When it comes to skiing, we hold high respect for those who came before us. So in order to honor our elders, we’ve compiled a list of the most senior-friendly ski areas across North America.
While these destination resorts may be light on late night partying, they are all steeped in tradition and offer a multitude of relaxing and affordable options for those over the age of 60.
Unique cocktail bars, senior-oriented ski groups, and high-speed chairlifts are all on the table. So break out that Dale’s of Norway sweater and show the kids what retro style really looks like.
Get ready for first chair of the season. Ski.com’s Mountain Travel Experts are here to help you plan and book everything for the perfect ski vacation. Call 800-610-8911 or fill out this questionnaire to receive a quote in your inbox >>.
5) Steamboat Springs, Colorado
Senior Lift Ticket (70+) – $129 | Base Elevation – 6,900′
The town with the most winter Olympians per capita is also home to some remarkable skiing. From large quantities of ski-in, ski-out properties to the brand new and much faster gondola, Steamboat Springs continues to improve its resort offerings. One of the offerings that is specifically geared towards the senior crowd is the Mountain Masters program, which offers morning and afternoon guided skiing for intermediates over the age of 50. The guides focus on exploring the resort’s best blue and “groomed black terrain.” After a day of skiing, let the healing waters of the all-natural Strawberry Hot Springs melt away your sore muscles and joints.
*Steamboat Resort asks that you reserve a spot (something our Mountain Travel Experts are happy to do) and show up at the top of the gondola at 9am and 1230 for the day’s Mountain Masters tours.Â
4) Sun Peaks, British Columbia
Senior Lift Ticket (65+) – $92 | Base Elevation – 4,117′
Located some 254 miles east of hustle and bustle of Vancouver lies the secluded yet sprawling Sun Peaks Resort. This classic ski domain is the second largest in Canada and includes some 4,270 acres of skiable terrain.
Besides its plethora of varied terrain, what makes Sun Peaks a senior favorite is a comprehensive blend of ingredients. Highly discounted senior-rate lift tickets, a cozy base village, and high speed chairs combine to make this one of the best Canadian ski resorts for seniors.
For a single day of skiing or riding, seniors will appreciate 20% off the standard window rate (on top of a good exchange rate coming from the USA), which is remarkably cheap considering the amount of terrain and facilities offered at this Canadian classic.
Senior (65+) Full Day – $92 | 3+ Days – $87 | Half Day – $74 | After 2pm – $46Â
3) Copper Mountain, CO
Senior 4 Pack – $209 | Base Elevation – 9,712′
Copper Mountain is home to one of the longest running, organized senior ski groups in the country. And with a name like the “Over The Hill Gang,” it’s obvious none of these senior skiers are taking themselves too seriously.
Membership to the group includes lift priority, access to group clinics, and guided sessions. Those over 50 can join for $429/season while seniors over the age of 80 pay just $215/season. Seniors looking for an interim membership during their vacation can snag 4 days with the Gang for $199.
OHG PRICING: 50+ Season – $429 | 80+ Season $215 | 4 Day – $199
2) Alta, Utah
Super Senior Season Pass (80+) – FREE | Base Elevation – 8,530′
When you ski Little Cottonwood Canyon after the age of 80, you only have to pay nothing for a full season pass. That’s right– an entire season worth of skiing for super seniors is completely free. Alta Ski Area loves its seniors so much, one of its longest patrons is also one of the oldest skiers in the game. George Jedenoff still skis there at the ripe young age of 101.
When staying in Alta, the Peruvian Lodge and Snowpine Lodge both offer relatively quiet accommodations with spacious pool and hot tub areas.
1) Lake Louise, Alberta
Super Senior Season Pass (80+) – $20 | Base Elevation – 5,400′
At Lake Louise, super seniors (80+) are afforded a full season pass for a measly $20. For those between 65 and 80, day passes are just $95. These affordable senior rates attract a great community of men and women who want to spend their sunset years staying active in the mountains. Lake Louise’s relatively low base area (5,400′) is also well positioned for skiers coming from sea level.
Those looking to stay in luxury will be pleased by the 4-star appointed Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, which offers a classic hotel bar and top flight spa.
Get ready for first chair of the season. Ski.com’s Mountain Travel Experts are here to help you plan and book everything for the perfect ski vacation. Call 800-610-8911 or fill out a brief questionnaire to receive a quote in your inbox >>.
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