Steamboat vs Vail
Comparing Steamboat (CO) and Vail (CO) on price, terrain, snowfall, and lift wait. Numbers from the 2026 season.
Steamboat
Steamboat Springs, CO
Ikon pass
Window price$339
Online (advance)$149
Season pass$1,329
Vail
Vail, CO
Epic pass
Window price$356
Online (advance)$199
Season pass$1,051
Side-by-side
| Stat | Steamboat | Vail | Edge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Window lift ticket | $339 | $356 | Steamboat |
| Online (30+ days) | $149 | $199 | Steamboat |
| Season pass | $1,329 | $1,051 | Vail |
| Annual snowfall | 342" | 247" | Steamboat |
| Skiable acres | 3,741 | 5,317 | Vail |
| Vertical drop | 3,668' | 3,450' | Steamboat |
| Runs | 184 | 277 | Vail |
| Lifts | 23 | 33 | Vail |
| Summit elevation | 10,568' | 11,370' | Vail |
| Beginner terrain | 14% | 18% | Vail |
| Advanced terrain | 44% | 53% | Vail |
| Average lift wait | 10 min | 18 min | Steamboat |
The Match
Steamboat is cheaper at the gate ($149 vs $199 entry). Vail is significantly bigger (5,317 vs 3,741 acres). Steamboat sees more snow (342" vs 247"). Pass affiliation: Steamboat is Ikon, Vail is Epic.