Halfdays Guide to Ski Passes

The yearly scramble to purchase ski passes is once again upon us. With summer in full throttle, ski season couldn’t feel farther away. Surely, we don’t have to start prepping already, right? Think again. If you’re hoping to snag a multi-mountain ski pass, the time is now. As most skiers and snowboarders know, choosing a ski pass can be challenging. The passes each offer different benefits, limitations, and, perhaps most importantly, destinations.

The popular and well-known Epic and Ikon passes will grant you unlimited access to several of the world’s top ski mountains. The newer, lesser-known Mountain Collective Pass takes a different approach, offering pass-holders 2 days at each of their 24 big-name resorts. We broke down the essential differences between the Epic, Ikon, and Mountain Collective passes so that you can make an informed decision that best suits your individual 2022/2023 ski season needs!

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Price:

Based on the semi-exorbitant cost of skiing itself, it probably doesn’t come as a shock that your ticket to ride will cost you. Thankfully, the cost of a season pass pays for itself if you plan to ski even just 6 or 7 times throughout the season. Pass prices range too, with your cheapest option, the Mountain Collective Pass, coming in at $579. The Epic Pass will run you up $859, while the Ikon goes for $1,179. For skiers and boarders with less restrictive schedules, or who don’t get out on the slopes all too often, Ikon and Epic each offer lower-cost passes with more limited access. These reduced rates do come with blackout dates, so be sure to plan accordingly!

Access:

The Epic Pass provides access to most resorts, offering skiers unlimited access to 41 mountains throughout the U.S., Canada, Australia, and Europe, plus 3- 7 days at each of their 21 additional destinations. The Ikon gives you unlimited access to 14 mountains and up to 7 days each at 35 more destinations. Skiers and riders who want to travel and try out different mountains next season may want to opt for the Mountain Collective Pass, which offers 2 days at each of their 24 highly rated, big-name mountains for a total of 48 days. Plus, Mountain Collective gets pass-holders 50% off all additional days at any of their destinations!

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Insurance:

After enduring over two years of on and off shutdowns, it’s safe to say we’re all a bit more wary of unforeseen circumstances messing with our plans. Thankfully, Ikon, Epic, and Mountain Collective all offer some form of coverage. Epic Coverage is included in your Epic Pass and covers injury, resort closures, and even job loss. The Ikon Pass comes with Adventure Assurance, which gives pass-holders credits in the event of COVID-related closures. Ikon also allows you to defer your pass if you choose not to use it, meaning your 2022/2023 season pass can roll over and be used for the 2023/2024 season. Coverage for unforeseen events such as injury is available for purchase through Ikon. Mountain Collective does not include any coverage, however, pass insurance is available to purchase for $34, and offers full pass reimbursement should you be unable to use your pass.

Extras:

Who doesn’t love a good discount?! No matter which pass you choose, you’ll get access to special bonus savings and perks. Epic’s savings are hard to beat; pass-holders get a hefty 20% off food, lodging, rentals, and lessons at Epic resorts. Ikon offers food and lodging savings, too, but the discount ranges between mountains. A substantial perk of being an Epic or Ikon pass-holder is buddy passes, which allow you to bring your friends along and get them discounted lift tickets. Mountain Collective, in addition to 50% off all ski days not covered by your pass, offers up to 25% in savings on select hotels and condos.

The Ikon, Epic, and Mountain Collective passes each offer skiers and boarders distinct benefits. The Epic Pass gets you unlimited days at 41 mountains, whereas the Ikon gets you unlimited days at 14, and for a higher cost. Mountain Collective’s approach gets skiers a totally different experience, with 2-day access to several mountains making it a great option for road-trippers or frequent travelers. In our opinion? The Epic Pass takes the cake when you factor in cost, destination list, insurance coverage, and extra discounts. Buying a ski pass is ultimately an investment in yourself. As skiers and boarders know, being in nature, even in the coldest months of the year, greatly improves your health and well-being. So, whichever pass you choose, be sure to take advantage of the mountains whenever possible!