We might be smack dab in the middle of the dog days of summer, but any ski enthusiast knows that preparing for ski season needs to start early.
So, although you might be spending your days mountain biking, hiking, and soaking up the sun, you should absolutely start thinking about the ski season ahead. Buying your ski pass is one of the first things you should do when preparing for ski season.
When we’re not helping our clients sell their homes or buy a home, we’re often found on the slopes, which makes us uniquely qualified to answer this question!
In this post, we’re comparing the Ikon and Epic passes.
What to Know About Ikon Pass
The Ikon Pass is a unique ski and snowboard pass that gives you access to numerous ski resorts and mountains across the world. It’s ideal for avid skiers and snowboarders who live for fresh powder days. It’s an easy, efficient, and more cost-effective way to make the most of your ski season, especially if you travel a lot.
Ikon Pass Resorts
Ikon Pass gives you access to 60+ ski resorts across the USA, Canada, South America, Europe, Asia, and Oceania. Some of the most iconic, world-famous resorts are accessible on the Ikon Pass, including Deer Valley Resort, Aspen, Jackson Hole, Chamonix Mont-Blanc (France), Zermatt Matterhorn (Switzerland), Lake Louise (Canada), and more. The list goes on and on. Check out the Ikon Pass website to see the full list of resorts included.
How Much is Ikon Pass?
Ikon Pass offers several packages catered to your unique needs. A full pass typically includes features like no blackout dates, unlimited access to some resorts, and “Peak Perks” like discounts on food and drinks, first-track access, exclusive events, and discounts on heli-skiing and hiking.
If a full pass is more than you’re willing to get, there are other options like the Ikon Base Pass or Ikon Session Pass. Each pass comes with its own unique benefits and perks. There are also discounts available for students, nurses, veterans, and more.
For the most up-to-date pricing information for the Ikon Pass, visit the official Ikon Pass website.
When Does Ikon Pass Go Up
When it comes to buying an Ikon Pass for the ski season ahead, earlier is always better. In the past, Ikon Pass prices have gone up around October, so purchase early to get the best deal!
How do Park City and Deer Valley compare to other ski resorts? Read these posts to find out!
- Alta Vs. Park City
- Brighton Vs. Park City
- Snowbird Vs. Park City
- Park City Vs. Breckenridge
- Deer Valley Vs. Aspen
- Park City Vs. Jackson Hole
- Park City Vs. Vail
What to Know About Epic Pass
Epic Pass is another ski and snowboard season pass that provides access to a variety of ski resorts across the world. With it, pass-holders also get special perks and other discounts, perfect for avid skiers and travellers.
Epic Pass Resorts
Between the “Core” resorts and “Partner” resorts, Epic Pass offers access to 80+ resorts across North America, Switzerland, and Australia. Resorts like Park City Mountain Resort, Vail, and Whistler Blackcomb in British Columbia are just a few of the notable resorts on the pass. You can see the full list of regions and resorts on the Epic Pass on the official website.
How Much is an Epic Pass?
There are several different Epic Passes available to suit your unique needs. From the standard pass to the Epic Local Pass, that is slightly cheaper and with fewer resorts, there are options for everyone. Epic Pass also offers discounts for students, seniors, military, adaptive skiers, and more. The most up-to-date pricing information for the Epic Pass can be found on the official Epic Pass website.
When Do Epic Pass Prices Go Up?
Epic Pass prices roll out through the year with several price jumps. The earlier you buy, the greater the discount. Passes go on sale in the Spring, and there is usually a price increase around Memorial Day and another around October.
Learn more about skiing in Park City and Deer Valley with these posts next:
- What is the Best Ski Resort in Utah?
- What is the Best Ski Resort Near Park City?
- What to Know About Skiing with Kids in Park City
Epic Vs. Ikon Pass
While both passes are designed for avid skiers to take advantage of the best resorts across the globe, there are a few things that set the Ikon Pass and Epic Pass apart. Here is a quick look at some of the biggest differences.
| Epic Pass | Ikon Pass | |
| How many resorts are included? | 80+ Resorts, including both “Core” and “Partner” resorts. | 60+ resorts with a greater focus on higher end destination resorts |
| Where are the resorts located? | Access to resorts across the United States with some availability in Canada, Europe, and Australia | Access to resorts across North America, Europe, Oceania, and Asia |
| How much do the passes cost? | Typically less expensive than Ikon Pass, exact pricing can be found online | Typically more expensive than Epic Pass, exact pricing can be found online |
| What discounts are offered? | Discounts offered on food and beverage, lodging, rentals, lessons, and more. | Discounts offered on food and drink, lodging, rentals, lessons, events, experiences, and more. |
| The Local Angle | Park City Mountain Resort is on the Epic Pass | Deer Valley Resort is on the Ikon Pass |
Which Pass is Best For You?
Choosing between an Epic Pass vs. an Ikon Pass can be a challenge for many. On the one hand, you want to maximize your ski season; on the other, you want to get the best pricing. If you’re on the fence about which pass to get, consider things like where you spend the most time skiing, what perks are most important to you, and how much time you plan on the slopes this winter.
If you still can’t decide, you can always get both passes and call it a day! It’s common for many avid skiers to get both passes if they plan on spending a lot of time at resorts covered by both equally.
Here at CFH, we’re more than just a group of avid skiers. We’re a team of top Park City real estate agents! If you have questions about buying or selling a home in Park City or Deer Valley, we have you covered.
Get in touch by filling out the form below, calling us at 435-647-8035, or emailing us at info@CFHparkcity.com.
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