Pre-Arrival Information
Laurel Mountain Basecamp
There’s so much to look forward to on a trip to Laurel Mountain, and so much to prepare. From getting to the mountain, 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.
WE CAN'T WAIT TO SEE YOU AT LAUREL MOUNTAIN!
Check out the info below to finish planning your trip and helpful resources to prepare. Have more questions? Check out our FAQs at the bottom of the page.
Get To Know The Resort
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 Laurel Mountain 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.
Tips for making the most of your time on the mountain
- Upon your arrival, you will notice Laurel is a top-down resort, meaning the lodge is at the top of the hill. Once you’re inside the lodge, you will be treated to expansive views of the Laurel Highlands.
- While Laurel may be smaller than its Western PA sisters, it makes up for it with meandering wooded trails and its signature daredevil slope, Lower Wild Cat. “Cut from the ledge,” it’s the state’s steepest slope. Be sure to familiarize beginners with the trail map so they mistakenly take to a trail they aren’t ready to experience yet.
- Laurel Mountain is now on the My Epic app. Check out all of the available app features or download here.
First Time Skiing or Riding? , opens in a new window
Plan Your Day On The Mountain
Start Your Day Off
- Breakfast Options
- Grab a cup of coffee before you hit the slopes at the Laurel House Cafe or Wildcat Lounge.
- Getting to the Lift
- Step outside of the main lodge and you are on the snow ready for a fun day of skiing and riding. We are a top down resort!
Refuel During the Day
- Lunch Options
- The Wildcat Lounge and Laurel House Cafe offer a selection of grab-and-go items as well as sit-down table service.
- Places to take a break on resort.
- Warm up by the fireplace at the Laurel Lodge.
Ending Your Day
- Après & Dinner Options
- The Wildcat Lounge and Laurel House Café offer a selection of grab-and-go items as well as sit-down table service.
Complete Your Trip
Recommended Get Your Gear
FAQS
When do your resorts open for the winter?
Laurel Mountain is scheduled to open for the season on December 23, 2022 for the 2022-23 winter season! Wildcat will be waiting!
Is there a height or age requirement or limit to your activities?
There is no height or age requirement for skiing and snowboarding
Is childcare offered and how can I make a reservation?
None available at this time
Do you allow service animals?
Yes
Do you allow dogs on the gondola?
Dogs are not allowed on any lift or on the slopes
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?
No
Where can I view mountain cams?
To view our mountain cams, click here
Billing questions?
Email: LaurelMTNInfo@vailresorts.com or Inquire at Guest Services desk.
Is night skiing included in my pass or lift ticket?
Yes, Night skiing is included with Epic Passes, All Day Tickets, and Nights tickets, when hours of operation permit.
Is a lift ticket included in my ski lesson?
No, but we do offer a discounted lift ticket add on for group lessons when you purchase your lesson
Where can lessons be reviewed and booked?
Laurel 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.
I need to change the date of my ski school, how can I do that?
email: LaurelMTNSRS@vailresorts.com for Ski School Lesson inquiries.
How can I cancel my ski school?
email: LaurelMTNSRS@vailresorts.com for Ski School Lesson inquiries.
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 Keystone?
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 après.
How do I get to the resort?
Laurel Mountain is located approximately one hour's drive southeast of Pittsburgh and is accessible off of exit 91 of the Pennsylvania Turnpike.
Where can I park? How much does it cost?
Parking is located near the main lodge at Laurel Mountain.
What time do I need to arrive for ski school?
All programs and lessons begin promptly at their designated times and locations. Please allow at least one hour-and-a-half to arrange equipment rentals and arrival at the designated meeting place on time.
Where to meet for Ski school?
Please check in for your ski and ride school lesson in the main lodge.
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?
The Guest Service area is located inside the Ski Lodge, main level.
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.
What food and beverage options are open, and what are hours of operation?
Visit our Dining page for hours of the Wildcat Lounge and Laurel House Café. Click here to learn more about our on-mountain dining options.
What are our options for on-mountain dining for lunch?
Visit our Dining page for hours of the Wildcat Lounge and Laurel House Café. Click here to learn more about our on-mountain dining options.
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?
Please check our Lift & Terrain status report for today's hours
When do different sections of the mountain close?
Please check our Lift & Terrain status report for today's hours
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
Ski Patrol is located in the Maintenance Building adjacent to the Laurel Lodge. Please call 724-238-2801 and provide the exact location of the incident and the possible of injury.
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?
Please visit the Guest Services Desk, located on the main level of the Ski Lodge
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 are located in the main lodge at Laurel Mountain.
Where to return rentals?
Return ski and snowboard rental equipment to the Rental Center, located on the lower level of the Ski Lodge.
I forgot my boots, where can I rent additional gear?
Ski or Snowboard equipment can be rented in the rental center, boots are not rented a-la-carte.
Where can I book dinner?
Visit our Dining page for hours of the Wildcat Lounge and Laurel House Café. Click here to learn more about our on-mountain dining options.
Where can I take my family for a quick dinner for tired kids?
Visit our Dining page for hours of the Wildcat Lounge and Laurel House Café. Click here to learn more about our on-mountain dining options.
Where can I go for apres ski?
Visit our Dining page for hours of the Wildcat Lounge and Laurel House Café. Click here to learn more about our on-mountain dining options.
Do you provide over-night ski storage?
No option exists for overnight ski storage.