Epic Pass Holders Sue Vail Resorts For Park City Strike

Skiers and snowboarders were left disappointed during the holiday season at Park City Mountain Resort due to a ski patrol strike, sparking a class-action lawsuit against Vail Resorts. Led by Illinois resident Christopher Bisaillon, the lawsuit represents those who purchased lift tickets between December 27, 2024, and January 8, 2025. Many visitors, like Bisaillon, spent a substantial amount on their ski trips only to find their experience disrupted by the strike.

The strike, involving 204 unionized ski patrollers and safety staff, severely limited available terrain, with less than 20% of the mountain open at times. Long lift lines and inaccurate trail maps contributed to the frustration of guests, who were unaware of the strike’s potential impacts. The strike coincided with the busy Christmas holiday period, causing widespread dissatisfaction among visitors and safety concerns due to skiers accessing closed terrain.

Park City Mountain responded by removing information about available terrain from their website and later deleted social media posts acknowledging the strike’s effects. Following the strike’s conclusion, Vail Resorts Mountain Division President Bill Rock issued an apology for the disruption caused. The plaintiffs, represented by various law firms, are seeking damages exceeding $5 million, arguing that Vail Resorts failed to provide the premium ski experience guests paid for.

The strike and subsequent lawsuit highlight the challenges labor disputes can pose during peak ski season, impacting operations, safety, and guest satisfaction. Vail Resorts has yet to comment on the pending litigation.