Everything you need to know about Epic Pass

As the 09/10 ski season descends ever nearer with each passing day, attention turns to the latest ski gear, snow reports and ski resorts. If you’ve got all the gear but no idea where to ski or board this year, the return of the Epic Pass could make that decision much easier for you.

With the 2009/10 ski season promising to equal, if not surpass, the 08/09 season – the true value of the Epic Pass lies in its flexibility. Comparing it to the standard lift pass you purchase for a fortnight’s ski holiday, there really is no comparison in value for money.

The Epic Pass gives you unlimited access to 6 ski resorts during the 09/10 season. Not just any old 6 ski resorts, 6 of the best mountains across North America. All these slopes, jumps, descents and hours of skiing with just 1 lift pass at 1 set price.

Epic Pass – the resorts

Arapahoe Basin

The A-Basin is found high in the Rockies with a top elevation of 13,050 feet. Found 65 miles from Denver, Arapahoe Basin regularly opens early for the ski season because of its high altitude and excellent snow record.

Beaver Creek

Attracting all abilities of skier and boarder, Beaver Creek is a purpose-built resort of inimitable style. Located close to Vail, Beaver Creek has a fantastic range of pistes as well as enough après to keep non-skiers busy for weeks.

Breckenridge

Celebrating its 150th anniversary in 2009/10, Breckenridge is widely regarded as one of the world’s leading ski and snowboard resort. The charming old mining village, excellent range of slopes and great resort atmosphere make Breckenridge a must-see for North American skiers.

Heavenly

The name suggests a special ski resort and Heavenly won’t disappoint. Heavenly Mountain overlooks the glorious landscape of Lake Tahoe to offer a stunning setting for a ski holiday. A great snow record ensures that Heavenly remains open for skiing until late April/early May most seasons.

Keystone

Keystone ski resort is made up of 4 mountains – Dercum Mountain, North Peak, the Outback, and Independence Bowl. Skiers and boarders have access to up to 3148 acres of piste with a vast selection of runs for those more experienced and advanced.

Vail

The largest single mountain ski resort in the United States, Vail boasts an array of opportunities from the 5,289 acres of skiable area to the 4 mile long run of Riva Ridge. With an annual snowfall of 346 inches, Vail offers good snow reliability and has subsequently been crowned #1 ski resort in the US on numerous occasions.

Epic Pass – a summary

Which resorts can I ski or snowboard with the Epic Pass?

Vail, Beaver Creek, Breckenridge, Keystone, Heavenly and Arapahoe Basin.

How much does the Epic Pass cost?

£345 per adult and £170 per child. The Epic Pass website states that this is the same as the price of a typical 6-day lift ticket.

How often can I ski or board in the 6 resorts?

Ski each resort as many times as you want during the 09/10 ski season.

Are there any discounts for senior skiers?

No. The Epic Pass is designed to be simple and the savings made are already superior to those on a Senior Full Lift Pass.4