Full Breakdown
Keystone Resort Opens First in North America for 2025-26 Ski Season
10/26/2025, 9:58:27 PM
Keystone's Surprise Opening
On October 25, 2025, Keystone Resort in Colorado made headlines by becoming the first ski area in North America to open for the 2025-26 winter season. The announcement came just 90 minutes before the lifts began operating at 3 p.m., allowing skiers and snowboarders to enjoy over two miles of groomed terrain on the Schoolmarm and Silver Spoon trails until 6 p.m. This marked a significant moment for Keystone, as it was the first time since 1997 that the resort opened first in Colorado, despite Arapahoe Basin Ski Area (A-Basin) initially announcing its opening for the following day.
Opening Day Festivities
Keystone's opening day featured a range of celebratory activities, including a live DJ, $5.50 beers, and hot dogs, commemorating the resort's 55th season. For the first time, the resort offered evening skiing under lights, enhancing the experience for visitors. Shannon Buhler, Vice President and General Manager of Keystone Resort, expressed excitement about the opening, stating, “We know how much this moment means to our employees and community, and our team has poured their hearts into creating an incredible early opening celebration. We’re just excited to be back on snow!”
A-Basin's Follow-Up Opening
Following Keystone's surprise announcement, A-Basin confirmed its opening for October 26 at 8:30 a.m. The resort will operate daily from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., featuring the Black Mountain Express lift servicing the High Noon trail. A-Basin President & COO Alan Henceroth emphasized the opportunity to reintroduce the resort to new visitors, particularly those with the Ikon Pass, stating, “This season is an opportunity for us to show everyone who A-Basin is.”
Community Response and Impact
The competitive nature of ski resorts in Colorado is well-known, with both Keystone and A-Basin frequently vying for the title of the first to open each season. The excitement surrounding Keystone's early opening drew many local skiers and snowboarders, eager to hit the slopes. The community response was overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing gratitude for the opportunity to ski in October.
Official Statements & Responses
Keystone Resort's management highlighted the collaborative effort of their team in making the early opening possible. Shannon Buhler noted, “I have a ton of pride in the fact that our team came together and worked together to make it happen.” Meanwhile, A-Basin's communications manager, Shayna Silverman, remarked on the resort's reputation for early openings, stating, “A-Basin is very well known for getting open first or very close to first each season.”
What's Next
Keystone will continue its operations daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., with night skiing available on select Fridays, Saturdays, and holidays starting on Thanksgiving. Both resorts plan to expand their terrain offerings as weather conditions permit, with snowmaking teams working around the clock to ensure optimal skiing conditions throughout the season.
As the ski season progresses, both Keystone and A-Basin will remain focal points for winter sports enthusiasts in Colorado, setting the stage for an exciting winter ahead.
