Arapahoe Basin vs Vail
Comparing Arapahoe Basin (CO) and Vail (CO) on price, terrain, snowfall, and lift wait. Numbers from the 2026 season.
Arapahoe Basin
Keystone, CO
Ikon pass
Window price$199
Online (advance)$79
Season pass$1,329
Vail
Vail, CO
Epic pass
Window price$356
Online (advance)$199
Season pass$1,051
Side-by-side
| Stat | Arapahoe Basin | Vail | Edge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Window lift ticket | $199 | $356 | Arapahoe Basin |
| Online (30+ days) | $79 | $199 | Arapahoe Basin |
| Season pass | $1,329 | $1,051 | Vail |
| Annual snowfall | 306" | 247" | Arapahoe Basin |
| Skiable acres | 1,428 | 5,317 | Vail |
| Vertical drop | 2,538' | 3,450' | Vail |
| Runs | 146 | 277 | Vail |
| Lifts | 9 | 33 | Vail |
| Summit elevation | 13,338' | 11,370' | Arapahoe Basin |
| Beginner terrain | 10% | 18% | Vail |
| Advanced terrain | 60% | 53% | Arapahoe Basin |
| Average lift wait | 10 min | 18 min | Arapahoe Basin |
The Match
Arapahoe Basin is cheaper at the gate ($79 vs $199 entry). Vail is significantly bigger (5,317 vs 1,428 acres). Arapahoe Basin sees more snow (306" vs 247"). Pass affiliation: Arapahoe Basin is Ikon, Vail is Epic.