Skiing has often been associated with affluence, especially since its early 20th-century introduction to North America. Traditionally, the sport was accessible mainly to those who could afford costly trips to renowned destinations such as Colorado, Idaho, and New England. This trend continues today, with skiing expenses having increased significantly over time.
According to Snowsports Industries America's annual participation study for the 2022-23 ski season, nearly half of all skiers had an income exceeding $100,000. Skiers on a budget face high costs at popular resorts like Vail in Colorado or Jackson Hole in Wyoming, where daily expenses can approach $300 per person. Additional costs for lodging, food, travel, and gear rentals make skiing financially challenging for many.
To mitigate these expenses, some ski resorts offer discounts for advance purchases of season passes or day tickets. The Epic and Ikon passes provide unlimited access to their respective resorts at reduced rates if bought early. The Epic Pass offers options like the Northeast Value Pass for $626 until October 9th. Other alternatives include the Indy Pass and Mountain Collective pass.
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