Gen Z, you have one advantage in this world and it’s a ski pass

While every generation faces its own set of hurdles, Gen Z and millennials are at a greater disadvantage due to weak wage gains and debt. However, there is one advantage to youth, and that is the youthful discounts to hitting the slopes.

Vail Resorts just announced a major shift to make the mountains more accessible for the next generation during the 2026/27 season with an Epic Pass. If you’ve been holding off because of the cost, you’re in luck.

Those from the ages 13 through 30 get 20% off at one of their 90 resorts, including Whistler Blackcomb, Vail, Park City, and Breckenridge, as well as Hakuba Valley in Japan, Verbier 4 Vallées in Switzerland, and more iconic destinations across Europe and Australia.

Epic Pass

Epic Pass

• Epic Pass ($869): This gives you unlimited, unrestricted access to 42 owned resorts (like Vail, Whistler Blackcomb, and Park City) plus access to more than 90 partner resorts worldwide.
• Epic Local Pass ($649): A great mid-tier option that offers incredible value with some holiday restrictions at select mountains.
• The “Lift Ticket” Credit: If you rode at a Vail resort during the 2025/26 season using a standard lift ticket, you can save an additional $175 off your 2026/27 pass.

For a young traveler who qualifies for both the age discount and the lift ticket credit, you could get an Epic Local Pass for as low as $474. Your pass access also provides benefits at 20% off for on-mountain dining, lodging, group lessons and gear rentals.

Plus, if you buy early, you get 10 vouchers to help your crew get 50% off their daily lift tickets.

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