Choosing the right ski pass can feel as complex as navigating a double-black diamond glade in a whiteout. With several different Epic Pass options available, all offering various levels of access to Keystone Resort, it is important to pick the one that aligns with your budget, travel dates and your ski style.
With only weeks left in the season, it’s already time to look ahead. Epic Passes typically go on sale for the 2026/2027 season in March, offering the lowest prices of the year. Here is a breakdown of the best Epic Pass options for Keystone fans and who should buy each one.
Which Epic Pass is Right for You?
1. The Epic Local Pass
This is often considered the "sweet spot" for Colorado locals and frequent visitors.
What you get: Unlimited, holiday-restricted access to Keystone, Breckenridge, and Crested Butte. It also includes 10 combined days at Vail and Beaver Creek (restricted) and access to several world-class resorts like Park City and Whistler Blackcomb. This pass does have some holiday blackout dates.
Who it’s for: The skier or rider who plans to spend most of their time at Keystone and Breck but wants the flexibility to take a few "bucket list" days at Vail without paying for the full-price pass.
2. The Epic Pass (The "Full" Pass)
The "No Limits" option.
What you get: Unlimited, unrestricted access to Keystone, Vail, Beaver Creek, Breckenridge, Crested Butte, and dozens of other resorts worldwide (including Europe and Japan). No blackout dates—ever. This is a great option if you are coming over the holidays!
Who it’s for: The hardcore enthusiast who wants to ski during peak holiday weeks (Christmas, New Years, MLK, Presidents' Day) or the traveler planning a multi-resort "Tour de Colorado" without worrying about restrictions.
3. The Keystone Plus Pass
One of the most affordable ways to get on the mountain.
What you get: Unlimited access to Keystone (with holiday blackouts), plus late-season access to Breckenridge (usually starting in April), and 5 days at Crested Butte (restricted).
Who it’s for: The budget-conscious family or the "Keystone Loyalist." If you know you aren't going to Vail or Beaver Creek and don't mind skipping the busiest holiday weekends, this pass pays for itself in just a few days.
4. Epic Day Pass (1-7 Days)
What you get: A customizable pass that allows you to choose between 1 and 7 days of skiing. You can choose "All Resorts" or a "Limited" set of resorts (which includes Keystone).
Who it’s for: The "One Trip Wonder." If you are only planning one 4-day vacation to Keystone all year, this is significantly cheaper than buying daily lift tickets at the window.
Why Buy Your Pass in the Spring?
The Epic Pass program works on a tiered pricing system. When they launch in the spring, they are at their guaranteed lowest price. As the summer and fall progress, the price increases every few months. Additionally, spring buyers often receive som extra perks like the "Buddy Tickets" or "Ski with a Friend" passes, which allow you to bring guests for a discounted rate.
Lock In Your Basecamp Early
While you are securing your pass, don't forget the most important part of the logistics: where you’ll sleep! SummitCove Lodging allows you to book your next season’s ski lodging early, ensuring you get the best rates and the first pick of prime properties in River Run, Lakeside Village, and Mountain House.
Booking your condo now means you can secure that ski-in/ski-out unit or the property with the specific hot tub view you love before the peak winter dates disappear.
