The familiar crunch of skis on fresh powder is fading into a disconcerting slush. Across western ski resorts, an unsettling scene is unfolding: skiers are trading parkas for bikinis as unseasonably warm temperatures grip the mountains.
Images are circulating of skiers and snowboarders navigating slopes in swimsuits and even shirtless, a stark contrast to the bundled-up figures typically seen this time of year. Record heat is relentlessly melting the snowpack, transforming pristine white landscapes into patches of brown earth.
The consequences are severe. Many resorts are being forced to close prematurely, postpone their openings, or shut down entirely, a devastating blow to local economies and winter sports enthusiasts. The season, for some, is already over.
At Taos Ski Valley in New Mexico, crews are engaged in a desperate battle against the thaw, painstakingly moving snow from hidden corners of the mountain to salvage what they can of the ski runs. It’s a temporary fix, a visible sign of the larger crisis.
Colorado resorts are facing particularly grim conditions. Fewer than 20% of trails remain open at some locations, replaced by exposed dirt and icy patches. The slopes, once blanketed in white, now reveal the earth beneath.
Despite the disheartening reality, a defiant spirit persists. Some skiers are embracing the bizarre conditions, turning the situation into an unexpected, albeit unconventional, celebration. Social media is alight with posts documenting the “bikini ski” phenomenon.
“Highly recommend skiing with your besties in bikini tops,” one user declared, capturing the mood of those determined to make the most of a dwindling season. Others are simply acknowledging the strange timing: “Annual bikini ski came early this year.”
This isn’t entirely new, according to those familiar with mountain life. A former ski lift operator recalled that warmer days have always attracted skiers willing to shed layers, but the frequency and intensity of these events are clearly increasing.
The lack of snowfall isn’t just impacting this season; it’s fundamentally reshaping the ski industry. Resorts are scrambling to adapt, recognizing the need to attract a new generation of skiers and maintain financial stability in a warming world.
Some are responding with price cuts, like Vail Resorts’ recent 20% discount on its Epic Pass for younger skiers, aiming to entice Gen Z travelers. The focus is shifting towards creating a more social experience, beyond the traditional sport itself.
Resorts are now incorporating events, concerts, and other activities, recognizing that younger visitors increasingly view skiing as a social outing. This evolution comes as the average age of U.S. skiers rises and the threat of warmer winters looms large.
The future of skiing hangs in the balance, a poignant reminder of the far-reaching consequences of a changing climate. The slopes, once a symbol of winter’s enduring power, are now a visible indicator of a world in transition.
