Afton Alps vs Northstar
Comparing Afton Alps (MN) and Northstar (CA) on price, terrain, snowfall, and lift wait. Numbers from the 2026 season.
Afton Alps
Hastings, MN
Epic pass
Window price$85
Online (advance)$53
Season pass$1,051
Northstar
Truckee, CA
Epic pass
Window price$199
Online (advance)$127
Season pass$1,051
Side-by-side
| Stat | Afton Alps | Northstar | Edge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Window lift ticket | $85 | $199 | Afton Alps |
| Online (30+ days) | $53 | $127 | Afton Alps |
| Season pass | $1,051 | $1,051 | Tied |
| Annual snowfall | 70" | 350" | Northstar |
| Skiable acres | 300 | 3,170 | Northstar |
| Vertical drop | 330' | 2,280' | Northstar |
| Runs | 26 | 100 | Northstar |
| Lifts | 9 | 20 | Northstar |
| Summit elevation | 1,030' | 8,610' | Northstar |
| Beginner terrain | 40% | 13% | Afton Alps |
| Advanced terrain | 20% | 27% | Northstar |
| Average lift wait | — | 12 min | Northstar |
The Match
Afton Alps is cheaper at the gate ($53 vs $127 entry). Northstar is significantly bigger (3,170 vs 300 acres). Northstar sees more snow (350" vs 70"). Both are on the Epic pass — same pass, same wallet.