A truly global ski experience, the Ikon Pass redefines what a ski season can look like. Can you imagine buying a ski pass that unlocks access to over 60 of the world’s best ski destinations across North America, Europe, Asia, Australia, New Zealand and South America?
The pass provides a compelling way to ski the world in a single season, striking off bucket list ski resorts, whether your dream winter includes the Canadian Rockies, the French Alps, Japan’s powder belt or the renowned slopes of Colorado and Utah.
The Ikon Pass also makes a perfect holiday gift for any ski lover.
Ski the World with a Global Community of Iconic Ski Destinations
Canadian Ski Areas
Across Canada, Ikon Pass destinations span from Québec’s dramatic Le Massif de Charlevoix just outside Quebec City, to the energy of Tremblant, in the heart of the Laurentians, to Ontario’s bustling Blue Mountain, on the southern shores of Georgian Bay.
British Columbia delivers an entirely different feel, with the steep lines of Revelstoke Mountain Resort, the coastal views of Cypress and Grouse and the expansive terrain at Panorama and Sun Peaks.
Skiing Icons in the United States
From coast to coast, access includes some of North America’s beloved ski resorts such as Aspen, Snowmass, Steamboat, Winter Park, Jackson Hole, Big Sky, Alyeska and Sun Valley. I have been fortunate to visit eight of these popular ski areas. I no longer ski, but I am a big fan of everything involving après-ski activities, the cuisine, spas and of course horse-drawn carriage rides dashing through the snow.
On the East Coast, Stratton, Sugarbush, Killington, Sunday River, and Loon Mountain carry the classic charm of New England winters.
Western U.S. destinations form the heart of many adventures; Nevada’s popular Sierra-at-Tahoe and Palisades Tahoe and also California’s Mammoth Mountain, June Mountain and Big Bear Mountain Resort.
Utah adds its own magic with dry, consistent snowfall that keeps skiers returning year after year;
- Deer Valley Resort, home to the 2034 Winter Olympics
- Alta, known for its deep snow
- Brighton, voted the best spot for snowboarding in the US
Europe’s Legendary Winter Culture
Ikon Pass Europe Ski Resorts; France, Italy, Switzerland, Austria
Europe’s deep skiing heritage, shaped by centuries of alpine tradition, becomes surprisingly accessible with the Ikon Pass.
Did you know skiing began in prehistoric times? The oldest known skis were found in Russia and date to 8,000-7,000 BC?
Ski France
The playground of the French Alps offers the perfect pairing, steeped in history where every run ends with exceptional local cuisine.
Ski Italy
In Italy, the scenery is spectacular, with fewer crowds, rich culture and unforgettable scenery.
- In Italy, Valle d’Aosta has the world’s most freeride terrain.
- The Dolomiti Superski, located in the UNESCO World Heritage listed Dolomites, is one of the largest interconnected ski areas in the world, with 12 resorts.
Spectacular Dolomiti Superski. Courtesy Photo.
Ski Austria
Visit Austria’s Kitzbühel and Ischgl to experience some of the continent’s best lift infrastructure and après-ski culture.
Ski Switzerland
Switzerland completes the picture with the world-renowned peaks of Zermatt and St. Moritz, destinations that many skiers dream of long before their first visit.
Asia’s Deep Powder and Cultural Richness
Asia is one of the fastest growing winter sports regions after the world was exposed to the diverse range of possibilities when the 2022 Winter Olympics showcased the area of Beijing, China.
Best ski resorts in Japan
For years, Japan has captured the imagination of skiers from around the world, famous for its deep, dry powder and the calm, welcoming energy that seems to define each area. Ikon Pass holders can immerse themselves in the country’s unmatched snowfall and unique blend of cultural experiences.
With access to destinations such as:
- The rich terrain of Niseko United.
- Myoko Suginohara, with the longest runs in Japan.
- Furano, where the powder belt peaks.
- Shiga Kogen, located in a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, is the highest ski destination in the country. It is also a Snow Monkey resort. Did you know the famous Snow Monkeys bathe in their own Onsen or hot springs? They learned about this ritual from watching visiting tourists at the resorts in the area.
- APPI Resort allows you to float through deep drifts in wide open terrain of extremely dry, silky and light powder.
- Zao Onsen is home to the legendary “Snow Monsters.”
- NEKOMA, Japan’s largest ski resort, offers rich history and cultural experiences from both the North and South.
- Mt. T is known as the ultimate powder field with deep powder snow.
Impressive views at Shiga Kogen Higashidateyama Ski Resort, Japan. Courtesy Photo.
Mt. T Ski Resort, Japan. Courtesy Photo.
Ski China and South Korea
- Yunding Snow Park in China, one hour from Beijing, the site of the 2022 Winter Olympics.
- Mona Yongpyong in South Korea, home to the 2018 PyeongChang Winter Games, is famous for its Rainbow Course and World Cup events.
Mona Yongpyong Ski Resort, Korea. Courtesy Photo.
Mona Yongpyong Ski Resort, Korea. Courtesy Photo.
Ski Year-Round in the Southern Hemisphere
Ikon Pass Australia, New Zealand and Chile
When summer arrives in North America, winter is just getting started in the south. The Ikon Pass extends the season with access to Thredbo and Mt Buller in Australia, Coronet Peak, The Remarkables, and Mt Hutt in New Zealand, and the dramatic Andes terrain of Valle Nevado in Chile.
For skiers who chase winter rather than wait for it, this unlocks a full year of skiing possibilities.
Beyond the Lifts: Heli-Skiing Ikon Pass Access for the Ultimate Winter
If you are seeking the most immersive powder experience imaginable, the Ikon Pass offers special access to CMH Heli-Skiing & Summer Adventures and Mike Wiegele Helicopter Skiing, the world’s largest heli-ski operations.
These partnerships bring once-in-a-lifetime terrain within reach. Think towering peaks, untouched powder and days shaped by the mountains’ rhythm rather than lift lines.
The Ikon Pass: The Best Gift for Skiers This Holiday Season
Experiences make the most memorable gifts and the Ikon Pass stands out as one of the most meaningful presents you can place under the tree. Instead of another jacket, a pair of goggles, or an upgrade to this year’s gear, you’re gifting someone a world of winter: the chance to explore legendary destinations, discover new mountain cultures, and create stories that last far beyond the season.
For families, it becomes a season of weekend trips and shared memories on the chairlift. For dedicated skiers, it’s the perfect reason to plan that dream trip to the Alps or Japan. And for adventurous travellers, it’s a global passport to winter, one that opens more possibilities than any single resort ever could.
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About the Author:
Wendy Nordvik-Carr is a highly regarded travel writer who produces quality, well-researched articles with stunning photography and video.
She seeks out authentic experiences showcasing the people, culture and history that make each destination unique. Her focus is on solo, couple and multigenerational travel through cruising, air and road trip adventures.
Wendy is the editor & writer for LifesIncredibleJourney.com, an award-winning travel site that encourages exploration of destinations near & far.
She is a TMAC Director, Chair, National Governance Committee and Chair of TMAC's BC & Yukon Chapter, as well as a member of SATW, IFWTWA and NATJA.
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