Vail Resorts launched Epic Ascent on Tuesday, a program that turns private ski and snowboard lessons into guided experiences with concierge support. The company said the service is open for reservations at Vail Mountain and Beaver Creek for the 2026-27 season.
Every private lesson at the two Colorado resorts will automatically upgrade to Epic Ascent this winter. Each booking covers an individual or a group of up to six people at the same price. Vail Resorts said Epic Ascent will not raise private lesson prices beyond normal inflation.
What Epic Ascent includes
Guests get an instructor who tailors the day to their goals, with coaching and terrain recommendations. A dedicated concierge also helps plan the trip. The concierge can arrange:
- Dining reservations
- Mountain transportation
- Rental gear, including access to a private gear fitting lounge
- Custom ski day itineraries
Guests who prefer to stay in can have gear delivered to their lodging at no extra cost. Epic Ascent also includes skip-the-lift-line access. Guests can choose when and where their lesson begins.
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“Traditionally, a private lesson began when an instructor met a guest on the mountain,” said Bill Rock, President of Vail Resorts’ Mountain Division. He said guests are now booking “a mountain guide for a curated vacation experience.”
Vail Resorts plans to bring Epic Ascent to more resorts in 2027-28. It did not name them.
Ski & Ride School app expands to 14 resorts
Vail Resorts is also expanding connected Ski & Ride School in the My Epic app from four resorts to 14. The tool is designed for guests in group lessons. It offers digital check-in, real-time lesson updates and photos, and badges for skills and terrain. Lesson summaries track progress over time and across resorts. Parents can also follow their child’s day on the mountain.
The app will be available this winter at these resorts:
- Vail Mountain
- Beaver Creek
- Breckenridge
- Keystone
- Park City
- Crested Butte
- Heavenly
- Hunter Mountain
- Kirkwood
- Mount Snow
- Northstar
- Okemo
- Stevens Pass
- Stowe
Epic Pass prices rise after October 7
Vail Resorts said Epic Pass prices will go up after October 7. Buyers of either pass now will also receive five Epic Friend Tickets, which give 50% off adult lift tickets and 25% off child tickets.
The Epic 4-Day Pass offers savings of up to 65% compared with lift ticket prices. It starts at $223 for adults ages 13 and older and $116 for children ages 5 to 12.
Epic Pass holders also get 20% off group lessons, equipment rentals, dining, and lodging through Epic Mountain Rewards.
