Northstar vs Vail
Comparing Northstar (CA) and Vail (CO) 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
Vail
Vail, CO
Epic pass
Window price$356
Online (advance)$199
Season pass$1,051
Side-by-side
| Stat | Northstar | Vail | Edge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Window lift ticket | $199 | $356 | Northstar |
| Online (30+ days) | $127 | $199 | Northstar |
| Season pass | $1,051 | $1,051 | Tied |
| Annual snowfall | 350" | 247" | Northstar |
| Skiable acres | 3,170 | 5,317 | Vail |
| Vertical drop | 2,280' | 3,450' | Vail |
| Runs | 100 | 277 | Vail |
| Lifts | 20 | 33 | Vail |
| Summit elevation | 8,610' | 11,370' | Vail |
| Beginner terrain | 13% | 18% | Vail |
| Advanced terrain | 27% | 53% | Vail |
| Average lift wait | 12 min | 18 min | Northstar |
The Match
Northstar is cheaper at the gate ($127 vs $199 entry). Vail is significantly bigger (5,317 vs 3,170 acres). Northstar sees more snow (350" vs 247"). Both are on the Epic pass — same pass, same wallet.