Lee Canyon Ends Winter Season Early Due to Record Temperatures

The Las Vegas-area ski resort will close this weekend amid rapid snow melt.

Mar. 21, 2026 at 12:06am

Lee Canyon, a ski resort near Las Vegas, announced that it will be ending its 2025-2026 winter season this weekend due to record-breaking high temperatures across the Southwest region. The resort's winter operations usually extend into early to mid-April, but the rapid snow melt has forced an early closure.

Why it matters

Lee Canyon's early closure highlights the impact of climate change and extreme weather on winter recreation in the Southwest. As temperatures continue to rise, ski resorts in the region may face challenges maintaining viable winter seasons, affecting both the local economy and outdoor enthusiasts.

The details

Lee Canyon's winter season, which began on November 21, 2025, will now conclude on Sunday, March 22, 2026. The resort cited the unprecedented high temperatures and rapid snow melt as the reasons for the early closure. This weekend, Lee Canyon will be open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and on Sunday, the resort will host its annual Pond Skim event from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Lee Canyon will also be open on March 28 and 29 for scenic chair rides and a passholder appreciation party.

  • Lee Canyon's winter season began on Friday, November 21, 2025.
  • Lee Canyon's winter season will end on Sunday, March 22, 2026.
  • This weekend, Lee Canyon will be open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, March 21, 2026.
  • On Sunday, March 22, 2026, Lee Canyon will host its annual Pond Skim event from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
  • Lee Canyon will be open on Saturday, March 28, 2026 and Sunday, March 29, 2026 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The players

Lee Canyon

A ski resort located near Las Vegas, Nevada.

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What’s next

Depending on weather and conditions, Lee Canyon's downhill mountain bike park may open earlier than expected.

The takeaway

The early closure of Lee Canyon's winter season due to record-breaking temperatures highlights the growing challenges that ski resorts in the Southwest face as a result of climate change. This trend may continue to impact winter recreation and the local economies that depend on it.