2025-2026 Ski Season: What to Expect on the Slopes

Bassyonni

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2025-2026 Ski Season: What to Expect on the Slopes

As the winter season approaches, the 2025-2026 ski season promises exciting opportunities on the slopes. November typically brings early snow to the high peaks near Lake Tahoe, igniting enthusiasm among skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts. While opening dates vary by weather and conditions, most resorts aim to commence operations between early November and mid-December.

What to Expect This Ski Season

Ski resorts are anticipating a diverse range of activities this season. They aim to attract all visitors, including newcomers, with a variety of recreational options beyond skiing. Many resorts are adding tubing hills, snow-play areas, snowshoe trails, and evening entertainment to enhance the experience for both skiers and non-skiers.

Opening Dates: Generally between early November and mid-December.
Activities Available: Tubing, snowshoeing, concerts, and other entertainment.
Key Event: Coincides with the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan/Cortina in February.

John Rice, president of Ski California, emphasizes the importance of introducing more individuals to snow sports. With a focus on accessibility, resorts are planning special Olympics-themed events and viewing parties throughout the season.

New Developments in Northern California

Here’s a look at what is new for this ski season across various resorts:

Badger Pass Ski Area: Reopening in mid-December after a hiatus. Offers skiing, snowboarding, and tubing in Yosemite National Park, with free shuttles available from Yosemite Valley.
Bear Valley Mountain Resort: Features 10 lifts and cross-country options. Known for its rural environment and family-friendly atmosphere.
Boreal/Woodward Tahoe: Offers the only night skiing in Tahoe, along with an indoor training area and tubing attractions.
Diamond Peak: Celebrating 60 years with $60 lift tickets, renowned for stunning views and community atmosphere.
Heavenly Mountain Resort: Known for its iconic gondola and a top choice for competitions, also offering tubing and mini-tubing.
Mt. Rose Ski Tahoe: Features a new tubing center and improved facilities, noted for its extended season.
Mammoth Mountain: California’s largest ski resort, investing heavily in snowmaking and entertainment options.
Northstar California: Promoting social experiences like “Tōst,” a ski-up bubbly tasting event.
Palisades Tahoe: Newly connected areas offer modern amenities and a full calendar of activities.
Royal Gorge: The largest cross-country ski area in North America with 90 groomed trails.

Access and Pass Information

For those planning to ski this winter, various passes are available, including:

Ikon Pass: Valid for over 60 destinations globally.
Epic Pass: Covers 90 resorts worldwide, with options focusing on Tahoe.
Multi-Venue Passes: Options such as the Cali Pass and Indy Pass for access to multiple resorts.

Many resorts now require parking reservations on busy weekends. Visitors can use public transportation or shuttle services to navigate the area easily.