That being said there are affordable options in the mountain west at smaller resorts.
I was just watching a video about antelope butte Wyoming. 18 and under all ski free this year. It's a tactic to engage a new demographic that will hopefully keep using the resort as paying customers in years to come.
My future plan when I have kids old enough to ski is to buy an RV and stick to resorts where we can camp in the parking lots. Lots of options but it will mean less consistent trips. Season passes for the whole family is certainly for the top 10-15% now.