Vail Resorts Expands Epic Pass with New Austrian Destinations
Vail Resorts, Inc. (MTN) has announced the addition of two Austrian ski resorts—Mayrhofen and Hintertux—to its Epic Pass portfolio. This expansion will take effect starting with the 2025/26 winter season. This move follows the recent inclusion of Saalbach and Zell am See-Kaprun, demonstrating the company’s commitment to strengthening its presence in Austria and enhancing the value of the Epic Pass for skiers and snowboarders globally.
Enhanced Offerings for European Ski Enthusiasts
The integration of Mayrhofen and Hintertux enriches the Epic Pass’s European offerings significantly. Situated in the renowned Zillertal Valley, these resorts offer over 120 miles of well-maintained slopes, appealing to a wide range of skill levels. Mayrhofen features the beginner-friendly Ahorn plateau and the Harakiri slope, known for being Austria’s steepest at a 78% gradient. Meanwhile, Hintertux Glacier offers year-round skiing, making it unique due to its elevation and glacier terrain, complete with attractions like the Nature’s Ice Palace.
Long-Term Growth Strategy and Financial Implications
This strategic expansion aligns with Vail Resorts’ long-term growth objectives by enhancing product appeal and increasing customer engagement. Epic and Epic Adaptive Pass holders will enjoy five consecutive days of access at both Austrian resorts. Early purchasers will also receive incentives, such as two Buddy Tickets offering up to 45% savings on lift tickets and six “Ski With a Friend” passes. Furthermore, a $49 down payment option makes the pass more accessible and encourages early purchases, boosting advance sales.
With over 80 resorts included globally—featuring prominent names like Whistler Blackcomb, Vail Mountain, and Park City—the Epic Pass distinguishes itself in the multi-resort ski pass market. Management is optimistic that these recent additions will enhance customer retention, broaden international appeal, and contribute to revenue growth in future seasons.
Vail Resorts Stock Performance
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Over the past six months, Vail Resorts shares have dropped 20.7%, compared to an 11.8% decline in the industry. Weather-related challenges and decreased skier visitation levels have impacted the company’s prospects. In the second quarter of fiscal 2025, skier visitation decreased by 2.5% year-over-year, exacerbated by unfavorable weather conditions in Australia. Consequently, earnings estimates for fiscal 2025 have diminished over the past month, indicating ongoing concerns among analysts.
Despite these challenges, Vail Resorts stands to benefit from its various offerings, including the Epic Pass, Epic Local Pass, Epic Day Pass, and Epic Coverage products. Additionally, a focus on property developments is expected to yield positive results, particularly from its two-year resource efficiency initiative, which is projected to generate $100 million in annualized savings by the end of fiscal 2026.
MTN’s Zacks Rank & Key Picks
Vail Resorts currently holds a Zacks Rank of #3 (Hold).
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