Epic Pass vs Ikon Pass: The Complete 2025 Comparison
Choosing between Epic Pass and Ikon Pass is one of the biggest decisions skiers face each year. Both offer incredible value, but they serve different types of skiers. Here's everything you need to know.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | Epic Pass | Ikon Pass |
| Owner | Vail Resorts | Alterra Mountain Company |
| North American Resorts | 40+ | 50+ |
| Unlimited Access | Yes (at owned resorts) | Base: Limited, Full: Unlimited |
| Price Range | $583-$979 | $689-$1,359 |
| Blackout Dates | None (full pass) | Some partner resorts |
Epic Pass Strengths
Best for: Destination skiers who want unlimited access to premium resorts.- Flagship Resorts: Vail, Park City, Breckenridge, Whistler Blackcomb
- Largest US Resort: Park City (7,300 acres)
- No Blackout Dates: Ski any day on the full pass
- International Access: Resorts in Europe, Japan, and Australia
Top Epic Resorts
- Vail - Legendary Back Bowls, 5,317 acres
- Park City - Largest in the US, 7,300 acres
- Breckenridge - Highest chairlift in North America
- Whistler Blackcomb - North America's largest ski area
Ikon Pass Strengths
Best for: Variety seekers who want access to iconic independent resorts.- Diverse Selection: Mix of corporate and legendary independents
- Powder Destinations: Jackson Hole, Big Sky, Alta, Snowbird
- East Coast Presence: Killington, Sugarloaf, Sugarbush
- Adventure Factor: Taos, Revelstoke, Chamonix
Top Ikon Resorts
- Jackson Hole - Legendary steep terrain
- Big Sky - Biggest skiing in America (5,800 acres)
- Mammoth Mountain - California's largest, long season
- Alta/Snowbird - The Greatest Snow on Earth
Which Pass Is Right for You?
Choose Epic If:
- You visit Vail, Park City, or Breckenridge regularly
- You want guaranteed unlimited access
- You're planning international ski trips
- You prefer larger, more developed resorts
Choose Ikon If:
- You want variety and adventure
- Jackson Hole, Big Sky, or Mammoth are your targets
- You ski the East Coast (Killington, Sugarbush)
- You value independent resort culture
The Budget Option: Indy Pass
Don't overlook Indy Pass for incredible value. At under $300, you get 2 days each at 200+ independent resorts. Perfect for exploring smaller mountains or supplementing a bigger pass.
Our Recommendation
There's no wrong choice. Both passes offer exceptional value compared to buying day tickets. The best pass is the one with resorts you'll actually visit.
Pro Tip: Use our Compare Map to see all pass resorts side-by-side and find your nearest mountains.