Discover over 100 ski resorts where seniors can ski at no cost

The post-World War II baby boom is increasing the number of senior citizens in the U.S. In a decade, individuals aged 65 and older will represent 20% of the country's population.

Reaching a golden age doesn't mean that senior skiers must stay home and store their gear. The U.S. ski industry is not forgetting the enthusiasts who have supported their business for the past 50 years; instead, they’re motivating them to continue skiing by lowering lift ticket prices for seniors.

Several factors contribute to this trend. Reduced prices may reflect an understanding that many seniors are well beyond their peak earning years and highest income brackets.

Lower ticket prices may also reflect gratitude for the support seniors have provided to the ski industry over the years. Moreover, senior lift ticket promotions can serve as an encouragement to keep skiing or as a positive public relations move, anticipating that senior skiers will be joined by family members from younger generations. If that’s the case, here are locations where kids can ski for free.

Discounted lift ticket rates often begin at age 60, but most typically start at 65. Savings can range from a $5 reduction to discounts of $50 or more.

Complimentary skiing for seniors

Some offers even extend to completely free lift tickets for seniors. We scoured the internet (and even made some calls on an old landline) to gather a comprehensive list of U.S. locations that provide free skiing for seniors.

Some locations feature small hills with single Poma lifts and only a few hundred feet of vertical across a couple of runs, while others boast major resorts with hundreds of trails and thousands of vertical feet, served by numerous lifts, including high-speed quads, gondolas, and magic carpets.

We discovered ski resorts in 26 out of the 50 states—yes, even Alabama! Among these, here are 115 mountains, hills, and resorts that provide free lift tickets for seniors, typically starting at age 70, although some cater to octogenarians and a few even begin their 'free' skiing at the youthful age of 90.

COVID-19 effects

That said, unless you're on a top-secret mission to Mars or reenacting Rip Van Winkle's extended slumber, you’re likely aware that life on our beautiful planet has undergone significant changes in the year 2020.

Nearly everything has changed since pre-pandemic times, and achieving normalcy remains a challenging goal. Like many other sectors, the ski industry swiftly closed last spring, well ahead of its planned end date. Since then, it has been diligently working to find the safest and most effective way to resume operations and welcome skiers back for the upcoming winter season.

While each ski resort is implementing COVID-19 measures differently, some common practices include mandatory face coverings, social distancing in queues and indoors, reduced capacity on lifts and gondolas, and a greater emphasis on advance ticket purchases or even advance ski reservations. Cash transactions and same-day lift ticket sales are likely to become increasingly uncommon.

Ski resorts will largely maintain their 'Seniors Ski Free' policies, but with additional considerations this year. While seniors may meet the age requirement, adjustments for advanced planning and minimizing contact points may be necessary. Many resorts are encouraging eligible seniors to obtain their season passes for a more 'hassle-free' experience on the slopes during this transitional year. Although skiing remains free, there may be a one-time registration fee for season passes, ranging from $5 to $50.

We’ve done our best to keep the list below updated, but we highly recommend reaching out to your preferred mountain for their specific recommendations, policies, and any updates that may continue to evolve this season.

Where seniors can ski for free

Key takeaways

If you plan to visit one of the mountains listed, be sure to verify the details regarding free senior lift tickets before finalizing your travel plans. If you qualify, you’ll likely need to complete some steps ahead of your trip to the slopes.

However, if you're healthy and eager to take advantage of a free skiing offer, a discounted rate, or—heaven forbid—a full-price ticket, put on your smile and have a fantastic day!