Ski pass prices are increasing. Here's how they compare.

• Vail Resorts' Epic Pass will cost $982 with the limited-access Epic Local at $731.
• The Ikon Pass offered by Alterra Mountain Co. is steeper at $1,249 with the restrictive base pass at $869.
• The Indy+ pass to more than 200 independent ski areas will be $469 for adults with base pass at $349. It's expected to sell-out quickly.
• The exclusive Mountain Collective Pass is staying put at $605.

By the numbers: The Epic passes are respectively increasing $73 and $55, or 8%. The Ikon passes jumped the same percentage, by $90 and $40, respectively.

• The Indy passes are respectively up $50 and $30, or 12% and 10%.

Between the lines: For the 2022-23 season, Vail Resorts made a splash by lowering the cost of its Epic pass. But the new price hikes put it back above the 2020-21 rates.

The big picture: The best pass to buy depends on where you want to ski, so check with friends and do your homework.

• The best perk of the Epic Pass is unrestricted skiing at Vail, Beaver Creek, Whistler Blackcomb and Park City, Utah, as well as seven days at Telluride.
• Ikon Pass boasts Steamboat and Copper with seven days each at Aspen Snowmass and Arapahoe Basin, which it recently acquired.

Pro-tip: Buy early to get discounts and perks, such as coupons for skiing with a friend.