The pioneering kids’ program marks three decades as CSCUSA’s full lineup of passes returns for the new season
Young Skier Smiling
Denver, Colorado, Sept. 01, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — For 30 winters, the Colorado Ski Country USA (CSCUSA) Ski Passport has been part of the Colorado ski experience for families throughout the state and across the U.S. Launched in 1996 as the 5th Grade Passport, the program introduced an early model of multi-mountain access, giving generations of kids the chance to discover the diversity and character that define skiing in Colorado. The Ski Passport has expanded over the years to include kindergarten through sixth grade, and we celebrate its 30th anniversary this season as sales open September 1 for CSCUSA’s full lineup of 2026-27 passes and programs.
For Melanie Mills, president and CEO of Colorado Ski Country USA, the 30th anniversary underscores both the Ski Passport’s early vision and its lasting impact on the industry:
“When the Ski Passport began in 1996, it was a pioneering approach to access, opening Colorado’s mountains to kids and families in a way that encouraged them to enjoy the breadth of skiing across the state. Thirty years later, the Ski Passport carries that original purpose forward. Getting kids on snow, and giving them the opportunity to experience Colorado’s mountains while they are young, is one of the most important investments we can make in the future of skiing. The Ski Passport has been doing that for three decades.”
The Ski Passport reflects a long-running effort by CSCUSA, its member ski areas, and industry partners to support participation in snowsports. Christy Sports has been closely involved for years as presenting sponsor of the Ski Passport and returns for the 2026-27 season. Each Kid’s Ski Passport also includes two free junior rental packages from Christy Sports, adding another practical benefit for families. “We want more kids to have the opportunity to ski,” said Randy England of Christy Sports. “The Ski Passport connects families to so many different Colorado mountains and gives them an accessible way to spend time outside together. We’re proud to support something that helps make snowsports part of more kids’ lives.”
The 2026-27 Ski Passport is $76 and includes four days of skiing or snowboarding at each of 19 participating Colorado ski areas for students in kindergarten through sixth grade.
CSCUSA’s broader pass lineup carries the same commitment to access, with programs designed to help skiers and families explore different mountains and find the kind of experience that keeps them coming back.
Alongside the Ski Passport, CSCUSA’s 2026-27 programs include the Gems Teen Pass, Gems Parent Pass, Gems Discount Card, and Gold Pass. Sales open September 1, with the Gems Parent Pass releasing in waves this season to make the limited number of passes available to more families throughout the sales period.
- Gems Teen Pass: Ages 12–17, with two full days at each of 10 Gems resorts, for 20 days total. The 2026–27 price is $210.
- Gems Parent Pass: Available to a parent or legal guardian after purchasing a qualifying Ski Passport or Gems Teen Pass, with one Parent Pass allowed per household. It includes two full days at each of 10 Gems resorts and is $350 for 2026–27. Quantities are limited and released in waves.
- Gems Discount Card: Unlocks discounted adult lift-ticket pricing for two visits at each of the 10 Gems resorts. It is a discount product rather than a pass with lift tickets included.
- Gold Pass: CSCUSA’s fully transferable, unrestricted membership across 19 resorts; an indispensable business tool and a heritage-rich mountain offering that’s in a league of its own.
All CSCUSA passes and cards will be available beginning September 1 at coloradoski.com/passes-and-deals. Additional details, participating resorts, blackout dates, and purchase information are available online.
As the Ski Passport enters its 30th season, CSCUSA is also looking for former 5th and 6th Grade Pass holders and Ski Passport kids and families with stories from the program’s first three decades. Those interested in sharing their experience can learn more and submit their story here as CSCUSA collects memories to help celebrate the anniversary throughout the season.
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- Young Skier Smiling
CONTACT: Sarah Beatty, APR Colorado Ski Country USA 303-837-0793 [email protected]
