Beaver Creek is adding automated snowmaking equipment to the lower third of its Birds of Prey racecourse before December’s World Cup races. The upgrade is meant to help crews build a more consistent race surface when early-season weather changes. It does not, by itself, tell visitors which public ski runs will be open.
What is changing on the course?
According to the Birds of Prey organizers, the project includes 10 stick snow guns, six fan guns, a weather station, and new power and communication lines. Crews will be able to operate the equipment remotely. The new system serves the lower third of the racecourse, not the entire mountain.
Race organizers say the equipment should help crews respond to changing early-season conditions. That is a plan for snow preparation, not a guarantee about weather, race conditions or the amount of terrain available to recreational skiers.
When are the 2026 Birds of Prey races?
The 2026 Stifel Birds of Prey World Cup event is scheduled for Dec. 3–13 at Beaver Creek. The organizer lists seven races across two weekends and says general admission is free. Check the official event calendar before choosing a day: race schedules, access and weather can change.
For visitors planning a ski trip, Beaver Creek’s destination guide covers the villages, parking and local transportation. Use the resort’s current mountain report for actual open terrain and lift operations. Our winter transportation guide can help you plan a car-free route to the area.
What should spectators check before they go?
Start with the event’s current race schedule. Then check spectator access, parking and shuttle details for your specific day. Dress for mountain weather and allow time to reach the viewing area. The racecourse upgrade is a behind-the-scenes change; the practical visitor decision is still when and how to get to the event.
Featured image is an AI-generated illustration of snowmaking, not a photograph of the Birds of Prey installation. Information checked Oct. 28, 2026.
