6 American Ski Resorts to Visit for May Skiing

(Featured Image Credit: John Lemieux)

Don’t you dare put away those skis and snowboards just yet. It’s May, and that means it’s time for May skiing. For those who are simply holding on to winter, May skiing is a late-season treasure. These six ski resorts in America are open for the month of May.

Don’t expect too much from May skiing, except skiers and boarders flying down the slopes in swimsuits and the luxury of shorter lift lines. Hours may be shorter but that just gives you more time to hit up the hot tub and plan for tomorrow’s ski day. Experience the last of the season’s snow at these six American ski resorts.

1. Squaw Valley Ski Resort, California

https://www.flickr.com/photos/caccamo/4280429491/

Closing Date: Mid May to June, sometimes July 4th, weather permitting

Squaw Valley Ski Resort has been referred to as the Spring Skiing Capital. The areas open during May skiing here at Squaw Valley truly depend on conditions and weather. However come with high hopes because sometimes still more than 1,000 acres could be skiable. Spring skiing comes with some perks at this California ski resort. Experience themed weekends where you can get a $10 discount on your lift ticket just for dressing in theme. Lastly, don’t forget to hit up the “High Camp,” which is an afternoon pool and hot tub party at a cozy 8,200 feet.

2. Mammoth Mountain Ski Area, California

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Closing Date: June or July

Mammoth Mountain is always California’s last ski resort to close. With almost always having the most terrain open for May skiing, you’re sure to get some great runs in here. Parents will absolutely love that kids actually ski free after May 1st. The spring terrain park at Mammoth should be on your must-shred list. Although Squaw Valley (#1) closes on weekdays during May, you are able to play hooky from work at Mammoth.

3. Killington Ski Resort, Vermont

Closing Date: sometime in May

East coast skiers can find great May skiing at Killington Ski Resort in Vermont. Now do keep in mind that May skiing at Killington is only on Friday, Saturday and Sunday but find lift tickets as low as $30 if purchased online.

4. Snowbird Ski Area, Utah

Closing Date: Late May or sometimes till early June

Snowbird Ski Area has the longest season out of all Utah ski resorts. This ski resort usually stays open daily until early May and then switches to only weekends until Memorial Day. If the snow has been good during May, Snowbird may even stay open until June some years.

5. Arapahoe Basin Ski & Snowboard Area, Colorado

Closing Date: early June

This popular Colorado resort actually has the longest ski season out of all the resorts in the state. Known as “A-Basin” by locals, Arapahoe Basin in Colorado typically stays open until early June, making it a prime location for May skiing. A-Basin’s highest lift, at 13,050 feet, may even operate well into July. Do take note that May skiing lift ticket prices are $16 cheaper than regular season prices.

6. Timberline Lodge & Ski Area, Oregon

Closing Date: Never

Last but not least on this list is Timberline Lodge & Ski Area, which is America’s only ski resort that stays open year-round. The winter season extends till Memorial Day, so that means all terrain is fair game for May skiing. Once June hits however, some lifts close but you can still enjoy some great snow. This ski resort is basically a skier’s paradise.

Where do you like to ski in May? Tell us your recommendations for late season skiing in the comments below!

Sources:

http://www.onthesnow.co.uk/news/a/583964/best-late-season-resorts-to-ski-in-may

http://www.ski.com/blog/where-can-you-ski-in-may/

https://ski.curbed.com/2016/4/20/11465668/skiing-in-may-late-season