Industry News
Arizona Snowbowl has announced that its 2025–26 ski season will kick off on Friday, November 21, weather permitting, with several exciting upgrades and improvements for skiers and snowboarders to enjoy. The resort has invested nearly $1.5 million in capital improvements aimed at maintaining forest health, enhancing Arizona’s best tree skiing, and implementing strategic upgrades for the upcoming winter season.
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The resort is continuing to upgrade its snowmaking capabilities for 2025–26, allowing more beginner and intermediate terrain near the Humphreys Chairlift to open earlier in the season and remain open longer. These enhancements are designed to deliver longer, more reliable winter seasons for Arizona’s ski and snowboard community.
During the summer, Snowbowl removed dead and downed trees to reduce forest fuels and promote a healthier forest environment. These newly gladed areas will also create some of the state’s best tree runs, expanding both beginner-friendly and advanced terrain options within the ski area boundary.
Building on recent improvements, including the new Aspen Chairlift and the remodeled Agassiz Lodge Bar, Snowbowl is continuing to invest in the guest experience. Upgrades for this season include an all-new fleet of ski and snowboard rental equipment, with 1,200 ski boots (Dalbello, Elan, Lange) and more than 1,000 Smith helmets; expanded Wi‑Fi coverage throughout the resort; new dining offerings; and upgraded, more efficient point‑of‑sale systems.
“These investments reflect Snowbowl’s long-term commitment to providing an authentic mountain experience at Arizona’s premier ski destination,” Marketing Manager Angie Grubb said. “By prioritizing forest health, trail maintenance, and resort enhancements, Snowbowl strengthens outdoor recreation in Arizona, ensuring each visit is better than the last.”
Mountain Stats
- Base elevation: 9,200 feet
- Lift served elevation: 11,500 feet
- Hike-to elevation: 12,000 feet
- Total vertical rise: 2,800 feet
- Skiable acres: 777
- Runs: 61, longest is 2 miles
- Lifts: 8 (one high-speed detachable combination lift, one high-speed six-person chairlift, four fixed-grip chairlifts and two surface conveyors)
- Average season: mid-November through early to late May
- Average snowfall: 260 inches
Last season marked Snowbowl’s earliest opening on record as well as a rare June 1 closing, giving skiers and riders an incredible 185 days on the mountain. Snowmaking began on October 18, 2024, and continued through February 28, 2025, laying the groundwork for an exceptional winter. A solid base from this early snowmaking, combined with 200 inches of natural snowfall and consistent grooming, maintained optimal conditions throughout the season. The mountain opened on November 8, 2024, and stayed open into June for the second year in a row.
“We’re thrilled to announce the 2024–25 season has set a new record for the most skiable days in Arizona Snowbowl’s 87-year history. Thanks to our dedicated team, an early November opening, and strategic investments in snowmaking, we’ve delivered our longest season ever, giving people the freedom to ski.”
— Angie Grubb, Marketing Manager, Arizona Snowbowl
For more information, visit Arizona Snowbowl’s website.
