Posted 02 Nov 2026 • Winter Fun

Vermont Ski Area Opening Dates 2026–27: Plan Your Winter Getaway

The first chairlift ride of the season is something to look forward to: cold mountain air, familiar trails, and another Vermont winter getting underway. If you’re getting your gear ready, it’s also a good time to start planning your stay.

Here’s a look at announced opening targets for the 2026–27 Vermont ski season, with particular attention to northern Vermont mountains to consider when staying at Lakeshore Vermont Inn & Suites in Colchester.

Opening information checked October 30, 2026. All dates are targets and remain subject to weather, snowmaking, and mountain conditions. Follow the official links below for updates before making your plans.

Northern Vermont Ski Area Opening Dates

Stowe Mountain Resort — November 21, 2026

Stowe is targeting Saturday, November 21, for the start of its 2026–27 ski and ride season. If Stowe is on your winter itinerary, use the resort’s latest updates to confirm opening plans and available terrain.

Read the official Stowe opening announcement.

Sugarbush Resort — November 21, 2026

Sugarbush has scheduled its Lincoln Peak opening day for Saturday, November 21, conditions permitting. Check the resort’s opening-day page for announcements as the date approaches.

See Sugarbush’s Lincoln Peak opening-day details.

Smugglers’ Notch Resort — November 27, 2026

Smugglers’ Notch named Friday, November 27, as the planned start of its 2026–27 winter season in its previous season’s closing update. Confirm the latest operating plans directly with the resort before heading out.

Read Smugglers’ Notch’s season announcement.

Jay Peak Resort — November 28, 2026, for the General Public

Jay Peak is targeting Thanksgiving weekend, with public skiing and riding planned for Saturday and Sunday, November 28–29.

Friday, November 27, is its limited-access “Day for the Devoted.” Access is reserved for eligible passholders, employees, qualifying resort lodging guests, and people who secure one of the event’s designated free tickets. General public lift tickets will not be available that Friday.

Review Jay Peak’s opening-weekend plans and access requirements.

Bolton Valley and Burke Mountain — Dates Pending

Bolton Valley and Burke Mountain do not yet have opening dates listed on Ski Vermont’s statewide calendar as of our latest check.

Visit Bolton Valley’s official website and Ski Vermont’s opening-date calendar for updates.

More Vermont Opening Dates to Know

Planning a longer Vermont trip? These additional ski areas have announced projected openings:

Ski Areas’ Target Opening Dates
Okemo Mountain Resort — November 21, 2026
Mount Snow — November 21, 2026
Stratton — November 25, 2026
Bromley Mountain Resort — November 27, 2026
Magic Mountain — December 5, 2026
Middlebury Snowbowl — December 9, 2026
Pico Mountain — December 11, 2026
Mad River Glen — December 12, 2026
Quechee — December 19, 2026

All dates are tentative and subject to weather, snowmaking, and mountain conditions. Check each ski area’s latest report before traveling.

Dates checked October 30, 2026.

Killington has begun snowmaking but has not set an opening date. The resort plans to open as conditions allow. Read Killington’s snowmaking and opening update.

A Little Planning Before Your First Turns

Opening day celebrates the start of the season, but it doesn’t necessarily mean the whole mountain is open. Before leaving for the slopes:

Check the mountain’s morning report for operating lifts, available trails, and terrain difficulty.
Confirm ticket, pass, rental, and lesson arrangements directly with the resort.
Plan your drive using current road conditions and allow extra time for winter weather.
Leave room in your itinerary for a quieter day if mountain conditions change.

Getting your bags ready, too? Our guide to What to Pack for a Winter Getaway at Lakeshore Vermont covers clothing, outdoor essentials, and a few comforts for relaxing afterward. It also includes a downloadable packing list.

Come Back to the Lake

Your winter getaway can include both mountain adventures and quiet time by Lake Champlain.

Lakeshore Vermont Inn & Suites offers a lakefront setting on Malletts Bay in Colchester, with comfortable accommodations and modern amenities. Choose the accommodation that fits your plans, spend your days exploring Vermont, and return to a welcoming place to unwind.

We’re a lakeside lodging property, so plan on driving to the ski area you choose. Check your route and travel time before deciding which mountain best fits your day.

Ready to plan your winter visit? Explore Lakeshore Vermont’s accommodations and book your stay directly with us.

Explore Our Accommodations