What's Happening?
Smugglers’ Notch Resort, a prominent independent ski area in Vermont, has announced a new partnership with the Indy Pass for the upcoming 2026–27 winter season. This collaboration will allow Indy Pass holders to access Smugglers’ Notch for two days of
skiing or riding, with a third day available at a 25% discount, and notably, no blackout dates. Advanced reservations will be mandatory for Indy Pass visits to maintain the resort's Comfortable Carrying Capacity (CCC) and preserve its uncrowded experience. This move integrates Smugglers’ Notch into a network of over 300 independent alpine and Nordic destinations globally, aligning it with other resorts under Bear Den Partners' ownership. The resort is celebrating its 70th year of operation and its first full winter under Bear Den Partners, which acquired the resort in 2025 with a focus on long-term investment in its infrastructure and operations. The 26/27 Indy Pass Public Sale has resumed and is anticipated to sell out quickly, after which a new waitlist will be established.
Why It's Important?
This partnership is significant for the U.S. ski industry, particularly for independent resorts. Indy Pass Director Erik Mogensen emphasized that Smugglers’ Notch joining the Indy Pass signals a continued effort by independent resorts to unite and resist the corporatization of skiing. This collaboration provides a more affordable and accessible option for skiers and snowboarders who prefer independent mountains over larger, corporate-owned resorts. For Smugglers’ Notch, it offers an opportunity to attract a new demographic of visitors while maintaining its commitment to a quality, uncrowded experience. The resort's location in north-central Vermont also positions it as a hub for Indy Pass holders to explore other participating ski areas in the region. The focus of Bear Den Partners on long-term ownership and investment in independent mountains suggests a broader trend towards sustaining the unique character and community-centered philosophy of these resorts, benefiting local economies and preserving diverse skiing experiences.
What's Next?
The 2026–27 Indy Pass Public Sale is currently underway and is expected to sell out rapidly, after which a waitlist will be created for prospective pass holders. Current Smugglers’ Notch Unlimited Core Season Pass holders have the option to purchase the Indy Add-On Pass at a reduced rate, extending their access to the broader Indy Pass network. As the winter season approaches, Smugglers’ Notch Resort will likely focus on implementing the advanced reservation system for Indy Pass holders to manage capacity effectively. The success of this partnership could encourage other independent ski resorts to consider similar collaborations, further expanding the Indy Pass network and strengthening the independent segment of the ski industry. Bear Den Partners will continue its investment in Smugglers’ Notch, focusing on infrastructure and operations to support the resort's future and enhance the visitor experience.
Beyond the Headlines
The partnership between Smugglers’ Notch Resort and Indy Pass highlights a growing movement within the U.S. ski industry to counter the dominance of large, multi-resort corporations. This collaboration underscores a commitment to preserving the unique character and community-focused atmosphere of independent ski areas. It also reflects a broader consumer desire for authentic, less crowded experiences, which these independent resorts often provide. The emphasis on maintaining a 'Comfortable Carrying Capacity' at Smugglers’ Notch, even with increased access through the Indy Pass, speaks to a conscious effort to balance growth with sustainability and visitor satisfaction. This trend could lead to a more diversified and resilient ski industry, offering a wider range of experiences for different types of skiers and riders, and potentially fostering stronger local economies around these independent destinations. It also raises questions about the long-term viability of independent resorts in a competitive market and how such partnerships can ensure their continued success.
