For many service members, veterans, and their families, hitting the slopes is more than just a holiday; it’s a chance to unwind, bond, and enjoy the great outdoors. Thankfully, there are plenty of ski resorts with military discounts across the United States, and moreover, they offer savings on lift tickets, season passes, lodging, and even ski lessons. Whether you’re planning a military ski vacation with family or just a solo getaway, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to save.
In this guide, we’ll break down the best military discount ski resorts, highlight the top military discount ski passes, and explain how veterans can access exclusive deals.
Why Ski Resorts Offer Military Discounts
Many resorts recognise the sacrifices made by members of the military community. Offering veteran ski discounts is their way of saying thank you. In addition, these discounts can range from 10% to 50% off lift tickets, free skiing midweek, or even heavily reduced season passes like the Epic Military Pass or Ikon Pass military rates.
By choosing military discount ski resorts, service members and their families can enjoy premium destinations without breaking the bank.
Best Ski Resorts with Military Discounts
1. Vail Resorts & the Epic Pass
Vail Resorts offers one of the most generous military programs in the ski industry. The Military Epic Pass provides unlimited access to world-class resorts like Breckenridge, Keystone, Park City, and Vail at a fraction of the regular price.
- Active duty, retired, and dependents: passes from around $186.
- Veterans: significant discounts, often under $600
This is one of the best military discount ski pass options available.
2. Ikon Pass Resorts
The Ikon Pass covers over 50 resorts worldwide, including Mammoth, Steamboat, and Deer Valley. Military personnel can access discounted pricing through SheerID or on-base recreation offices. If you plan several military ski vacations throughout the season, this pass pays for itself quickly.
3. Deer Valley Resort (Utah)
Known for luxury and pristine slopes, Deer Valley offers around 25% off lift tickets for military members. Furthermore, this is an excellent choice for families who want comfort, convenience, and a top-tier skiing experience.
4. Breckenridge (Colorado)
Breckenridge, part of Vail Resorts, gives military members up to 30% off lift tickets. It’s a vibrant town with a lively après-ski scene and diverse terrain, making it one of the most popular military discount ski resorts.
5. Big Bear Mountain Resort (California)
Southern California’s favourite ski destination offers 25% off lift tickets and summer activities for military personnel and their families. Big Bear is perfect for weekend getaways and family-friendly skiing.
6. Killington & Pico Mountain (Vermont)
In Vermont, Killington and Pico offer the Military Express Card, giving service members up to 50% off lift tickets plus direct-to-lift convenience. They also run free skiing promotions on Veterans Day and Memorial Day, making them true hotspots for veteran ski discounts.
7. Snowbird (Utah)
Snowbird offers discounted passes, lift tickets, and even lodging deals for military members. It’s an excellent choice if you’re looking for a challenging mountain with deep powder and fewer crowds.
8. Taos Ski Valley (New Mexico)
Taos has a unique “Military Monday” program with 50% off lift tickets and discounts on lodging and dining. It’s one of the most welcoming military discount ski resorts in the Southwest.
Looking for the best ski discounts in one place? Check out Military Veteran Discounts for year-round savings tailored to veterans and active-duty service members.
Benefits of Military Ski Passes
Season passes like the Epic Pass and Ikon Pass are game-changers for military families. Instead of buying daily lift tickets, you can access multiple resorts all season long for a fraction of the price. For example:
- Epic Military Pass: Unlimited access to 40+ resorts, starting at under $200 for active duty.
- Ikon Pass Military Discount: Save hundreds on multi-resort access worldwide.
For frequent skiers, these ski passes for veterans make skiing more affordable than ever.
How to Claim Military Ski Discounts
To claim your savings at most resorts:
- Show Valid ID: Active duty, reserve, veteran, or dependent IDs are typically required.
- Use SheerID Verification: Some online discounts require verification before purchase.
- Check On-Base Recreation Offices: Many ITT (Information, Tickets, and Tours) offices sell discounted ski passes.
- Book Directly with Resorts: Always double-check resort websites for seasonal promotions.
Planning the Perfect Military Ski Vacation
When planning a military ski vacation, consider:
- Location: Resorts near bases (like those in Colorado or Utah) often have deeper discounts.
- Timing: Midweek skiing often brings bigger savings.
- Packages: Look for lodging + lift ticket bundles to stretch your budget further.
By combining veteran ski discounts with travel perks, you can enjoy a premium experience without overspending. As a result, military families can make the most of every trip.
FAQs about Ski Resorts with Military Discounts
Q1: Which ski resorts offer the biggest military discounts?
Resorts under the Epic Pass and Ikon Pass usually provide the largest savings, with passes as low as $186 for active duty service members.
Q2: Can veterans also get ski discounts?
Yes. Many resorts offer veteran ski discounts, and passes like the Epic Military Pass extend eligibility to veterans and their families.
Q3: Do military discounts apply to lodging as well as lift tickets?
Absolutely. Resorts like Snowbird, Big Sky, and Taos offer military rates on lodging, food, and even equipment rentals.
Q4: How can I verify eligibility for a military discount ski pass?
Most resorts use Sheer ID verification, or you can purchase passes through your base’s ITT office with a valid ID.
Q5: Are there free ski days for military members?
Yes. Some resorts, like Killington and Burke Mountain, offer free skiing on Veterans Day or midweek for active duty military.
