Vail Resorts Expands with New Investments to Elevate Ski Destinations for 2026

Published on December 11, 2025

Vail Resorts has announced its capital investment plan for 2026, marking another year of continued growth and expansion for the world’s leading mountain resort network. With a focus on enhancing guest experiences and supporting the long-term development of iconic resorts, Vail Resorts will invest 215 million to 220 million USD in core capital projects in 2026, adding to its broader goal of providing the best skiing and winter tourism experiences worldwide.

The announcement comes alongside season pass sales results for the 2025/2026 ski season, showcasing the strong demand for Epic Pass products and a growing interest in visiting top-tier ski resorts across North America, Europe, and Australia. Vail Resorts is reaffirming its commitment to delivering a premium ski experience and ensuring that each resort remains at the forefront of innovation, sustainability, and guest satisfaction.

Strategic Capital Investments to Enhance Ski Resorts

Vail Resorts is focusing its 2026 capital plan on several key resort-specific upgrades that aim to elevate the guest experience. Notable projects include:

• Park City Mountain: A multi-year investment at Canyons Village will include the replacement of the 8-passenger Cabriolet lift with a 10-passenger gondola, designed to enhance capacity, improve accessibility, and offer a more seamless connection between the upper and lower village areas. This upgrade will enhance arrival experiences and guest comfort during inclement weather.
• Whistler Blackcomb: The Showcase T-Bar lift will be replaced with a fixed-grip quad chairlift to provide better access to the Blackcomb Glacier, enhancing the resort’s offerings for skiers seeking world-class terrain.
• Dining Enhancements: Significant upgrades across Vail Resorts’ properties will improve the dining experience, including remodels at high-traffic locations such as Roundhouse Lodge at Whistler Blackcomb and Spruce Saddle at Beaver Creek. These upgrades will expand seating, improve guest flow, and introduce new modern amenities like coffee bars and social spaces.
• Vail Mountain: Major room renovations at the Lodge at Vail will elevate the accommodations, strengthening the resort’s competitive positioning and ensuring it remains a luxury destination for visitors.
• Avalanche Control Systems: In an effort to improve safety and reliability, Vail Resorts will begin a multi-year plan to implement remote avalanche control systems across select resorts, ensuring faster and more consistent terrain openings.

Expanding the Epic Pass Reach

Vail Resorts also reported solid results for its 2025/2026 ski season pass sales. While units decreased slightly by 2% compared to the previous year, sales dollars increased by 3%, reflecting the growing demand for access to Epic Pass resorts. As of December 5, 2025, the company has committed approximately 2.3 million guests to 42 North American, Australian, and European resorts, generating roughly 1 billion USD in non-refundable advanced commitments.

The Epic Pass continues to drive growth, with increased media investments and a refined marketing strategy that has helped drive strong sales in the final selling period. The Epic Pass gives visitors access to some of the world’s most iconic mountain resorts, making it the go-to option for skiers and snowboarders seeking value and flexibility.

Investments in Sustainability and Efficiency

A core component of Vail Resorts’ growth strategy is its commitment to sustainability and resource efficiency. The company’s Resource Efficiency Transformation Plan continues to exceed expectations, with planned savings of $38 million for fiscal 2026. These efforts will contribute to Vail Resorts’ Commitment to Zero initiative, aimed at achieving a zero net operating footprint by 2030. Investments in snowmaking systems, such as the upgrade at Okemo Mountain, will enhance early-season terrain availability while reducing energy consumption.

Additionally, Vail Resorts will invest in sustainable technologies across its resorts to improve operational efficiency and reduce its environmental footprint, making its ski destinations more eco-friendly and appealing to travelers who prioritize sustainability.

A Strong Future for Ski Resorts and Winter Tourism

Vail Resorts’ 2026 capital plan and season pass sales results showcase the company’s continued leadership in the winter tourism industry. With investments in guest experience, sustainability, and technology, Vail Resorts is ensuring its resorts remain the top choice for skiers and snow sports enthusiasts worldwide. These enhancements will not only improve the guest experience but also provide a boost to the local economies where these resorts are located, supporting job creation, economic growth, and the broader tourism industry.

Looking ahead, Vail Resorts remains confident in its ability to continue driving growth and innovation within the ski industry, ensuring that every visit to one of its resorts delivers an exceptional experience for guests of all ages and abilities.

Vail Resorts Continues to Lead in Winter Tourism

With a 215-220 million USD investment in 2026, Vail Resorts is poised to further enhance its position as a leader in the global ski tourism market. Through key upgrades across its portfolio, investments in sustainability, and a continued focus on delivering superior guest experiences, the company is well-positioned to meet the growing demand for world-class ski destinations. As the ski season progresses, Vail Resorts’ commitment to quality, innovation, and growth ensures that it will remain a top choice for winter travelers seeking unforgettable mountain adventures.