Vail Resorts has opened sales for its 2026-2027 Epic Passes, offering skiers and snowboarders a way to secure lift access at potentially the lowest prices of the year. With single-day lift ticket prices soaring towards $300 at major resorts, purchasing a pass now is becoming essential for budget-conscious riders.
Why Buy Now? The Price Trend
The Epic Pass system works on tiered pricing, meaning costs will steadily climb as the season approaches. Historically, prices jump in late May, with further increases in summer and fall. This makes today one of the best times to buy.
New Discounts for Young Adults and Teens
This year, Vail is introducing a 20% discount for teens and young adults (ages 13-30) on many pass options. This makes skiing more accessible for those starting out or on a tighter budget.
Epic Pass Options: Which One Is Right for You?
Vail Resorts offers several Epic Pass tiers to suit different skiing habits. Here’s a breakdown:
Epic Local Pass: Currently priced at $809 for adults, $649 for teens, and $425 for children, this pass provides unlimited access to 29 resorts, including Breckenridge, Keystone, and Park City (with some holiday restrictions). It also includes 10 days at Vail and Beaver Creek.
Epic Pass: Priced at $1,089 for adults, $869 for teens and young adults, and $555 for children, this pass unlocks unlimited access to all Vail-owned and partner resorts, including Vail, Beaver Creek, Whistler Blackcomb, and more.
Epic Day Pass: For those who only plan a few days on the slopes, the Epic Day Pass allows purchasing a set number of days at select resorts, with prices starting as low as $66 per day for limited resorts.
Beyond Lift Tickets: Additional Perks
Epic Pass holders also receive exclusive benefits through the Epic Mountain Rewards program, including discounts on food, lessons, lodging, rentals, and more. All 2026-2027 Epic Passes include Epic Coverage, which offers refunds for unforeseen circumstances like job loss or illness.
Friend Tickets: Share the Savings
Purchasing a pass before April 13, 2026, grants up to 10 Epic Friend Tickets, offering 50% off window prices for non-passholders.
The Bottom Line
Skiing at major resorts is becoming increasingly expensive. The Epic Pass system has long been the most cost-effective solution, and with rising lift ticket prices, it’s now even more critical to plan ahead and secure a pass to avoid paying exorbitant daily rates.
For many skiers, like one family that has used the Epic Pass for six years, the daily cost can break down to as low as $52 per person, making it a smart investment for regular mountain visitors.
