Epic vs. Ikon 2026: The North American Edit
Image courtesy of The Little Nell
Ski season has a way of sneaking up on people. One minute it’s still warm enough to pretend you’ll plan later, and the next, you’re staring at sold-out hotels and lift tickets that cost more than your boots.
Booking early matters, especially if you want the right mountain and a hotel that actually makes ski days feel easy.
Below is my practical guide to where to ski on the Epic and Ikon passes, and just as importantly, where to stay nearby. I’m covering Canada, Utah, Colorado, Lake Tahoe, Vermont, and a few quieter standouts that are worth knowing about before everyone else catches on.
No matter which pass you choose, the smartest move is locking in your lodging first. I only book refundable rates for my clients. If prices drop, we rebook. If plans change, you’re not stuck. And if a hotel isn’t the right fit, I can just as easily arrange a great condo or private home with proper support. Ski trips have a lot of moving parts; my job is to make sure you’re thinking about snow conditions and après plans, not logistics.
Do you actually need a ski pass?
If you’re skiing more than four days, yes. A season pass is almost always more economical than buying day tickets as you go. The bigger decision is which pass makes sense for how and where you want to ski.
Epic and Ikon both cover an impressive number of mountains across North America. What matters more than geography is the specific resort. Epic leans heavier in Colorado, while Ikon has a slight edge in Utah. Both have blackout dates, so timing matters. If you’re planning a holiday trip, this is where people get tripped up.
There are also local and limited-day passes that cost less and work well if your plans are more contained.
The Best Luxury Resorts on the Epic Pass
Whistler Blackcomb, British Columbia
Image courtesy of Fairmont Château Whistler
Two mountains, huge terrain variety, and one of the best ski schools anywhere. It’s about two hours from Vancouver and surprisingly easy to reach from the West Coast. This is a great option for mixed-ability groups.
Where to Stay in Whistler:
Four Seasons Resort Whistler: Sits at the base of Blackcomb and does alpine comfort extremely well. Think fireplaces, mountain views, a strong spa, and a heated pool that earns its keep at the end of the day.
Fairmont Château Whistler: The classic option. Ski-in, ski-out access with a little old-world drama and a lively après scene that keeps things fun without feeling chaotic.
Park City, Utah
The largest ski area in the U.S. and one of the easiest to plan. Terrain is unlimited on the Epic Local Pass (outside of a few holiday dates). There are two bases: Park City proper is charming and walkable; Canyons is excellent for ski school and slope-side convenience.
Where to Stay in Park City:
Pendry Park City: Delivers modern design, ski-in/ski-out access, a rooftop pool, and multiple dining options that work for families and groups.
Waldorf Astoria Park City: Has its own gondola, a strong ski valet setup, and a very good spa. It’s polished without being stuffy.
Vail and Telluride, Colorado
Image courtesy of Sonnenalp
If Vail is on your list, Epic is the better pass. The terrain is varied and the village is lively, though it can feel busy during peak weeks. Telluride is included as a limited partner and is worth the effort if you want something more scenic and European in feel.
Where to Stay in Vail:
Sonnenalp: Family-run, cozy, and right in the center of town. It feels like a Bavarian lodge in the Rockies.
Four Seasons Vail: A short walk from the village and excels at comfort. Big rooms, fireplaces, a great spa, and a dependable après scene.
The Sebastian: More playful and social, with a slope-side ski valet and a buzzy bar.
The Arrabelle: Sits right at Vail Square and leans into classic alpine style with ski valet service and rooftop hot tubs.
Where to Stay in Telluride:
Madeline Hotel and Residences: Offers ski-in, ski-out access with Auberge’s signature polish. Stylish, well-located, and easy to love.
Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada
Heavenly has the views. Northstar is excellent for families and ski school. Kirkwood is quieter, more old-school, and part of the appeal. One of Epic’s advantages here is being able to move between mountains without changing bases.
Where to Stay in Tahoe:
Edgewood Tahoe Resort: Sits right on the lake and manages to feel both cozy and glamorous.
The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe: Mid-mountain at Northstar with true ski-in, ski-out access, fire pits, and a very good spa.
Stowe, Vermont
Shorter runs, a relaxed pace, and a real town feel. It’s a good choice if you want strong skiing without the scale of the West.
Where to Stay in Stowe:
The Lodge at Spruce Peak: Offers slope-side access, ski valet, a spa, and residences that make longer stays easy.
The Best Luxury Resorts on the Ikon Pass
Banff and Lake Louise, Canada
SkiBig3 covers Banff Sunshine, Lake Louise, and Mt. Norquay inside Banff National Park. The terrain is vast and the scenery is almost distracting. Tremblant, on the eastern side of Canada, has a European feel and works well for all levels.
Where to Stay in Banff & Lake Louise:
Fairmont Château Lake Louise: Iconic for a reason. Lake views, castle energy, and peak winter romance.
Post Hotel and Spa: Smaller, cozier, and known for its wine program and fireside dining.
Fairmont Tremblant: Sits right at the base with easy access and a resort-style spa.
Deer Valley, Utah
Image Courtesy of the St. Regis Deer Valley
Known for immaculate grooming, excellent ski school, and a calmer, more refined experience. It’s especially good for families and skiers who prefer cruisers.
Where to Stay in Deer Valley:
St. Regis Deer Valley: Offers ski-in, ski-out access, sweeping views, and classic après rituals.
Montage Deer Valley: Ideal for families and groups, with residences and strong kids' programming.
Goldener Hirsch: Blends Austrian chalet style with boutique charm and ski-in, ski-out ease.
Aspen Snowmass, Colorado
Image courtesy of The Little Nell
Seven days on Ikon, plus plenty to do off the slopes. Aspen works well for groups with mixed interests and strong après energy.
Where to Stay in Aspen:
Hotel Jerome: Mixes history with modern style and remains Aspen’s social anchor.
MOLLIE Aspen: Clean-lined, modern, and right in town with thoughtful amenities.
The Little Nell: Aspen’s only ski-in, ski-out hotel and still sets the standard.
Jackson Hole, Wyoming
Seven days is just right here. Big terrain, serious skiing, and a lively village that balances rugged and refined.
Where to Stay in Jackson Hole:
Four Seasons Jackson Hole: Sits at the base with oversized rooms, fireplaces, a heated pool, and one of the best après scenes in the village.
Hotel Terra: A more contemporary option with rooftop hot tubs and a strong location.
Big Sky, Montana
Image Courtesy of Montage Big Sky
Recently upgraded with fast lifts and major infrastructure improvements. It feels expansive, uncrowded, and quietly impressive.
Where to Stay in Big Sky:
Montage Big Sky: Offers ski-in, ski-out access, a full spa, and an easygoing après setup that works beautifully for longer stays.
The Wilson: Right in town and more approachable, with modern rooms and walkable access to shops and restaurants.
Bonus: Taos, New Mexico
Distinctive terrain, fewer crowds, and excellent Southwestern food. It’s a refreshing alternative if you want something different.
Where to Stay in Taos:
The Blake at Taos Ski Valley: Slope-side, colorful, and cozy, with a spa and hot tubs that earn their place.
Ready to book your 2026 ski trip?
If you’re planning a ski trip this season, the biggest favor you can do for yourself is start early. The right mountain paired with the right hotel changes everything.
Start planning and unlock exclusive perks like resort credits and room upgrades. We book these properties all the time and can match you with the spot that actually fits how you travel. If you prefer to double check our credentials, you can peek at my Fora advisor page or Virtuoso profile and read our Testimonials. Either way, we’ll take care of the details so you can focus on the fun.
