All Photos Courtesy of Wildcat Mountain
Backcountry Skiing in the East: Unpredictable but Rewarding
This winter has been an absolute dream for backcountry skiers and splitboarders in the East. One of the the best winters we have had in years has rewarded skiers and snowboarders with a bounty of snowfall. As a result, powder chasers have been scoring deep turns in iconic zones like Mount Washington, the Adirondacks and Vermont’s Green Mountains. However, as every seasoned backcountry enthusiast knows, Mother Nature can be unpredictable. Avalanche risks, high winds or simply the need for a rest day can easily force you to rethink your plans.
So, what’s the solution when your go-to backcountry zone is not an options, but you still have the itch get some turns in? Enter the Epic Day Pass—a flexible, affordable way to supplement your backcountry adventures with in-bounds skiing at top Northeast resorts.
Why Backcountry Skiers Need the Epic Day Pass
Whether you’re dodging storm conditions, warming up with lift-accessed vertical before a big tour or scouting terrain inbounds before heading out the gate, the Epic Day Pass is the best-kept secret for backcountry skiers.
“When backcountry conditions aren’t lining up, resort uphill access can offer a safe and satisfying alternative to stay in shape and keep touring skills sharp. Whether you’re gliding through groomed trails or breaking your own, it keeps you moving, engaged and connected to winter,” says Tyler Ray, a New Hampshire local and owner of Frontyard Law and Backyard Concept.
1. Unbeatable Value
- Ski Vermont and New York resorts like Stowe, Okemo, and Hunter for as low as $76 per day.
- New Hampshire resorts including Wildcat and Attitash start as low as $47 per day.
- Up to 65% savings compared to buying single-day lift tickets.
2. Ultimate Flexibility
- Choose 1 to 7 days of skiing, but decide when you want to go later.
- Pick which Epic Pass resorts you want to visit.
- Use multiple resorts in one day—ideal for road-tripping skiers.
3. Extra Perks with Epic Mountain Rewards
- 20% off on-mountain dining, lodging, rentals, and group lessons.
- A built-in discount on gear and après-ski essentials.
Epic Day Pass: A Backcountry Backup Plan
Springtime in the Mount Washington Valley means you can golf in the valley and still ski powder up high. But when 60-90 mph winds make backcountry travel dangerous, having a backup plan is crucial. The Epic Day Pass gives you immediate access to resorts like Wildcat and Attitash. This way, you never miss a ski day.
“It’s always important to have a Plan B, C, D in the Northeast. Our weather changes so quickly, and sometimes even within the course of the day. You always have to remember that it’s better to come back another day, especially when managing risk to yourself and others (including SAR teams),” says Lisa McCoy, co-owner of the International Mountain Climbing School (IMCS).
Real-World Example: Adapting to the Conditions
A few weeks back while visiting the area, I heard several skiers planning to take on Tuckerman Ravine on Mount Washington, only to change plans when ice and wind made the summit conditions unsafe. Instead, they opted for a visit to Attitash to tackle the more spring like conditions and the lifts offered effortless vertical.
“A solid backup plan offers a safe, reliable alternative when conditions shift unexpectedly. It gives you a tangible option to retreat or reroute before things go sideways,” elaborates Ray.
This kind of last-minute flexibility is a game-changer for 100,000+ New England skiers who enjoy uphill travel and backcountry terrain. Whether it’s a sudden weather shift or just a rest day from skinning, having lift access ensures you never waste a winter weekend.
New Hampshire Epic Day Pass Quick Facts:
- Ski or ride from $47 per day.
- Discounts of up to 65% off compared to standard lift tickets.
- Available for 1-7 days.
- Valid at multiple resorts in one day.
- Includes Epic Mountain Rewards for food, lodging, rentals, and more.
The Bottom Line
Backcountry skiing is about chasing the best conditions, but Mother Nature doesn’t always cooperate. The Epic Day Pass ensures you always have a plan B—whether it’s a storm day, a scouting mission or just a chance to mix in some lift-served turns with your backcountry adventures. With May 26 being the last chance to get your 25/26 Epic Pass at the lowest price of the year and receive 2 Buddy Tickets, it just might be something that you will want to consider.
About the Author
Rich Stoner is the founder of the après-ski lifestyle clothing and media brand, All About Après. He is also the co-host of the Beyond the Après podcast. No stranger to the ski and après-ski scene, Rich has been a long time contributor for many publications on topics like skiing, gear, beer and food. However, his passion is on the slopes and enjoying good times with good people. You can find him perfecting his craft carving turns and drinking beers in the Green Mountains of Vermont. @allaboutapres