every year, Arapahoe Basin (A-Basin), Keystone, and Loveland compete for the bragging rights of being the first ski resort in Colorado to open. But in recent years, Wolf Creek has surprised everyone by sneaking in early thanks to its location in southern Colorado and consistent early snowstorms.

This race isn’t just about pride. For die-hard skiers and snowboarders, the first resort to spin lifts represents the official start of winter — and the chance to claim those first turns of the season.

Contenders for First Chair

Arapahoe Basin (A-Basin)

Known for its aggressive snowmaking and high elevation, A-Basin has been a frequent contender for the first-to-open title. While they don’t always publish a firm date until the last minute, they’re almost always among the first lifts turning.

Loveland Ski Area

With a top elevation over 13,000 feet, Loveland has a natural advantage for early snowmaking. Its location and history of opening before Halloween make it a strong candidate again in 2025.

Keystone Resort

Keystone has recently stepped up its game, aiming for a mid-October opening. Its snowmaking system and marketing push mean it could snag the crown if temperatures cooperate.

Wolf Creek Ski Area

Located in southern Colorado, Wolf Creek often benefits from powerful early-season storms. In fact, Wolf Creek was the first resort to open in Colorado for the 2024–25 season (October 22, 2024) and has claimed “first-to-open” several times in the last decade. While it’s farther from the I-70 corridor, its natural snowfall often makes it the surprise winner.

Projected Opening Days 2025

Based on early announcements and projections:

• Keystone: targeting mid-October 2025
• Arapahoe Basin (A-Basin): aiming for late October / early November
• Loveland: projected to open October 31, 2025
• Wolf Creek: as always, watch the storms — if early snow hits the San Juans, it could jump ahead of the I-70 rivals again

Why the “First to Open” Title Matters

If you're sitting there wondering, why does it matter who opens first? We have some quick and easy answers for you:

• Bragging rights & media buzz. Being the first resort to spin lifts brings publicity, early bookings, and prestige.
• Early access for eager skiers. For die-hard skiers, a resort that opens even a day or two earlier is a big draw.
• Snowmaking, elevation, and planning advantage. Resorts leverage high elevation and snowmaking systems to try to get open sooner than their neighbors.

However — all of this is heavily contingent on weather. The “first chair” can only happen when cold enough nights allow snowmaking, and when Mother Nature cooperates. Many resorts still won’t commit to fixed dates until conditions are firm.

What the Forecasts Say for 2025 Opening Days

Here’s a look at what public sources are projecting for Colorado’s 2025-26 ski season:

• OnTheSnow’s projected openings list puts Loveland opening October 31, 2025 — among the earliest in Colorado. Keystone is slated for November 8, 2025.
• Denver7 reports that Keystone is targeting mid-October for its 2025 opening.
• Colorado ski resorts press coverage notes that A-Basin, Keystone, and Loveland all hope to open in October if conditions allow.
• Base Mountain Sports includes Keystone in its opening announcements, with A-Basin aiming for November 2 and Keystone “shooting for mid-October.”

So far, none of the resorts have announced a fixed opening date. But the betting is usually on Loveland or Arapahoe Basin (A-Basin) to snag first — with Keystone pushing to get in the mix early

Why Silverthorne Is the Smart Stop

If you’re chasing that first ski resort to open in Colorado, convenience matters. Silverthorne is a centrally located town, making it a convenient hub for accessing multiple nearby resorts. That’s where Virgin Islands Ski & Snowboard Rentals comes in:

• A convenient place for ski rentals, located right off I-70 in Silverthorne, Colorado
• On the way to Keystone and A-Basin
• Easy access to Loveland Ski Area if you're coming from I-70 West
• Fast, quick in-and-out service so you can get on the mountain faster
• If Wolf Creek opens first, we'll admit that we are not the most convenient shop, but support Pagosa Ski Rentals who has served Wolf Creek for more than four decades.

Our rental staff's efficient service ensures you are set up with the right gear in no time. Many customers have rented equipment from us and found the process both convenient and affordable. Our knowledgeable staff will set you up with the best gear for your skill level, size, and for the day's snow conditions.

Whether you’re after skis, snowboards, or gear for the whole family, we’ve got you covered.

Be Ready for the First Chair

The Colorado ski resorts projected opening days 2025 may change by the week — but one thing is guaranteed: the stoke is real, and someone will open in October.

Make sure you’re ready to go, with fresh gear and a quick stop at Virgin Islands Ski & Snowboard Rentals in Silverthorne. We’ll have you geared up and on your way to first chair — whether it’s at A-Basin, Loveland, or Keystone.