Howelsen Hill Ski Area vs Vail

Howelsen Hill Ski Area (Colorado) and Vail (Colorado) head-to-head: stats, terrain, and 2026-27 pass coverage.

StatHowelsen Hill Ski AreaVail
Vertical drop449 ft (137 m)3,494 ft (1,065 m)
Summit elevation7,172 ft11,539 ft
Base elevation6,719 ft8,045 ft
Lifts432
Runs19241
Beginner terrain47%20%
Intermediate terrain32%34%
Expert terrain21%46%
Night skiing-No

Vail has the bigger vertical (3,494 ft vs 449 ft); Vail has more runs (241 vs 19); Vail skews more expert (46% expert terrain).

Which pass covers them?

ResortPass coverage (2026-27)
Howelsen Hill Ski AreaIndy Pass: 2 days
VailEpic Pass: unlimited days

No single pass covers both, so skiing both means separate passes or lift tickets. Check your full resort list in the pass finder →

Stay near Howelsen Hill Ski Area

Lodging near the base fills up first during peak weeks. Search stays near Howelsen Hill Ski Area

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More detail: Howelsen Hill Ski Area stats · Vail stats