Being an Ikon Pass holder is good reason for any skier or snowboarder to shout, “Yew!” The Ikon season pass gives access to 50+ ski resorts around the world and top skiing and snowboarding destinations in the U.S., including Jackson Hole, Palisades Tahoe, Mammoth Mountain, and Big Sky. Access is opportunity, and we haven’t all been given equal access to winter sports.
Many skiers and snowboarders got their start when a family member took them to the mountain for the first time, introduced them to the sport and taught the basics of pizza and french fry. But for many black women and Natives, they’ll be the first in their family to participate in winter sports. So how do you start when you already feel left behind?
Thankfully organizations like Natives Outdoors and SheJumps are creating new opportunities for women skiers and snowboarders of color. These groups understand that joining mountain culture and becoming a snowboarder or skier is challenging for ladies who don’t see someone like themselves in advertising, media, and competing in national contests for winter sports.
When you don’t see yourself represented in a culture you may wonder if you’re welcome to join. Adding this aspect of uncertainty while stepping outside of your comfort zone to learn something new can be discouraging, but we see you, Sis!
That’s why Ikon Pass partnered with the two organizations to offer a total of 60 Ikon Pass scholarships to women of Native communities and women of color for the 2024-2025 winter season. Women awarded a scholarship will receive a free Ikon Pass for the 2024-2025 season, along with half-day ski lessons and rental gear at select resorts, yew!
Alterra Mountain Company, creator of the Ikon Pass, has continued its commitment for the fifth year to provide ski pass scholarships aiming to share the stoke with women of color and Native communities. By providing women in these under-served communities with an opportunity to experience the mountain, Alterra aims to grow participation in skiing and snowboarding for women of color and Natives and we’re here for it!
Katie Steinharter, Director of Social Media & Content of Alterra Mountain Company shared, “Really proud to have seen this little program grow from an idea that I had when SheJumps contacted Ikon Pass five years ago to a national program.”
Don’t hesitate! The deadline to apply for these awesome scholarships is September 30, 2024.
Apply for the Natives Outdoors Scholarship here
Women of color can apply for the SheJumps Scholarship here
Alterra increases access with Ikon season pass scholarships for Natives and women of color
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