Take Your Epic or Ikon Pass Global: 5 Must-Ski International Resorts

You already know there are numerous incredible places to ski and snowboard in the United States. If you have an Epic or Ikon pass the options are plentiful while also saving you money. But what if your traveling feet (and boots) are feeling itchy for a resort a bit farther afield? You have your pass covered, so why not branch out and indulge yourself with an international ski destination, if you can? 

Here are five great suggestions for skiing, boarding, and enjoying all that these resorts have to offer on other continents.

Whistler Blackcomb, British Columbia, Canada - Epic Pass:

You don’t have to travel far to enjoy this amazing resort since it’s just over 100 miles north of the US border. The Whistler side and Blackcomb side are connected by their state-of-the-art PEAK 2 PEAK gondola.

 Elevation for the resorts is 7,156 feet. Blackcomb is the more challenging of the two mountains, with Whistler offering vast and accessible terrain for everyone, including those less experienced.

The village is livelyand fun, with excellent restaurants and any kind of shopping that you enjoy. The only downside of Whistler Blackcomb is the weather, which can be iffy at the lower half of the mountain due to its coastal location. At higher altitudes, though, you’re sure to have wonderful skiing memories to take home with you.

Zermatt, Switzerland - Ikon Pass:

Pretty much everyone has seen photos of the Matterhorn, but the view in person is breathtaking and indescribable. And, amazingly, there is actually skiing and snowboarding 365 days a year. 

With an elevation of 12,939 feet, Zermatt offers 3,500 acres of skiable terrain with the majority suited to experienced skiers, but there are beginner slopes and a magic carpet for learners. When linked to Italy through the Matterhorn Alpine Crossing, you can ski from Switzerland to Italy and enjoy the day in the Italian Alps. When you’re not on the slopes, consider taking the cogwheel railway to Gornergrat to enjoy the views, spend the day, or dine under the stars.

Perisher, New South Wales, Australia - Epic Pass:

If you’re looking for Southern Hemisphere skiing and also want to experience Australia, Perisher Ski Resort is a great option. It’s Australia’s largest ski resort when including interconnected Blue Cow, Smiggin Holes, and Guthega, all available on the same lift ticket. Perisher has terrain for every skier or boarder, and the other three resorts do as well, with Smiggin Holes being particularly beginner-friendly.

The resorts are known more for their snow sports and enjoying the outdoors rather than a robust nightlife, though there is nice apres-ski and bars where people enjoy themselves. 

Close to Perisher is Kosciuszko National Park which is great for hiking and beautiful views. If you’re into heading into the backcountry, there are historic huts and quaint towns nearby to enjoy.

Niseko, Japan - Ikon Pass:

You may have heard the word “Japow” which combines “Japan” with “Powder” because the snow at Niseko is world-famous for being incredibly light and deep. Sounds amazing, right?

The resort boasts 2,191 skiable acres with an elevation of 4,291 feet. There’s something there for every skier and snowboarder with 30% beginner runs, 40% intermediate, and 30% expert.

When you’re ready for apres-ski, Niseko has everything you could ask for, from Michelin starred dining to casual restaurants of all kinds. Shopping is an adventure, too, as you’ll find all kinds of clothing and gear that you won’t find in the US.

If you need more of a reason to go to Niseko, the US dollar is worth about $154 Japanese Yen right now, so your money will go further. You might just want to stay an extra week!

Valle Nevado, Chile - Ikon Pass

Skiing in the Andes sounds pretty incredible, doesn't it? And most agree that the best snow is at Valle Nevado. Just 45 miles from the Santiago Airport, you’ll find beautiful views and slope-side lodging. The resort itself boasts 12,000 feet elevation and 2,400 skiable acres. Off-piste opportunities abound and heli-skiing is another option for expert skiers.

The resort doesn’t offer much for beginner skiers, though there are beginner ski lessons available and a small amount of terrain works well for those new to the sport.
The only gondola in Chile and the first high speed quad called the Andes Express takes you up the mountain, but at higher elevations the lifts are more basic and a little slow. There are a handful of restaurants and bars but the focus here is the mountains and the snow. 

If you’re wanting to ski during the Northern Hemisphere’s summertime and have an Ikon Pass, consider an adventure to the Andes at Valle Nevado!