Vail's name recognition is global, but the reality on the ground is more nuanced than the marketing suggests. With 195 runs across 5,289 acres, the mountain delivers scale and variety - at a price point that demands scrutiny.
Vail Mountain has announced a leadership change at the top, with Beth Howard retiring after 41 years and Shaydar Edelmann stepping in as the new Chief Operating Officer. Howard's career shaped much of what Vail Resorts looks like today - from signature dining to major lift upgrades. Edelmann arrives with 25 years in the snow sports industry, most recently running Heavenly Mountain Resort, and a CV that stretches across California and back to New Zealand.
Rob Katz has purchased roughly $5 million in Vail Resorts stock as the company's share price sits at around a third of its 2021 peak. The purchase follows criticism of board members failing to buy stock and comes as the company battles reputation issues that may prove harder to fix than financial metrics.
Vail Resorts is scrapping the $50 My Epic Gear membership fee and rolling premium rental features into standard offerings. Starting next season, anyone booking Demo rentals at 12 resorts can select specific gear models online, access BOA ski boots and Step On bindings at no extra cost.
Vail Resorts has announced a 20% price reduction on Epic Pass products for skiers and riders aged 13-30, bringing the 2026-27 Epic Pass down to $869 and Epic Local Pass to $649. The move comes as the ski industry grapples with participation rates among younger demographics.
Vail Resorts has announced opening dates and key developments for the 2025-26 ski season across its global portfolio. Notable changes include new lifts in Park City and Switzerland, expanded tech integration, and a revised friend ticket program aimed at boosting visitation.
Kirsten Lynch, former CEO of Vail Resorts, is set to receive a substantial severance package following her departure from the company. The package includes cash payments, equity awards, and health insurance benefits.
Vail Resorts announces a significant leadership change as Rob Katz returns to the CEO position, replacing Kirsten Lynch who has stepped down after 14 years with the company.
Explore the various Epic Pass options for the 2025/26 season, including new resort access, pricing, and benefits for skiers and snowboarders looking to maximise their mountain time across multiple destinations.
Winter Park Resort has invested $37 million in snowmaking upgrades, enabling earlier openings and later closings. The investment aims to extend the ski season, with the resort now boasting one of the longest seasons in Colorado.
Vail Mountain has closed China Bowl and Teacup Bowl as it approaches the final week of the ski season. Sun Up and Sun Down Bowls remain open, with further closures possible based on daily conditions.