Kids Ski Free: Programs and Age Ranges
For families, the phrase "kids ski free" is music to their ears, and many resorts use these programs as incentives to attract families. However, the definition of "kid" varies greatly among resorts, from toddlers to early teens. Some policies apply to young children, often those 5 and under, while others extend the offer to kids as old as 12, especially when tied to a paying adult or lodging.
- Free for toddlers (typically 5 and under): Many major resorts offer a free lift ticket for their youngest guests. This is often the most straightforward offer, requiring little more than proof of age. Resorts like Breckenridge, Vail, and Keystone have historically offered free skiing for kids under 5.
- Kids ski free with adult purchase: Some resorts, like Steamboat, offer a program where kids ski free with the purchase of a multi-day adult lift ticket. Typically, one free child pass is offered per adult ticket purchased.
- Power Kids Pass: Mountain Capital Partners, which operates several resorts, offers the Power Kids Pass, providing unlimited free skiing for all children ages 12 and under, with no blackout dates and no adult purchase required.
- Ski-and-stay programs: Keystone Resort, for instance, allows kids 12 and younger to ski free when their family books a minimum number of nights of lodging through the resort.
- Passport programs: Certain states sponsor special programs for school-aged children. The Epic SchoolKids program offers four free days of skiing for kindergarten through fifth graders at Vail resorts in a specific state, like Colorado or Utah.
Seniors Ski Free: Variable Age Requirements
For older adults, skiing for free is an excellent perk that keeps a lifelong passion affordable. Similar to children's programs, the cutoff for free senior passes is not universal and can range widely.
- 70 and over: A large number of resorts use 70 as the age threshold for free or deeply discounted senior passes. Examples include Arizona Snowbowl (AZ) and Snow Valley (CA).
- 75 and over: Some resorts and multi-resort passes raise the bar for free access to 75. The Power Pass offers free skiing for seniors 75 and over at several of its mountain resorts. Swain Resort (NY) also offers free skiing for those 75 and older.
- 80 and over: At an even higher age bracket, resorts like Mammoth (CA), Killington (VT), and Taos Ski Valley (NM) may offer free skiing to those 80 and over.
- State-specific policies: It's important to check state residency requirements, as some offers are geographically specific. Cannon Mountain (NH), for instance, provides free midweek skiing for New Hampshire residents over 65.
Comparison Table: Kids vs. Senior Free Skiing Policies
| Feature | Kids' Free Skiing Programs | Seniors' Free Skiing Programs |
|---|---|---|
| Common Age Range | Under 5, 5-12, or specific grades (e.g., K-5) | 65+, 70+, 75+, or 80+ |
| Typical Conditions | Often requires accompanying adult, adult purchase, or booking lodging; may have blackout dates | Often requires only proof of age; some are tied to multi-pass or state residency |
| Resort Examples | Keystone (under 12), Steamboat (under 12), Purgatory (under 12) | Cannon Mountain (65+, NH residents), Pajarito (75+), Mammoth (80+) |
| Best for | Families planning a ski trip and parents looking to introduce children to the sport | Experienced skiers who want to continue skiing without high pass costs |
| Ease of Obtaining | May require more steps, such as booking lodging or filling out paperwork for passport programs | Often involves a simple age verification process at the lift ticket window |
How to Verify Free Skiing Policies
To take advantage of free skiing for children or seniors, verification is key. Policies can change season to season, and details like blackout dates and required documents vary. Always check with the specific resort directly before your trip. The best methods include visiting the resort's official website, calling their guest services, or inquiring at the ticket window upon arrival. Multi-resort passes, such as the Power Pass or Epic Pass, also have their own specific free-pass policies that are updated annually. Booking packages that bundle lodging and lift tickets often have the free child ticket automatically included.
Conclusion
The age at which you ski for free is not a single number but a spectrum that depends on your age group and the specific resort. For children, free passes are common for those under 5 and sometimes extend to ages 12 and under when tied to a specific promotion. For seniors, ages 70, 75, or 80+ are typical thresholds for free or heavily discounted access. These programs provide excellent value for families and lifelong skiers. By researching specific resort policies and paying attention to seasonal promotions, you can find the perfect opportunity to enjoy the slopes without breaking the bank.
