Sam Handy
- May 28, 2020
- 16 min read

The Latest on Ski Resort Responses to COVID-19

Updated: Jun 9, 2020

Covid-19 cut the 2019/20 ski season short. With continued uncertainty surrounding next season, many resorts have announced changes to accommodate guests and provide protection for pass purchases this spring and into the 2020-21 season. Here’s a breakdown of the latest updates from each resort in the Avant Ski network.

Mountains are grouped by state/region, and then listed alphabetically. We’ll be adding mountains and updating information as it becomes available, so be sure to check back regularly. Can’t find what you’re looking for? Shoot us a message at hello@theavantski.com and we’ll update the blog with your requested resort!

For the latest on multi-resort season passes check out our Season Pass Update blog here.

Last Updated: June 4

Quick Hits on Resorts Reopening for Late Season Skiing and Uphill Access:

Arapahoe Basin reopened for skiing and riding with limited access on May 27. The resort was open for 12 days and closed for the season on June 7 due to lack of snow. See below for full details.
Vail Resorts has announced that it will not be reopening any of its resorts for spring skiing. Vail had previously alluded to the possible reopening Breckenridge Ski Resort in Colorado, Heavenly Mountain Resort in Lake Tahoe and Whistler Blackcomb in British Columbia.
Crystal Mountain reopened for skiing and riding with limited access on June 1st but closed on June 8 due to warmer temperatures and low snow coverage. The week was a success. Reservations were required and gondola loading proceeded during scheduled hourly time slots. Full details here.
Oregon ski areas have been given the green light to reopen, with stringent guidelines in place. Timberline is open and accepting reservations 24 hours in advance. Mt Bachelor reopened for skiing from May 16th – May 24th, and plans to reopen for summer activities soon.
Montana's Beartooth Basin Summer Ski Area opened on June 1 to residents of Montana and Wyoming only. They are limiting access to 80 riders/day plus scheduled teams. They plan to remain open June 1 - July 5, snow and weather permitting. Updates on access and conditions can be found on their facebook page.
Mt Baldy, in California, became the first resort in the nation to reopen on April 22nd, but transitioned to summer operations on May 12th.
Uphill Access: A few resorts are still open for uphill access only, conditions permitting. Selected resorts include Aspen Snowmass, Alta, Snowbird, Snowbasin, and Telluride

California

Mammoth Mountain

Opening Status: Mammoth Mountain suspended all operations on March 14th. At this time, there is no estimated reopening date for any activities at Mammoth.

Refund Policy: Full refunds are being offered for reservations made after the March 14th closing date. Those seeking reimbursement for reservations made directly with the resort during the current closure can send a reimbursement request to 800Mammoth@MammothResorts.com. Pass Program: Mammoth has announced that any unused days on the Quad Pack+ plus pass can be rolled over to the 20/21 season.

Mammoth is also a member of the Ikon Pass and Mountain Collective. For the latest updates on these passes, click here.

Canada

Whistler Blackcomb

Opening Status: On May 21st, Vail Resorts confirmed that Whistler Blackcomb would not reopen for skiing this season.

Vail originally suspended operations at all of its North American resorts on March 15th. Vail then announced it would be closing all of its resorts for the remainder of the season on March 17th. Vail's full closing statement can be found here.

Refund Policy: Refunds and credits for 2019/20 pre-purchased lift tickets, lodging, ski and ride school, equipment rentals and more that were unable to be used due to the unexpected winter season closure are available, subject to applicable terms and conditions. Guests may submit a refund / credit request for mountain products that were for dates following the closure of Vail’s North American resorts using this online form.

Pass Program: On April 27th, Vail announced sweeping changes to their Epic Pass policies, including a variable credit (between 20-80%, depending on number of days skied) and “Epic Coverage” – a built-in insurance policy for the 20/21 season. For a full breakdown of the updated Epic Pass policies, click here.

Colorado

Arapahoe Basin

Opening Status: On June 7 Arapahoe Basin closed for the season after reopening for 12 days due to lack of snow. This was a bit disappointing as last year they made it until July 4. The reopening was a success and all 600 spots were filled daily, though there were only 20 runs open at the start due to the snow base.

On May 27th, Arapahoe Basin reopened for skiing with limited access. The daily total number of skiers and riders allowed into the resort will be 600, and customers must reserve a spot in advance. 30 spots will be open for regular lift ticket purchase, while the remaining 570 will be reserved for pass holders (this includes A-Basin Passes, the Ikon Pass, and other passes with reciprocal days at A-Basin).

Due to overwhelming demand, those who wish to make a reservation must enter a lottery. Entry to the lottery opens at 7:00 pm (MDT) two days prior to the desired day of skiing, and can be accessed on the A-Basin website. The drawing is random, and will occur the day before the desired reservation day. For full details and to enter the daily drawing, click here.

Refund Policy: Arapahoe Basin is offering refunds for all unused single or two-day lift tickets and any unused days on season passes will be rolled over to next season. For full details on refunds and credits, click here.

Pass Program: Arapahoe Basin is also a member of the Ikon Pass and Mountain Collective. For the latest updates on these passes, click here.

Aspen Snowmass

Opening Status: On May 11th, Aspen Snowmass announced that they are closing for the winter season. ApsenSnowmass remains open for uphill access, though with the warmer weather is recommending limiting uphilling to the morning hours.

Refund Policy: The resort is offering full refunds on all unused lift tickets, ski/snowboard lessons, equipment rentals, and other activity bookings. Any unused days on season passes can be transferred to next season. For a full breakdown of available refunds, click here.

Pass Program: The resort has extended their deadline for early bird pricing on next year’s season pass to July 15th. Passes can be locked in with a $99 deposit, with the balance due September 1st. All deposits/unused season passes are fully refundable through November 20th. The Premier Pass offers unlimited skiing and riding at all 4 mountains of Aspen Snowmass, and the Adult, Senior, and Chamber passes include a complimentary Ikon Base Pass. For full details on season pass options, click here.

Aspen Snowmass is also a member of the Ikon Pass and Mountain Collective. For the latest updates on these passes, click here. For the 2020/21 season, Aspen is included in the Ikon Pass, but is a $150 add-on for the Ikon Base Pass.

Crested Butte

Opening Status: On March 17th, Vail Resorts announced that their North American resorts (including Crested Butte) would remain closed for the remainder of the season. Vail originally suspended operations at all of its resorts on March 15th. Vail's full closing statement can be found here.

Keystone

Opening Status: Another Vail Resort, Keystone officially closed for the season on March 17th. Vail originally suspended operations at all of its resorts on March 15th. Vail's full closing statement can be found here.

Steamboat

Opening Status: Due to state and local guidelines, Steamboat will remain closed through at least May 31st. The resort has not yet announced any plan to reopen this season.

Refund Policy: Steamboat is working with customers on a case-by-case basis to issue refunds for unused lodging, lift tickets, and more. Those interested in inquiring about refunds should contact the resort at traveldesk@steamboat.com.

Pass Program: Steamboat is an Ikon Pass member - full details on Ikon Pass updates can be found here.

Vail

Opening Status: Vail officially closed for the season on March 17th. Vail Resorts originally suspended operations at all of its resorts on March 15th. Vail's full closing statement can be found here.

Montana

Big Sky

Opening Status: On March 15th, Big Sky announced the decision to suspend operations indefinitely.

Refund Policy: Due to the early closure of the resort, Big Sky has relaxed its cancellation and refund policies. Guests looking for a refund for lodging, lift tickets, lessons, etc. can contact the resort at mountainservices@bigskyresort.com.

Pass Program: Big Sky has announced a host of changes to next season’s season pass offerings. In addition to new pass options, Big Sky has introduced its Worry-Free Winter Assurance Plan – committing to at least 140 days of skiing next season. If that number is not reached, pass holders will receive a credit towards their 2021/22 season pass. In addition, all season passes can be rolled over to 2021/22 for any reason at all until December 10th.

Big Sky is also a member of the Ikon and Mountain Collective Passes. Full details on updates to those passes can be found here.

New Mexico

Taos Ski Valley

Opening Status: Like many other resorts, Taos closed for the remainder of the winter season on March 15th. They have stated they will communicate their reopening plans only once restrictions have been lifted by the governor of New Mexico.

Refund Policy: Taos is offering full refunds for any reservations that fell after the March 15th closing date. Guests who are seeking a refund can email support@skitaos.com.

Pass Program: Taos has not yet announced a plan to refund or credit season pass holders, but has promised that plans are in the works.

Taos is also a member of the Ikon Pass and Mountain Collective. For the latest updates on these passes, click here.

Northeast (Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont)

Loon Mountain

Opening Status: Loon suspended all mountain operations on March 15th and has not announced any plan to reopen this season.

Refund Policy: Any guests who made reservations of any kind for after the March 15th closing date will automatically receive refunds in full.

Pass Program: There have not yet been any announcements regarding refunds or credit for season passes, but unused days on the XL Card, New England 5-Day, and Flex 5-Day Packs will be usable until December 24th, 2020.

As a member of the New England Pass, Loon (along with Sunday River and Sugarloaf) has introduced a Worry-Free Winter Assurance Program. Each resort has committed to 150 days of skiing next season. Should any of the resorts fall short of that number, pass holders will receive a credit towards a 2021/22 pass. In addition, unused 2020/21 passes can be rolled over to 2021/22 at any time prior to December 10th. For the full details on the updated New England Pass, click here.

Loon is also a member of the Ikon Pass. For the latest updates on the Ikon Pass, click here.

Killington

Opening Status: On May 18th, Killington announced that they would not be reopening for skiing and riding this season. Killington originally suspended all resort operations indefinitely on March 14th, but had hoped to reopen before the end of the season.

Refund Policy: Killington has offered a strong response to their suspended operations, extending automatic refunds for all reservations made during their shutdown. They have also offered vouchers of up to $150 for all season pass holders to use towards next season’s pass.

Pass Program: In addition to issuing vouchers to existing pass holders, Killington has extended their “best price” deadline to July 15th, introduced a three-installment payment plan, and implemented pass insurance in the form of a full refund any time before November 20th.

For a full breakdown on refunds, vouchers, and season pass details, click here.

Killington is also a member of the Ikon Pass. For the latest updates on the Ikon Pass, click here.

Okemo

Opening Status: Okemo officially closed for the season on March 17th. Vail Resorts originally suspended operations at all of its resorts on March 15th. Vail's full closing statement can be found here.

Stowe

Opening Status: Stowe officially closed for the season on March 17th. Vail Resorts originally suspended operations at all of its resorts on March 15th. Vail's full closing statement can be found here.

Stratton

Opening Status: An Alterra Resort, Stratton suspended all mountain operations on March 15th and officially closed for the season on March 26th following Governor Phillip Scott’s stay-at-home order.

Refund Policy: Stratton is offering refunds for any reservations made post-March 15. Any guests seeking a refund should email feedback@stratton.com.

Pass Program: Stratton has not yet announced any plan to offer season pass refunds or credits. They have announced renewal discounts of up to $50 and have introduced season pass assurance in the form of a deferral option. 2020/21 season passes can be deferred to the 2021/22 season any time until December 10th.

Stratton is also a member of the Ikon Pass. For the latest updates on the Ikon Pass, click here.

Sugarbush

Opening Status: In accordance with parent company Alterra, Sugarbush indefinitely suspended operations on March 15th.

Refund Policy: Sugarbush has automatically refunded any reservations made after their March 15th closing date.

Pass Program: As an Alterra Resort, Sugarbush’s season pass policies go hand-in-hand with those of the Ikon Pass. There have been no refunds issued, but renewal discounts have been increased to up to $200.

As Sugarbush was just sold to Alterra in January, next year’s Ikon Pass will include, for the first time, unlimited access to Sugarbush. Ikon has extended the early pricing deadline to May 27th.

For a full breakdown on the latest updates from Ikon, click here.

Sugarloaf

Opening Status: Sugarloaf suspended all mountain operations on March 15th and has not announced any plan to reopen this season.

Refund Policy: Any guests who made reservations of any kind for after the March 15th closing date will automatically receive refunds in full.

Pass Program: There have not yet been any announcements regarding refunds or credit for season passes, but unused days on the New England 5-Day and Elevation Passes will be usable until December 24th, 2020.

As a member of the New England Pass, Sugarloaf (along with Sunday River and Loon) has introduced a Worry-Free Winter Assurance Program. Each resort has committed to 150 days of skiing next season. Should any of the resorts fall short of that number, pass holders will receive a credit towards a 2021/22 pass. In addition, unused 2020/21 passes can be rolled over to 2021/22 at any time prior to December 10th. For the full details on the updated New England Pass, click here.

Sugarloaf is also a member of the Ikon Pass and Mountain Collective. For the latest updates on these passes, click here.

Sunday River

Opening Status: Sunday River suspended all mountain operations on March 15th and has not announced any plan to reopen this season.

Refund Policy: Any guests who made reservations of any kind for after the March 15th closing date will automatically receive refunds in full.

As a member of the New England Pass, Sunday River (along with Sugarloaf and Loon) has introduced a Worry-Free Winter Assurance Program. Each resort has committed to 150 days of skiing next season. Should any of the resorts fall short of that number, pass holders will receive a credit towards a 2021/22 pass. In addition, unused 2020/21 passes can be rolled over to 2021/22 at any time prior to December 10th. For the full details on the updated New England Pass, click here.

Sunday River is also a member of the Ikon Pass. For the latest updates on the Ikon Pass, click here.

Utah

Alta

Opening Status: Alta suspended operations indefinitely on March 15th, but is allowing uphill travel. Backcountry conditions exist, including avalanche danger, unmarked hazards, and severely delayed rescue response.

Refund Policy: Alta has refunded any reservations made after the March 15th closure.

Pass Program: There has not yet been any announcement of refunds for season passes or unused 10-day cards. In a March 27th update, Alta promised an update on season passes by the end of April, but as of May 18th there has been no word. 2020/21 passes are not yet for sale.

Alta is also a member of the Ikon Pass and Mountain Collective. For the latest updates on these passes, click here.

Brighton

Opening Status: Brighton suspended operations indefinitely on March 15th.

Refund Policy: Tickets purchased after the March 15th closing date have been automatically refunded. Guests who have not received a refund should contact tickets@brightonresort.com.

Pass Program: There has not yet been a full announcement regarding season pass credits, but Brighton has indicated that it will offer renewal discounts and a pass assurance program for its 2020/21 season pass. Full information on pricing is forthcoming. For the most up-to-date information on season passes, click here.

Brighton has also announced the ability for Go Card and Ticket Pack holders to rollover unused days to next season. This will happen automatically and no further action is required.

Brighton is also a member of the Ikon Pass. For the latest updates on the Ikon Pass, click here.

Deer Valley Resort

Opening Status: An Alterra Resort, Deer Valley suspended operations indefinitely beginning March 15th.

Refund Policy: Any reservations made after March 15th have been fully refunded.

Pass Program: Deer Valley has not announced any refund or credit for season pass holders, but has introduced renewal discounts of up to 20% for next season’s pass. They have also rolled out “Adventure Assurance” – allowing unused 2020/21 passes to be rolled over to the 2021/22 season. Deferral requests must be made between September 10th and December 10th, 2020. For full details on season pass options, click here.

Deer Valley is also a member of the Ikon Pass. For the latest updates on the Ikon Pass, click here.

Park City Mountain Resort

Opening Status: Park City officially closed for the season on March 17th. Vail Resorts originally suspended operations at all of its resorts on March 15th. Vail's full closing statement can be found here.

Snowbird

Opening Status: Snowbird suspended operations on March 15th and announced the indefinite closure of the mountain on March 21st. Snowbird did reopen for uphill travel only (no facilities are open) on May 16th.

Refund Policy: All reservations made for after the March 15th closing date are eligible for a full refund. Guests who have not yet been refunded can call 1 (800) 453-3000 or email lodging@snowbird.com.

Pass Program: On May 13th, Snowbird introduced its “Passholder Promise”. Based on pass type and number of days skied, 2019/20 pass holders will receive a credit of up to $300 towards next year’s season pass. A full breakdown of credits can be found here.

The second facet of the Passholder Promise is a guaranteed refund – any pass holder who would like a refund for an unused 2020/21 season pass can request one any time up to December 1st.

Finally, Snowbird has extended their best pricing deadline to July 31st and introduced a flexible payment plan – allowing guests to pay for their season pass with equal monthly installments.

For the full details on Snowbird’s Passholder Promise, click here.

Snowbird is also a member of the Ikon Pass and Mountain Collective. For the latest updates on these passes, click here.

Solitude

Opening Status: An Alterra Resort, Solitude suspended operations indefinitely beginning March 15th.

Refund Policy: Any reservations made after March 15th have been fully refunded.

Pass Program: Solitude has not announced any refund or credit for season pass holders, but is offering a renewal discount of $50. Solitude has also rolled out “Adventure Assurance” – allowing unused 2020/21 passes to be rolled over to the 2021/22 season. Deferral requests must be made between September 10th and December 10th, 2020. For full details on season pass options, click here.

Solitude is also a member of the Ikon Pass. For the latest updates on the Ikon Pass, click here.

Wyoming

Jackson Hole Mountain Resort

Opening Status: Jackson Hole Mountain Resort suspended operations indefinitely on March 15th.

Refund Policy: We have been unable to verify JHMR's refund policy for reservations made after their March 15th closing date. Our request for comment has yet to be returned.

Pass Program: While the resort has not offered refunds on 2019/2020 season passes, they have rolled out several renewal benefits.

Returning pass holders are eligible for discounts of up to $210. A full breakdown of season pass pricing and renewal discounts can be found here.

JHMR has also extended Spring pricing deadlines until June 30th. The resort has also introduced a payment plan option, offering passes for 40% down with the balance being paid on October 15th.

Finally, JHMR has introduced a “no questions asked” refund policy which offers a complete refund (minus a $45 administration fee) to pass holders who request one any time between purchase and October 15th.

JHMR is also a member of the Ikon Pass and Mountain Collective. For the latest updates on these passes, click here. For the 2020/21 season, Aspen is included in the Ikon Pass, but is a $150 add-on for the Ikon Base Pass.

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The Latest on Ski Resort Responses to COVID-19