A new season ski pass is aiming to provide robust competition to the big two operators Vail Resorts and Alterra.
Appropriately named the Indy Pass, the multi-resort ski pass covers 34 independently owned resorts across North America.
The Indy Pass is a response to surging prices for skiing at major resorts which has seen more than eight million skiers give up the sport in the past decade, according to the US National Ski Areas Association.
"Indy Pass resorts provide an uncrowded and welcoming experience for individuals and families seeking great snow and varied terrain. In addition, vacation getaways at these quaint ski areas cost a small fraction of what major resorts charge."
The 34 resorts included in the pass span eight US states, Alberta and BC, Canada.
They include Brundage Mountain and Silver Mountain in Idaho, Beaver Mountain in Utah, and Magic Mountain in Vermont.
"Largely ignored by the mega resorts, up and coming skiers now have a pass with almost no barrier to entry," said Geoff Hatheway, president of Magic Mountain.
"The Indy Pass is priced right for anyone to try; it has a wonderful variety of interesting ski areas to explore,"
Unrestricted season-long access is available at 28 of 34 participating resorts.
