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Early openings

Vail opened today with a decent 130 acres of skiing and Aspen will open next week, both early.

It’s exciting to hear that Vail has opened early this season with 130 acres of skiable terrain. Early openings in Colorado are a great opportunity to enjoy skiing before the peak crowds arrive, although conditions can be variable depending on natural snowfall and snowmaking coverage.

Here’s a breakdown of what this means for skiers and visitors:

Vail Early Opening Details:

  • Currently, Vail has approximately 130 acres open, which likely includes lower and beginner/intermediate trails that can be covered with snowmaking.
  • Advanced terrain may be limited initially until more snow accumulates naturally.
  • Lift tickets are generally available, but expect a smaller selection of open lifts and runs compared to full-season operations.
  • Early season skiing can be quieter, making it an excellent time for less crowded slopes and shorter lift lines.

Aspen Early Opening:

  • Aspen is set to open next week, slightly later than Vail. They typically begin with limited terrain and expand as snow conditions improve.
  • Expect beginner and intermediate slopes to open first, with more challenging runs gradually becoming accessible.
  • Early season conditions can be variable, so check daily snow reports and trail maps before heading out.

Tips for Early Season Skiing:

  • Dress in layers, as temperatures can vary significantly during early season skiing.
  • Check resort websites for updated trail maps and lift schedules, since not all lifts may be running.
  • Consider ski lessons or guided tours if unfamiliar with the resort, as terrain may be limited and conditions may differ from mid-season.
  • Arrive early to take advantage of less crowded slopes and parking options.
  • Snow conditions can be firm or icy in some areas; ski cautiously and stick to open trails.

Overall, early openings at Vail and Aspen provide a great opportunity for skiing enthusiasts to enjoy fresh tracks and a quieter mountain experience. While terrain is limited compared to full operations, the early season can be both fun and rewarding for those looking to get a head start on the winter sports season.

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