Industry News
Arapahoe Basin Ski Area, Colorado, began snowmaking for the 2025–26 season on Sunday night, marking the first run of its snow guns this year. Operations kicked off on October 12 at approximately 8:30 p.m. under prime early-season conditions and continued through the morning of October 13.
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The mountain’s snowmaking team worked overnight to capitalize on optimal weather windows, which in this case meant a wet bulb temperature between 10 and 17 degrees—the best range for producing high-quality snow. Wet bulb temperature takes humidity and ambient air temperature into account, and cold, dry air helps deliver better flakes. According to Arapahoe Basin, 26 degrees is the threshold for snowmaking to begin. Last night’s conditions were “exactly what we were looking for,” the resort said in its update.
Snowmaking in mid-October is typical for A-Basin, which traditionally aims to be among the first ski areas to open in the United States. Last year, the resort was the first to open in Summit County, welcoming skiers on November 2. An opening date for this season remains undetermined and will depend on the weather in the coming weeks.
Photos from Sunday night show the snowmaking team’s effort blanketing the slopes in fresh man-made snow. The resort encourages guests to thank a snowmaker when they see one on the hill this season.
Season passholders will again enjoy unlimited early-season access, with Ikon Pass Base holders allowed to ski through December 19, 2025, without blackout restrictions. Arapahoe Basin’s calendar also features new fall events, including live DJs, mimosa bars, and uphill races.
For more details, please visit arapahoebasin.com.
