Summer’s Here, But Not for All Ski Slopes! Your Guide to Cool Mountain Escapes This Weekend
As the North American ski season winds down, only a few unique spots remain open for those eager to hit the slopes. But even if skiing isn’t on your radar, some iconic natural areas are experiencing unseasonable winter conditions, offering a different kind of cool-weather adventure. Whether you’re a first-timer or just looking for a refreshing hike, here’s a guide to what’s still available and important travel alerts for your weekend plans.
Important Weather Alert: Glacier National Park, Montana
As summer officially begins, Glacier National Park is facing unseasonable winter weather. Winter storm warnings have been issued for parts of Montana, and significant snow is expected to fall in the northern Rockies and Cascades this weekend.
In anticipation of this inclement weather, Glacier National Park is preparing for a temporary closure of the alpine (high-mountain) sections of Going-to-the-Sun Road. This means the scenic upper parts of this famous drive, typically a highlight for summer visitors, may be inaccessible for safety due to snow, ice, and potential rock or debris slides.
If you’re planning a visit to Glacier National Park, be prepared for much cooler temperatures and wet conditions. Even with partial road closures, many areas of the park, particularly at lower elevations, remain open and offer beautiful scenery for hiking. You can still access parts of the Going-to-the-Sun Road (usually the sections leading up to the closure points) and other areas like Lake McDonald on the west side or St. Mary and Two Medicine on the east side via Highway 2. Always check the official Glacier National Park website and local weather forecasts before you go, and dress in layers!
Where You Can Still Ski/Snowboard:
Timberline Lodge, Oregon
What it is: A classic outdoor ski area known for its exceptionally long season.
Why it’s unique: Timberline is usually the very last outdoor ski area in the U.S. to close each year, often staying open well into August! This is thanks to its high elevation on the southern face of Mount Hood, which gets a lot of snow, and “snow farming” – where they strategically move and preserve snow.
What to expect (Skiing): If you’re skiing, the open trails are mostly groomers (smooth, machine-groomed snow) on the Palmer Snowfield. This area is also popular for ski race camps later in the summer, which means professional athletes might be training there.
What to expect (Hiking/Cooler Weather): Even if you’re not skiing, the lodge and surrounding area offer stunning mountain views and a chance to experience cooler temperatures at 8,540 feet elevation. It’s a great spot for a scenic drive or a gentle walk around the lodge grounds.
Current Status: Still open, with closing date to be announced. Two of seven lifts are running, accessing about 19% of their trails.
Copper Mountain, Colorado
What it is: While its main ski slopes are closed for traditional skiing, Copper Mountain offers a unique summer “hike park” experience.
Why it’s unique: This isn’t your typical ski run. Copper Mountain provides the only on-snow terrain park experience in Colorado during the summer months. It’s designed for skiers and snowboarders who want to practice tricks and jumps.
What to expect (Skiing/Snowboarding): You’ll be hiking up to access terrain park features like rails and small jumps. This means you carry your skis or snowboard up the hill to ride down specific obstacles. It’s a great option if you’re looking for a non-traditional, active way to be on snow and enjoy a mountain setting.
Current Status: Open Fridays through Sundays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., through September 7 (weather permitting).
Jay Peak Resort, Vermont
What it is: A resort known for its plentiful snow in winter, making a special appearance for a rare summer ski event.
Why it’s unique: Jay Peak is hosting a rare “seasonal crossover event” this weekend, bringing together snow sports, live music, and community activities. It’s not a regular operation but a special celebration.
What to expect (Skiing/Snowboarding): They’ll have a custom terrain park set up for this special event. This is likely to be a fun, festive atmosphere rather than a full day of traditional slope skiing, suitable for those looking for a unique summer snow experience.
What to expect (Hiking/Cooler Weather): Even without skiing, the resort area is scenic, and the event itself offers a unique opportunity to enjoy the mountain vibe and live music in cooler weather.
Current Status: Opening specifically this Saturday, June 21, for the special event.
Big SNOW American Dream, New Jersey
What it is: The United States’ only indoor ski and snowboard park.
Why it’s unique: Unlike the outdoor resorts, Big SNOW operates year-round, so it’s always “still open”! It’s a great option if you’re near the New York City area and want to get some turns in without traveling far or worrying about outdoor weather.
What to expect (Skiing/Snowboarding): You’ll be skiing indoors on natural snow, with the temperature kept at a cool 28 degrees Fahrenheit. They have a permanent terrain park and even offer special “mogul weekends” (moguls are bumps on the snow). It’s a convenient way to experience skiing or snowboarding any time of year, perfect for first-timers in a controlled environment. Remember to dress for winter, even though you’re indoors!
Current Status: Open year-round, with all two lifts and all four trails available.
Whether you’re strapping on skis for the first time, practicing your jumps, or just looking to enjoy a refreshing mountain environment, these unique spots offer something for everyone. If you’re heading to Glacier, be prepared for a very different “summer” experience than you might expect!
