Kirkwood vs Vail
Comparing Kirkwood (CA) and Vail (CO) 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
Vail
Vail, CO
Epic pass
Window price$356
Online (advance)$199
Season pass$1,051
Side-by-side
| Stat | Kirkwood | Vail | Edge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Window lift ticket | $139 | $356 | Kirkwood |
| Online (30+ days) | $99 | $199 | Kirkwood |
| Season pass | $1,051 | $1,051 | Tied |
| Annual snowfall | 600" | 247" | Kirkwood |
| Skiable acres | 2,300 | 5,317 | Vail |
| Vertical drop | 2,000' | 3,450' | Vail |
| Runs | 86 | 277 | Vail |
| Lifts | 13 | 33 | Vail |
| Summit elevation | 9,800' | 11,370' | Vail |
| Beginner terrain | 12% | 18% | Vail |
| Advanced terrain | 57% | 53% | Kirkwood |
| Average lift wait | 5 min | 18 min | Kirkwood |
The Match
Kirkwood is cheaper at the gate ($99 vs $199 entry). Vail is significantly bigger (5,317 vs 2,300 acres). Kirkwood sees more snow (600" vs 247"). Both are on the Epic pass — same pass, same wallet.