The Best Spring Ski Parties in North America
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As the weather warms and the snow softens, it’s time to trade powder days for party laps. Consider the last few weeks as ski season’s grand finale, and while it’s usually a party at any mountain, a few places really know how to throw down. From coast to coast, and from backcountry bangers to pond skims and good, old fashioned parking lot tailgates, we’ve rounded up the best places to enjoy spring vibes before you pack it in until the following season.
Tuckerman Ravine, New Hampshire
Credit - Evan Daigle
From backcountry diehards to brave Bostonians on weekend missions, everyone and their mother seems to head to Tuckerman Ravine , a glacial cirque on the southeast face of New Hampshire’s Mt. Washington, each spring. The annual mecca require some pilgrimaging, however; the open bowl is about 2.5 miles up the Tuckerman Ravine Trail and once skiers get to the base, there’s still the face itself to climb. That means: no chairlifts, no rope tows. Tucks is a backcountry classic for a reason, and come spring, folks celebrate just that.
Despite being removed from the typical après hotspot — it’s a DIY party deep in the New Hampshire woods. Skiers haul in grills, coolers, and speakers to throw a full-on backcountry bash. It's BYO everything, and it’s about as core as spring skiing gets.
Ragers be warned: Tucks is a consequential zone. Unlike most areas on the East Coast, avalanches do occur at Tucks (hence most skiers waiting until spring to ski it), and the pitch is about 40 to 55 degrees—for those who’ve misplaced their protractor, that’s really steep. Save the partying until you’re back at the base, and even then, remember there’s still the 2.5 mile ski (or hike, if the sherb is out) out. Party responsibly.
Credit - Evan Daigle
Cushing Crossing, Palisades Tahoe, California
This spring ushers in the 33rd Annual Cushing Crossing , a pond skim held at Palisades Tahoe that makes other pond skims look like puddle hopping. The skim spans about 80 feet, and thousands of people turn out each year to try their luck at making it across the slog with style, and costumes are definitely encouraged. Past years have included appearances by the likes of the legendary Shane McConkey (RIP), Scott Gaffney and Robb Gaffney (RIP), and an Olympian or two.
The crowd is massive, the energy is chaotic, and the après scene rolls well into the night.
Credit - Taylor Ahrn
The Beach, Arapahoe Basin, Colorado
Credit - Dana Kaufman, Renoun Skis
Arapahoe Basin, a Colorado classic resort, is a hot spot in the spring. And while the ocean is a long way from the land-locked state, A-Basin’s “Beach” brings island time inland. Locals and visitors set up tailgates right along the base of the mountain, creating a massive, open-air après-ski scene. Think BBQs, beers, costumes, and casual laps under the Colorado sun.
The vibe is laid-back and music pumps from truck beds as skiers grill burgers in their ski boots. Forget the lodge, the Beach is where you want to be between laps, soaking up the sun and trading stories over cold drinks. Spots on the Beach are so coveted that people reserve them months in advance, making it one of the most iconic spring traditions in skiing.
Credit - Dana Kaufman, Renoun Skis
Gaper Day, Whistler Blackcomb, British Columbia
Every April 1st, Whistler turns into a neon, retro free-for-all. Skiers and riders dig deep into their closets (or thrift stores) for the most ridiculous outfits they can scrounge up. The day is all about fun: think backward skiing, synchronized pole-whacking, and plenty of slope-side partying.
The goal of Gaper Day is simple: look ridiculous, have as much fun as possible. Expect to see one-piece suits from the '80s, homemade costumes, and enough zinc sunscreen to make you question your eyesight. The lifts are packed with rowdy groups blasting music, and the après scene kicks off before noon. It's a full-day celebration of spring skiing’s not-so-serious side, and one of the most beloved traditions at Whistler.
Reggae Fest, Sugarloaf, Maine
Ski hard, jam harder. Sugarloaf’s annual Reggae Fest draws thousands of skiers for a weekend of live music, sunshine, and spring laps. It's the perfect blend of East Coast grit and island vibes. And both of those things make for a really good party.
The mountain transforms into a full-on music festival, with outdoor stages, reggae bands, and dancing crowds in ski boots and T-shirts. Daytime is for sunny spring turns; afternoons and evenings are all about the live shows and legendary après. It’s a little rugged, a little rowdy, and totally unforgettable. It’s a rite of passage for any East Coast skier.
Credit - Lucy Higgins
The Author: Lucy Higgins
Lucy is a seasoned editor and writer with a background in magazine publishing and creative directing. Formerly the Editor-in-Chief at Backcountry Magazine, she now works as a freelance writer and editor.
When Lucy's not at a desk, she can be found running, skiing, and spending time with her toddler.
Why Trust the Renoun Reviews Team?
Renoun Skis Reviews team has over a decade of ski design and manufacturing experience, and decades of combined ski-industry experience ranging from certified PSIA ski instructors to shop technicians, racers, and coaches. We also have a deep passion for and love of all things skiing. The team utilizes this experience to provide unparalleled reviews that dive deep to help guide your purchase for just about any ski-related item and help inform you of any ski-focused tips and tricks about maintenance, on-hill performance, and even the best places to enjoy your Après-Ski. Through written and video content, the Renoun Skis Reviews team is here to help inform you on all things ski-related.
Our team curates recommendations based on an intensive research and review process and leverages our unique expertise in the industry. A product must be exceptional in quality and have unique features to qualify for consideration in our review process. For all tips and tricks, all advice is based on on-hill and ski manufacturing knowledge, as well as intensive research to ensure accuracy and help skiers like you stay informed.
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