A Firsthand Look at the New Terrain, Lifts, and Amenities Coming for the 2024/2025 Season
For all the Ikon Pass holders out there—and those who are thinking of jumping on board—this winter is set to be unforgettable. As a regular visitor to Sugarbush, Stratton, and Deer Valley, I’m thrilled to see some incredible upgrades coming to each of these mountains. Whether you’re drawn by new terrain, the latest lifts, or upgraded lodges, the Ikon Pass has truly outdone itself this season. A few of the Colorado mountains have already opened their first trails of the season, and some of my favorites are less than 30 days from opening! I am planning my trips back to these familiar peaks, eager to experience all the new improvements firsthand.
Access New Lifts with Your Ikon Pass
One of the things that sets Ikon Pass resorts apart is their relentless pursuit of better access and efficiency, which makes all the difference when you’re on the slopes. Deer Valley is stepping up in a major way with three new lifts. The new Keetley Express, a six-person chair with cozy bubble seats, will link the Deer Valley East Village to its core slopes. I’ve been eagerly following updates on this and can’t wait to hop on this lift, knowing it’ll mean quicker access to Bald Mountain’s best runs.
Stratton is also upgrading its well-loved Ursa Lift, which will mean less waiting and smoother trips up to some of my favorite trails. I’ve spent countless weekends at Stratton, so this upgrade has me particularly excited—it’s exactly what you need on a busy holiday weekend or powder day when every minute counts.
Sugarbush is replacing the Heaven’s Gate triple with a new quad, and I can already imagine how much smoother and quicker it’ll be to reach the summit. There’s nothing quite like the panoramic views up there, and I can’t wait to see how the improved lift system enhances the experience.
More Terrain, More Adventure
The new and expanded terrain is another thrilling update. Ikon Pass destinations are introducing everything from beginner zones to gladed areas where powder hounds like me can dive into fresh snow among the trees. Deer Valley is expanding beginner trails as part of its long-term goal to add 3,700 acres over the next few years. I’ll definitely be bringing some friends who are newer to skiing along this time—there’s something for everyone!
Luxurious New Lodges & Dining Spots
After a full day on the slopes, a cozy lodge with great food and drinks is exactly what every skier and rider craves. This season, a range of new lodges will make unwinding that much better. At Mammoth Mountain, Woolly’s Day Lodge will provide a new gathering spot, complete with restrooms, retail, and dining areas. And at Winter Park, the Sundog Taproom is set to be a bustling hangout in the village, with a laid-back atmosphere and over 130 seats to accommodate skiers and riders. I’m always game to try new après-ski spots, so I’m excited to check these out.
Seamless Access and Snowmaking Enhancements
With expanded shuttle services, more parking, and even improved snowmaking, Ikon resorts are making it easier to spend more time on the slopes and less time getting there. Deer Valley, for instance, has added 500 new day-skier parking spots, which will make parking a breeze even on peak days. They’re also expanding their snowmaking infrastructure, which means better early-season coverage and more resilient slopes all winter long. Killington recently under new ownership is investing millions into their snowmaking operations, including 1000 new low-energy HKD tower and fan guns. Stratton and Sugarbush are also part of the big snowmaking upgrade push. I know from past seasons how valuable this is for extending the season and keeping conditions ideal—especially after warmer stretches.
Ready for the Season with Ikon Pass
With all these updates and my Ikon Pass in hand, I can’t wait to head back to my favorite mountains, knowing there are new lifts to explore, more terrain to discover, and new spots to relax in après-ski style. The upgrades add a fresh layer of excitement, even to familiar destinations. For anyone on the fence about the Ikon Pass, this might just be the year to take the plunge. Passes won’t be on sale for much longer, typically sales close soon after Thanksgiving, buy now so you don’t miss out on all the new and exciting offerings at Ikon resorts.
Ikon Pass holders in New England should visit the Snowbound Expo for happy hour at the IKON Pass Alpine Bar, get all the Snowbound details and schedule here.
