Vermont

Off Peak Podcast Episode 7: Resort Lodging

The team highlights notable lodges and hostels from recent trips to Jackson Hole, Whistler, Killington, and other resorts.

(Expired) Free Killington Lift Ticket with Helmet Purchase

Until January 26, 2020, Killington is offering a deal where if you buy a helmet through Killington Sports, you get a free lift ticket valid from January 27 through the rest of the season.

Ikon Lowers Pass Prices, Extends Date For Cheapest Rate

This afternoon, we received a press release from Alterra announcing the extension of the cheapest price for the 20/21 Ikon Pass to May 26th, 2020. Ikon has dropped the current renewal price for both the base ($649 to $599) and full ($899 to $799) passes, doubling the initial discount.

Ikon Allows 20/21 Season Passholders to Defer to 21/22

This evening, we received an email from Ikon alerting passholders that all 20/21 season passes will now have “Adventure Assurance” to defer the use of their pass until the 21/22 season. This insurance will be valid regardless of when the pass is purchased.

Vail Resorts Announces Epic Pass Refund Policies, Pass Renewal Credits

This morning, we received an email from Vail Resorts about a number of updates for 20/21 Epic Pass products, including benefits for renewing passholders. All passes will now come with “Epic Coverage”, which will provide refunds for “any portion of the season that is lost” in the event of COVID-19 resort closures. This coverage will also provide insurance on the pass for job loss, injuries, or other personal matters.

Ikon Extends 20/21 Pass Discounts to June 16

Alterra put out a press release this morning announcing an extension of discounted Ikon Pass prices and renewal discounts until June 16. Prices will go up on June 17.

Magic Mountain

This modestly-sized mountain doesn’t have the refinement to compete with the destinations, but it’s hard to beat for the challenge and value in southern Vermont.

Bolton Valley

This Vermont mountain is too small and undeveloped to compete with the state’s most popular destinations, but its combination of local, uncrowded slopes and strong natural snowfall may do the trick for some.

Bromley

While much smaller and less diverse than Vermont’s major destinations, this local-feeling hill will satisfy families thanks to easy navigation and low crowds.

Mount Snow

This popular resort delivers a lot for southern Vermont but struggles to handle crowds in some areas.

Okemo

This family-friendly mountain boasts modern lifts and a wide variety of groomers, but expert terrain is lacking. Crowding has gotten worse in recent seasons.

Smugglers' Notch

Ancient lifts and lackluster resiliency measures hold back a staple of the northern Vermont skiing scene.

Pico

This central Vermont mountain gets overshadowed by bigger competitors, but it offers decent terrain and an escape from the crowds.

Stratton

This southern Vermont mountain delivers an ideal family experience thanks to excellent grooming and easy navigation, but you’ll be giving up some snow and terrain quality for the location.

Sugarbush

This charming Vermont resort offers diverse, demanding terrain and a local feel. However, the best expert runs aren’t always o

Jay Peak

Vermont’s northernmost resort offers class-leading snow and expert terrain, but resiliency issues hurt it against more convenient competitors.

Stowe

Despite a few logistical flaws, this classic Vermont resort holds its own against the best on the East Coast.

Killington

Size, snow quality, and terrain diversity make this East Coast mountain incredibly appealing, but navigation could be easier.

Mad River Glen

With very limited snowmaking and a ban on snowboarders, this small Vermont mountain is about as raw as it gets for the Northeast.