Northstar vs Snowbird
Comparing Northstar (CA) and Snowbird (UT) on price, terrain, snowfall, and lift wait. Numbers from the 2026 season.
Northstar
Truckee, CA
Epic pass
Window price$199
Online (advance)$127
Season pass$1,051
Snowbird
Snowbird, UT
Independent pass
Window price$229
Online (advance)$149
Season pass$1,199
Side-by-side
| Stat | Northstar | Snowbird | Edge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Window lift ticket | $199 | $229 | Northstar |
| Online (30+ days) | $127 | $149 | Northstar |
| Season pass | $1,051 | $1,199 | Northstar |
| Annual snowfall | 350" | 500" | Snowbird |
| Skiable acres | 3,170 | 2,500 | Northstar |
| Vertical drop | 2,280' | 3,240' | Snowbird |
| Runs | 100 | 140 | Snowbird |
| Lifts | 20 | 10 | Northstar |
| Summit elevation | 8,610' | 11,300' | Snowbird |
| Beginner terrain | 13% | 27% | Snowbird |
| Advanced terrain | 27% | 35% | Snowbird |
| Average lift wait | 12 min | 12 min | Tied |
The Match
Northstar is cheaper at the gate ($127 vs $149 entry). Northstar is significantly bigger (3,170 vs 2,500 acres). Snowbird sees more snow (500" vs 350"). Pass affiliation: Northstar is Epic, Snowbird is Independent.