Ski enthusiast sets new record for Indy Pass redemptions at top resorts

White Pass Ski Area, WA

Ready for some skiing inspiration? An Indy Passholder by the name of Shawn Helm has been awarded the new, yet coveted title of "The Indy Iron Man". Starting the 21/22 season with a goal to rack up as many days as possible on the mountain, Shawn equipped himself with an Indy Pass and hit the road in search of independent ski areas. Shawn finished his season with the record for the most redemptions in the 21/22' season of any Passholder with 47 days on mountain. 

Shawn taking in the view after a day's hard work at Hurricane Ridge, WA

Shawn heard about the Indy Pass the way you would expect, on a chairlift. As an avid skier and retiree, this pass seemed like the perfect opportunity to explore North American ski terrain. "As soon as I looked up the Indy pass on the internet, plans for an epic ski trip started forming." Said Shawn, who redeemed 47 days across 25 different resorts in the 21/22 season.

We interviewed the Indy Iron Man and got the scoop on how this was all possible in one season. When he was asked what inspired him to embark on such an ambitious ski season, Shawn explained that he loves skiing and traveling, and "25 (resorts) seemed about right to have fun, enjoy the trip, experience new places, and not subject myself to 16 hour travel days." 

Skier at Silver Mountain, Idaho

Shawn, who now resides in southern Idaho, traveled to resorts all over North America, using his Indy Pass and passion for skiing to explore the Pacific Northwest, Rockies, SoCal, and Midwest. Shawn had some advice for other 'nomad' skiers hoping to hit the slopes all season long. "It helps to be retired and have a lot of time.  But, even if you don't, the pass will pay for itself fairly quickly with just a little planning." Priced affordably and perfect for road trips, the Indy Pass made it easy for Shawn to explore terrain all over the country, from back bowls at Snow Valley in California to groomers at Buck Hill in Minnesota. 

For those looking for their next ski destination, Shawn shared his favorite current Indy Resort: Silver Mountain in Idaho. Silver Mountain is known for its two mountains, 1,600 skiable acres, and annual snowfall of over 300 inches. He also highly recommends White Pass Ski Area in Washington, Brundage Mountain Resort in Idaho, Tamarack Resort in Idaho, and Powder Mountain in Utah. 

When asked about what resort best embodies the Indy Pass motto of "The Spirit of Skiing" Shawn answered Red Lodge Mountain, Montana.

Skier at Red Lodge Mountain, Montana

Red Lodge Mountain, nestled against the Beartooths in south-central Montana, has 2,400 feet of vertical and over 1,635 acres of groomers, glades, & chutes to explore. With no lift lines, 70 trails, and great snow this Indy Pass resort gives you the authentic Montana experience without breaking the bank. 

Shawn explored all over the Indy map with vigor and did not let anything stop him from redemptions at 25 Indy resorts. His adventure was almost cut short by something we all fear: a ski injury. 

"In early March at Pomerelle, my quest for 25 resorts in one season nearly came to an end. After skiing double black diamonds at Brundage, I wrecked on a green at Pomerelle and separated my shoulder - my first hospital visit for a skiing accident in a lifetime of skiing… Being alone in a whiteout, the chances of another skier or ski patrol stumbling upon me were pretty small, so I picked myself up, put my skis back on, and made my way down the mountain to the ski patrol hut. The ski patrol helped me out of my equipment, put me in a makeshift sling with some ice, and helped me into my car. Then I drove myself to the emergency room about an hour away.  Luckily, it wasn't broken, just separated." 

Shawn soldiered on - after only two weeks of recovery, he hit the snow again.  With his shoulder tucked, he rode the beloved Utah resort, Beaver Mountain, then went on to explore five more Indy resorts. He finished his triumphant journey by riding Lutsen Mountain's closing day. 

Shawn Helm's ski season serves as inspiration for other Indy Passholders looking to make the most of their pass and discover unique ski areas to explore. His ambitious goal and dedication to skiing at as many resorts as possible showcases the variety and accessibility of the Indy Pass. 47 is the current record, do you have what it takes to snatch the 22/23 title from him? 

Shawn at White Pass Ski Area, WA