We know it’s still quite early to look ahead to winter, but we’ve got some pretty exciting news to share regarding this year’s ski and ride season. Vail Resorts just announced their operating plans for the 2022/23 season, and Whistler Blackcomb followed suit with its own IG post. Let’s dive into our major takeaways!

Opening day

Firstly, folks will want to mark their calendars for Thursday, November 24th – Whistler Blackcomb’s official opening day. And if you’re interested in learning more about the opening dates of the other 36 North American Vail Resorts, you can visit here.

Limited lift tickets

Now, in terms of tickets, there are a few things to note. The company shared that it will limit lift ticket sales throughout “the entirety of the 2022/23 season to prioritize the mountain experience for its guests.” As such, Vail Resorts is making some significant lift upgrades across its resorts to help guests move up and down the mountain faster and more easily, including 18 new chairlifts and gondolas, as well as a restaurant upgrade and snowmaking investments.

“We care deeply about our guests’ experience at our resorts,” said James O’Donnell, president of Vail Resorts’ Mountain division. “Limiting lift tickets throughout the season, alongside the big investments we’re making at our resorts and in our team members, will help us provide our guests with an Experience of a Lifetime this winter.”

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So, how will booking lift tickets work? According to the news release, lift tickets will be limited every day, with available spots listed on each resort’s individual website. In the next couple of weeks, folks will be able to start booking their lift tickets in advance. Note that if tickets are sold out online, they will not be available to purchase at ticket windows.

However, season passes (Epic Day Passes, Pass Holder benefit tickets, etc) will not be limited, and there will be no limit for those who enroll in ski and ride school.

Epic passes

Finally, the last major takeaway: Ticket prices. Epic Day Passes are on sale now starting at $639 for access to all resorts (excluding holiday access) and $354 for a 4-day pass. For more info on EDGE cards and lodging offers, you can visit their website.

Remember, prices go up for everyone starting September 5th – so lock in those passes while you can!

We’ll see you on the slopes, Vancouver.

Whistler Blackcomb Winter 2022/23

When: Opening on Thursday, November 24th
Where: Whistler, BC