STEAMBOAT SPRINGS, COLORADO-November 25, 2025-Unseasonably warm temperatures and a lack of natural snowfall continue to challenge early-season snowmaking efforts at Howelsen Hill. As a result, the opening of the ski area’s 110th winter season will be delayed from November 29 to Saturday, December 6.
“Despite heroic efforts by our snowmaking crew, Mother Nature has had other plans so far this season,” said Brad Setter, Howelsen Hill Ski & Rodeo Manager. “While this is a difficult decision, the conditions we need simply haven’t been there. As we all know in the Yampa Valley, winter always shows up—it’s just taking a bit longer this year.”
Snowmaking teams will continue working to establish a base that will support operations throughout the season. New snowmaking equipment has helped crews take advantage of every marginal temperature window, and the system is ready to run at full capacity the moment colder weather arrives. Optimal snowmaking requires minimal cloud cover, low relative humidity and temperature, conditions that have been rare at the historic ski area thus far.
“Our first priority is providing a safe skiing surface for our community and for our partners at the Steamboat Springs Winter Sports Club,” said Howelsen Hill Ski & Rodeo Supervisor Micah Ness. “With snow and single digits in the forecasts for next week, our team is prepared to maximize production and put together a great product for our partners and community on opening day.”
The SSWSC will most likely begin training on the limited terrain available as early as this Saturday and continuing into next week. Community members may see athletes skiing during this period; please note that this early-season access is reserved for SSWSC training only and is not open to the general public.
Once the lifts begin turning, Ski Free Sunday returns, giving the community the chance to enjoy the slopes at no cost each Sunday of the season. The Outrun Snack Bar will also reopen with its lineup of warm, delicious options for skiers and riders.
Owned and operated by the City of Steamboat Springs, Howelsen Hill has been a cornerstone of skiing in the Yampa Valley, across Colorado, and nationwide since 1915. The historic hill has trained more than 100 Olympians and continues to serve as a beloved gathering place for generations.
The city will operate Howelsen Hill seven days a week this winter—from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on weekends. For updates, ticket and season pass information, and operational details, visit steamboatsprings.net/ski.
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Contact
Email Brad Setter, Howelsen Hill Ski & Rodeo Manager, or call 970-871-7035
Email Micah Ness, Howelsen Hill Ski & Rodeo Supervisor, or call 970-871-7070
Email Emily Hines, Marketing & Special Events Coordinator, or call 970-871-7031