Pre-Arrival Information
Alpine Valley Basecamp
There’s so much to look forward to on a trip to Alpine Valley, and so much to prepare. From getting to the resort, planning your stay, finding the best gear, and hitting the slopes, we make it easy with a wealth of resources designed to help get you straight to the fun.
We can't wait to see you at Alpine Valley! , opens in a new window
Check out the info below to finish planning your trip and helpful resources to prepare. Have more questions?
Get To Know The Resort
Ski and Ride Lessons
Book your lesson today.
Preparing For Your Trip
Packing List , opens in a new window
- Helmet: The use of helmets is strongly recommended. Children age 14 and under must wear a winter sport protective helmet while participating in ski & ride school, subject to local regulations. In addition, children and teens under age 18 who participate in designated children's classes or programs must wear a helmet. Rental helmets are available at our children's ski school locations for your convenience.
- Warm clothes including moisture wicking base layers, mid layers to trap body heat, and water-resistant outerwear, warm calf-high socks, and gloves or mittens.
- Goggles or sunglasses
- Sunscreen is recommended, even on cloudy days.
- Don’t have your own gear? Rent with Alpine Valley and let our experts fit you with the best boots, skis or snowboard for your best day on the mountain.
- Lift Access: All lesson participants must have a valid lift ticket or pass. Tickets can be purchased online with a group lesson package or separately here.
First time on mountain this season? Make sure you review and sign the waiver in your account prior to your trip.
Arriving on Mountain
You've made it! Here are some tips for your on-mountain arrival, including Express Lift Ticket Pickup if you purchased your lift tickets less than 9 days in advance.
The More you Snow
- Alpine Valley receives the most natural snowfall of any Ohio ski resort.
- New to skiing? We are ideal for beginners, offering perfect gentle pitches to introduce you to the sport. In addition, Alpine Valley's terrain is designed to spread out guests and allow them to have ample space during their ski excursion.
- New this season – if you are looking for more challenging terrain, Alpine Valley installed a handle tow – giving you access to more terrain – without the hike!
- This website has everything you need to prep for your visit! Book lessons, secure equipment and buy your lift tickets in advance. This will ensure you have what you need, save time and save money!
- Download the Epic Mix App and check the alerts to get the latest real-time updates on the mountain.
First Time Skiing or Riding? , opens in a new window
Plan Your Day On The Mountain
Start Your Day Off
- Explore the base area
- Plan the trails you want to conquer
Refuel During the Day
- Lunch Options
- Check out the retail shop gear
Ending Your Day
- Dinner Options
- Visit the bar area (21+)
Are you a Pass Holder? , opens in a new window
Complete Your Trip
Recommended Get Your Gear
FAQS
What winter activities do you offer?
Alpine Valley offers skiing and snowboarding where you can also enjoy some night skiing!
Is night skiing included in my pass or lift ticket?
An all day ticket is valid from open to close. Alpine Valley has a hill-covering light system that allows you to ski under the lights even during the short Ohio days! Night tickets are sold online and at the resort ticketing window. Night tickets can be found here.
Is a lift ticket included in my ski lesson?
Lift tickets are not included in lesson prices. For one time group lessons, multi-week programming discounted lifts are available as an add on.
When do your resorts open for the winter?
Alpine Valley is projected to open on Dec. 17 for the season. We look forward to welcoming you back to the slopes!
Is there a height or age requirement or limit to your activities?
At Alpine Valley, there is no age/height requirement for skiing or riding.
Do you allow service animals?
Yes, Alpine Valley allows service animals.
How do I cancel or change the date of my lift ticket?
If more than seven days before your first planned day, please call or email us; If less than seven days, please call us at 970-754-0005 to allow adequate time to make this change. If you have already arrived at your resort, or if it is the day you would like to ski, please feel free to stop by any ticket window to make your changes. All lift ticket change pricing will be for the date of request regardless of when the ticket was purchased. For example: if a ticket is purchased with advanced ticket pricing and then changed inside of 7 days of the start date, the pricing will not receive advanced ticket pricing.
Where can I view mountain cams?
To view our mountain cams, click here
Where can lessons be reviewed and booked?
Alpine Valley offers a variety of lessons for all skill levels including private and group lessons for children and adults. To view all lesson options please visit HERE
I am not seeing availability online, is there a waiting list we can be added to?
We do not have a waitlist. Guests make changes/cancellations to their reservations, so continue to check the website for availability.
Do I need a reservation?
Lift tickets, rentals and lessons are inventoried products that sometimes sell out. We encourage purchasing these products in advance. Reservations are not required for skiing or riding with your Epic Pass.
I bought my pass/ticket, now what?
Passes are shipped to your home address. If you receive it in the mail, you can head straight to the lift! If you didn't receive it in the mail, head to any pass office at any of our base locations. If you have an old pass on the same account, you can reactivate the card at a ticket office. For tickets that are shipped, if purchased far enough in advance, tickets can be loaded to your previous card if you have one, or can be picked up at the ELTP (Express lift ticket pick up) line. If you need rentals, please order on line in advance or visit our rental shops.
How to check if my pass has access to specific resort?
Please go to EpicPass.com, and then to “Passes” (top left) on the Epic Pass homepage. Then click on your specific pass and scroll down to “Resort Access.” Please read carefully, as all passes provide specific access, and can have restrictions involving both resorts and active dates.
Where can Lift tickets be reviewed and purchased?
Tickets can be purchased by visiting our resort websites and selecting the dates you would like to ski. Be aware that lift-ticket sales are limited this season to enhance the on-mountain guest experience, so lift tickets (or days) do sell out. We highly recommend purchasing lift tickets in advance.
We will mail all tickets that are ordered more than 9 days prior to arrival. Please go to any of our ticket offices, present a photo ID, where you can also pick up your ticket. Please call the Epic Pass Service Center at 970-754-0005 with any questions prior to your arrival, or contact a ticket agent via Live Chat at EpicPass.com.
What are the Passes that have access to Alpine Valley?
A variety of Passes include access to Alpine Valley. Be aware that passes can have restrictions on the number of days or the dates of access. For detailed information, please go to www.EpicPass.com, go to Passes (found on the menu bar at the top of the page), and click on the specific pass you would like more information on.
Where do I buy buddy tickets/ski with a friend tickets?
The ability to purchase discounted Buddy Tickets and Ski-With-A-Friend Tickets are included with certain passes, if purchased in the spring. If you have Buddy or SWAF tickets included with your pass, you can purchase the discounted lift tickets at www.EpicPass.com or at a ticket window. To avoid delays, we encourage you to purchase online. To purchase online, a Pass Holder must sign into “My Epic Account” (top right) at EpicPass.com, click on the “Passes” tab and navigate to the “Benefit Tickets” section. You can select the specific day and resort after you click on “Buy For A Buddy” or “Buy For A Friend.” Once purchased, the lift tickets must be picked by the Pass Holder at the Resort by displaying their pass. For more information, please go to www.EpicPass.com, Benefits (top, center) then Ski With A Friend and Buddy Tickets.
Do you offer discounts for military personnel?
Yes. There are two different options and the most economical is the Epic Military Season Passes. We provide options for Active, Retired, and Veteran military members and eligible Dependents. U.S., Canadian, and Australian personnel and their eligible dependents qualify. Military Passes require verification of current military status and verification CAN NOT be completed in the resort. For more information, please refer to this link: https://www.epicpass.com/pass-results/military.aspx Please Note: Partner resort access and Buddy Tickets are NOT included with any Military Passes. Ski-With-A-Friend Tickets ARE included. For more information, please go to EpicPass.com, Need Help? (Top center) and then Military Passes. The second option is Military Lift Tickets. We offer discounted Military Lift Tickets for Active and Retired military members and eligible dependents. Guests can purchase Military Lift Tickets at the ticket window or by phone at 970-754-8245. Military Lift Tickets require verification of current military status at the ticket window or at the time of purchase by phone. Please Note: Veterans and their Dependents do NOT qualify for Military Lift Tickets.
Do you offer professional discounts for non-Vail Resorts Ski Patrol?
Yes, we offer professional discounts for National Ski Patrol (NSP) members, along with other professional organizations, such as PSIA, CSIA, and others. NSP members can purchase one discount lift ticket per day. Discounted Tickets can be purchased at the ticket window or by calling the Epic Pass Service Center at 970-754-0005. Whistler-Blackcomb guests call 800-766-0449. You also can contact an agent via Live Chat at EpicPass.com. A current NSP ID must be presented at the time of purchase.
How do I cancel or change the date of my lift ticket?
To change or cancel a lift ticket date, please call the Epic Pass Service Center at 970-754-0005. Or go to the resort ticket window by 5 pm on the expiration date of the lift ticket. In addition, be aware that two or more day lift tickets have a range of dates of use, depending on the number of days of the ticket. For example, a two-day ticket can be used anytime within a three-day range. A three-day ticket has a five-day range of use, etc. Stop by a ticket window for more details. Also be aware that lift-ticket sales are limited this season to enhance the on-mountain guest experience, so lift tickets could sell out. We highly recommend purchasing lift tickets in advance. If a resort is not sold out, lift tickets can be purchased online or at the resort, but not by phone. For more information, please go to Snow.com, Tickets (top, center), and then scroll down to FAQs.
Is my pass or lift ticket transferable to my friend or family member?
No. Season Passes and Lift Tickets are non-transferable and they are assigned to an individual person. Anyone caught using another person’s Lift Ticket or Season Pass will be removed from the mountain and could face other additional penalties.
What discounts are include with my pass or lift ticket?
There are many season-long discounts attached to your Season Pass. Benefits include Epic Mountain Rewards of discounts up to 20 percent on food and beverages, lodging, group lessons, and gear rentals, among other benefits. Other Season Pass benefits include discount Buddy Tickets and Ski-With-A-Friend Tickets, and Summer Access. For more information, please go to EpicPass.com, Benefits (top, left) then View All Benefits.
All Epic Day passes include season-long Epic Mountain Rewards discounts. Other benefits and access are determined by the type of Epic Day Pass purchased. For more information, please refer to this link: https://www.epicpass.com/passes/epic-day-pass.aspx Please Note: Epic Day Passes do NOT include Buddy Tickets, Ski-With-A-Friend tickets, or Summer Lift Access.
Lift ticket benefits include the ability to change the date and also refund all unused days.
Can I buy lunch with my pass?
Yes! You just need to make sure you have resort charge set up. Learn more on how to set up resort charge here
Do I get my Epic Mountain Rewards at your restaurants?
For the most part - absolutely! All of our cafeteria style restaurants in resort offer the EMR discount (20%!) on food. Alcohol is excluded at all locations and there is limited participation among our fine dining and full service restaurants. Be sure to look HERE to see everywhere you can use this awesome pass holder discount
Do I need a reservation to have lunch on mountain?
No! No reservations required to enjoy our convenient in resort cafeterias this year. Just ride until you're hungry, and then pop in.
I want to have lunch with a big group, is it okay if I save a bunch of tables?
It depends, but we, and a lot of the other guests on the mountain, would really prefer you do not save tables so that those who are looking to sit can find a place to enjoy their lunch. If you want to eat with a big group all together, we recommend trying before noon or after 1:30 PM.
Last year you told me I had to leave after 45 minutes, is that still true?
Thankfully we are in a different place than last year and required table time limits are no longer in effect. However, out of respect for other guests, we do ask you to be thoughtful and limit your time at the table, especially during peak times and holidays. Go ride!
When is the best time to eat lunch?
When you're hungry! But also, to get the most out of your day, consider dining outside of our peak hours of 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM. We always recommend an early start, an early lunch (11:00 is awesome), and an early apres.
How do I get to the resort?
Our resort address is: 10620 Mayfield Rd, Chesterland, OH 44026 When you arrive at the resort, head through the covered bridge. From there, the road will bend to the right. Continue straight until you see the two lodges on the left. You may park in any open spaces near these two lodges.
Does the resort offer lockers? Do I need to purchase in advance? How much is a locker pass for the season?
Alpine Valley does not offer a seasonal locker program.
Where can I park? How much does it cost?
You can park anywhere in the general parking lot in front of the main lodge. Parking at Alpine Valley is free.
What time do I need to arrive for ski school?
30-45 minutes prior to lesson start. If you are renting equipment, we recommend arriving 60 minutes prior to your scheduled lesson.
Where to meet for Ski school?
We will have a branded Alpine Valley tent with a "Lessons Meet Here" attached outside of the main lodge. This is where all lessons will meet.
What is the weather like when I arrive?
Alpine Valley sits in the snowbelt, so be prepared to see the most snowy area in Ohio! For the latest snow and weather conditions, click here
Where do I find the daily morning snow conditions report?
For the latest snow and weather conditions, click here
How do I activate the card I have?
When purchasing online, you can select "have a card" while logged into your epicpass.com account, select pass number of the card you have to continue to use the card you have in your possession.
I never got my pass in the mail. Can I still go skiing?
Absolutely. All Season Passes provide access as determined by that particular pass, even if you don’t have the physical pass in hand. Please go to any Vail Resorts ticket office, present a photo ID, and a new pass will be issued. If time permits, please call the Epic Pass Service Center at 970-754-0005 and a new pass will be mailed. Or contact a pass agent via Live Chat at www.EpicPass.com to have a new pass issued.
Where do I pick up my pass?
Please go to any Vail Resorts ticket office, present a photo ID, and you’ll be able to pick up your pass. If time permits, please call the Epic Pass Service Center at 970-754-0005 and a new pass will be mailed. Or contact a pass agent via Live Chat at www.EpicPass.com to have a new pass issued.
Where are the ticket window locations?
Ticket windows are located outside of the rental/GS building.
Are there any Covid restrictions in the restaurants?
At this time we have no COVID-19 related restrictions in our dining facilities - that means no reservations, no proof of vaccines, no masking requirements, and no social distancing. Dinner reservations are required in select fine dining locations. Of course we always recommend you and our team follow common sense best practices, wash your hands frequently, and please stay home if you're feeling sick or have a fever.
What food and beverage options are open, and what are hours of operation?
To view our dinning options please visit our resort dinning page which can be found here
What are our options for on-mountain dining for lunch?
To view our dinning options please visit our resort dinning page which can be found here
Someone in my family has a food allergy or sensitivity, are your lodges able to accommodate them?
We strive to offer meals that suite a variety of modern lifestyle and dietary preferences, due to the nature of our menus, please ask locally during your visit.
Do you take cash in your restaurants?
At this time, Vail Resorts does not accept cash in it's restaurants. All major cards, ApplePay, and resort-charge are accepted.
I just want to keep skiing, do you have grab & go options?
Yes, most lodges offer snacks, protein bars, and to go sandwiches and salads to keep you fueled and on the go!
What time do lifts close?
For the latest lift and terrain status, click here
When do different sections of the mountain close?
The entirety of the resort is typically open for access during operational hours. If there are daily changes they will be reflected here
Why are some trails groomed and other not?
Typically, all trails will be groomed every day. On occasion, trails will be left ungroomed due to natural snow at the discretion of management. To view groomed and ungroomed trails visit us our terrain status page.
How to contact safety/ ski patrol
To connect with ski patrol, please contact our main lodge at 440-285-2211, or visit our guest services area during operational hours.
Which runs are open?
For the latest trail and lift status, click here
Which base areas are open?
During operational hours, all base areas are open unless stated otherwise.
Where can I get a request a refund?
Visit Guest Services inside the main rental/GS building.
Why didn't Epic Mountain Rewards apply?
The Epic Mountain Rewards discount is available at eligible Vail Resorts restaurants, lodges, rental shops, golf courses, and other businesses and activities. The discount applies to all food and non-alcoholic beverages. The pass holder must present their eligible pass to receive the discount. For more details, Please go to www.EpicPass.com, Benefits, then Epic Mountain Rewards to learn more, or click here
Where are the restrooms?
Restrooms can be found in both the Main Lodge next to guest services and in the F&B Lodge on the bottom level.
I forgot my boots, where can I rent additional gear?
Full ski packages (skis, boots and poles) and snowboard packages (snowboard and boots) are available to reserve online. We also offer the following services at-resort on a walk-up basis. You can get snowboard boots at our rental location located in the rental/gs building out front.
Where can I book dinner?
To view our dinning options please visit our resort dinning page which can be found here
Where can I take my family for a quick dinner for tired kids?
To view our dinning options please visit our resort dinning page which can be found here
Where can I go for apres ski?
To view our dinning options please visit our resort dinning page which can be found here.
View Live Resort Conditions
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Rental Lodge