Steamboat Springs, Colorado-March 16, 2026-The 110th winter season at Howelsen Hill Ski Area will come to an earlier close on Sunday, March 22, as the community is invited to celebrate Closing Day. The day will feature the final Ski Free Sunday of the season, live DJ, food and drink specials, and the return of the creative costumes that have become a Closing Day tradition.
While this winter brought less snowfall and warmer temperatures, the season once again highlighted the dedication of the mountain operations crews who keep the historic ski area running day after day. From grooming and lift maintenance to snowmaking and daily operations, staff worked throughout the season to ensure the hill remained open and welcoming for all.
“Despite the challenges that came with a lighter snow year, our mountain crews did an incredible job keeping the hill operating and the experience fun for the community,” said Howelsen Hill Ski and Rodeo Manager Brad Setter. “Howelsen Hill really shines as a hometown ski area—it proves there’s more to a great ski hill than simply the amount of snow. It’s about community, tradition, and the people who make the experience special.”
Closing Day festivities will include the final Ski Free Sunday of the season, running from 10 am to 4 pm. Visitors can stop by the Ticket Office to claim a free lift ticket and enjoy a last lap of the season. Mountain conditions and operations are changing rapidly due to weather. Because of this uncertainty, what will be available on closing day will be determined closer to March 22. Guests are also encouraged to come dressed for the closing day occasion, with fun and colorful costumes strongly encouraged.
The celebration continues in the base area near the Howelsen Hill Lodge back patio with live DJ Rocksteady Teddy throughout the afternoon. Unfortunately, the traditional pond skim will not take place, but a series of fun jumps and rails are anticipated to be installed near the base for folks to shred. Show off your best tricks for a chance to win prizes from HVNLY DAZE, Zirkle Optics and the Yampa River Icehouse, as well as Howelsen Hill merchandise.
Hit up Tube Howelsen for one last slide of the season. All tubing on closing day will be 50% off. Call the ticket office or book your reservation online today to take advantage of this amazing end-of-season deal.
Guests can also stop by The Outrun Snack Bar for all-day happy hour and additional food and drink specials, including discounted beer, hard seltzers, hard ciders, signature cocktails, margaritas, and house wine, along with classic ski hill favorites like pretzels, hot dogs, brats, and burgers.
Closing Day offers a final opportunity to enjoy the slopes, celebrate the season, and recognize the long-standing tradition of skiing at Howelsen Hill Ski Area - a place that has been at the heart of Steamboat Springs’ ski culture for more than a century.
For information about Closing Day festivities and additional modifications due to weather and snow conditions, visit steamboatsprings.net/ski.
-WeServeTheCity-
Contact
Email Brad Setter, Howelsen Hill Ski and Rodeo Manager, or call 970-871-7035
Email Emily Hines, Marketing & Communications Supervisor, or call 970-871-7031