What the Epic Pass senior discount is

Epic Pass is a season pass sold by Vail Resorts that covers skiing and snowboarding at nine mountains in North America. Vail Resorts offers a reduced rate for people 65 and older, though the exact price and terms change each season. The senior rate is typically lower than the standard adult rate, but you pay upfront for the full season rather than buying day passes.

The pass gives you unlimited skiing and riding at all nine mountains for the entire season, which usually runs from November through early April. You do not need to reserve days in advance — you straightforward show up with your pass. The senior discount applies whether you buy the pass in summer, fall, or during the season itself, though prices tend to rise as the season approaches.

Key Takeaways

  • The Epic Pass senior rate is available to people 65 and older and covers unlimited skiing at all nine Vail Resorts mountains for one full season.
  • You must purchase the pass before the season ends; it does not roll over to the next year, and you cannot get a refund once the season has started.
  • The senior price varies by season and is typically announced in summer; buying earlier in the season is usually cheaper than buying closer to opening day.
  • You will need to show photo ID at the ticket window the first time you use your pass to confirm your age and set up it.
  • The pass covers only lift access; it does not include lessons, rentals, food, or parking, though some mountains offer discounts on those services to pass holders.

Which mountains are included in the Epic Pass

The nine mountains covered by the Epic Pass are Vail, Beaver Creek, Breckenridge, and Keystone in Colorado; Park City in Utah; Heavenly in California and Nevada; Northstar in California; and Whistler Blackcomb in British Columbia. Each mountain operates independently and has different terrain, elevation, and snow conditions, so the pass gives you the option to ski different resorts throughout the season.

If you live near one of these mountains, the pass may pay for itself in just a few days of skiing. If you live far from all of them, you would need to factor in travel costs — lodging, gas or airfare, and meals — to decide whether a season pass makes financial sense for you.

How much the senior Epic Pass costs

Vail Resorts does not publish a fixed price; the senior rate changes each season and is set by the company. The price also depends on when you buy: passes purchased in summer are cheaper than passes purchased in fall, and passes purchased after the season opens are more expensive still. Some years the company offers limited-time discounts or bundles, particularly in September and October.

To find the current senior price, visit the Vail Resorts website directly or call the Epic Pass sales line. Prices are typically announced in June or July for the upcoming season. If you bought a pass in a previous year, that price does not carry forward — you will pay the new season's rate.

How to buy the Epic Pass as a senior

You can purchase the pass online through the Vail Resorts website, by phone, or in person at any of the nine mountains. Online purchase is usually the fastest option. You will need to create an account, enter your birthdate to confirm you are 65 or older, and provide payment information. The pass is then mailed to you or made available for pickup at a mountain ticket window.

When you arrive at a mountain to ski for the first time, bring a photo ID with your birthdate. The ticket window staff will scan your ID to set up your pass and link it to your account. After that, you can straightforward scan your pass at the lift each day. If you lose your pass, you can request a replacement through your online account, though there may be a fee.

What is not covered by the Epic Pass

The pass covers only lift access — the right to ride the chairlifts and gondolas to the top of the mountain. It does not include ski or snowboard rentals, lessons, food and beverages, parking, or lodging. Some mountains offer discounts on rentals and lessons to pass holders, but you pay separately for those services.

The pass also does not cover terrain parks or special events that charge an additional fee. If you plan to take lessons or rent equipment regularly, factor those costs into your decision. Many ski resorts offer package deals that bundle lessons and rentals at a discount, which you can purchase separately from your pass.

Refunds and what happens if you cannot use your pass

Vail Resorts does not offer refunds once the season has started, even if you become injured or unable to ski. If you purchase a pass and then decide not to use it before the season opens, you may be able to return it for a refund within a certain window — typically 14 to 30 days from purchase, depending on the year. Check the terms on the Vail Resorts website when you buy.

If you own a pass and become unable to use it mid-season due to injury or illness, Vail Resorts does not have a standard policy for pausing or refunding the remainder. Some people have had success contacting customer service to request an exception, but there is no may provide. It is worth asking, but do not count on it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to show my ID every time I ski?

No. You show your photo ID only the first time you use your pass at a mountain to set up it. After that, you straightforward scan your pass at the lift each day. The pass is linked to your account, so the system knows you are authorized to use it.

Can I buy an Epic Pass as a gift for someone 65 or older?

Yes, but the recipient will need to show photo ID at the mountain the first time they use it to confirm their age. The pass is then activated under their name. You can purchase it online and have it mailed to them or to yourself, then give it to them as a gift.

What if I turn 65 during the season?

You can purchase a senior pass once you turn 65, even if the season is already underway. The price will be higher than if you had bought it before the season opened, but you will still get the senior rate. Bring your ID to the mountain when you first use it.

Is there a difference between the senior Epic Pass and the regular adult pass besides price?

No. Both passes cover the same mountains, the same terrain, and the same season. The only difference is the price — seniors pay less. You get the same access and benefits as any other pass holder.

Can I use my Epic Pass on days when the mountain is closed?

No. Your pass is only valid when the mountain is open to the public. Most mountains are closed one or two days per week for maintenance, and all mountains close at the end of the season. You cannot ski on days the mountain is not operating.