Eastern backcountry skiing and riding brings snow-globe-like experiences among the Greens, Adirondacks, and more. After a storm, a frosting covers the trees as the sun breaks over the mountains, and on the skin up, you can dream up lines on the untouched surface. When I get to the top, it’s a sweet relief to transition, point it, and savor those turns.
But backcountry adventures are weather-dependent, and getting out there isn’t always the best option. Mid-winter ice storms, tired legs, and even avalanche danger can put a dent in even the best plans. What do you do when you still want to get in those turns?
Enter the Epic Day Pass. For skiers like you and me, it offers a flexible, affordable way to complement your backcountry adventures with lift access at top Eastern resorts. Read on for more details.
The ups and downs of skiing and riding the East
At my home mountain, Stowe Mountain Resort, I’ve seen some of the most beautiful sights in my life. On a clear morning, the sun rises over the Green Mountains, clouds hang in the atmosphere, and snow covers the surroundings. It’s perfect. However, I’ve also experienced the opposite: high winds and ice storms create a tempest, forcing me to stay inside and wait it out.
When I step through the resort boundary at Stowe, I want conditions to be near-perfect on the hike to the Chin—the highest point in Vermont. I want a clear day, good quality snow, and fresh legs. Anything less jeopardizes safety and creates something to endure rather than enjoy. When there’s driving snow or I’m worn down from days on the mountain, I stick to the resort, where the Mount Mansfield Ski Patrol—America’s oldest— keeps watch.
With that in mind, hitting the Eastern backcountry doesn’t always make sense. Skinning up in the rain or working for turns down old, hardened snow isn’t too enticing. Add in tired legs or avalanche danger, and taking lift-accessed runs through patrolled terrain is the better option. It’s not only safer but also provides a fun, relaxing day. That can give a mental and physical break from demanding off-piste adventures, helping to recharge before the next excursion.
How the Epic Day Pass can supplement backcountry adventures
The Epic Day Pass complements your backcountry forays with access to top Eastern resorts. The best part? You don’t have to purchase a full season pass but can enjoy similar benefits. Here’s how it works.
According to Courtney DiFiore, Vail Resorts senior communications manager, Northeast, with the pass, you can ski or ride top eastern resorts like Stowe, Okemo, and Hunter for as little as $76 per day. You can also visit charming New Hampshire spots like Wildcat or Sunapee for as low as $47 per day. The Epic Day Pass provides up to 65% savings compared to lift tickets.
You can also pick how many days you want—from one to seven—and hit the slopes at your preferred time. It’s like having a customized multi-day pass, letting you ski or ride when the mood strikes.
Epic Mountain Reward Discounts sweeten the deal, offering 20% off group ski and ride lessons, on-mountain food and beverage, lodging, equipment rentals, and more for the entire season.
Epic Day Pass: Recharge at the resort
Backcountry skiing and riding require commitment. They are physical challenges that push your muscles and cardio to the limit. You need to monitor conditions to ensure safety, and weather can make the difference between good times and simply surviving. The Epic Day Pass offers insurance for uphill enthusiasts, offering plenty of resort time when off-piste isn’t ideal.
Resort days can also provide easy turns and time with friends. One of my favorite trails at Stowe, Lord, offers endless corduroy under the rising sun, letting me unwind turn after turn. In contrast to uphill travel’s intense workout, groomer runs are an easy respite, and if I need to take a break or grab lunch, the Octagon Café is always waiting.
Another consideration is social time with fellow skiers and riders. Not everyone’s a backcountry enthusiast, and having resort access lets you join friends for a day on the mountain. And though earning your turns is admirable, there’s nothing like a high-speed quad to whisk you up.
The Epic Day Pass is on sale now for Winter 25/26, with customizable dates, resorts, and days. The best deal is available until April 13 and includes 10 buddy tickets. You can select access to all resorts, or to 32 for $100 less, or 22 for $231 less. Pick from one to seven days—the more you buy, the lower the daily cost.
These benefits offer Eastern backcountry skiers and riders a balance between exploring and enjoying. Get out the skins or splitboard on a powder morning and hit your favorite backcountry spot. On other days, join friends for some resort laps and good times.
