Christmas has come early for skiers and snowboarders, and it's brought an entire year's worth of snow. The recent acquisition of Perisher Ski Resort by Vail Resorts has created a dream year for skiing in Australia and the US during 2016 and 2017.
With Perisher's new Epic Australia Pass, replacing the Freedom Pass, Australian powder hounds can enjoy our winter on the slopes, before jetting across to the USA for their season.
Taking flight at Perisher Ski Resort
"We’re delighted to launch the new Epic Australia Pass allowing Australians to ski and ride year-round between Perisher and nine of the best mountain resorts in the US," said Peter Brulisauer, chief operating officer of Perisher.
"Vail Resorts is the preeminent mountain resort company in the world, revered for their world-class mountain resorts, and being a leader in innovation and above all, exceptional guest service. With more than 35,000 acres [14,164 hectares] of the world’s best skiing and riding available, year-round, this is a huge benefit for Australian skiers and riders, and the industry."
Yep you read that correctly. The Epic Australia Pass will grant access to a total of 10 resorts including the best in America such as Vail and Beaver Creek in Colorado; Heavenly and Kirkwood in Lake Tahoe; and Park City in Utah, now the country's biggest ski resort.
Looking for diversity? Perisher Proves Four Resorts Are Better Than One
On a budget? How To Save Money Skiing In Australia
Skiers and boarders at Park City before the expansion (Image: Getty)
"The acquisition of Perisher has created an incredibly exciting connection between Australian skiers and riders, our mountain resorts in the United States, and Australia’s largest and most popular resort," said Kirsten Lynch, chief marketing officer of Vail Resorts.
"Giving Australians access to world-class resorts in the US including the now largest, Park City, as well as iconic resorts including Vail, Breckenridge and Beaver Creek in addition to Perisher, on the one pass, offers incredible value."
Perisher is no slouch either. Occupying an ideal position in New South Wales' Kosciuszko National Park, it's the largest and most popular alpine resort in the Southern Hemisphere. Guests can enjoy more than 1,214 hectares of skiable area, along with five terrain parks and night skiing.
Unlike the average rider, those with the Epic Australia Pass will have unbridled access to Perisher's runs, jibs and jumps, along with unlimited skiing and boarding at the affiliated US resorts. Discounts on accommodation and food and beverage will also be available at Perisher, along with free access to night skiing and the night park.
Passes are on sale now, starting at $799 for adults, $449 for students and $529 for seniors. These prices will soon rise, but those interested in securing the lowest possible cost need only pay a $49 deposit now and the rest in May 2016.
