The big question out of this recent announcement is whether more East Coast mountains owned by Vail will see their main parking lots become paid. Based on the crowds at Okemo this past season, they would appear to be next up. Mount Sunapee is another possibility, but it’s leased from the State of New Hampshire, so it would likely need to be approved. Don’t be surprised if there are more Vail properties that announce an increased amount of paid parking spaces across North America in the coming months.
I don’t see this improving the traffic situation much during weekends in Stowe. Out of all their East Coast destinations, Stowe brings out the most boujee clientele, so many won’t be deterred by paying for parking. I also don’t think Vail did enough in terms of raising Epic Pass prices. While the season pass costs more than the 2021-22 season, they introduced a monthly payment plan, ironically making it even more accessible. On the other hand, it will give motivation to those that are living or staying overnight in town to use Stowe’s free transit system. In short, it’s not particularly an endearing way to thank passholders and locals for their 85th anniversary.