Winter may still be months away, but we’re already hard at work preparing the mountain for another incredible season at Arizona Snowbowl!
This summer, we’re investing more than $1 million into improvements across the resort — all focused on creating a better experience on the mountain, from a new conveyor lift and expanded snowmaking to RFID and enhanced tree skiing.
Here’s a look at what’s coming for winter 2026/27:
More Uphill Capacity in Our Beginner Learning Area
We’re enhancing beginner terrain access with a brand-new 150-foot conveyor lift — the longest surface conveyor at Snowbowl.
The new conveyor will be installed alongside the existing Big Spruce and Little Spruce lifts, helping increase uphill capacity for skiers and snowboarders while creating a smoother learning experience for lessons and beginner guests.
Additional Snowmaking Enhancements
Snowmaking continues to be one of the biggest game changers at Snowbowl, and we’re continuing to invest in it this year.
Four new tower snow guns will be installed and will help improve early-season terrain coverage and snow reliability throughout the winter, especially near our lower-elevation and traversal terrain.
These investments have helped us deliver some of the longest seasons in ski resort history — including our earliest opening ever on November 8, 2024, and skiing and riding into June during both 2024 and 2025.
RFID Tickets & Easier Straight to Lift Access
Getting on the mountain is about to become even easier.
Starting this winter, Snowbowl will introduce a new RFID ticketing and pass system, along with self-serve pickup boxes designed to speed up the arrival process and get guests onto the snow faster.
RFID tickets and passes mean less jumbling through the pockets at the lift. Operators will still scan guests individually, but passes can now be scanned through most jackets, bibs, and outerwear.
Improved Inbound Glading
We’re also improving tree skiing within the ski area boundary through inbound glading and forest health work across the mountain.
Crews are removing dead and downed trees to reduce fire fuels while opening up additional skiable terrain near Spur Catwalk, Midway Catwalk, Upper and Lower Volcano trails, and the Sunset Chairlift area.
These glading projects will enhance the overall riding experience while supporting ongoing forest health and fuel reduction efforts.
Continuing to Invest in the Mountain Experience
These projects continue years of investment across the resort, including the Arizona Gondola, Aspen Lift, Fort Valley Lodge reopening, and Agassiz Lodge Bar remodel.
With major improvements across the mountain and early forecasts hinting at a more active winter pattern, the 2026/27 season is already shaping up to be one you won’t want to miss!
