Alright, it is that time of the year again. In the world of skiing and snowboarding, choosing the right pass can make or break a season. With an array of options available, two key players stand out: the Ikon Pass and the Epic Pass. These powerhouse passes offer access to some of the most coveted mountains globally, each with its own perks, days, and pricing structure. Let's dive into a detailed comparison to help you decide which pass suits your winter adventure needs.
Ikon Pass vs. Epic Pass
The Mountains
Ikon Pass
The Ikon Pass provides access to 41 iconic ski destinations, with unlimited access at 18 resorts on the full pass
Notable mountains include Aspen, Mammoth Mountain, Jackson Hole, and Niseko United in Japan.
From the slopes of North America to the mountains of Europe and Australia, the Ikon Pass opens doors to a diverse range of terrains.
Epic Pass
The Epic Pass boasts access to 39 world-class resorts spanning across the U.S., Canada, Australia, and Japan.
Key mountains include Vail, Whistler Blackcomb, Park City, and Hakuba Valley in Japan.
With a strong presence in North America and expanding globally, the Epic Pass offers a wide selection of mountains for every type of rider.
Perks and Days
Ikon Pass
The Ikon Pass provides flexibility with access to each destination without blackout dates.
Various pass options, such as the Ikon Base Pass or Ikon Session Pass, cater to different needs and budgets.
Passholders enjoy benefits like retail discounts, lodging deals, and more at select destinations, I have noticed this is at the 18 unlimited access destinations
The Ikon Pass app allows you to track your family and friends for the day to make sure you don't lose anyone. It also works on the Apple watch.
Epic Pass
The Epic Pass comes with unlimited, unrestricted access to partner resorts.
Passholders can enjoy exclusive perks like discounted buddy tickets, ski-with-a-friend benefits, and access to My Epic, a mobile app for tracking ski days and stats. It also can serve as your pass, if you happen for forget your pass.
With multiple pass tiers available, including Epic Local Pass and Epic Day Pass, there's a pass for every skier's preference.
The Pricing and Pass Options
Ikon Pass
The Ikon Pass typically ranges from around $459 to $1,329, depending on the selected pass option and age group.
These prices will go up between the end of the season and the beginning of the next periodically until it is at full price.
Additional add-ons, such as the Ikon Base Pass or Ikon Session Pass, offer more tailored experiences at varying price points.
Ikon Pass
Cost: $1,329
No Blackout Dates
18 Unlimited skiing & riding mountains
Up to 7 days at 41 Additional mountains
Ikon Base Pass
Ikon Session Pass
Epic Pass
The Epic Pass price falls within $118 to $1051, offering affordable options for both unlimited and restricted access.
These prices do go up between the end of the season and the beginning of the next periodically until it is at full price.
Discounts at all fully owned resorts
Epic Pass
Cost: $1051
No Blackout Dates
42 Unlimited Skiing and Riding Resorts
The additional days vary based on the resort
Epic Local Pass
Epic Day Pass
When deciding between the Ikon Pass and the Epic Pass, consider your preferred mountains, desired perks, ski days, and budget. Whether you're chasing powder days in Colorado or exploring the slopes of Japan, both passes offer exceptional value for skiers and riders looking to elevate their winter adventures.
As someone who has had the chance to ski both passes over the years across the United States, I recommend picking the pass with the mountains you want to go to, including the ones closest to you.
You can be spoiled in places like Colorado, which have so many of both options.
I've also noticed that almost all of the Epic Mountains require paid parking or have very limited free parking, other than Keystone. The Ikon Mountains almost always provide free parking at the resort, with a couple of exceptions.
Remember, no matter which pass you choose, the mountains await—ready to carve your tracks and create unforgettable memories on snow-covered slopes.
So, which one are you picking for next season?
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