SAM Magazine—Denver, June 5, 2026—Visits to Colorado resorts declined by 24 percent in 2025-26 compared to the prior season, according to figures reported by Colorado Ski Country USA. The association projected preliminary statewide skier visits of 10.5 million for the 2025-26 Colorado season at its 63rd annual meeting yesterday, down from 13.9 million in 2024-25.

The 2025-26 season was shaped by lower-than-average snowfall across Colorado, part of a broader low-snow winter throughout much of the West. "This year revealed the experience, dedication, and grit of Colorado's resorts and the teams behind them," said Melanie Mills, president and CEO of Colorado Ski Country USA. "Their work supports mountain economies, keeps people connected to the mountains, and sustains the experience that generations of Coloradans and visitors come here to share.”

Just how poor were visits this past season?  All visitor segments declined in 2025-26: in-state, out-of-state, and international. Average days open declined from the 20-year average of 144 days to 129 days. Visits fell more than 20 percent below both the five- and 10-year averages. Average monthly snowfall for every month of the 2025-26 ski and ride season fell well below monthly averages from the last 20 years.

According to the Colorado Sun, the state’s visit total was the lowest since 1991-92. The 24 percent yearly decline was even greater than the 19 percent of the Covid-shortened 2019-20 season, when nearly all resorts closed for the season in mid-March, and was eclipsed only by a 30 percent year-on-year decline in 1980-81. The 1976-77 season was likely the worst in Colorado resort history, but data for that season are sparse. That year’s dismal snowfall led resorts across the West to begin installing snowmaking systems in earnest.

On a positive note, CSCUSA said, the warmer weather drew newer skiers and snowboarders to the slopes. Many days offered shorter lift lines, milder temperatures, and well-groomed, approachable terrain that helped beginners build confidence.

Last but not least, the impact of the visit decline was softened somewhat by the trend toward advance-purchase season passes, which kept ticket revenues, and overall revenues, at many resorts from declining as much as visits.