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Late winter at Western ski resorts is generally filled with events designed to make the most of the last few weeks of snow. Some of these are competitive and others are recreational but they all aim to boost economic impact before venues close for the season.
This year, however, an early spring has caused closures, resulting in the cancellation of many events and an economic shortfall.
Multiple ski resorts in Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Utah, Washington and Wyoming have either closed or announced plans to close earlier than usual.
This season’s conditions were not good to begin with, and many areas had below-average snowpacks.
In fact, Colorado Public Radio referred to this as “the winter that wasn’t.” It was one of the warmest seasons on record in the Centennial State, with devastating effects on winter tourism and other weather-dependent industries.
Outside of Leadville, Colorado, Ski Cooper issued a written thank-you to its patrons and called the decision to close up early “disappointing.”
“We hope to welcome you back next year to better snow and brighter days,” the resort said.
Snowgoer noted the cancellation of two major snowmobile events that were planned for the Rocky Mountains, the 2026 World Championship Snowmobile Hill Climb in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, and Colorado’s popular Spring Fling gathering.
Snowgoer noted, “The Jackson Hole Hill Climb, long considered one of the sport’s premier competitions, was officially canceled after organizers determined snow conditions on Snow King Mountain were inadequate to safely host the event. The annual race typically draws competitors and fans from across North America to watch riders attack the steep face of the Wyoming mountain in one of snowmobiling’s most iconic competitions.
Unfortunately, the decision reflects broader snow conditions across parts of the western U.S. this winter. Many Rocky Mountain snow basins entered 2026 with well-below-normal snowpack due to warm temperatures and limited snowfall early in the season. In Colorado, statewide snow water equivalent climbed to only about 60 percent of the long-term median by late winter, after starting the season even lower.”
In Idaho, a beloved tradition dating back to the 1960s, the Dotty Clark Championships, had to be cancelled after Bogus Basin reported there was insufficient snowfall. According to reports, snowfall throughout the Boise area has been sparse all winter.
In California and Nevada, many ski resorts around Lake Tahoe usually close in mid-to-late April; Palisades Tahoe is an exception, typically welcoming skiers into late May. This year, however, many resorts are snow-starved, according to this report.
A little over a month ago, a thick blanket of snow covered the Sierras, creating a 90-inch snowpack and making many resort owners optimistic. Unfortunately, rainstorms followed, and in their wake, many resorts decided to call it quits for the season.
There are larger issues, organizers noted. One is economic (mountain communities depend on the revenue stream provided by winter events, particularly seasonal businesses like ski and snowboard rentals).
Zooming out, however, the lack of snow is concerning because it indicates climate change. Additionally, snowmelt provides a source of fresh water for many communities. With less snow in many places globally this winter, more towns are concerned about water scarcity related to agricultural use and safe drinking water.
One thing many resorts are still doing: their pond skims and other end-of-season antics. Some are held in March, others in April. All provide excellent opportunities for goofy celebrations and a last chance to celebrate winter conditions, as well as to capitalize on that final bit of economic impact the hills can provide in sliding sports. Oh, and if conditions aren’t ideal, well, they’re not meant to be.
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