Kirkwood vs Northstar
Comparing Kirkwood (CA) and Northstar (CA) on price, terrain, snowfall, and lift wait. Numbers from the 2026 season.
Kirkwood
Kirkwood, CA
Epic pass
Window price$139
Online (advance)$99
Season pass$1,051
Northstar
Truckee, CA
Epic pass
Window price$199
Online (advance)$127
Season pass$1,051
Side-by-side
| Stat | Kirkwood | Northstar | Edge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Window lift ticket | $139 | $199 | Kirkwood |
| Online (30+ days) | $99 | $127 | Kirkwood |
| Season pass | $1,051 | $1,051 | Tied |
| Annual snowfall | 600" | 350" | Kirkwood |
| Skiable acres | 2,300 | 3,170 | Northstar |
| Vertical drop | 2,000' | 2,280' | Northstar |
| Runs | 86 | 100 | Northstar |
| Lifts | 13 | 20 | Northstar |
| Summit elevation | 9,800' | 8,610' | Kirkwood |
| Beginner terrain | 12% | 13% | Northstar |
| Advanced terrain | 57% | 27% | Kirkwood |
| Average lift wait | 5 min | 12 min | Kirkwood |
The Match
Kirkwood is cheaper at the gate ($99 vs $127 entry). Northstar is significantly bigger (3,170 vs 2,300 acres). Kirkwood sees more snow (600" vs 350"). Both are on the Epic pass — same pass, same wallet.