Carve the Slopes, Not just the Turkey: What ski resorts are open for Thanksgiving?
- Blake S.
- Oct 24, 2023
- 2 min read
As the holiday season approaches, many skiers and snowboarders are anticipating the opportunity o hit the slopes during Thanksgiving. For powder seekers, finding a ski resort that guarantees a white Thanksgiving becomes a top priority. While snow conditions can be unpredictable, some resorts are renowned for their early-season snowfall and commitment to providing an exceptional skiing experience right from the beginning of the season.
Let's cut to the chase and take a look at the top ski resorts likely open for Thanksgiving in 2023:
Resort | Anticipated Opening Day |
---|---|
Sunshine Village, Canada | November 2, 2023 |
Keystone, CO | November 4, 2023 |
Mammoth Mountain, CA | November 4, 2023 |
Vail, CO | November 10, 2023 |
Breckenridge Resort, CO | November 10, 2023 |
Brighton, UT | November 10, 2023 |
Park City, UT | November 15, 2023 |
Killington Resort, VT | November 15, 2023 |
Beaver Creek, CO | November 22, 2023 |
Crested Butte Mountain Resort, CO | November 22, 2023 |
For a full list of North American ski resorts click here.
Now that you've seen the list, how do you pick which ski resort is right for your holiday vacation? Here is the run down:
Colorado

Colorado is renowned for Thanksgiving skiing and snowboarding due to its high-altitude resorts and consistent early-season snowfall. This means that by the time Thanksgiving arrives, these resorts have already accumulated a substantial base of natural snow. The state's Rocky Mountains provide an ideal environment for winter sports enthusiasts, offering a combination of natural snowfall and advanced snowmaking technology for all skill levels.
Utah

Utah's fame for Thanksgiving skiing and snowboarding is primarily attributed to its unique geographical features and consistent snowfall. Park City, as an example, is nestled in the Wasatch Mountains, benefiting from exceptional snow conditions. The state's renowned dry, powdery snow (famously referred to as "The Greatest Snow on Earth") is a result of the state's inland location and the lake effect snow from he Great Salt Lake.
Mammoth Mountain

Mammoth Mountain is poised on the Eastern Sierras and aims to open as much terrain as possible for the Thanksgiving holiday. The resorts strategic location ensures generous snowpack, often starting as early as October and continuing well into the spring, providing its followers with an additional extended season. It boasts an extensive trail network, complimented by stunning alpine vistas, providing an immersive skiing experience.
Killington Resort

Killington Resort is known as the "Beast of the East", with one of the most advanced snowmaking systems in the world. This technology, combined with Vermont's favorable winter climate, allows the resort to begin snowmaking operations early in the season. As a result, Killington often opens its slopes well before Thanksgiving. With a festive atmosphere of the nearby town of Killintong and the surrounding Green Mountains, the resort is poised to provide a perfect setting for a skiable Thanksgiving getaway!
No matter which coast you live on, there's bound to be some Thanksgiving freshies!
Spread the Stoke!
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