PRE-ARRIVAL INFORMATION

AFTON ALPS Basecamp

There’s so much to look forward to on a trip to Afton Alps, and so much to prepare. From getting to the hill, to 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.

Afton Alps Information

Get To Know The Resort

Afton Alps Information

Hours of Operation

See the latest on-mountain information.

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Trail Maps

Trail and lift information.

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Events

See our events calendar.

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Current Conditions

Snow & Weather Report

Ski and Snowboard School

Book your lesson today.

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Preparing For Your Trip

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The More You Snow

  • Afton Alps is the Twin Cities winter retreat nestled down in the St. Croix River Valley that goes above and beyond to deliver an unparalleled mountain resort experience on and off the slopes.
  • Dodge the weekend skiers by parking “up top” and launching from multiple access points.
  • Take time to explore! We four different chalets including five incredible places to eat, drink and après - keep exploring!
  • Pause to take in the views! Fun facts, did you know Afton Alps is the largest ski resort in the Twin Cities metro, spanning 300 acres? Encompassed by the beautiful Afton State Park, guests enjoy breathtaking valley views from above in the Meadows.
  • Scavenger hunt: find and ski down through the tunnel (yes, Afton has a tunnel) to the Highland steeps. Truly a retreat only 25 minutes from the busy capital of St. Paul, Minnesota.
  • Sign up for Epic Mix and check the alerts to get the latest real-time updates on the mountain. In order to keep Epic Mix stats as current as possible, Afton Alps is transitioning to a GPS based tracking system, versus the physical use of equipment, referred to as gantries. This change will provide the same Epic Mix service. Guests will still have the option to track stats at the resort, which includes, mountain vertical, time on mountain, highest elevation and distance. The change will require one very important step – turn on the tracker. This step must be completed at every visit, prior to starting your day on the slopes. To do that, simply open the app, and select start tracking. The start button appears in multiple locations.

Complete Your Trip

Join us Under the Lights

Just joining us for the evening? Get your Nigh Ski Tickets online.
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Dining Options

Check out all the dining options and hours at Afton Alps.
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Lessons

Whether you prefer steep slopes, technical terrain, or gentle groomed runs - our instructors will help you sharpen your skills and explore more of the mountain with confidence!
Ski & Ride School

Lodging

Enjoy local lodging around Hastings, MN.
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AFTON ALPS

Your Destination Resort experience locally, in your own backyard.


View of Village at Afton Alps, MN

FAQS

When do your resorts open for the winter?

Afton Alps is projected to open Friday, Nov 18th for the 2022-23 Winter Season.

Is there a height or age requirement or limit to your activities?

No

Do you allow service animals?

Yes, Afton Alps 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.

Do you offer an early bird "First-Tracks" Program?

We have an event series strategically for our Passholders! Check out our events and activities page for our Passholder First Tracks Events

Where can I view mountain cams?

To view our mountain cams, click here 

What winter activities do you offer?

Afton Alps offers Skiing & Snowboarding where you can also enjoy some night skiing and riding or join us for some apres!

Is night skiing included in my pass or lift ticket?

An all day ticket is valid from open to close. We have a 3 pm - close afternoon ticket as well. Night skiing tickets can be found here 

Is a lift ticket included in my ski lesson?

Lift tickets are only included for beginner group lessons.

Where can lessons be reviewed and booked?

Afton Alps 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 Afton Alps?

A variety of Passes include access to Vail Resort. 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. Whistler-Blackcomb guests call 800-766-0449 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.
For discounts and benefits attached to Whistler Blackcomb Passes, please refer HERE 
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 on mountain 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 on-mountain 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?

For directions to Afton Alps, click here

Does the resort offer lockers? Do I need to purchase in advance? How much is a locker pass for the season?

For locker information, click here

Where can I park? How much does it cost?

Afton offers a variety of different parking options, all of which are free. Learn more about our parking locations here

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?

Ski School should meet outside at the Ski School Tent and Sign outside of the Meadows. Make sure to check your email for specific direction.

What is the weather like when I arrive?

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 

Where are the ticket window locations?

Mansfield Base Lodge, the Gondola, Spruce Base Camp

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. Whistler-Blackcomb guests call 800-766-0449. 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. Whistler-Blackcomb guest call 800-766-0449. Or contact a pass agent via Live Chat at www.EpicPass.com to have a new pass issued.

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 information, click here

When do different sections of the mountain close?

For the latest lift and terrain information, click 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 us at 262-862-2301 ext 4628, 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?

For the latest trail and lift status, click here

Where to get a refund?

Stop by the Guest Services building in the Alps Village.

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 each of our chalet outlets around the property.

Where to return rentals?

Rentals can be returned at the Alps Rental outlet in the Alps Village Area.

I forgot my boots, where can I rent additional gear?

You can get ski or snowboard boots in our Alps Rental location, located at the base Alps Village area.

How do I use Epic Mix at Afton Alps Resort with GPS tracking?

In order to keep Epic Mix stats as current as possible, [xx resort] is transitioning to a GPS based tracking system. This change will provide the same Epic Mix service. Guests will still have the option to track stats at the resort, which includes, mountain vertical, time on mountain, highest elevation and distance.

The change will require one very important step – turn on the tracker. This step must be completed at every visit, prior to starting your day on the slopes. To do that, simply open the app, and select start tracking. The start button appears in multiple locations.

Where can I book dinner?

To view our dinning options please visit our new dining page here

Where can I take my family for a quick dinner for tired kids?

To view our dinning options please visit our new dining page here 

Where can I go for apres ski?

Complete your stay on the hill with a visit to Paul's Pub or other chalet's around the valley. Find out more information on our new dining page here 

Do you provide over-night ski storage?

Over-night storage is not available at Afton Alps.