fbpx

From Colorado to California, These Ski Resorts are Spinning Lifts in May

From Colorado to California, These Ski Resorts are Spinning Lifts in May

Featured Image: Miranda Galbraith


You haven’t gotten your fix just yet. We get it. Winter came and went, but your ski legs aren’t even close to being worn out. Besides, spring skiing is the best time of the year! There’s nobody on the hill except for you and your friends, you don’t have to get frostbite just to put your boots on in the lot, the landings are perfect and the way that ski just dices up a spring corn carve… we could go on but you understand.

You’re still looking for some lift-powered turns, and so are we. That’s why we’ve assembled FREESKIER’s top picks of resorts across the country where you can keep the 2025 ski season alive well into May. These resorts aren’t calling it quits, and neither should you. With more options than you think, there’s bound to be a hill near you where spring skiing is in full swing.


Killington, Vermont

Closing Day: May 25, 2025

The Beast is serving up fresh park builds and blue skies for the whole month. Killington is always one of the best spring scenes in the country, maybe even the world. The energy is top tier, the Decked Out Days series will have you grooving to live music at the base and slush bumps will be in full force.

Skiing in May at Killi is going to look a little different this year, as the legendary Superstar Quad Lift has officially closed and is under construction. But don’t worry, skiers will still be able to rip in the Canyons Area! Click here for more information.

Arapahoe Basin, Colorado

Closing Day: As Long as Conditions Allow

We could hype up A-Basin for hours, but we’ll keep it short because you already know the truth. Sitting at 11,000 feet above sea level, this Colorado gem is arguably FREESKIER’s top choice for spring turns. You won’t find better vert in a shorter ride than on the Pali lift, and the East Wall always provides. Just check out the recent IFSA FWT Challenger freeride competition for proof.

Once you’ve parked turns and launched side hits to your hearts content, head down to The Beach for a parking lot party that’s second to none.

Copper, Colorado

Closing Day: May 11, 2025

Copper Mountain has a lot to offer, and in the springtime, that sentiment is even more true. Hot groomers in corn snow pair well with a few laps through the world-class Woodward Copper park. The Slush Rush relay race and Copper Live shows are right around the corner, so don’t miss out if you’re hunting for spring turns on the I-70 corridor. And remember, Woodward’s public summer park isn’t far off!

Snowbird, Utah

Closing Day: May 26, 2025

The Salt Lake Valley might be heating up, but there’s plenty of good snow left at The Bird. With operations planned until May 26, Snowbird will be continuing its Surf Season, as they call it, for four more weeks. The resort’s flowing and steep terrain naturally lends itself to outstanding spring skiing. And don’t worry, the Plazapalooza concert series will keep you busy when 4 PM hits and find yourself engulfed in live music with your favorite beverage in hand.

Brighton, Utah

Closing Day: May 18, 2025

Little Cottonwood Canyon gets most of the attention during the winter, but Big Cottonwood Canyon is no slouch. Brighton is one of our favorite spots around, and if you don’t believe it, then you haven’t been. Brighton’s spring pass is one of the best deals around, too. For $199, you get unlimited riding until the legendary Millie Meltdown at the end of the season.

Beartooth Basin, Montana

Operations: May 29 – July 6, 2025

Beartooth Basin is the ONLY summer-specific ski area in North America, and for the first time in two years, the beloved ski area will be firing up the diesel generators and spinning its lifts. The operation sits at the top of Beartooth Pass and is accessed via the Beartooth Highway, one of the most scenic roadways in the world. The journey is worth it for the drive alone, with smooth turns being the extra bonus on top. Be sure to bring cash for tickets and plenty sunscreen. Put this slice of skiing history on your bucket list this summer!

Crystal Mountain, Washington

Closing Day: May 26, 2025

The longest season in Washington continues at Crystal. From now until Memorial Day Weekend, the resort will be spinning lifts from 9 AM until 4 PM on Fridays, with early birds being allowed up at 8:30 AM on Saturdays and Sundays. All four lifts on the mountain’s frontside are still open and ready for action, plus the Forest Queen Express.

Timberline Lodge – Mount Hood, Oregon

Closing Day: May 26, 2025

Summer Operations Open: June 1 (est.)

Timberline is a PNW classic and a staple in the North American spring freeski scene. The Palmer lift just opened, meaning while others are closing down terrain, Timberline just opened more up. The 2025 Spring Pass is on sale now, giving you unlimited skiing on the Palmer Snowfield seven days a week for only $234. That’s two regular lift tickets! This steal of a deal is only available until May 12, so don’t delay. Once winter operations wind down, summer opens up not long after, so keep that in mind as you plan your days off this year.

Mt. Bachelor, Oregon

Closing Day: May 26, 2025

Mt. Bachelor spring skiing doesn’t get the same hype as nearby competitors, but it should. While not as big as other Woodward locations, the Woodward park scene at Bachelor is fantastic, drawing in a passionate following. It’s a great spot for advanced freestyle riders or for those learning the ropes. Speaking of, the Woodward Women’s Progression Sessions are going down May 17-18, followed by the North American Pond Skimming Championships May 25. Did we mention Base Camp concerts are happening every weekend in May with live music?

Palisades Tahoe, California

Closing Day: May 26, 2025

If there is spring skiing heaven, Palisades Tahoe might be as close as it gets. The self-proclaimed “Spring Skiing Capital” has the culture and the terrain to back up the high praises, from one of the best wiggles in the country (pictured below), to soft bumps and piping groomers. Throw in a dedicated park crew that just built an unreal setup for Level 1 SuperUnknown 22 and you’ve got a winning recipe.

Mammoth Mountain, California

Closing Day: As Long as Conditions Allow

If Palisades is the spring skiing capital, then Mammoth is the… second capital? This California classic is a stellar choice for spring turns. Consistent sunshine makes for some more than enjoyable turns. The mountain operation hours are 7:30 AM – 2 PM during Mammoth’s Second Season, aka springtime. Those classic pink rails will be waiting for you under the Cali sun.

Editor’s Note: As of 5/8/25, Mammoth has officially extended its 2024/25 season into June, with no closing date confirmed.

Upgrade Your Inbox

Don't waste time seeking out the best skiing content; we'll send it all right to you.