Spring skiing bucket list: 10 things to do before the lifts close in Colorado

It’s hard to believe March is right around the corner, but there’s still plenty of fun to be had on Colorado’s ski slopes. The spring is when the mountains come alive with more daylight hours, lively apres-ski parties, skiers flying down the slopes in their most outrageous costumes, and lots of exciting end-of-the-season celebrations.

Here’s a list of things to do to make the most out of Colorado’s spring skiing:

  1. Ski in a t-shirt or hoodie

One of the best things about spring skiing is not having to worry about layers and enjoying the slopes without freezing. Take a few runs in just a t-shirt or hoodie and enjoy the fresh air.

2. Do a pond skim somewhere in the state (or at least watch one)

Participate in one of Colorado’s quintessential spring skiing activities (if you can). Being a spectator still counts. Check out Steamboat’s Splashdown Pond Skim, Breckenridge’s Peaks and Beats, or Arapahoe Basin’s pond skim. Participants also often dress up in bright, creative costumes.

3. Hang out at The Beach at A-Basin

This legendary, high-altitude, parking lot party spot is a premier spring skiing destination where guests can grill, picnic, and tailgate. Located directly at the base of the mountain, the area features immediate access for skiing, and a lively festive atmosphere with music and costumes.

4. Do a skiing plus hot springs combo day

Enjoy a soak in the hot springs after getting some great spring turns. An excellent combination is a ski day at Steamboat Ski Resort and then a relaxing soak at the Strawberry Park Hot Springs.

5. Enjoy an apres-ski celebration on a deck – in ski boots

This activity is an iconic spring skiing activity in Colorado. Some of the best apres-ski parties take place on Winter Park’s Mary Jane deck, The Beach at A-Basin, or the Vail Mountain patios. The celebrations consist of sunglasses, beer, and sometimes even a DJ.

6. Try out some bumps when they are easier (and even more fun)

Spring moguls are softer with the slushy snow, making them more forgiving and somewhat addictive. Some of the best moguls in Colorado are at Winter Park’s Mary Jane, Aspen Highlands, and Breckenridge’s Peak 9.

7. Ski in a costume

Get dressed up in your craziest costume, whether it’s a banana suit, retro one-piece, or Hawaiian shirt. Enjoy the absurdity and don’t take it too seriously.

8. Check out Steamboat Springs’ cardboard classic

This is one of Colorado’s most iconic, and absurd, spring events. Participants design crazy cardboard sleds and race them down the mountain. Spectators have just as much fun watching.

9. Ski at least one resort known for staying open late

Arapahoe Basin, Loveland Ski Area, and Breckenridge usually stay open into early May, sometimes even keeping the lifts running into June (A-Basin). Enjoy making the season last as long as possible at these resorts.

10. Finish the season on closing weekend

Enjoy the festivities that come with closing weekend at many Colorado ski resorts. Events include music, apres-ski parties, and plenty of slushy snow.

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