It’s almost time to ski again.
We don’t know about you, but we have been aching to hear those words since COVID-19 shuttered the 2019-20 ski season early.
Like mostly everything else in 2020, this season isn’t normal. Ski resorts have been scrambling to configure new operating plans. The companies that offer mega passes, namely Alterra and Vail Resorts, are rolling out various combinations of reservation-only skiing and anytime access for passholders. Lift ticket sales are up in the air. Big time.
With information flying around at a manic pace and things constantly changing, we thought it would be helpful to put some of the most pertinent updates in one place. It’s time to scheme your ski season!
The Latest on Ikon Passes
As of September 16, Alterra has offered these updates:
Mountain-by-Mountain Reservations – While some Ikon destinations will require passholders to make reservations during the upcoming season, most of them currently are not planning to. Here in Colorado, that includes Steamboat, Copper, Winter Park, and Eldora. Arapahoe Basin has confirmed that they will require reservations unless skiers have an A-Basin-specific pass.
Alterra is recommending that skiers check with their local resorts for the latest information regarding reservations and the sale of daily lift tickets.
You can also stay updated here.
Adventure Assurance – Ikon pass holders will have the opportunity to defer the pass to the 2021-22 season, as long as they do so before December 10, 2020. Learn more. Alterra will also offer proportional credit toward 2021-2022 passes if resorts are forced to close due to COVID-19.
The Latest on Epic Passes
And here’s the latest from Vail Resorts, as of September 16.
Passholder Reservations – Epic season passholders will be required to make a reservation before they arrive at the mountain. They will be able to make as many week-of reservations as their pass type and availability allow.
Reservations will tentatively not be required at Epic partner resorts, including Telluride, Sun Valley, Snowbasin, Resorts of the Canadian Rockies, Hakuba, or Rusutsu.
Delayed Lift Ticket Sales – Season passholders will get early season access to Epic resorts. Lift tickets won’t be sold until December 8. Passholders also can use Priority Reservation Days. Learn more.
Epic Coverage – Free to all pass holders, Epic Coverage replaces the need to purchase pass insurance. It provides refunds for typical events covered by pass insurance plus events like COVID-19. The refund would cover whatever portion of the season is lost in 2020-21, and new updates also give passholders refunds if they can’t book preferred Priority Reservation Days.
Powder Alliance and Beyond
Resorts that are part of other partnerships, like the Powder Alliance, are announcing operating plans on a case-by-case basis. Check your local resort’s website for more details.
In the Backcountry
Sign-ups for avalanche safety and education courses, like the popular AAIRE Level 1, are happening faster than ever. AAIRE reports at least a 10% jump in course registrations this year versus the same time a year ago.
If you are planning to take an avalanche course, sign up ASAP!
Meanwhile, the country’s first 100% human-powered resort has announced a big expansion. As in, new mountain “big,” plus a longer season and new season pass and education options. Learn more about Bluebird Backcountry.
See the 2021 gear we’re stoked about.
