The 6 Best College Graduation Gifts For Skiers

Going to college right when ski area mega-passes like the Epic Pass first came into vogue was a pretty lucky time to be alive–with student discounts and all sorts of other incentives, I was often able to ski the whole season in Colorado for under $300. That’s about the same as a single-day ticket to major ski areas in the West these days.

Luckily, most season passes are still a great deal, and there’s nothing better than knowing you can just go skiing when you have the time. With many options like the Epic Pass (starting at $785), Ikon Pass (starting at $739 for anyone under 22), Mountain Collective ($639), Indy Pass ($349), and more, there’s something for everyone, no matter what mountains you want to ski at.

That Backcountry Setup Your Kid’s Always Wanted

If they didn’t already have it before starting school, the odds are pretty good your kid picked up a backcountry skiing habit in college. I know that it changed my life, and I sure hope that feeling continues to be shared into the next generation. However, while there’s no lift tickets involved, backcountry skiing is expensive, and unfortunately it tends to be a whole lot more fun when your gear isn’t some 10-year-old hand-me-down kit. If you’re not sure where to start, have your kid read some of our reviews on backcountry skis and bindings–maybe something will pique their interest.

A Nice Camera

Studying journalism, one thing I quickly learned was to always carry a camera. Luckily, these days, phone cameras (mostly) get the job done, but there’s a certain creative joy that comes out of working with a real camera. It slows down the moment, and really allows you to think about the process, instead of grabbing your iPhone and snapping away.

Whether it’s an action cam like the new Insta360 X5, a small point and shoot, or a more serious mirrorless or DSLR rig, there’s loads of options for capturing memories on the slopes. Hey, maybe your kid will even send you a holiday card with a new photo for your fridge!

Higher Education (The Outdoor Kind)

“But mom, I’m done with school!” That might be true, but there’s always time for learning more. One thing I wish I started earlier was expanding my outdoor skills education–it certainly could have gotten me out of a few hairy moments in the mountains when I was younger and dumber.

The skills that I’ve since learned from classes like a Wilderness First Responder or any of the avalanche safety courses I’ve taken have proven indispensable. Every single one I’ve taken has left me with the impression of “why didn’t I do that earlier?” Outside of the skill building and potential for professional development, they’re also a great place to make friends with like-minded folks in a new place.

A Good Old-Fashioned Family Ski Trip

This one’s got something in it for you, too. Bring it back to where it all started, and go skiing together! For me, family ski trips were my absolute favorite time of year growing up, and they’ve actually only got more fun since. It’s a great place to catch up on each other’s lives, blow off a little steam, and enjoy one of life’s greatest pleasures together. Want some inspo? Look no further.

Ski-Related Literature

If nothing else, I'd hope that college graduate in your life can read. Now that the days of late-night cram sessions are behind them, they can turn to reading far more interesting things. How about a copy of the 2025 Powder Photo Annual? Perhaps a guidebook to a new soon-to-be favorite backcountry zone? Or better yet, keep them fed as they turn the page on the next chapter of their life with the official cookbook for ski bums.