Lift Passes - OnTheSnow

Ski Pass Comparison: Ikon Pass vs. Epic Pass

Craig Altschul — Tue, 10 Sep 2024 23:40:42 +0000

One of the most frequently asked questions we get is that of which ski pass is best. Simply put, there’s no clear-cut answer to the question of the best ski pass. It can feel a bit like advanced calculus, comparing the different passes — Epic Pass, Ikon Pass, The Mountain Collective, and Indy Pass — and comparing the many different tiers of so many ski passes. Yet regular season pass holders will tell you that having a ski pass always pays off. Daily lift tickets are out, ski passes are in.

Epic Pass vs Ikon Pass

While we’ve put together guides for the major passes, in this article we’re comparing the Ikon Pass to the Epic Pass. Ultimately, choosing the Ikon Pass or the Epic Pass – or for that matter the other ski passes like the Mountain Collective Pass or the budget-friendly Indy Pass – depends on a lot of factors, with the number one depending on where you plan on skiing and how often you plan to be on snow. The region in the country where you live also can make a difference. The bottom line is that you won’t find a “one-size-fits-all” ski pass solution… but you will find a size that fits you.

However, we’ll try to make the choice easier for pass holders with our guide to the Epic Pass vs Ikon Pass.

Who owns the Epic Pass and Ikon Pass?

Epic Pass is owned and operated by Vail Resorts and is offered at all of its 37 ski areas and numerous partners in the United States and abroad. The Ikon Pass is owned and operated by Alterra Mountain Company and is offered at all of its 16 ski resorts, plus a plethora of partner resorts across the globe.

©Tomas Cohen/Vail Resorts

Pass Price: Epic Pass vs. Ikon Pass prices

Simply put, the earlier you purchase the Epic Pass or Ikon Pass, the cheaper the price will be. Both the Epic Pass and Ikon Pass go on sale in early spring (usually by late March), and that’s the time to grab the best value. The prices rise incrementally several times over the summer and fall and are at the highest point close to the start of the season. Here are some comparisons at one point leading up to the 2023-24 ski season.

Epic Pass adult — $1,047; Ikon Pass adult — $1,449
Epic Pass child — $534; Ikon Pass child — $439

Options include the Epic Local Pass and specific passes for a number of resorts and regions.

For further comparison of the adult Epic Pass and adult Ikon Pass, the adult Mountain Collective Pass is around $600, while the adult Indy Pass early on is $299, or $399, without any blackout dates. Day Passes (1-7 days) are available on Epic and are known as Session Passes on Ikon Pass.

Shop for Epic & Ikon Now

Which ski pass has the best resorts?

That’s too subjective for us to answer. The real question is at which resorts do you plan to ski and ride? Here’s a list of both ski passes, starting with Epic Pass.

Epic Pass Resorts

Unlimited Access Resorts: 42
Additional Resorts: 22

Mountains with Unlimited Access

Unlimited ski resort access? Yes, you heard that right. Epic Pass resorts with unlimited access include such iconic resorts as Park City, Vail and Beaver Creek. Here are the unlimited access resorts for the Epic Pass.

The back bowls of Vail Resort. ©Vail

Up to 7 days at select global destinations. No blackout dates.

Telluride, CO
Fernie Alpine Resort, BC
Kicking Horse, BC
Kimberley Alpine Resort, BC
Nakiska, AB
Mont-Sainte Anne, QC
Stoneham Mountain Resort, QC
Hakuba47 Winter Sports Park, Japan
Hakuba Cortina, Japan
Hakuba Goryu, Japan
Hakuba Happo-One, Japan
Hakuba Iwatake, Japan
Hakuba Norikura Onsen, Japan
Hakuba Sanosaka Snow Resort, Japan
Jiigatake, Japan
Kashimayari, Japan
Tsugaike Kogen, Japan
Rusutsu, Japan
Skirama Dolomiti, Italy
Les 3 Vallees, France
Arlberg, Austria
4 Vallées, Switzerland

Ikon Pass Resorts

Total Resorts: 55
Unlimited Access Resorts: 15 on Ikon Pass and 14 on Ikon Base Pass
Additional Resorts: 39

Unlimited Access Resorts

Ikon Pass, too, has a number of unlimited access resorts, although it’s a smaller list. Some of the headliner resorts include Mammoth Mountain, Palisades Tahoe, and Steamboat. Here are the resorts with unlimited access to the Ikon Pass.

Up to 7 days or 7 days combined at select global destinations. No blackout dates.

Which passes offer which perks

Pass holders have a number of benefits for both the Epic Pass and Ikon Pass. Perks of the Epic Pass include Ski With Friends and Buddy Pass tickets and cost breaks for members of the military, plus a local pass for college students. The Ikon Pass offers price breaks for nurses, military, and college students for both full and base passes, plus free skiing in late spring of the next year for new pass holders. Pass holder benefits for Ikon Pass also include first tracks at select destinations once a month, summer adventure opportunities, and lodging and destination deals. Ikon Pass also offers Friends & Family discounted lift tickets.

Ikon Pass vs Epic Pass: Local ski passes

The Epic Pass has an option where you can buy an Epic Local Pass in the Rockies, West, Midwest, Northeast, and Mid-Atlantic regions. The Epic Local Pass is only good for Vail properties, however. There are plenty of choices.

The Ikon Pass has regional localized options in Crystal Mountain in Washington, Steamboat, and Winter Park in Colorado, June Mountain in the Sierras of California, Bear Mountain and Snow Summit in Southern California, Stratton Mountain and Sugarbush in Vermont, Snowshoe in West Virginia, Solitude and Deer Valley in Utah, and more in Canada and Europe.

Ikon Pass vs Epic Pass: A regional guide

Best Ski Pass for Colorado

Colorado is a toss-up for which ski pass is best. The Epic Local Pass includes Vail-owned ski areas – Breckenridge, Keystone, Vail, Crested Butte, and Telluride – all great choices. The Ikon Pass gives you Winter Park, Copper, Arapahoe Basin, and Eldora, which are all an easy hop from Denver, and a few longer hops, such as Aspen Snowmass and Steamboat.

Breckenridge Ski Area/Vail Resorts

Best Ski Pass for Lake Tahoe and California

Vail Resorts Lake Tahoe ski resorts include Heavenly, the giant South Lake Tahoe resort that actually resides in both California and Nevada and Northstar California on the north side of Lake Tahoe. Kirkwood is a big mountain standout not far away from South Lake Tahoe. Palisades-Tahoe on the north side of Lake Tahoe is on the Ikon Pass. South of Lake Tahoe, Mammoth Mountain is on the Ikon Pass, as well as nearby June Mountain. If you plan to exclusively ski at Lake Tahoe, then we recommend the Epic Pass, while Ikon Pass is the best option if you plan to split time between Mammoth and Lake Tahoe.

Best Ski Pass for Utah

Utah lovers should probably go for the Ikon Pass as it includes the resorts in Little Cottonwood Canyon – literally iconic – such as Snowbird and Alta (remember, though, snowboards are not allowed at Alta). The Epic Pass, on the other hand, offers up Park City Mountain Resort, a big-time, fun place to ski and ride.

Best Ski Pass for the Midwest

Midwest skiers and snowboarders who mostly stay local should bag both the Epic Pass and Ikon Pass, and go for the Indy Pass which offers up 27 resorts. The Epic Pass and Ikon Pass just don’t have the same options in the Midwest as in other regions. Still, the Epic Pass has limited options, such as Afton Alps, if you live near the Twin Cities, or Wilmot if you live near Chicago or Cleveland.

Best Ski Pass for the Northeast

The Ikon Pass has access to renowned New England ski resorts, including Killington, Stratton, and Sugarbush. However, the Epic Pass has more Northeast ski resorts on its pass, including Stowe. If you’re sticking to New England ski resorts, then the Epic Pass is a great choice.

@Killington Resort

Best Ski Pass for the Pacific Northwest

Neither the Ikon Pass nor the Epic Pass have a lot of Pacific Northwest options. Epic has the largest ski resort, with Whistler Blackcomb, and also has Stevens Pass. But the Ikon Pass has more resort options, including Mt. Bachelor in Oregon.

Best ski pass for the Canadian Rockies

If you plan on skiing a lot in Canada, then the Ikon Pass is a no-brainer. Above, we mentioned that the Epic Pass has Whistler Blackcomb, which is in the Coast Mountains. Its partner resorts also includes a few smaller ski resorts spread throughout Canada, such as Nakiska Ski Area, which is the closest ski area to Calgary. However, the Ikon Pass features several days at a number of prominent Canadian ski resorts, including Revelstoke, Sun Peaks, Banff Sunshine, Lake Louise, and Mt. Norquay.

Best ski pass for the Northern Rockies

Similar to above, the Ikon Pass wins out for the Northern Rockies, considering that the Epic Pass doesn’t currently have any resorts there. The Ikon Pass features Sun Valley and Schweitzer in Idaho, Jackson Hole in Wyoming, and Big Ski in Montana. Sun Valley came over to the Ikon Pass, from the Epic Pass, in 2022.

The Rendezvous Bowl at Jackson Hole ©Julie Weinberger

Best ski pass for the rest of the world (Europe, Chile, New Zealand, Australia and Japan)

If you plan to head to Europe or even Japan, it just depends on where you want to go. The Epic Pass has the most options for Italy, France, Austria, Switzerland, and even Japan, but the Ikon Pass adds in summer.

Questions to ask yourself before buying a ski pass

Before purchasing a ski pass, there are a few questions you should ask yourself. First and foremost, how often are you going to ski? If you don’t take many ski vacations, or you’re only skiing a couple of times in a season, then a ski pass doesn’t make sense. Additionally, you’ll need to ask yourself questions like what your budget is and where you’re most likely to ski during the ski season. For some skiers, they won’t need to go all out on an Epic Pass or Ikon Pass; they can go with a local ski pass or a pass for just a few days.

Bottom Line

So which ski pass should you go with? They both have a number of popular ski resorts and offer plenty of benefits. In short, both the Epic and Ikon Pass will save you considerable money if you plan to ski or ride for at least a few days. Just do the math. Ski passes have literally changed the way we ski. Gone are the days when you simply walked up to the window to buy your lift tickets.

The Epic Pass has more unlimited access ski resorts than the Ikon Pass’ selection of unlimited access resorts, while the Ikon Pass has a few Southern Hemisphere ski resorts to choose from and a nice selection of perks for pass holders. If most of your ski vacations are going to be in one specific region, then you should consider this, too. For example, the Epic Pass doesn’t have any ski resorts in Montana, Idaho, or Wyoming.

Are there other ski pass options you should consider? While the Epic Pass, Ikon Pass, and Mountain Collective are all good choices, be sure to check out the fast-growing, less expensive, and popular Indy Pass. For more info, check out the links below to all of our pass guides.

Get to Know the Uphill New England Pass

Samantha Barry — Thu, 05 Sep 2024 16:34:40 +0000

Uphillers rejoice. The Uphill New England Pass is the all-encompassing ski pass for those who really love to earn their turns. It offers ski tourers, split boarders, snowshoers, backcountry skiers, and sidecountry skiers access to 18 resorts across Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Vermont that allow uphill travel. The Uphill New England Pass gives its pass holders a convenient, streamlined way to engage with the uphill community without having to navigate mountain waivers, ski resort policies, and regulations on their own. Let’s dig into it.

What Is Uphill Skiing?

Before we jump into the specifics of the Uphill New England Pass, let’s first talk about uphill skiing. Recently, there’s been an uptick in skiers interested in ditching the lift lines in favor of touring. Touring, uphilling, splitboarding, or backcountry skiing are all different terms that basically describe the same thing — hiking up to shred down. In some cases, this means heading way out into the wild backcountry. However, as evidenced by the Uphill New England Pass, there are plenty of uphill skiing opportunities at ski resorts across North America. Whether you love hiking, want a good workout, or like to hunt for untracked stashes of powder, you’ll find it at the New England ski areas on this multi-resort pass that provides a great alternative to the typical ski resort experience.

©Shutterstock

What Gear Do You Need For Uphill Skiing?

As you might expect, uphill skiing, like backcountry skiing, requires different gear then if you were skiing at a resort. Lightweight skis and bindings that release your heel, skins, and boots with a walk mode are recommended for an easier time on the hike up. You’ll need to carry a beacon, shovel, and probe in your pack if you’re heading somewhere with any chance of avalanche danger. Even at a ski resort, where the avalanche danger is considerably lower, it’s still recommended to have these items with you.

What Are The Benefits Of Uphill Skiing?

Uphill skiing has been around for years. However, it gained popularity in 2020 and 2021 as a way to spend time outside while avoiding crowds. Yet uphill skiing is no walk in the park, and it’s not for the beginner skier. Backcountry and sidecountry skiing is demanding, and much more of a workout than traditional downhill skiing, since you’re skipping the ease of the chairlift to earn your turns.

Terrain in the backcountry and sidecountry is also generally more challenging. But if you love glade skiing at ski resorts then you’ll likely love the glade skiing that the backcountry and sidecountry affords. It’ll also take you to untouched areas, providing fresh tracks and more powder. While this might not always be the case for what you find uphilling at a ski resort, the sentiment of skipping lift lines and getting more exercise remains true. Backcountry skiing in New England also has a huge community of dedicated and enthusiastic followers. This can be a great way to make friends and find new people who have the same interests as you do.

What Is The New England Uphill Pass?

Uphill New England is a non-profit organization that created one of the first multi-mountain uphill passes. Passes for the 2024/25 season start at $185 for adults and $115 for students and ski patrol, providing access to 18 mountains that offer uphill enthusiasts a safe space to recreate. You can also purchase single mountain uphill passes for select ski resorts in New England. Below are all 18 ski areas on the New England Uphill Pass. Note that Bolton Valley is limited to 3 days per season, while all the other mountains include unlimited access.

©Bolton Valley

How The New England Uphill Pass Works

The New England Uphill Pass has four easy steps to purchase and use. You’ll first buy your pass, which can be purchased online at uphillnewengland.org. Unlike many downhill skiing passes, the New England Uphill Pass can be purchased all season long. After your purchase, you’ll receive an email with waivers to eSign from all participating resorts. Your pass will not ship until you’ve signed the waivers. Next, download the Uphill New England app. The app provides information about the resort’s policies, conditions, access and trail closures, deals, and more. Finally, check-in on the app and go skiing. The app keeps track of your pass use and allows you to check-in at the mountains before you go uphilling. Checking in must be done before you start for the day to ensure your safety.

The New England Uphill Skiing Pass will also ship with a physical armband to be worn with your pass visible during all your uphill travels. This armband has a unique identifying number in case of emergencies.

©Berkshire East Ski Area

New England Uphill Skiing Pass Member Benefits

As a pass holder, you get access to a variety of benefits across the New England Uphill Pass app and at the ski resorts. The app has a feature called slope scanner, which can track your number of laps and vertical distance traveled. Each participating resort will have QR codes set up at the base and summit. To track, simply scan before you start and after you’ve finished your tour. Tracking your vert could get you an L.L. Bean gift card. The outdoors brand gives out 100 $25 gift cards to pass holders who record the most vertical distance in the app.

Pass holders also get entered in a raffle to win prizes from Uphill New England Brand partners. You can purchase raffle tickets online or get a ticket by checking in for your tour on the app. There’s a limit to one ticket per resort per day. Pass holders also get discounts at participating resorts and access to community events like group tours, backcountry festivals, clinics, and other local backcountry happenings.

» View New England Lodging Options

Header image: ©Black Mountain Resort

The post Get to Know the Uphill New England Pass appeared first on OnTheSnow.

2024/25 Indy Pass Buyer’s Guide

Craig Altschul — Sun, 01 Sep 2024 00:58:45 +0000

Note: The 2024/25 Indy Pass is currently off sale.

You’re likely familiar with the bigger, more popular ski passes, like the Ikon Pass, Epic Pass, and The Mountain Collective. But there’s another ski pass, the Indy Pass, which you should seriously consider. Described as “the spirit of alpine skiing at independent resorts,” the Indy Pass features 2 days at each resort, with 25% off your third day. Buy early, however, as this ski pass is only on sale for a limited time.

Indy Pass, which is now guaranteeing access to 200 ski resorts and cross-country ski areas for the 2024-25 season, may not have the star power of some of the major ski passes. However, it includes some wonderful ski areas like the Lutsen Mountains in Minnesota, Red Lodge in Montana, Jay Peak in Vermont, Mt. Hood Meadows in Oregon, and so many more.

©Red Lodge Mountain

Who owns the Indy Pass?

The Indy Pass, launched by Doug Fish, owner of Fish Marketing in Oregon, came about in 2019 as a less expensive alternative to the major ski passes. It features smaller, independent ski areas that you won’t find on other passes. As such, it’s not owned by a corporation like some of the other multi-resort passes. Indy Pass was acquired in 2023 by Entabeni Systems, while Doug Fish continues to be involved.

More ski areas continue to grow Indy Pass

The addition of new ski areas in recent seasons has made the Indy Pass that much more popular. There’s especially a lot to love in the Midwest, like Marquette Mountain, which brings the serious benefit of lake effect snow from nearby Lake Superior. Nub’s Nob has long been a fun resort in the Boyne Mt./The Highlands neighborhood of the lower peninsula, while Treetops, which sits at the highest elevation on the lower peninsula, boasts 1,500 skiable acres.

Newer headliners include Oregon’s Mt. Hood Meadows, one of the largest Indy Pass Resorts, and one of the most fun ski areas in the Pacific Northwest. Mt. Hood Meadows has 2,150 skiable acres with 85 named runs served by 11 lifts. Other newer additions have included Calabogie Peaks Resorts and Loch Lomand in Ontario, Canada; Mountain High and Dodge Ridge in California; Arctic Valley, Colorado; Granby Ranch and Echo Mountain in Alaska; Mt. Crescent, Iowa; Sleeping Giant, Wyoming; Ski Snowstar Winter Sports Park, Illinois; Dry Hill Ski Area, New York; and Whitecap Mountain, Wisconsin.

New ski resorts for the 2024-25 Ski Season

Indy Pass announced seven new alpine resorts at the close of the 2023-24 season, consisting of Big Moose Mountain in Maine, Mt. Eyak in Alaska, Mt. Washington Alpine Resort in British Columbia, Powderhorn Mountain Resort in Colorado, Steeplechase in Minnesota, Wintergreen Resort in Virginia, and Wisp Resort in Maryland. Indy Pass also added five cat skiing operations: Big Red Cats in British Columbia, Selkirk Powder in Idaho, Brundage Mountain Snowcat Adventures and Soldier Mountain Cat Skiing in Idaho, and Cascade Powder Guides in Washington. Cat skiing is a new addition to the Indy Pass. Alpine passholders receive a 10% discount when they book day seats or packaged visits.

What’s more, Indy Pass is a great option for cross-country skiers. A number of cross-country destinations are on the pass, including Black Jack Cross Country Ski Club in British Columbia, Crosscut Mountain Sports Center in Bozeman, Enchanted Forest Cross Country Ski Area in New Mexico, and Garnet Hill in the Adirondacks.

Indy Pass has also added several East Coast ski resorts, including Ragged Mountain in New Hampshire, Camden Snow Bowl and Mt. Abram in Maine, Middlebury Snowbowl in Vermont, and Hatley Pointe in North Carolina. They also added Cape Smokey in Nova Scotia, and a few Japan ski resorts, including Amihari, Maiko, Nayoro Piyashiri, and Palcall.

The best part: Passes are a bargain with the Indy Pass and it’s so easy to use. Indy Pass keeps growing each year as more and more of the regional ski areas and cross-country centers see the value of bringing newbies to their areas with the hopes of converting them into regular guests.

©Mt. Hood Meadows

Here’s the current roster of Indy Pass ski area participants:

For the 23/24 season, Indy Pass added 54 new resorts to their lineup. The list has continued to grow for the 2024/25 season, as there are now more than 200 ski areas worldwide that are on the Indy Pass.

West resorts on Indy Pass:

Alaska resorts on Indy Pass — Arctic Valley, Eaglecrest, Mt. Eyak; B.C Apex, Baldy Mountain Resort, Big White Ski Resort, Manning Park, Phoenix Mountain, Sasquatch Mountain, Shames Mountain; California — Bear Valley Adventure Company, China Peak, Mt. Shasta Ski Park, Mountain High, Dodge Ridge; Oregon — Cooper Spur Ski Area, Hoodoo Ski Area , Mt. Hood Meadows; Washington — 49 Degrees North Mountain Resort, Hurricane Ridge Ski & Snowboard Area, Loup Loup Ski Bowl, Mission Ridge, Ski Bluewood, White Pass.

©Eaglecrest Ski Area

Rocky Mountain resorts on Indy Pass:

Alberta — Castle Mountain Resort, Pass Powderkeg Ski Area; B.C — Fairmont Hot Springs Resort, Mt. Washington Alpine Resort; Arizona — Sunrise Park Resort; Colorado — Echo Mountain, Granby Ranch, Howelsen Hill, Powderhorn, Sunlight; Idaho — Brundage, Kelly Canyon, Pomerelle, Silver Mountain, Soldier Mountain, Tamarack; Montana — Blacktail Mountain, Lost Trail Powder Mountain, Montana Snowbowl, Red Lodge Mountain; Utah — Beaver Mountain, Cherry Peak (Allied Resort), Eagle Point Resort, Powder Mountain; Wyoming — Antelope Butte, Meadowlark Ski Lodge, Sleeping Giant (Allied Resort), Snow King Mountain, White Pine Ski Resort.

©Brundage Mountain Resort

Midwest resorts on Indy Pass:

Illinois — Chesnut Ski Resort, Snowstar Resort; Iowa — Sundown Mountain; Michigan — Big Powderhorn Mountain Resort, Caberfae Peaks, Crystal Mountain, Marquette Mountain, Mont Ripley Ski Area (Allied Resort), Nub’s Nob, Pine Mountain Resort, Schuss Mountain at Shanty Creek, Snowriver Mountain Resort, Swiss Valley Ski and Snowboard Area, Treetops Ski Resort; Minnesota — Andes Tower Hills Ski Area, Buck Hill, Detroit Mountain Recreation Area, Lutsen Mountains, Mount Kato, Powder Ridge Winter Rec Area, Spirit Mountain, Steeplechase; Ontario — Mont Baldy Ski Area, Loch Lomond Ski Area; North Dakota — Bottineau Winter Park, Huff Hills Ski Area; South. Dakota — Great Bear Ski Valley, Terry Peak Ski Area; Wisconsin — Granite Peak, Little Switzerland, Nordic Mountain, The Rock Snowpark, Trollhaugen, Tyrol Basin Ski & Snowboard Area.

Eastern resorts on Indy Pass:

Connecticut — Mohawk Mountain; Maine — Big Moose Mountain, BigRockMountain, Black Mountain of Maine, Camden Snow Bowl, Mt. Abram, Saddleback Mountain; Massachusetts — Bousquet Mountain (Allied Resort), Berkshire East Mountain Resort; New Hampshire — Black Mountain Ski Area, Cannon Mountain, Dartmouth Skiway, King Pine (Allied Resort), McIntyre Ski Area, Pat’s Peak, Ragged Mountain, Waterville Valley Resort, Whaleback Mountain; New York — Catamount Mountain Resort, Dry Hill (Allied Resort), Greek Peak, Maple Ski Ridge, Peek ‘n Peak, Skaneateles Ski Club (Allied Resort), Snow Ridge, Swain Resort, Titus Mountain, West Mountain; Ontario, Canada — Calabogie Peaks Resort; Vermont — Bolton Valley, Burke Mountain (Allied Resort), Jay Peak, Magic Mountain, Middlebury Snowbowl (Allied Resort), Saskadena Six Ski Area.

©Cannon Mountain Ski Resort

Mid-Atlantic resorts on Indy Pass:

North Carolina — Cataloochee Ski Area, Hatley Pointe; Maryland — Wisp; Pennsylvania — Blue Knob Resort, Montage Mountain, Shawnee Ski Area, Ski Big Bear, Ski Sawmill, Tussey Mountain; Tennessee — Ober Gatlinburg; Virginia — Bryce Resort, Massanutten Resort, Wintergreen Resort; W. Virginia — Canaan Valley Resort, Winterplace Ski Resort.

Japan resorts on Indy Pass:

Ani Ski Resort, Amihari, Aomori Spring Ski Resort, Geto Kogen, Kamui Ski Links, Kiroro Snow World, Madarao Ski Resort, Maiko, Nayoro Piyashiri, Okunaakayama Kogan, Palcall, Pippu Ski Resort, Shimokura, Tazawako, Togakushi Ski Resort, Yubari Ski Resort.

Europe resorts on Indy Pass:

Austria — SkiWelt (consists of 9 resort villages united by one lift ticket: Brixen im Thale, Ellmau, Going, Hopfgarten im Brixental, Itter, Kelchsau, Scheffau, Söll, and Westendorf.)

©Kaprun Glacier, Austria

How to use your Indy Pass

The Indy Pass wasn’t a physical pass during its first few years. Indy Pass issued a commemorative RFID pass to each pass holder starting in the 2023-24 season.

Access and pricing (Prices as of spring 2024 before it went off sale)

The Indy Pass didn’t increase its prices for returning customers for the third year in a row, keeping the adult pass price at $279. If you wish to renew your pass, simply scan the QR code on the physical pass itself or login to your account and begin the renewal process there. All prices listed below are for the General Public sale and not returning pass holders. These were the prices Indy Pass launched with in the spring before taking the pass off sale. Unlike many of the other multi-resort passes, the Indy Pass is on sale for just a short period of time during the spring.

Indy Base Pass: Adults $349; Kids $199. This pass includes some blackout days.

Indy Base AddOn Pass: Adults $269; Kids $149. You must have an unlimited season pass at an Indy Pass ski resort. Turn your season pass into a “travel pass” and explore any and all of the resorts. However, your AddOn pass is not valid at your home resort. This pass includes some blackout days.

Indy Plus Pass: Adults $469; Kids $259. There are no blackout dates with this pass.

Indy + AddOn Pass: Adults $389; Kids $199. This pass grants full unlimited access for season pass holders at Indy Partner Resorts.

The Indy Cross-Country Pass: Adults $99; kids $49.

The Indy Cross-Country AddOn Pass: Adults $79; kids $39.

©Indy Pass

Some advice: Buy your pass at the end of the current season and you can take advantage of a small down payment and a payment plan due in full by December of the next season. The price escalates slightly as the months go by.

Other things to know

Digital Pass: New for the 24/25 ski season is the release of a new digital and interactive Indy Pass. Select pass holders will receive the smartphone-enabled redemption system this fall. It’ll expedite their visits to many ski areas by allowing them to go directly to the lifts.

Payment Plan: Pass buyers can pay for their passes in 3 installments with no interest. The Indy Pass Payment Plan is fully managed by Indy Pass, meaning it comes with zero interest, no credit checks, and no third-party lenders, unlike some of the other passes.

Capacity Limits: As the Indy Pass continues to grow in popularity, a capacity limit has been implemented to ensure fewer crowds at the participating resorts. The only way to purchase a pass for the 24/25 season is to join the waitlist.

Service fees go away: The 3 percent service fee typically charged on all Indy Passes at checkout was eliminated for the 24/25 season. In exchange, all pass holders will be mailed a custom-designed 24/25 commemorative, RFID-enabled Indy Pass with a photo for a $10 fee. The physical Indy Pass will include benefits such as direct-to-lift access at select Indy resorts, expedited lift ticket pick-up at all Indy resorts, and discounts on products and services from Indy Pass partners.

Lodging: Discounts are available at a range of lodging properties..

See complete details of the Indy Pass on their website

Ikon Pass

Epic Pass

Ikon Pass vs. Epic Pass

The Mountain Collective Pass

Header credit: 49 Degrees North

The post 2024/25 Indy Pass Buyer’s Guide appeared first on OnTheSnow.

2024/25 Ikon Pass Buyer’s Guide

Cassandra Cassidy — Sat, 31 Aug 2024 00:59:22 +0000

The Ikon Pass is back for another season offering access to more than 50 top resorts across the globe, plus several brand new perks for pass holders during the 2024-25 season. While there are several choices and levels of the Ikon Pass that can be a bit confusing, you will most certainly find the pass that fits the skiing needs of you and your family.

The Ikon Pass is owned and operated by the Alterra Mountain Company, a group of 17 very unique resorts. Each resort is different in terms of character and independence to offer rewarding experiences to their guests. You won’t be lacking for ski and ride trails this winter that accept some form of the Ikon Pass. Note: Ikon Passes are on sale now and you’ll get the best pricing by purchasing them early. Once the season starts, sales end.

There are primarily three choices to make with the Ikon Pass — the “full monty” — which is the king of Ikon Passes. You’ll never worry about restrictions, those annoying blackout dates, or anything else at all 50-plus resorts. Other choices are more limited in the number of resorts accessed with selected blackout dates, but still very good deals.

Ikon Pass destinations

Aspen Snowmass, Steamboat Winter Park Resort, Alyeska, Copper Mountain, Arapahoe Basin, Eldora Mountain Resort, Palisades Tahoe, Sierra-at-Tahoe, Mammoth Mountain, June Mountain, Big Bear Mountain Resort, Snow Valley, Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, Big Sky Resort, Sun Valley, Stratton, Sugarbush Resort, Killington, Pico, Blue Mountain, Cambelback, Windham Mountain, Snowshoe, The Highlands, Boyne Mountain, Crystal Mountain, The Summit at Snoqualmie, Mt. Bachelor, Schweitzer, Tremblant, Blue Mountain, Ski Big 3, Revelstoke Mountain Resort, RED Mountain, Cypress Mountain, Panorama Mountain Resort, Sun Peaks Resort, Sunday River, Sugarloaf, Loon Mountain, Taos Ski Valley, Deer Valley Resort, Solitude Mountain Resort, Brighton Resort, Alta Ski Area, Schweitzer, Snowbird, Snowbasin, Chamonix Mont Blanc Valley, Dolomiti Superski, Grandvalira Resorts Andorra, Kitzbuhel, Zermatt, St. Moritz, Thredbo, Mt. Buller, Coronet Paek, The Remarkable, Mt. Hutt, Niseko United, Lotte Arai Resort, Valle Nevado.

Restaurant with a view, Zermatt, Switzerland @Shutterstock

Unlimited access resorts

Here are the resorts with unlimited access for the Ikon Pass.

Ikon Pass pricing

Ikon Pass — Adult: $1,449 ($1,149 renewal); Teen/Young Adult (ages 13-22) $1,119; Children (ages 5-12) $439 (4 and under) $149.

Ikon Base Pass — Adult: $1,019 ($819 renewal); Teen/Young Adult (ages 13-22): $749; Children (ages 5-12): $369 (ages 0-4): $99

Ikon Session Pass (4 days)– Adult: $549; Teen/Young Adult (13-22): $439; Children (0-12): $329

» Shop for Ikon Pass Now «

For complete access and all pass details and restriction details click here: Ikon Pass.

©Ben Duke / Steamboat Ski resort

Ikon Pass perks and discounts

Purchase your Ikon Pass early and new pass holders can ski out the current season at a number of ski resorts. Enjoy “First Tracks” one designated morning per month in January, February, and March on untracked powder and corduroy. Other benefits include First Tracks access to select destinations once a month from January through March, a complimentary 1-year $20 value level membership to Protect Our Winters, 15 percent discount off food, beverage, and retail at participating locations, discounts on activities at Ikon resorts, and access to preferred pricing at select destinations.

The Ikon Pass also offers discounts on a number of outdoor brands. Save 20 percent on The North Face gear when purchasing $100 (CAD 200) or more on The North Face’s website. Pass holders also receive 30 percent off Blenders Eyewear and 20 percent off award-winning Db travel bags.

Lastly, purchasing an Ikon pass will give you a credit for up to CAD 1,400 (more than $1,000) to spend on a CMH Heli-skiing experience. This credit can be used anytime during the 24/25 season from December to April. Passholders will also get early booking opportunities for heli-skiing trips as well as other exclusive benefits.

Blackout dates

There are no holiday blackout dates on the full Ikon Pass. However, the Ikon Base Pass and Ikon Session Pass have blackout dates.

Ikon Pass changes for 2024-2025

This season, pass holders will get two additional Friends and Family discounts. That brings the total up to 12 opportunities to save money for your ski buddies. Each discount gives the user a minimum of 25% off a single day lift ticket price. Additionally, a portion of every 24/25 Ikon Pass will go towards funding mental health initiatives in outdoor communities. More details on this initiative can be found here. Lastly, the fun doesn’t end when the snow melts. This summer Ikon Pass, Ikon Base Plus Pass, and Ikon Base Pass will include one free bike park lift ticket to use once at select destinations: Aspen Snowmass, Revelstoke, Panorama, Sun Peaks, Sun Valley, Snowbasin, Steamboat, Stratton, The Highlands, Loon Mountain, Solitude, Brighton, Snowshoe, Mammoth Mountain, Schweitzer, or Kitzbühel.

In early April Ikon Pass announced that it was adding St. Moritz for the 2024-25 season, joining Zermatt, in Switzerland for a total of six incredible European destinations. Ikon Pass holders will have seven days combined access to St. Moritz’s nine ski areas with no blackout dates. Ikon Base Plus Pass and Ikon Base Pass holders will have five days combined access with no blackout dates.

What is the difference between the Ikon Pass and the Ikon Base?

The main difference between Ikon Pass and Ikon Base Pass pass is the Ikon Pass gets you everything at 50-plus resorts — the whole banana. The Ikon Base Pass includes select blackout dates but gets you unlimited access to 14 destinations and 5 days of skiing at 36 destinations.

What is the difference between the Ikon Base Pass and the Ikon Base Plus Pass for 24/25?

The main difference between Ikon Base Pass and the Ikon Base Plus Pass is the Plus Pass adds in more top destinations resorts for a $250 difference.

You may also check out our news on the Epic Pass, Mountain Collective, and Indy Pass. View a comparison of the Ikon Pass vs Epic Pass here.

Header ©Palisades Tahoe

The post 2024/25 Ikon Pass Buyer’s Guide appeared first on OnTheSnow.

2024/25 Epic Pass Buyer’s Guide

Craig Altschul — Thu, 22 Aug 2024 01:00:21 +0000

Multi-resort passes like the Epic Pass are a great way to ensure you get your ski days in and diversify where you ski while also saving a considerable amount of money. Numerous Epic Pass options allow for a tailored mountain experience with everything you need and nothing you don’t.

Choosing which season pass best suits your ski and ride needs takes a bit of weighing the options and what’s in the wallet, but Epic offers everything from the full package pass all the way down to specific resort local passes. Consider this your general shopping guide to sort out what Epic Pass will work best for you.

An itinerant skier or rider who is an Epic Pass holder can access multiple states, countries, and even continents while accumulating unlimited days at their local resorts between trips. In many cases, a ski pass like the Epic Pass will pay for itself within just a few weeks of the season. Buyer beware: Your last chance to buy the Epic Pass will be close to the season start in early December. The earlier you lock in your pass, the more you will save.

Breckenridge Ski Area / Vail Resorts

Who is the Epic Pass for?

Vail Resorts created the Epic Pass more than a decade ago, well before the number of ski areas under its ownership skyrocketed. You’ll find plenty of skiing and riding with any one of the three versions of the Epic Pass. The pass is for skiers and snowboarders looking for loads of time on the slopes at multiple destinations.

What’s new with the Epic Pass?

The Epic Pass went mobile for the 2023-24 ski season, which was a major change. Pass holders could store their pass directly on their smartphone, and then get scanned hands-free via Bluetooth. That meant no waiting in ticket window lines or waiting for a physical pass to arrive in the mail.

For the 2024-25 season, pass holders and their friends can skip the ticket window with an improved buddy ticket redemption process. Simply purchase your Buddy or Ski with a Friend Ticket(s) on epicpass.com, and then the My Epic app and Mobile Pass will do the rest. When pass holders scan their pass at the lift, it will activate the Mobile Pass or Ski with a Friend Ticket using the guest’s My Epic app’s Mobile Lift Ticket feature.

There are a number of updates and improvements for the 2024-25 Epic Pass. Vail Resorts has added Crans-Montana Mountain Resort in Switzerland, and plans to provide access to it for pass holders (subject to acquisition closure). Crans-Montana Mountain Resort spans more than 4,500 feet of skiable vertical terrain and has approximately 87 miles of trails.

Additionally, there are a number of upgrades at numerous resorts as part of the Epic Lift Upgrade, as Vail Resorts continues to invest in the mountain experience. Mountain resort projects planned to launch ahead of, or during, the 2024/25 winter season include Whistler Blackcomb in British Columbia, Hunter Mountain in New York, Afton Alps in Minnesota, Perisher in Australia, and Andermatt-Sedrun in Switzerland.

Where can you ski on an Epic Pass?

Remember this pass is only valid at ski areas owned by Vail Resorts or its partners in Europe, Australia, and Japan. But, there’s plenty to choose from. While there are a number of ski pass options out there, such as Ikon, Indy, Mountain Collective, Cooper, and some smaller groupings, Epic and Ikon are the two major ones. See our article here that compares the Epic Pass and Ikon Pass.

USA: West — Heavenly, Calif./Nev.; Kirkwood, Calif.; Northstar, Calif.; Stevens Pass, Wash.

Midwest — Afton Alps, Minn.; Alpine Valley, Ohio; Boston Mills, Ohio; Brandywine, Ohio; Hidden Valley, Mo.; Mad River Mountain, Ohio; Mt. Brighton, Mich.; Paoli Peaks, Ind.; Snow Creek, Mo.; Wilmot, Wis.

Northeast — Attitash, N.H.; Big Boulder, Pa.; Crotched Mountain, N.H.; Hidden Valley, Pa.; Hunter Mountain, N.Y.; Jack Frost, Pa.; Laurel Mountain, Pa.; Liberty Mountain, Pa.; Mount Snow, Vt.; Mount Sunapee, N.H.; Okemo, Vt.; Roundtop Mountain Resort, Pa.; Seven Springs, Pa.; Stowe, Vt.; Whitetail, Pa.; Wildcat, N.H.

Rockies — Beaver Creek, Colo.; Breckenridge, Colo.; Crested Butte, Colo.; Keystone, Colo.; Park City Mountain Resort, Utah; Telluride, Colo.; Vail, Colo.

Canada — Whistler Blackcomb, B.C.; Fernie Alpine Resort, B.C.; Kicking Horse Mountain Resort, B.C.; Kimberley Alpine Resort, B.C.; Mont-Sainte Anne, Qué.; Nakiska Ski Area, Alb.; Stoneham, Qué.

Southern Hemisphere — Falls Creek, Hotham, and Perisher, Australia

Europe — Les 3 Vallées, France (Val Thorens, Méribel, Courchevel, Les Menuires, Saint Martin de Orelle, Brides-Les-Bains); Skirama Dolomiti, Italy (Madonna di Campiglio; Pinzolo; Folgarida-Marilleva; Pejo; Ponte di Legno-Tonale; Andalo-Fai della Paganella; Monte Bondone; Folgarida-Lavarone); 4 Vallées, Switzerland (Andermatt Sedrun, Disentis, Bruson, Verbier, La Tzoumaz, Nendaz, Veysonnaz, Thyon); Ski Arlberg, Austria (Lech, Zurs, Stuben, St. Christoph, St. Anton); Crans-Montana Mountain Resort.

Japan — Hakuba 47 Winter Sports Park (Able Hakuba Goryu; Hakuba Iwatake Snow Field; Jigatake Snow Resort; Tsugaike Mountain Resort; Hakuba Cortina Snow Resort; Hakuba Happo-One Snow Resort; Hakuba Norikura Onsen Snow Resort; Kashimayari Snow Resort); Rusutsu.

» Shop for Epic Pass Now «

Happo-One Hakuba Ski Resort, Japan ©Shutterstock

Full Epic Pass

Who: Skiers and riders looking for unlimited access to 80+ resorts.

Where: Unlimited days at more than 40 resorts, including these North America ski resorts: USA: West — Heavenly, Calif./Nev.; Kirkwood, Calif.; Northstar, Calif.; Stevens Pass, Wash. Midwest — Afton Alps, Minn.; Alpine Valley, Ohio; Boston Mills, Ohio; Brandywine, Ohio; Hidden Valley, Mo.; Mad River Mountain, Ohio; Mt. Brighton, Mich.; Paoli Peaks, Ind.; Snow Creek, Mo.; Wilmot, Wis. East — Attitash, N.H.; Big Boulder, Pa.; Crotched Mountain, N.H.; Hidden Valley, Pa.; Hunter Mountain, N.Y.; Jack Frost, Pa; Laurel Mt., Pa.; Liberty Mountain, Pa.; Mount Snow, Vt.; Mount Sunapee, N.H.; Okemo, Vt.; Roundtop Mountain Resort, Pa.; Seven Springs, Pa.; Stowe, Vt.; Whitetail, Pa.; Wildcat, N.H. Rockies — Beaver Creek, Colo.; Breckenridge, Colo.; Crested Butte, Colo.; Keystone, Colo.; Park City Mountain Resort, Utah; Telluride, Colo.; Vail, Colo. And more: 7 days at Telluride, 7 days at the Resorts of the Canadian Rockies; 5 days at Hakuba Valley and Rusutsu, Japan; 26 European resorts.

Restrictions: North America: None; 26 European resorts have some restrictions, such as tying a visit into lodging packages. Cost: Adult (13+) $1,047; Child (5-12) $534

Pull down the bubble on a cold day at Mt. Snow using the Epic Pass.

Epic Local Pass

Who: For unlimited skiing at 25 resorts and some 10 days total at Vail Resorts’ flagships.

Where: USA: West — Stevens Pass, Wash. Midwest — Afton Alps, Minn.; Alpine Valley, Ohio; Boston Mills, Ohio; Brandywine, Ohio; Hidden Valley, Mo.; Mad River Mountain, Ohio; Mt. Brighton, Mich.; Paoli Peaks, Ind.; Snow Creek, Mo.; Wilmot, Wis. Northeast — Attitash, N.H.; Big Boulder, Pa.; Crotched Mountain, N.H.; Hidden Valley, Pa.; Hunter Mountain, N.Y.; Jack Frost, Pa.; Laurel Mt., Pa.; Liberty Mountain, Pa.; Mount Snow, Vt.; Mount Sunapee, N.H.; Okemo, Vt.; Roundtop Mountain Resort, Pa.; Seven Springs, Pa.; Whitetail, Pa.; Wildcat, N.H. Rockies — Breckenridge, Colo.; Crested Butte, Colo.; Keystone, Colo. Additional access: 10 days total at Vail, Beaver Creek, and Whistler-Blackcomb; 5 total days at Hakuba Valley, Japan.

Restrictions: Holiday access is restricted at Park City Mountain Resort, Utah; Northstar, Calif.; Stowe, Vt.; Beaver Creek, Colo.; Heavenly, Calif.; Kirkwood, Calif.; Vail, Colo. and Whistler-Blackcomb, BC. Advanced Lift Ticket Rate available during blackout dates at Vail, Beaver Creek, Whistler-Blackcomb, and beyond 10 days. Cost: Adult $778 (19+); Teen $632 (13-18); Child $408 (5-12)

Night skiing and riding at many areas

The local pass is particularly good for those living close enough to ski areas to regularly take advantage of night skiing. Want a few runs after work or school? It’s perfect. Most ski resorts relatively close to cities and towns offer night skiing several nights a week. Be sure to check your favorite resort’s website for details. Many destination resorts also offer skiing and riding under the lights, but that’s an extra perk if you are already on your vacation.

©Matthew Roebke/Stevens Pass

Epic College Pass is another option

A College Epic Pass is available for $690. These are more selective college passes available for those only skiing in certain regions at individual resorts such as in Summit County, Colorado, or Lake Tahoe, California, and others.

Epic Day Passes

Who: Best for those planning a shorter vacation. Other combinations from 1 to 7 days are available.

Where: USA: West — Heavenly, Calif./Nev.; Kirkwood, Calif.; Northstar, Calif.; Stevens Pass, Wash. Midwest — Afton Alps, Minn.; Alpine Valley, Ohio; Boston Mills, Ohio; Brandywine, Ohio; Hidden Valley, Mo.; Mad River Mountain, Ohio; Mt. Brighton, Mich.; Paoli Peaks, Ind.; Snow Creek, Mo.; Wilmot, Wis. Northeast — Attitash, N.H.; Big Boulder, Pa.; Crotched Mountain, N.H.; Hidden Valley, Pa.; Hunter Mountain, N.Y.; Jack Frost, Pa.; Laurel Mountain, Pa.; Liberty Mountain, Pa; Mount Snow, Vt.; Mount Sunapee, N.H.; Okemo, Vt.; Roundtop Mountain Resort, Pa.; Seven Springs, Pa.; Stowe, Vt.; Whitetail, Pa.; Wildcat, N.H. Rockies — Beaver Creek, Colo.; Breckenridge, Colo.; Crested Butte, Colo.; Keystone, Colo.; Park City Mountain Resort, Utah; Telluride, Colo.; Vail, Colo. The Epic 4-Day, 5-Day, 6-Day, and 7-Day Passes include access to Telluride in Colorado and the six (6) Resorts of the Canadian Rockies.

Epic 1-Day, 2-Day, and 3-Day Passes with all-access, and all Epic Day Passes with limited access do not include access to partner resorts. Holiday restrictions also apply at partner resorts. Cost for 7-Day Pass all resorts $691 (adult). Customizable pass 1-7 flex days.

Consider an Epic Locals Pass at Michigan’s Mt. Brighton.

Epic Buddy Pass vs. Ski-With-A-Friend Pass

Buddy Passes are discounted lift tickets at a flat rate. Several complimentary Ski-with-a-Friend passes are included with pass purchases.

Don’t change your mind

Passes are non-refundable. However, Epic Coverage, included with all pass purchases, provides refunds associated with illness, job loss, injury, and certain resort closures. If any of the above happens over the course of the season, you may qualify for a full or prorated refund. Terms and conditions apply. If you want to upgrade passes, you may be able to, but you’ll need to call (970) 754-0008.

Which Epic Pass is best for me?

It obviously depends on how often and where you plan to ski or ride. No matter what, if you plan to hit those snowy slopes five times or more this season, purchasing a pass will be worth it. But, do your homework. Compare the Epic Passes carefully and also check out the Ikon and Indy passes since they offer pass programs for many other mega and local ski areas in North America and around the world. See the full details of the Epic Pass on their website.

Check out our Ikon Pass, Mountain Collective, and Indy Pass buying guides. See even more pass options here.

Header image: ©Dan Campbell Park City Mountain Resort

The post 2024/25 Epic Pass Buyer’s Guide appeared first on OnTheSnow.

2024/25 Mountain Collective Pass Buyer’s Guide

Craig Altschul — Mon, 05 Aug 2024 00:57:38 +0000

The Mountain Collective is, well collectively, a group of 25 U.S. and international ski resorts on 9 continents that make up an A-list of destinations you’ll want to ski or ride — some with several resorts in one general area. It’s less expensive than the Epic and Ikon Pass, but still very enticing.

The pass offers you two days at each of its destinations and then 50 percent off on tickets at those resorts based on that day’s ticket window price. There are none of those pesky blackout dates either. It’s simple in nature and not nearly as complex as the other major ski passes.

The Mountain Collective came about as an alternative to the original Epic Pass from Vail Resorts before Vail went on a resort buying spree. It remains one of the most attractive passes and one of the easiest to understand and use. If the math works out for how often and where you plan to ski and ride, this could be your magic carpet to winter fun.

Note: The Mountain Collective and Ikon Pass have some resort crossover, which is why, for example, resorts like Aspen Snowmass and several others are involved in both passes.

Here’s where you will ski or snowboard this winter with a Mountain Collective Pass:

Eastern U.S.: Sugarloaf, Maine

Western U.S.: Alta and Snowbird, Utah; Sugar Bowl, California.; Arapahoe Basin, Aspen Snowmass, Colorado; Sun Valley, Idaho; Big Sky Resort, Montana; Grand Targhee and Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, Wyoming; Taos, New Mexico; Snowbasin, Utah

Canada: Lake Louise, Banff Sunshine Village and Marmot Basin, Alberta; Panorama, Revelstoke Mountain Resort, Sun Peaks, B.C., and Bromont and Le Massif de Charlevoix, Quebec

France: Chamonix Mont-Blanc

New Zealand: Coronet Peak, The Remarkables

Australia: Mt. Buller,

Chile: Valle Nevado

Japan: Niseko United

The Remarkables, New Zealand ©Naruedom Yaempongsa/Shutterstock

Some highlights to Mountain Collective destinations:

Aspen’s world-class mountains

Aspen Snowmass marketers were among the first to help conceive and develop The Mountain Collective, and this Rocky Mountain resort complex is a key reason to consider this pass. Few places in the United States can boast four distinct ski and snowboarding delights like Aspen Mountain (you may know it as Ajax), Aspen Highlands, Buttermilk, and Snowmass. All are distinct, have their own flavor and, all told, make this resort world class in virtually every way.

Fabled Taos Ski Valley has a makeover

The Southwestern flavor of fabled Taos Ski Valley in New Mexico is a key part of The Mountain Collective. The late Ernie Blake and his family created and managed Taos Ski Valley for many years. Today, new owners have brought the resort up to world-class standards, but the mountain remains exactly what you’d expect.

Steep and deep and fun. Taos and Kacina Peak combine for more than your legs can take. Further, Taos Ski Valley and its new ownership group call themselves a “B” Corporation — sort of a Declaration of Independence, purpose-driven to benefit all stakeholders. The new motto: “Ski the change you want in the world.”

Try the deep snow at Revelstoke, B.C.

Revelstoke Resort, near the town with the same name in British Columbia, collects more than 120 years of skiing history that has become part of the town’s fabric, creating a community that simply celebrates winter.

If you live for snow, you’ll feel welcomed here. Revelstoke holds the record for the most snowfall in Canada in a single winter at 80 feet, and the resort’s slopes are blanketed in an average of 34 feet of powder every winter. Not only does Revelstoke boast the longest descent in North America, but it combines three key attributes: huge terrain, endless powder, and a true small ski town atmosphere.

Ski America’s first destination resort

And then there’s America’s historic ski destination, Sun Valley. This is the nation’s first destination resort, founded by Averill Harriman for guests of the Union Pacific Railroad. It became iconic in the Hollywood Classic movie starring ice skater Sonja Henie and the Glenn Miller Big Band. Later, famed filmmaker Warren Miller began filming his annual ski movies while living on purloined oyster crackers from the Sun Valley Inn in the parking lot. The R. Earl Holding family, owners of the Grand America Hotels & Resorts, currently owns the resort today.

The company also owns Snowbasin, the far more low key, but excellent skiing mountain in the scenic Ogden Valley of Utah. Both resorts are available on either The Mountain Collective or Ikon Pass, though at different levels.

The best of Eastern Canada

Still another reason to consider The Mountain Collective pass, particularly if you live in the East, is the addition of Le Massif de Charlevoix and Bromont in Quebec. Rising high above the mighty St. Lawrence River in the heart of Quebec’s Charlevoix, the resort is truly a sleeping giant of a mountain that’s home to some of the most spectacular skiing in Eastern Canada.

Le Massif is about one hour east of Quebec City and its international airport, not far from Mont-Sainte-Anne, and in the center of the province’s picturesque Charlevoix region. Le Massif is known for its commanding views of the St. Lawrence, steep runs, state-of-the-art facilities, and tantalizing cuisine that’s some of the best you’ll find at any ski area’s base in Canada.

It’s also the mountain with the greatest vertical drop (770 meters; 2,526 feet) and the largest annual snowfall (650 cm; 21 feet) east of the Canadian Rockies.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Mountain Collective Ski Pass Prices

The Mountain Collective passes are priced at an excellent price point assuming you plan to ski and ride at any of the resorts included. The special deal that gives you 50 percent off daily window ticket prices after using the initial two days included is perfect if you plan to stay longer at one resort. This is the easiest pass to figure out, do the math and use.

What does a Mountain Collective Pass cost?

The ski pass price points are (USD): Adults $659; Teens (13-18) $539; Kids (12 and under) $259. The Mountain Collective pass goes on sale at the lowest price in the spring, and then continues to increase in price through the summer and fall before going completely off sale early in the ski season. Follow them on social, or visit their website, for up-to-date information on pricing.

Has The Mountain Collective pass price risen over the years?

Certainly, but so has everything. and all of these passes. The original Mountain Collective price was $349 in 2012, but the resorts in the program have been upgraded and now represent a true collection of some of the best in the United States and, for that matter, the world. It is now simply a less expensive and very attractive variation on the Ikon Pass.

Buying additional day tickets

Save 50 percent on additional tickets in each age category as priced on the day of purchase at The Mountain Collective destinations. Procedures for picking up your day ticket may vary from resort to resort. Check first. There are no blackout days.

Can I save on lodging?

Yes. The Mountain Collective pass comes with lodging deals at selective properties usually on or near the ski slopes. There are some blackout days for lodging at some resorts on The Mountain Collective pass.

How about a road trip?

Check out the creative Collective Treks where you can mix and match resorts for a fun trek, such as combining visits to Arapahoe Basin, Aspen Snowmass, Taos Ski Valley, and many more.

When can I ski in the Southern Hemisphere?

Your pass is valid all summer long when the winter is upside down. Australian, New Zealand, and Chilean resorts usually open ski season in earnest in June and can run as late as October.

Destinations vs Mountains

Understand that with The Mountain Collective Pass, you will receive two free days at each destination, and not, for example, at each of the four mountains of Aspen Snowmass.

What if I don’t want to travel and stay at one destination?

The pass is almost always still worth it if you stay at one resort for six days or more. Again, just do the math for yourself. Still asking yourself which pass to get? It depends on how much you travel to ski and if the math works for you and your family.

Check out our stories on the Epic Pass, Indy Pass, and Ikon Pass.

The post 2024/25 Mountain Collective Pass Buyer’s Guide appeared first on OnTheSnow.

2024/25 Power Pass Buyer’s Guide

Spencer Spellman — Thu, 01 Aug 2024 17:43:01 +0000

While most skiers and riders are no doubt familiar with the major ski passes, like Ikon Pass and Epic Pass, which we compare here, there are some great lesser-known ski passes. We’ve previously highlighted the Indy Pass, which features many of America’s smaller ski areas. For frequent travelers, The Mountain Collective is a great option. However, a relatively new ski pass, which you may not be familiar with is the Power Pass, which now features a total of 10 ski resorts.

Who owns the Power Pass?

Mountain Capital Partners (MCP) is a growing company out of Durango, Colorado, which has acquired a number of ski resorts and bike parks, most of which are in the Southwest. MCP’s ski resorts in the Southwest include Sipapu, Sandia Peak, and Pajarito in New Mexico, Arizona Snowbowl, Lee Canyon near Las Vegas, Brian Head and Nordic Valley in Utah, and Purgatory in Colorado. In the Pacific Northwest they operate Willamette Pass. MCP made news last year when it became the majority owner of Valle Nevado, which has the largest amount of terrain in South America. MCP also owns Spider Mountain Bike Park, America’s first and only year-round lift-served mountain bike park, located 60 miles northwest of Austin, Texas.

In May, Mountain Capital Partners announced that it entered into an agreement to purchase La Parva Ski Resort, located in the Chilean Andes near Valle Nevado, which MCP became majority owner of last spring. Valle Nevado and La Parva make up two of the three ski areas known as Tres Valles, the largest area of lift-served ski terrain in the Southern Hemisphere. Power Pass skiers and riders (on the Power Pass or Power Pass Select) can enjoy 7 free interconnected days at Valle Nevado and La Parva. This makes for nearly year-round skiing on the Power Pass.

Who is the Power Pass for?

The Power Pass is great for those who either live in the Southwest or travel to the Southwest frequently during the winter months. If you live around Flagstaff, Albuquerque, or Las Vegas, then this is especially a great pass for you, since all but two Power Pass resorts are in the Southwest. If you live in Albuquerque, for example, you’re within a few hours of several ski resorts.

What are the Power Pass options?

The Power Pass is the preeminent pass, offering unlimited and unrestricted skiing and riding at 10 mountains, plus access to Spider Mountain Bike Park. The Power Pass Select and Power Pass Core are a couple good options if you’ll primarily just be skiing at a handful of MCP’s resorts. Find out more on the Power Pass website.

Power Pass. Unlimited and unrestricted skiing and riding at 10 mountains, plus 7 free days at Valle Nevado and La Parva. Other benefits include 6 online tickets at 30% off, 3 free days at partner resorts, and 10% off on-mountain services. Adult passes are currently $1,149, younger adult passes start at $849.
Power Pass Select. Unlimited skiing at Brian Head, Sipapu, Nordic Valley, Pajarito, Hesperus, and Willamette Pass. 12 restricted days to share between Snowbowl, Purgatory, and Lee Canyon. Unlimited uplift access at Spider Mountain Bike Park. Other benefits include 7 free days at Valle Nevado and La Parva, 6 online tickets at 30% off, 3 free days at partner resorts, and 10% off on-mountain services. Adult pass is $799.
Power Pass Core. Unlimited skiing at Hesperus, Sipapu and Pajarito. Some restricted skiing at Nordic Valley and Willamette Pass, along with 4 total restricted days to share between Purgatory, Snowbowl, Brian Head Resort, Lee Canyon and Spider Mountain Bike Park (blackout dates apply). Other benefits include 6 online tickets at 30% off, 3 free days at partner resorts, and 10% off on-mountain services. Adult pass is $499.
Weekday Power Pass. New for 2024-25 is the Weekday Power Pass, which allows skiers and riders to enjoy the flexibility of skiing their home mountain plus 8 other Power Pass mountains on the weekdays they choose. Additionally, it features weekday bike uplifts at Spider Mountain. Benefits include Buy Now, Ski Now and 6 online tickets for 30% off.
Power Kids Pass. Free for all kids 12 and younger, no strings attached, including no blackout dates. Note that the Power Kids Pass doesn’t have the benefits listed above with the other passes. However, if the Power Kids Pass is purchased before the end of the current ski season, it can be used for skiing through the end of the 2023-24 season with the Buy Now, Ski Now benefit.
Super Senior Pass. Free for guests 75 and older. Like the kids pass, it has no additional benefits except for the Buy Now, Ski Now benefit.

What are the Power Pass benefits?

Like many of the major ski passes, the Power Pass comes with some nice benefits. A number of the passes include 3 free days (no blackout dates) at partner resorts, which include Loveland, Monarch, and Sundance. Note that the Power Pass Core comes with 3 free days only at Monarch Mountain, while the Power Pass Select comes with 3 free days at Monarch and Sundance. Power Pass and Power Pass Select passes comes with 7 free days during the current season at Valle Nevado.

Other benefits include rental, lesson, food, drink, and retail discounts. Several of the passes also have mountain bike benefits. This is particularly beneficial with the main Power Pass, as it includes unlimited access at Spider Mountain Bike Park. Like many of the other passes, the sooner you buy, the more you benefit. Those who buy a Power Pass early can enjoy skiing through the end of the 2023-24 ski season.

Payment Plans

Finally, Power Pass offers a no-interest payment play for all season passes. When purchasers elect a payment plan, the pass price is divided into equal monthly payment, and the pass can be used anytime while payments are being made.

The post 2024/25 Power Pass Buyer’s Guide appeared first on OnTheSnow.

2024/25 Cooper Ski Pass Buyer’s Guide

Craig Altschul — Mon, 01 Jul 2024 06:00:05 +0000

You’re likely familiar with the major ski passes, like the Ikon Pass and Epic Pass. However, there are a number of lesser-known ski passes you may have missed as resorts and major ski passes were doing their spring pass promotions. Cooper Ski Pass is one of those lesser-known pass programs. However, it’s not one you want to miss, since it features more than 50 partner resorts around the world.

Cooper, known as Ski Cooper, is one of the oldest, most authentic ski areas in Colorado. It opened in 1942 and served as the training site for the famed 10^th Mountain Division, the ski troopers based at nearby Camp Hale during World War II. Cooper is no slouch of a mountain; its 64 trails are spread over 480 lift-served acres and serviced by 5 lifts. Cooper’s base elevation is at 10,500 feet, while the summit is at 11,700 feet. The ski area’s high elevation means it gets a healthy dose of 250 inches of snow on average per season. While you won’t find the glitz and glamour of some of Colorado’s other resorts, you can enjoy no lift lines, fresh powder, and more.

What really makes Ski Cooper a standout, however, is its season pass, which features 3 days of skiing at more than 50 ski resorts around the world. That’s right, buy a ski pass to Ski Cooper, and you theoretically have 150 free days of skiing at your disposal. It’s a screaming deal, too, considering that even at its highest price, the Cooper Season Pass is half the price of the major ski passes.

What does it cost?

Ski Cooper‘s season pass is an incredible deal before you even factor in the free days. The Cooper Pass goes on sale in July, when it starts at a price of $429 for adults. The pass goes up in price in August, and then again in September and October. There are a few different discounted pass tiers, including student and junior passes (age 6-14 & age 15-21). Children (5 and under) and senior (75+) passes are just $10, but they don’t come with partner benefits and free ski days.

Cooper’s adult pass pays for itself after just a few days of skiing. When you consider the 3 free days of skiing at more than 50 ski resorts, it’s one of the best ski values you’ll find. While many of Cooper’s partner resorts are on the small, laid-back side, like you’ll see on some of the smaller pass programs, there are a number of large ski areas, including Castle Mountain, Bogus Basin, Sierra-at-Tahoe, and Lost Trail, all of which have more than 1,500 acres of skiable terrain.

©Bogus Basin

What additional benefits are available with the Cooper Season Pass?

Ski Cooper’s season pass comes with other benefits, in addition to the 3 free days of skiing at each partner resort. Benefits include a number of discounts, such as 10% off at Cooper establishments, 10% off at the Trading Post ($15 minimum purchase), and 10% off food and non-alcoholic beverages purchases at all Cooper food outlets. Season pass holders can also purchase a discounted buddy ticket for $79. To do this, present your season pass at the Ski Cooper Will-Call Ticket Window. Buddy tickets must be used the same day as they’re purchased, and the buddy must be present at time of purchase.

Here are the partners:

Along with unlimited skiing at Cooper, the Cooper Pass allows you to ski 3 free days at each of the following partner resorts. Note that many of the resorts have blackout dates, so plan accordingly.

Rocky Mountains: Colorado – Ski Cooper (unlimited). Loveland, Sunlight, Monarch Mountain. Utah – Sundance, Cherry Peak. Montana – Great Divide, Blacktail Mountain, Lost Trail. Wyoming – Snow King, Hogadon Basin, Sleeping Giant, Snowy Range. Idaho – Pebble Creek, Bogus Basin, Silver Mountain. New Mexico – Red River, Ski Apache, Angel Fire.

Far West: Oregon – Timberline, Mt. Hood Skibowl, Mt. Ashland. Nevada – Diamond Peak. California – Bear Valley, Mt. Shasta Ski Park, Mountain High, Sierra-at-Tahoe, Dodge Ridge, China Peak. Washington – Mt. Spokane, Mission Ridge, White Pass. Alaska – Eaglecrest.

Midwest: Iowa – Seven Oaks, Mt. Crescent. Minnesota – Giants Ridge, Steeplechase. Wisconsin – Whitecap, Crystal Ridge, Little Switzerland, Nordic Mountain. Michigan – Caberfae Peaks, Norway Mountain.

East: Pennsylvania – Bear Creek, Mt. Pleasant. New York – Plattekill. New Hampshire – McIntyre. Maine – Lost Valley. Rhode Island – Yawgoo Valley. N.C. – Beech Mt. Massachusetts – Ski Butternut

International: Canada – Castle Mountain. Spain – Masella. New Zealand – Whakapapa.

More Pass Buying Guides

The post 2024/25 Cooper Ski Pass Buyer’s Guide appeared first on OnTheSnow.

2024/25 Freedom Pass Buyer’s Guide

Spencer Spellman — Sun, 16 Jun 2024 21:45:56 +0000

Recent years have seen a flurry of new ski passes pop up for skiers and riders who want options beyond the large ski resorts. Ski passes to lesser-known resorts have gotten increasingly popular, as evidenced by Indy Pass having a waitlist. The benefit of these lesser-known passes is how great of a value they are. That and they often have some nice perks, as long as you don’t mind primarily sticking to a particular region and much smaller ski areas. Recently we’ve highlighted the Power Pass, Powder Alliance, and Cooper ski passes. Today, we bring you the Freedom Pass.

What is the Freedom Pass?

The Freedom Pass isn’t a season pass in the traditional sense, nor is it like the major ski passes, in which a company owns and operates all of the affiliated resorts. Rather, it’s a coalition of ski areas, consisting of independent ski areas around the U.S., and one in Spain. Like the Powder Alliance, it’s a reciprocal pass program, in which you buy a season pass at one of the Freedom Pass ski areas, and then you have three free days of skiing at any of the other partner ski areas. With more than 20 participating ski areas, that means 60-plus free days of skiing on top of your season pass.

Who is the Freedom Pass for?

The Freedom Pass is ideal if you live close to or travel to an area that has several partner ski areas. For example, you live in Idaho and like to ski at Bogus Basin, but then plan on traveling to New England to ski. That’s because there are several New England ski resorts. The Midwest also has several ski areas. This is really not the pass for those who live or ski in the Far West, since there are only a couple resorts. For a reciprocal ski pass that has options out West, look into the Powder Alliance Pass.

What are the Freedom Pass ski areas?

Below are all of the Freedom Pass ski resorts. Since it’s a reciprocal pass program, you’ll see some overlap of resorts that are on other reciprocal pass programs. For example, Bogus Basin, Cooper, and Eaglecrest are part of the Powder Alliance.

Black Mountain, New Hampshire
Bogus Basin, Idaho
Caberfae Peaks, Michigan
Cherry Peak, Utah
Crystal Ridge, Wisconsin
Eaglecrest, Alaska
Little Switzerland, Wisconsin
Lost Valley, Maine
Masella, Spain
McIntyre, New Hampshire
Mount Southington, Connecticut
Mt. Ashland, Oregon
Mt. Spokane, Washington
Nordic Mountain, Wisconsin
Norway Mountain, Michigan
Red River, New Mexico
Seven Oaks, Iowa
Ski Butternut, Massachusetts
Ski Cooper, Colorado
Steeplechase, Minnesota
Sunlight, Colorado
Yawgoo Valley, Rhode Island

What restrictions are there with the Freedom Pass?

Among the benefits of the Freedom Pass is that there are no blackout dates and no restrictions. So the three free lift tickets can be used on any day at any of the Freedom Pass resorts.

The post 2024/25 Freedom Pass Buyer’s Guide appeared first on OnTheSnow.

When Should You Buy a Ski Pass?

Craig Altschul — Tue, 12 Mar 2024 15:51:20 +0000

Once spring rolls around and the ski season draws to a close, many people may put up their ski gear and not think about it again for months. But before you put away your ski gear for the season, don’t forget to get your ski pass for next season. That’s right, springtime is the best time to buy a ski pass for the next season.

The world of ski passes has changed dramatically over the past decade with the advent of Vail Resorts’ Epic Pass, followed shortly by the Mountain Collective and the Ikon Pass. Recent years has brought the Indy Pass, comprised of non-affiliated ski resorts, most of which are smaller resorts, along with some other smaller ski passes. Even if you’re skiing just a few times per season, a ski pass is a no-brainer.

©Vail Resorts

Spring is the best time of year to buy a ski pass

As spring ski season arrives, you probably start getting emails and seeing social media posts advertising ski passes for next season. Too soon? In our opinion, it’s never too soon to start thinking about and planning for the ski season. And there’s no denying how cost-saving it is to purchase a ski pass in the spring. Even if you predominantly ski at one mountain, and get a ski resort season pass, then spring is your best time to get a pass for the following season.

The biggest incentive is cost. The 2024-25 Epic Pass, for example, opened up at $982 in March. The launch price for the full adult Ikon Pass – no blackout dates – is $1,249. You can renew your pass for $1,149. There are other, more limited pass options too, of course. But these prices are as low as they are going to get. As you wait, incentives start to disappear and prices continue to go up.

The Mountain Collective Pass came out in March 2024 as low as $605. The Mountain Collective isn’t your traditional ski pass, however. Its main perk is that it comes with 2 days of skiing at 25 of the best ski destinations in the world. After that it’s 50 percent off for each additional day.

The Indy Pass, which won’t confirm all the included ski resorts until closer to the season, opened for renewals at $279 for two days of skiing or riding at each resort, plus 25 percent off a third day.

Buy early, and enjoy spring skiing and other perks

Buying a new ski pass as early as possible has a lot of perks beyond just savings. Buying early in the spring at some ski resorts means that you can ski the rest of the season at that resort. In Colorado, Monarch’s Wings Pass, for example, entitles skiers and boarders to slide the rest of this season and all of next season. Snowbasin, in Utah, is also offering skiing for the remainder of the season when skiers and snowboarders purchase a 2023-24 season pass.

The Ikon Pass offers spring skiing at a number of ski resorts when you purchase a new pass (all Ikon passes except Sessions are eligible). Furthermore, you can book any vacation for next season at Ikon Pass Travel and save $100 if you do so by May 3.

So, when is the best time to purchase your ski pass for next season? Spring. You have no time to waste. If spring is the best time to buy a ski pass, then fall is the worst time, as ski passes are typically at their highest prices. In some cases, ski resorts will run special flash sales or holiday sales around holidays like Labor Day, but we don’t recommend waiting until that time.