Class Action Lawsuit filed against Vail Resorts and Alterra

A class action lawsuit filed in the United States is set to challenge the business model that has reshaped modern skiing, with industry giants Vail Resorts and Alterra Mountain Company accused of driving up prices and limiting consumer choice.

The case, lodged in Colorado, alleges that the two companies – which between them control access to many of North America's most popular ski destinations – have violated antitrust laws through the sale of their collective multi-resort lift tickets, the Epic and Ikon passes.

The case claims that both operators have used 'bundling' to steer skiers towards expensive season passes.

By packaging access to high-profile resorts alongside smaller mountains, the lawsuit argues skiers and snowboarders are effectively forced to buy into a wider network in order to ski at the most famous destinations.

They also allege that the cost of single-day lift tickets has been deliberately inflated to reinforce this strategy.

Day passes at leading resorts have increased to beyond $300, making the season-long tickets appear comparatively better value.

Through acquisitions, partnerships and expansion, Vail and Alterra now dominate the US ski market, collectively operating or partnering with around 60 ski areas in North America.

The complaint argues this duopoly leaves skiers with limited alternatives, while pressuring independent resorts to join one of the major pass networks.

The lawsuit is seeking damages and potential changes to how ski passes are structured and sold. Legal experts suggest the case could take years to resolve.

Vail Resorts has rejected the claims, stating they are without merit and defending the Epic Pass as a product that has historically made skiing more accessible by lowering the cost of season access.

Alterra Mountain Company has not yet publicly commented on the case.