Steamboat Ski Resort
Credit: Steamboat Ski Resort
Looking ahead to 2026, two exciting music festivals are set to beautifully combine mountain adventures with fantastic live music. In January, the beloved MusicFest celebrates its 40th year, offering six days filled with Texas, Red Dirt, and Americana melodies across various slopeside venues. Then, from February 27 to March 1, WinterWonderGrass 2026 transforms Steamboat into a lively hub for bluegrass and roots music fans. Over three wonderful days, 30 talented artists will perform on four stages— three staged under cozy, heated tents— plus enjoy free on-mountain shows, tasty beer and whiskey tastings, kids’ zones, and late-night performances. Steamboat truly comes alive as a winter soundtrack, welcoming both snow and music lovers to share the joy.
GETTING THERE
United Airlines will begin seasonal winter nonstop service from Washington Dulles International Airport( IAD) to Yampa Valley Regional Airport( HDN) once a week.
VAIL RESORT, COLORADO
Eagle County Regional Airport( EGE) is expanding, adding more carriers each year for the winter season. This means less time stuck in I-70 traffic and more time skiing. Vail’ s famous backcountry got an exciting update a couple of years ago when the Game Creek Express(# 7) and Sun Down Express(# 17) were upgraded. Enjoying those epic bowls of powder has never been better.
Vail also leads in Epic Pass innovations, such as more Epic Friend Passes available at up to 50 % off, and the growth of the Epic Gear program, featuring over 60 designs from 13 brands. The app introduces an interactive Ski and Ride School feature with parent check-ins and skill tracking, along with other widgets. Vail’ s highly regarded adaptive ski and snowboard program has also expanded; the resort offers ski, snow bike, and snowboard lessons taught by certified instructors who specialize in adaptive snow sports.
The mountain is also enhancing its performance and arts programs. Après Days return Friday through Sunday at the Express Lift Base, along with a lively calendar of live music throughout the year. Avanti Food and Beverage opened last winter. Located in the Golden Peak base area, it offers some of the best dining available in all North American ski resorts.
Winter snow play is about much more than just snow. It’ s about ritual— rising early to hit the hill; après, celebrating a well-spent day on a sunny terrace or inside a lively pub; and, last but not least, the ski trip— the chance to connect multiple days in a dream destination filled with friends and family. From Montana to Wyoming, and Colorado, these resorts offer blizzards of adventure to fill your winter days.
GETTING THERE
United Airlines will resume seasonal winter nonstop service from Washington Dulles International Airport( IAD) to Eagle County Regional Airport( EGE) once a week.
FLYWASHINGTON. COM 42 WINTER 2025-26