Mountain Collective Launches 20/21 Pass With Pre-Season Assurance and Early-Purchase Bonus Day
This week, the Mountain Collective began selling passes for the 2020-21 season. For $469, the Collective Pass offers 2 unrestricted days of access to 23 major resorts around the world (see the full list of resorts here). Kids 12 and under can scoop a pass for just $99. After the first 2 days at each resort, passholders can purchase all additional single-day lift tickets for 50% off. While “supplies last”, passholders will receive a bonus third day at the resort of their choosing. Passholders will also be eligible for select lodging discounts at each resort.
In the wake of continued COVID-19 impacts, the Mountain Collective has announced a no-questions-asked pre-season refund policy. Purchasers may request a full refund for their 2020-21 pass any time before October 16, 2020.
Our Take
While it undercuts both the Epic and Ikon Passes price-wise, the Collective Pass will be less practical for most people. The pass offers access to some of the best resorts in North America, but most are large and remote enough to warrant more than a few days’ vacation.
The 50% off all days after the first two may seem enticing, but it only takes a few non-free pass uses for the Ikon Base Pass, which currently costs just $130 more and offers a similar selection of resorts, to become a better value in most situations. Even with the limited-time bonus third day at one resort, consumers will get a better deal from the entry-level Ikon product with just two 4-day trips. Unlike the Ikon Base Pass, however, the Collective Pass doesn’t have any blackout dates. This may be enough to sell those envisioning a season comprising a few long-weekend trips.
Currently, the Collective Pass’s biggest downside is its lack of a mid-season deferment or refund policy. Customers may request a refund prior to October 16, 2020, but that’s still months before the peak North American ski season. Given concerns surrounding resort operations next season, we hope Mountain Collective updates their policy before the season starts to allow for more flexibility.
