However, these high-end resorts offer some of the best overall experiences in North America.
Jackson Hole ties for 2nd in our rankings, while Telluride ties for 6th.
A major Epic advantage is unlimited access to a significantly higher number of resorts.
Unlike Ikon, the Epic Pass covers several local, regional mountains in addition to destination resorts.
Ikon does hold an advantage over Epic in a few regions.
However, this picture isnt quite as straightforward for certain age groups.
For those over the age of 23, prices for Epic are substantially cheaper.
A full adult Epic Pass is currently $783, while a full adult Ikon Pass is $999.
The lower-tier Epic Local Pass is $583, while the Ikon Base Pass is currently $729.
However, teens and young adults may actually find better value in the Ikon Pass.
Consequently, 19-to-22-year-olds will save $24 to $44 on an Ikon purchase over Epic.
At $527, Epics Local College Pass slightly undercuts the Ikon Base Passs $549 college rate.
Epic offers substantially better military deals than Ikon.
These passes offer unlimited access to Vail-owned resorts but do not include partner mountains.
However, Ikon offers their same discounted rate for nurses, whereas Epic does not.
For those who cant afford to pay in full now, both passes offer a payment plan.
However, Ikons payment plan now runs through Affirm, and going this route requires a soft credit check.
Renewal Discounts
Ikon has announced renewal discounts for last seasons passholders.
Epic has foregone any renewal discount in favor of their 20% price cut.
While these prices still dont match Epics, they go a long way to closing the gap.
Ikons coverage kicks in after one day.
The deadline to request a deferral is December 9, 2021.
Epic has no proactive deferment or refund policies.
Additionally, it’s possible for you to always defer to 2022-23 if you change your mind.
