Indy Pass and The Freedom Pass Offer Affordable Colorado Ski and Ride Options

The Indy Pass and The Freedom Pass provide some of the most affordable Colorado ski and ride options. Both passes offer similar affordable options within the US and Colorado. For those looking for a deal within Colorado, the Indy Pass is a great option, especially for families and beginners. Unfortunately, the Indy Pass is sold out for the ‘24-’25 season. You can sign up to be on the waitlist, though. Check our Colorado Ski Resort Guide for a complete list of all resorts and pass types they accept.

Consider The Freedom Pass

Although the Freedom Pass only provides discounts at two associated resorts, Ski Cooper and Sunlight Mountain, it’s a real option as this Pass is still available. Ski Cooper is a step up in ability level for those seeking more challenge. It’s also an excellent choice for skiers and riders who originate from East Coast Resort, as many resorts in this group are on the East Coast. Follow along to better understand how you can benefit the most.

Indy Ski Pass in Colorado:

The Indy Pass provides two free days and a third discounted day of skiing or riding at each participating independent Colorado resort. The Indy Pass limits the number of passes sold to stay true to its members’ mountains’ independent, less-crowded nature.

Although this Pass is super popular, the resorts it provides access to are much more beginner—to intermediate-level. These resorts are family-friendly and more affordable, too. Often, they have other functions at the resort or nearby, such as sledding, cross-country skiing, lodges, sleigh rides, and more. Learn more about family-friendly resorts.

Indy Pass Perks

Holding an Indy Pass comes with many perks in addition to discounts on resort passes, such as discounts on Cross-Country passes, lodging, access to travel packages, and gear.

Currently, there are 6 resorts in Colorado as part of the Indy Pass list for the 2024-2025 season; these are:

• Sunlight Mountain Resort
• Powderhorn Mountain Resort
• Granby Ranch
• Echo Mountain
• Howelsen Hill
• Loveland Ski Area.

Additional Perks:

• Discounts on third-day lift tickets at Indy Pass resorts.
• Access to discounted lift tickets at partner resorts outside of Colorado.
• Other potential benefits, such as discounts on lodging, rentals, and more.

Indy Pass Cost – Currently Sold Out

The cost of the Indy pass varies depending on the purchase date and age group. Prices typically increase as the season approaches. This pass is best for skiers and riders seeking variety and exploring independent, often less crowded, resorts in Colorado.

Freedom Pass in Colorado:

The Freedom Pass provides 3 free days of skiing or riding at participating Freedom Pass resorts when you purchase a season pass at one of the participating Colorado resorts.

For the 2024-2025 season, only two resorts in Colorado are part of the Freedom Pass: Sunlight Mountain and Ski Cooper.

• There are No additional Perks: beyond the reciprocal skiing benefits at partner resorts.
• You must purchase a season pass at a participating resort, and the Freedom pass is automatically included.

The Freedom Pass is Best For

The Freedom Pass is best for skiers and riders who are primarily interested in skiing at one of the participating Colorado resorts but want the option to explore a few other independent mountains for free. Be sure to check out their other participating resorts within the US. If you’re planning a trip back home, you might just be surprised to find your favorite hometown resort on the Freedom Pass list!

Key Differences to Consider:

• Number of Free Days: Indy Pass offers two days at each participating resort, while the Freedom Pass offers three total days at each resort partner.
• Resort Selection: The Indy Pass generally includes more participating resorts in Colorado than the Freedom Pass.
• Cost Structure: The Indy Pass is a standalone pass with its own price, while the Freedom Pass is a benefit included with a season pass purchase at a participating resort.
• Additional Benefits: The Indy Pass often comes with additional perks and discounts beyond just lift tickets, whereas the Freedom Pass focuses solely on reciprocal skiing benefits.

by Kathleen Fitzsimmons