Never Miss a Season Opener

CO Alpine Wildflower Peak

Colorado high country wildflowers hit peak bloom — Maroon Bells columbine, Gothic Basin paintbrush, and San Juan indian paintbrush. Elevations 10,000–13,000 ft peak typically July 5–20.

CO Ski Season Opens

Colorado's early-opening ski resorts launch — Arapahoe Basin, Loveland, and Keystone typically open by Thanksgiving weekend. Snowpack check before making travel plans.

Mountain West Wildflower Season

High country wildflowers peak across the Mountain West — Glacier NP beargrass, Maroon Bells columbine, Sawtooth lupine, and Wasatch Indian paintbrush. Elevations 8,000–12,000 ft peak July 1–20.

Mountain West Fire Season Peak

Fire season peaks across the Mountain West (July–August). Smoke from large fires in ID, MT, WY, and CO regularly affects air quality across all 8 states. Check AQI before strenuous outdoor activities.

Mountain West Avalanche Season Opens

Avalanche centers across the Mountain West begin daily forecasts — CAIC (CO), UAC (UT), GNFAC/WCMAC (MT), BTAC (WY/MT), SAC (ID). Never travel in avalanche terrain without checking the local forecast.

Mountain West Ski Season Opens

Resorts across CO, UT, WY, ID, and MT open their first lifts — typically Arapahoe Basin, Loveland, Snowbird, and Jackson Hole lead. Snowpack varies by range; check base depths before booking trips.

Stage 1 Fire Restriction Season

Statewide fire restriction season typically begins in late spring. Campfires often prohibited at elevations below 9,000 ft during high fire danger periods.

14er Season Opens

Colorado's 14,000 ft peaks become accessible to most hikers. Snow consolidation above treeline typically complete by mid-June — always check avalanche and weather conditions.

Elk Archery Season Opens

Colorado's archery elk season begins statewide (select GMUs). Early archery window runs through September.

Deer Rifle Season 1 Opens

First rifle deer season begins statewide. Orange recommended on backcountry trails during hunting season.

Elk Rifle Season 1 Opens

First rifle elk season opens statewide. Prepare for increased backcountry traffic on trails near hunting units.

Avalanche Season Begins

CAIC begins issuing daily avalanche forecasts for all Colorado backcountry zones. Early season instability is common — always check forecasts before venturing above treeline.