Epic Pass Vs Ikon Pass – Which Ski Pass to Choose?

‘Epic pass or Ikon pass – which do you have?’ If you talk to any snow sport lover about a ski trip out West (or anywhere, really!), you’ll probably get asked this question. As far as things to do in Colorado goes, if you are a fan of snow sports at all, you definitely can’t miss out on shredding some powder in the Rocky Mountains (or other ranges!).

While you can definitely get an Epic day pass or Ikon day pass, it may be worth considering buying a longer-term season pass if you plan to ride a chair lift at least 9 days or more in the season. Prices vary season to season but that’s a good general ball park. Both passes right now (and keep in mind, prices change, occasionally go on sale, etc. so keep an eye out) are around the low to mid $800 mark – but day passes can be nearly $100 a day, so it just depends how much you think you’ll go!

But how to choose which one?  It really depends on the resorts you want to go to. Below we’ve created an easy resource to help you make your decision between the Epic pass and Ikon pass this ski season!

Epic Pass Resort List

The Epic pass is a favorite for those who love skiing in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado as a solid chunk of the ski towns closer to Denver are accessible on it (5 to be exact – like Breckenridge: click here for some awesome hikes in Breckenridge!). You may also be surprised to find a bunch of Midwest, East Coast and Canadian resorts on there as well. Breckenridge is always a favorite and is on the Epic pass – they’re so dedicated to the winter season, they have a festival dedicated to Ullr, the Norse god associated with winter and snow sports! Vail is always gorgeous, and Park City, UT is a lot of fun and is on the Epic pass as well.

Related: love Colorado? Click here for a bunch of the best hikes near Denver with drive times and fun facts, too!

Ikon Pass Resort List

The Ikon pass is pretty darn impressive – it has a whopping 9 resorts in Colorado, plus many in the Pacific Northwest. Also there are resorts in New Mexico, Montana, Wyoming, Idaho, California, even Oregon. And there are quite a lot on the east coast, too. Overall, it just depends on where you’re headed! A lot of people will buy one pass for a season, and try the other for another season.