Epic and Ikon Passes Expand Their Reach to Europe and Japan

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Vial Resorts’ Epic Pass and Alterra Mountain Co.’s Ikon passes continue to expand, adding new European and Japanese ski resorts to their portfolios. This expansion is due to increased interest among U.S. skiers to access ski resorts outside North America. With almost all significant U.S. and Canadian resorts partnered with these ski passes, attention is directed toward the Alps in Europe and the Japanese Alps.

New Additions to the Epic Pass

This season, Vail Resorts’ Epic Pass has expanded by adding six ski resorts in Austria. With these additions, the Epic Pass now includes 34 resorts across Europe. Notably, this includes renowned destinations such as Crans-Montana and Andermatt in Switzerland, both owned by Vail Resorts. These new offerings allow U.S. skiers to access iconic European ski areas under the convenience of a single pass, making international ski trips more accessible and affordable.

Ikon Pass Adds European and Asian Resorts

Similarly, Alterra’s Ikon Pass has added three major European ski resorts, including Megeve in France, Valle d’Aosta in Italy, and Ischgl in Austria. These resorts join the growing list of 24 destinations in the Alps covered by the Ikon Pass. Additionally, Ikon has expanded its Asian portfolio, adding nine new resorts, with seven located in Japan. With these additions, the Ikon Pass now partners with a total of 9 resorts in Japan, a popular destination for skiers seeking light powder and consistent snowfall during the winter months.

Shifting Focus to International Markets

The strategic expansions by Vail and Alterra align with shifting skier preferences. More U.S. skiers are venturing abroad for their winter vacations, with a marked increase in international bookings. According to Ski.com, bookings for European ski trips rose by 30% year-over-year, while Japan saw a 10% increase in bookings. This trend shows that skiers are willing to travel farther for affordable and unique experiences that aren’t always available in the U.S.

Affordability Drives International Ski Travel

One factor contributing to the rise in international ski bookings is the relative affordability of skiing abroad. For example, a package trip to the Dolomites in Italy through Ski.com for two people costs $10,700, which is comparable to a similar trip to U.S. resorts like Deer Valley or Big Sky, Montana. On the other hand, trips to Japan, such as those to Setsu Niseko, can be even more affordable at around $8,400 for the same type of package.

This affordability makes international ski trips feasible for many skiers who might have once considered them to be a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. Now, these trips are accessible to a broader audience, even those with average budgets. The combination of cost-effectiveness and adventure is driving more skiers to consider international destinations.

More Options for Skiers Seeking New Experiences

As the number of destinations offered by both Epic and Ikon passes continues to grow, skiers are expanding their horizons. Last year, destinations like Chamonix in France and Zermatt in Switzerland were extremely popular. However, this year, there is a noticeable shift as more skiers opt for lesser-known areas across Europe and Japan. The broader range of options is encouraging travelers to explore new locations, beyond the most famous resorts.

Global Expansion by Other Passes

Epic and Ikon are not the only ski passes venturing internationally. The Indy Pass, which is known for partnering with smaller mountains, has also expanded its reach this year. It added 19 new partners across Europe, Asia, and South America, further underscoring the global shift in the ski industry.

Why Europe and Japan Are Attractive

Europe and Japan offer skiing experiences that differ from those in the U.S. In Europe, skiing is deeply woven into the culture, with many ski areas easily accessible by rail. This adds to the convenience and charm of skiing in the Alps. In Japan, the light powder and reliable snowfall during January and February make it an attractive destination for those seeking exceptional snow conditions. Both regions provide unique cultural experiences alongside world-class skiing.

International Visitors to the U.S. Ski Resorts

While Epic and Ikon are expanding to attract more international visitors, U.S. resorts are also benefiting from this growing trend. International travelers can use Epic and Ikon passes to enjoy U.S. ski resorts at a fraction of the cost of purchasing individual lift tickets. This pricing advantage is one of the key selling points for U.S. ski destinations as they seek to draw international guests.

Guide for U.S. Skiers Traveling Abroad

For U.S. skiers planning a trip to Europe or Japan, using an Epic or Ikon pass can be a convenient and cost-effective way to experience world-class skiing. Here are some travel tips:

1. Booking Flights: Flights to Europe and Japan can be affordable if booked in advance. Look for flight packages that include lift tickets, rentals, and other ski trip essentials.
2. Choose Smaller Resorts: Consider skiing at lesser-known resorts for a more authentic experience and to avoid the crowds at major destinations.
3. Ski Passes: Take advantage of multi-resort passes like Epic and Ikon for access to a wide variety of destinations without the hassle of purchasing separate lift tickets.
4. Cultural Immersion: Beyond skiing, immerse yourself in local culture by exploring the towns and villages in the Alps or Japan. Both regions offer rich history, unique food, and breathtaking landscapes.

Conclusion

The development of Ikon and Epic passes and their European and Japanese expansions are game changers for U.S. skiers. Now for a reasonable price, skiers have the opportunity to ski world-class resorts and ski the phenomenal powder of Japan and the gorgeous Alps. These newly affordable options to skiers are a major game changer for the ski industry and are available at an accessible price. With the popularity of these destination, the ski industry will continue to grow.