Epic or Ikon: Which Should You Choose?
Today is the last day to buy an Epic Pass before prices go up for the third, and likely final, time tomorrow. In this piece, we’ll aim to shed light on the differences between Ikon and Epic—and whether either is worth getting during these uncertain times.
Alterra Releases 2020-21 Lift Ticket and Ikon Pass Reservation Policies (Many Resorts Don’t Require One)
Alterra released their initial ticket and pass policies for the upcoming winter today. Many Ikon resorts, including the overwhelming majority of unlimited destinations, will not require reservations. However, multi-day pass products for Alterra-owned mountains will be severely limited.
Vail Resorts Announces Operating Plans, Enhanced Epic Coverage for 2020-21 Season
In a letter this morning, Vail Resorts announced details on its 2020-21 operating plans. In addition to other capacity and policy changes, the company will require passholders to make reservations for access to all mountains.
Thoughts on WSJ’s Alarmist Article on the State of Vail Resorts
This morning, the Wall Street Journal put out an article about the state of Vail Resorts’ business and how it may be overvalued. After reading the piece, we decided to share our thoughts.
State of Resort Season Pass Policies for the 2020-21 Season
After examining the early-season pricing and assurance differences between Epic and Ikon, we decided to do the same for standalone season pass products. Some mountains offer excellent protections, while others are risky buys.
2 of 3 Australian Vail Resorts Closed for the Season Due to COVID-19
Following its decision to suspend operations at Mount Hotham and Falls Creek just a few days after they opened, Vail Resorts Australia has announced that these resorts will not be reopening for the rest of the season.
Off Peak Podcast Episode 6: Navigation
The team discusses the PeakRankings navigation score and hones in on two particularly egregious examples. Sam gives kudos to Vail Resorts for a recent resort upgrade. Nicole, George, and Sam share what they’re drinking.
(Update) OnTheSnow Shutting Down For Good At Some Point
Late Friday evening, Vail-owned Mountain News Corporation announced that it would be shutting down OnTheSnow and other affiliated websites effective July 13, 2020. In a statement, the media outlet said it was no longer financially viable to continue operating the sites.
Vail Resorts Suspends Winter Operations at 2 of Its 3 Australian Resorts
Today, Vail Resorts announced it would be suspending operations at Mount Hotham and Falls Creek, its two Australian resorts in the state of Victoria, just a few days after they opened for the season. These closures, which will last until at least August 19, come on the heels of a recent COVID-19 spike and subsequent stay-at-home orders issued by the state.
Ikon Pass Prices Go up Tomorrow. Here’s What You Need to Know If You’re on the Fence.
With the deadline for Ikon’s lowest pass prices fast approaching, many are debating whether to pick up the pass for next season. Some are concerned the season may be cancelled, while others may want to know how the passes compare to similar Epic Pass products. In this piece, we’ll aim to shed light on both of these topics.