Gearing Up for Winter: Snowfall Buzz, Pass Deadlines & Smart Prep for Ski Season in the Vail Valley

The aspens are turning to golden, evening air is crisp, and in the Vail Valley, that only means one thing: winter is coming.

Okay, we may be a few months away, but now that we’re officially into fall, conversations are turning from tee times and hiking 14’ers to opening day predictions and whether this will be a big snow year.

If you’re planning to ski (or ride) this season—whether a few weekends or the entire season—here’s what to know, what to expect, and what to do now before the snow falls and prices rise.

🎿 Epic Pass Deadline: Price Increases Coming Soon

If you haven’t locked in your Epic Pass or Epic Local Pass yet, now’s the time. Vail Resorts has historically increased pass prices in mid-October, and historically benefits like Buddy Passes disappear the same time as the leaves on the trees.

While passes don’t “sell out,” waiting too long could mean paying more—or missing out on those extra perks that pay dividends later in the season.

➡️ Check current pass pricing and deadlines here.

❄️ What’s the Snow Forecast Saying?

While no forecast is guaranteed, early indications from meteorologists are showing neutral to weak El Niño patterns heading into winter 2025–26.

In the central Rockies, this often means:

• A colder, possibly drier early season

• Stronger storm activity and more consistent snowfall in mid to late winter

If this trend holds, January and February could deliver solid powder days. While I never bank on record-breaking snowfall in November & December, staying flexible and hitting the slopes when conditions allow before the holiday crowds show up.

🧤 Your Gear Checklist—Before the Crowds Hit

Avoid the early-season rush (and premium prices) at gear shops and tune stations by doing a quick audit now before the lifts even start spinning:

✔️ Gloves, helmet, goggles, base layers

✔️ Try on boots—yours may fit, but if you have kiddos like me, I’m replacing at least one pair of boots every year!

✔️ Schedule a ski/board tune before opening day to take advantage of pre-season specials

✔️ Replace anything you lost last spring (because that one missing glove isn’t going to show up)

Vail Sports, Christy Sports, Buzz’s Boards, and Venture Sports are well-stocked—and quieter than they’ll be come November.

⛷️ A Quick Note on Opening Day

Vail’s opening day is scheduled for Friday, November 14, and Beaver Creek follows on Wednesday, November 26—just before Thanksgiving. Both dates are weather-dependent, but with modern snowmaking up high on the mountain, they almost never miss!

🎿 Final Thought: Plan Now, Ski More Later

If you live for the mountains, this is the moment to get organized. Buy the pass. Check your gear. Book the trip. Because once the snow starts falling, everything moves fast.

Let me know if you’re heading this way this winter—I'd love to connect for a run on the mountain or cup of coffee and conversation.