GUIDES & TIPS
Expert advice for Ikon, Epic, and independent resort skiing
First-Timer's Guide to Ski Passes
Everything you need to know about the Ikon Pass and Epic Pass before buying—tiers, pricing, and which one is right for you.
Getting Started
Passes, budgets, and making the right choice
Ikon vs. Epic: An Honest Comparison
Compare Ikon, Epic, and the alternatives by mountains, dates, access, and total trip cost.
Skiing Without a Season Pass
Why independent resorts might be the smarter choice. Day tickets, regional passes, and the case against mega-passes.
Maximizing Your Season Pass Value
Pro strategies to squeeze every dollar of value from your Ikon or Epic Pass, from timing to partner benefits.
Budget Ski Trip Guide
How to ski more for less—timing strategies, lodging hacks, lift ticket savings, and budget-friendly resorts.
International Destinations
Skiing beyond North America
Japan Ski Trip Guide
Everything you need to know about skiing in Japan—Japow, JR Pass, onsen culture, and the best resorts.
European Ski Trip Guide
How skiing in the Alps differs from North America—lift passes, mountain restaurants, and top destinations by country.
Southern Hemisphere Skiing
Ski season in July: planning trips to New Zealand, Australia, Chile, and Argentina.
Trip Planning
Plan your ski adventures
Family Skiing Guide
The best kid-friendly resorts across Ikon and Epic, family programs, and tips for skiing with children.
Solo Ski Trip Guide
How to plan, stay safe, and make the most of skiing alone—plus the best resorts for solo travelers.
The Multi-Gen Trip Planner
Taking the whole family, ages 8 to 78? How to plan a trip where everyone has a great time.
Itinerary Planning
How to plan a winter getaway for any length—making decisions, building flexibility, budgeting, and keeping everyone on the same page.
Multi-Resort Road Trips
Six curated road trip itineraries that maximize your season pass across different regions.
Van Life Index
Plan designated overnight stays, campground facilities and accommodation alternatives for a ski road trip.
On the Mountain
Make the most of your ski days
The Powder Hound's Playbook
An opinionated guide to chasing deep days across North America. Where to go, when to go, and how to score.
A Practical Guide to Ski Weather
How to read weather maps, interpret forecasts, and make smart decisions for your ski trip.
Altitude & Fatigue Management
Practical strategies for skiing at elevation. Hydration, pacing, recovery—no medical degree required.
Off the Mountain
Good company for the days between ski days
Preparation
Get ready before you go
Packing Systems for Ski Trips
Layering strategies, car kit essentials, and flight-friendly packing lists. Never forget your goggles again.
Before You Go
The pre-departure checklist for ski trips. Documents, banking, phone setup, health prep, equipment, and home prep.
Pet Travel Guide
Everything you need to know about bringing your dog on ski trips—from pet-friendly lodging to on-mountain policies.