On Thursday (14 March) skiers and riders can start their 24/25 winter adventures and seek the unique at 58 global destinations across the Americas, Europe, Australia, New Zealand, and Japan, when Ikon Pass goes on sale for the 24/25 season.
Ahead of this you can start planning your next winter adventure now with news of the latest resort expansions, hotels and more across a selection of resorts…
North America
Family fun at Crystal Mountain, Seattle
Soon to be available with no blackout days on Ikon Pass, Crystal Mountain is located on the northeast corner of Mt. Rainier National Park. An hour-and-a-half drive from Seattle, the family-friendly resort stands as Washington’s largest ski resort and spans across 2,000 acres of terrain, boasting an impressive array of runs. The resort recently announced plans to invest $100 million in infrastructure starting with the redevelopment of base area facilities such as Mountain Commons, a new 25,000-foot lodge. Guests will be able to try out these new facilities at the base lodge area when it opens.
Elevating adventure at Steamboat, Colorado
Recently completing the final stages of a substantial base area redevelopment and on-mountain improvement project, Steamboat now holds the title of Colorado’s second-biggest ski resort and is home to the fastest and longest gondola in North America. Advanced skiers should get excited with the addition of 650 acres of expert terrain including Mahogany Ridge and Fish Creek Canyon. These areas can be accessed through six different gates and offer epic runs with the double black terrain featuring steep cliffs, perfect for the daredevil skier.
Exploring new terrain at Deer Valley, Utah
Situated 36 miles east of Salt Lake City, Deer Valley Resort features spectacular views from Mount Baldy all the way to the glistening Uinta Range. The ski-only resort is undergoing a transformation as part of its ‘Expanded Excellence’ redevelopment project which will add 3,700 acres of new terrain. A new base village and portal, Deer Valley East Village will also be revealed creating an additional entry. A Grand Hyatt is also coming to Deer Valley; slated to open in late 2024 it will offer over 800 hotel rooms, a heated pool and panoramic mountain views from an outdoor terrace.
Ski into summer at Mammoth Mountain, California
Perched at an elevation of 11,053 feet, Mammoth Mountain in California claims the title of the highest chairlift-serviced peak in the state. Beyond its diverse terrain and exceptional powder, it boasts unparalleled vistas of the Sierra Nevada extending into Yosemite National Park. With 11 renowned Unbound Terrain Parks and 3,500 acres of skiable terrain, this premier resort attracts numerous professional skiers and riders. Thanks to extraordinary snowfall, the resort extended its operations into August last year, allowing Ikon Pass holders to enjoy skiing well into the summer months.
Australia
Ski down under at Thredbo, Australia
Nestled in the heart of the Snowy Mountains in New South Wales, you’ll find Thredbo, Australia’s beloved ski resort. This acclaimed destination boasts the country’s longest ski runs and offers a diverse range of terrain, including expansive slopes and thrilling powder bowls suitable for all skill levels. Situated at an altitude of 1,365 metres above sea level, the charming alpine village of Thredbo provides all the amenities you could ask for, including lodges, cafes, restaurants, hotels, and bars, all conveniently clustered within walking distance of each other and the slopes. Indulge in a plethora of winter activities both on and off the mountain, such as backcountry tours, captivating flare runs accompanied by fireworks every Saturday night, exclusive snowcat dinners, and a unique sunrise dining experience at Australia’s highest elevated point.
Europe
Enjoy iconic views at Zermatt Matterhorn
For those with a short-haul trip in mind, head over to Zermatt Matterhorn which borders Switzerland and Italy to get your dose of the alps with 3,500 acres of terrain including the highest lift-served terrain in Europe. Enjoy running in the Sunnegga-Rothorn area with views of the iconic Matterhorn and enjoy the vibrant town of Zermatt afterwards. The town has a great foodie scene and strong farm-to-table ethos, with locally sourced produce supplied by most of the local restaurants. Tuck into some Zermatter cheese or try some Raclette after a long day on the snow.
South America
Hitting the slopes in the Southern Hemisphere at Valle Nevado, Chile
Located 90 minutes East of Santiago at an elevation of 10,000 feet in the Andean Mountains, Valle Nevado is Chile’s premier ski resort, offering the largest amount of terrain and the most modern lift system in the Southern Hemisphere. Spread along the spine of a dramatic mountain ridge, the resort is perfect for travellers looking for some summer skiing and snowboarding. The resort is renowned for its wide-open terrain, world-class heli-skiing opportunities and, due to its high altitude, incredible snow conditions.
Categories: America, News, Resort News & Reports, Switzerland