Get ready for every moment of mountain magic with our inspirational
Ikon Pass Ski Safaris
With unmatched value and possibility, Ikon Pass gives you access to 50+ iconic global resorts with new premier destinations added including Alyeska in Alaska, Panorama and Sun Peaks in western Canada, Chamonix Mont-Blanc Valley in France, Grandvalira in Andorra, Lotte Arai in Japan, Sun Valley in Idaho, Snowbasin in Utah and Snow Valley in California. Ikon also provides access to five resorts across Australia and New Zealand (including up to 7 days at Mt Buller!) for the 2023 and 2024 seasons, meaning you can get three seasons skiing and snowboarding on the one pass!
This season is already off to an amazing start, so if you’re considering an international snow holiday at the end of the year, now is the time to lock down your Ikon Pass, taking advantage of the incredible value with skiing both this year and next!
Purchase your Ikon Pass from Mogul Ski World and our Snow Travel Experts will work with you to plan an incredible 23/24 Ski Safari itinerary to your preferred Ikon destinations, making sure you can really explore, shred and après like never before.
Read on for an inspirational selection of our Ikon Pass USA Ski Safari itineraries, then contact us on [email protected] to start planning your dream snow holiday today.
ADVENTURE FURTHER WITH MOGUL SKI WORLD OUR IKON PASS USA SKI SAFARI ITINERARIES
Adventure is made easy with the Ikon Pass, along with our Snow Travel Experts at the ready to seamlessly create your personalised travel package. With your Ikon Pass in hand, let us take care of everything from airfares and stopovers, to accommodation, transfers, car hire and off mountain activities.
SKI SAFARI 1 - COLORADO: ASPEN, STEAMBOAT, WINTER PARK
Colorado’s Rocky Mountains are home to six of the most-sought-after Ikon Pass destinations. Fly into Denver and enjoy some of the USA’s most iconic alpine adventures, from Aspen to Steamboat to Winter Park – we map it out and share our tips on finding the most legendary runs, best powder, and top après options.
START IN ASPEN
Consistently rated one of the world’s top snow destinations, Aspen Snowmass is unlike any other winter holiday destination. With four ski resorts, each with its own unique drawcards, and an incredible variety of outdoor recreation, arts and culture, shopping and cosmopolitan nightlife, it provides an unforgettable experience that will leave you transformed!
ASPEN INSIDER TIPS
Treat yourself to Aspen Highland’s crown jewel—Highland Bowl, earning your turns with a 45-minute hike to the top. If you’re at Aspen Mountain on a powder day, take some turns on Walsh’s and Bell Mountain, before tucking into the legendary truffle fries at Ajax Tavern at the base. Afterward, try the new Breathtaker alpine coaster, or snap a snowy selfie with the iconic Maroon Bells.
Head to Steamboat taking in the sights on the easy, three-hour drive north (250km) When you arrive, take a stroll along Main Street and peruse the many shops and galleries.
STOP 2 – STEAMBOAT
This winter will see the completion of Steamboat’s three year, $220million Full Steam Ahead redevelopment project with a number of enhancements and transformations now ready for guests to enjoy both on and around the mountain. This includes an après ski plaza, new restaurants and bars, new lodging, a ski beach and an ice rink in the Steamboat Square base area. While on the Mountain – two new lifts and 650 acres of new expert terrain will make Steamboat the second largest resort in Colorado.
STEAMBOAT INSIDER TIPS
Be sure to tap the head of the Buddy Werner statue at the top of Storm Peak lift for good luck before scouting out some famous Champagne Powder® on Steamboat’s snowiest runs – Ted’s Ridge, Buddy’s Run, and hike-to terrain on top of Mt. Werner. Or cut through corduroy on smooth, never-ending groomers like Longhorn and Vagabond. In the afternoon, treat yourself with complimentary donuts and hot chocolate, served at the base at 3 PM daily. Then, take a few laps around Skeeter’s Ice Rink, located in the heart of Steamboat Square, while overlooking Mt. Werner. Cap off the night by hitting the hot springs. Snow floating down, steam rising up. Soak your way to heaven in the Old Town Hot Springs downtown or hop on the shuttle and ease your sore muscles at Strawberry Park.
Head off to your third Ikon Pass Resort – Winter Park. Just under 2 hours (160km) drive from Steamboat.
FINISH IN – WINTER PARK RESORT
With over 3,000 acres of skiable terrain and some of the most consistent snow in Colorado, world-class skiing meets laid back fun in Winter Park Resort. The quintessential Colorado experience.
WINTER PARK INSIDER TIPS
Hit up Winter Park’s iconic runs and extreme terrain, such as The Cirque Territory, or if the snow is dumping there’s no better run than Belle Fourche to satisfy your powder cravings. In the afternoon scout out Winter Park’s new Alpine & Ales pop-up craft beer lounge, or head up to the top of Parsenn Bowl Territory to snap a surreal selfie. If you’re sticking to the slopes, head over to Mary Jane territory to tackle her first-rate bumps and tree-skiing or simply chill on her laidback blues. After a long day on the slopes, kick up your feet and enjoy Winter Park’s namesake craft beer—Mary Jane Ale. Sip a brew or two around the fire for the perfect end to your day.
SKI SAFARI 2 - CALIFORNIA: PALISADES TAHOE & MAMMOTH MOUNTAIN
As you would expect from The Golden State, there is generally plenty of sunshine and bluebird days at the Californian ski resorts, and they are also known for being super-sized! The Ikon Pass resorts of Palisades Tahoe and Mammoth Mountain are massive with 9,500 skiable acres of terrain between them. Powder, sunshine and plenty of space to explore – it doesn’t get more perfect.
START IN PALISADES TAHOE:
Thousands of acres of diverse terrain tower over Lake Tahoe, delivering an unforgettable experience at Palisades Tahoe, a destination with two mountains connected by the brand-new Base to Base Gondola.
PALISADES INSIDER TIPS:
Jump on the Base-to-Base Gondola for a 16-minute ride to the Alpine Lodge, the base area of a stunning playground for all skill levels. Your ride will take you across the stunning Sierra Crest, and you can take your first run off the KT-22 mid-station before finishing the journey. If you’re up for a challenge, head to the Pacific Crest South Bowls, located on the backside of the mountain boasting shore-to-shore views of Lake Tahoe. A short hike from Summit Express brings you to breathtaking open bowls that transform into steep chutes and cliffs, a perfect spot to hit on a powder day. End the day with a beer on the deck of the Alpine Lodge, a centrally located après spot that is prime for kicking back and relaxing in the California sun. Grab a ride on the Base to Base Gondola back to The Village at Palisades Tahoe and head to historic downtown Truckee for a warm meal and craft beer.
Hit the road to Mammoth Mountain (278km or 3.5 hours)
FINISH AT: MAMMOTH MOUNTAIN
Known for massive snowfall and one of the longest seasons in the country, Mammoth offers skiers and riders some of the best and most diverse terrain in California, not to mention breathtaking vistas screaming for a photo op.
MAMMOTH MOUNTAIN INSIDER TIPS
Take in the stunning views of the iconic Minarets—and snap a selfie or two—in front of the Mammoth Mountain 24-foot summit sign (if it’s not completely buried in snow). After snagging that Instagram-worthy shot, drop into the expert terrain of Huevos Grande or Climax and weave down to Canyon Lodge or Main Lodge base areas. Give your legs a break and hit some smooth blue runs or check out the enhanced terrain “fun zones” for something a little more challenging.
Discover some of the best snow and wind buff on the mountain at Drop Out and Wipe Out Chutes, accessible from Chair 23. Then head to the backside of the mountain to experience powder paradise at the Hemlocks, the in-bounds, hike-accessed steeps that big mountain skiers and riders live for.
At the end of a great day, toast your adventures on the mountain with a craft cocktail at Vulcania in the heart of The Village. A favourite gathering place with cozy fireplaces on the outdoor patio, wood-fired Neapolitan pizzas, handcrafted salumi and handmade budinos.
SKI SAFARI 3 - UNPARALLELED UTAH
With 10,000 acres of Utah terrain available on the Ikon Pass—the most Utah terrain offered on any pass—skiing and riding the Greatest Snow on Earth® shouldn’t be a matter of if but when. Our itinerary takes you Deer Valley, Alta Ski Area and Snowbird, but your Ikon Pass will also grant you access to Snowbasin, Brighton and Solitude.
STOP 1 DEER VALLEY:
Start your Utah Ski Safari at Deer Valley Resort, renowned for its unparalleled luxury offerings, exceptional service, meticulously groomed slopes, and truly spectacular accommodations. Consistently voted as the best ski resort in North America, Deer Valley is exclusively skiers-only and has a strict limitation on the number of daily skiers, ensuring the on-mountain experience is serene and intimate, and lift lines are non-existent.
DEER VALLEY INSIDER TIPS:
Make some turns alongside Olympians like Heidi Voelker, Shannon Bahrke, Kaylin Richardson, and Trace Worthington in Deer Valley’s Ski with a Champion program. Or fly solo down Stein’s Way, a cherished run named for Deer Valley’s former and legendary Director of Skiing, Stein Eriksen. If the flakes are falling, head to Ontario Bowl for endless pillows of powder. When you’re ready for a bite, make your way to Deer Valley lodges for elevated on-snow lunches and dinners, and be sure to try the exclusive Fireside Dining experience at Empire Lodge. Alternatively, spend the evening exploring Park City’s Historic Main Street. Many of Park City’s original buildings have been converted into galleries, restaurants, bars, clubs and high-end boutiques that seamlessly blend their heritage charm with modern luxury. Discover the region’s mining past at the Park City Museum, housed in the old City Hall building, before grabbing dinner at No Name Saloon, serving up world-famous Buffalo Burgers topped with southwestern style salsa. Finish with a nightcap at High West Distillery & Saloon, dedicated to creating smooth, no-nonsense Utah whiskey.
The beauty of an Ikon Pass Ski Safari in Utah is the close proximity of its ski resorts, and next up is Snowbird, just one hour (55km) from Deer Valley.
STOP 2 SNOWBIRD:
Snowbird Resort, located in Little Cottonwood Canyon, offers a captivating blend of world-class skiing and extravagant accommodations. A sprawling resort, it is served by an impressive array of high-speed chairs and Utah’s only aerial tram, which drops you off atop Hidden Peak at 3300 metres above sea level, for a jaw-dropping panorama of high alpine wonder.
SNOWBIRD INSIDER TIPS:
All 2,500 acres at Snowbird offer incredible skiing and riding conditions when fresh flakes are falling, but to really make the most of the snow, there’s no better place for powder laps than Mineral Basin. To get there, just take a four-minute ride on the Mineral Basin chairlift to access some of Utah’s best skiable acres. After riding the aerial tram and taking in the 360-degree views of the Wasatch Mountains from Hidden Peak, head inside Tram Club for a spirited après scene. Enjoy live music, and check out the inner workings of the Snowbird Aerial Tram, refreshments in hand. No day at Snowbird is complete without a visit to The Cliff Spa’s rooftop pool and hot tub. Enjoy a long soak as you take in the grandeur of the glacially carved canyon walls that surround Snowbird. You can even opt for a crafted treatment designed specially to ease soreness.
STOP 3 ALTA SKI AREA:
Located right next door to Snowbird is Alta Ski Area – A refined mountain paradise with an exclusive ski-only policy, Alta embodies a commitment to preserving the purest skiing experience. A mecca for powder enthusiasts, there are endless opportunities for exhilarating runs and off-piste adventures. And after an exhilarating day on the slopes, head to one of Alta’s exclusive spas, for some rest, relaxation and rejuvenation.
ALTA INSIDER TIPS
With a 40-year average of 545 inches, this skier-exclusive destination delivers endless mountains of powder to enjoy all day long. Steep and deep lovers’ blast through powder in Devil’s Castle or skirt through trees on Back Forty, So Long and Supreme Challenge. Those who prefer gentle groomers can find the perfect slope at the top of Collins Lift and Sugarloaf Lift. Warm up with a bowl of soup or chili at Alta Peruvian Lodge, before heading back out on the slopes for more powder action. Treat tired muscles to a relaxing massage at one of the area spas, then stop by the Sitzmark for a nightcap – be sure to order the Boomerang, a hot toddy made with Twisky, known locally as a mixture of tequila and whiskey.
SKI SAFARI 4 - JACKSON HOLE TO BIG SKY
Our final Ikon Pass Itinerary takes us into Cowboy Country of Wyoming and Montana – with spectacular scenery, deep snow, uncrowded slopes and the perfect blend of high-end luxury mixed with Wild West fun!
START IN JACKSON HOLE
Set amongst the scenic Grand Tetons, Jackson Hole offers not just great skiing and snowboarding, but the complete snow holiday experience. Keen skiers and snowboarders can enjoy the bowls and chutes for experts, along with the biggest vertical drop in America, while there’s also a great mix of terrain on offer for intermediate and beginners all accessed by the 100-passenger aerial tram giving true top to bottom runs.
JACKSON HOLE INSIDER TIPS
Take the plunge with Corbet’s Couloir—perhaps the most difficult in-bounds ski run in North America and therefore the perfect measuring stick for those who want to tackle Jackson Hole’s expert terrain. As one of the most visible and intimidating lines on the mountain, the Aerial Tram passes by every 10 minutes, packed with spectators gathered to watch advanced skiers and riders drop in. When you’re done with a big day on the mountain, kick your feet up for a horse-drawn sleigh ride through the National Elk Refuge. This one-of-a-kind adventure will take you through herds of thousands of elk—a truly Jackson, truly memorable experience. Something else not to be missed is the snowmobile tour into Yellowstone National Park.
About 3 hrs, 40 minutes (250km) of incredibly scenic driving through the Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone National Park will get you to Big Sky Montana.
FINISH IN BIG SKY
Known as the “Biggest Skiing in America,” Big Sky flaunts an unfathomable 5,800 skiable acres to complement an equally impressive 4,350 feet of verticle and even a nearly 10km-long run! The mountain is seldom crowded, with terrain choices for all levels and a laid-back vibe you’ll only find in Montana.
BIG SKY INSIDER TIPS
Enjoy the wide-open spaces! Snow lovers come to Big Sky Resort for a wide variety of terrain, an unpretentious vibe, and lots of elbow room. With the country’s largest single mountain, it offers an average of over one acre per skier so plenty of room to roam. We love this iconic destination for its casual vibe and the Lone Peak Tram, which offers 300 degrees of skiing off the iconic Lone Peak, and sweeping views of three states and two national parks. Finish your day with some Big Sky Big Après – Nothing says après quite like the garnish-heavy, meal-worthy Bloody Marys at Headwaters Grille in the Madison Base Area. And for an elevated dining experience, take a heated-seat chairlift up to Everett’s 8800 for an elegant experience with indoor-outdoor fireplaces and spectacular views.
The adventures really are endless with the Ikon Pass. To create your own Ikon Pass Ski Safari for 23/24, reach out to our Snow Travel Experts on [email protected] and lock in your Ikon Pass.