January is Learn to Ski and Snowboard Free Month, yet many resorts don’t actually provide truly free experiences for all newbies. Still, there are plenty of inexpensive packages for the whole family to enjoy in January 2015 (and even after that) — we scoured the web to find what kind of deals each major ski state is offering.
New York
Many ski resorts in New York are offering promotions for Learn to Ski and Snowboard Free Month. For example, both children (ages 8 and up) and adults can learn to ski or snowboard for just $35 (the lowest rates we’ve seen in New York) at Greek Peak Mountain — twice! You’ll pay $35 each time, and rates include a lift ticket, lesson and all the necessary gear — skis, poles, snowboards and boots.
Pennsylvania
There are 22 resorts in the Pennsylvania Ski Areas Association, and many of them are offering incentives in January. Shawnee Mountain might just have the best one though. On January 6, 100 introductory passes will be distributed at just $25 each. After that, it’s $65. Passes include a lift ticket, rentals and lesson.
Maine
In Maine, you’ll find a unique event — with ski freebies for kids — at Sunday River: Children’s Festival Week. Hosted Jan. 12 to 16, 2015, the event allows kids ages 4 to 12 to ski or snowboard at no cost, as long as their family has booked a minimum of three nights at a resort hotel, such as Grand Summit Hotel. Other fun includes scavenger hunts, live entertainment and movies.
Vermont
In Vermont, your best bet is to head to Killington Resort, where beginners can learn to ski or snowboard for just $29! Packages include a lesson, rental equipment and lift ticket for a limited Learning Area. Kids as young as age 7 can participate.
Colorado
Of course, more deals abound at ski resorts in Colorado, but we found the most inexpensive package at Crested Butte Resort. Children age 15 and older can get an Adult First Time Beginner Adventure lesson for $59 via Liftopia. The package includes a one-day adult lift ticket.
Utah
Nearly all ski resorts in Utah are offering packages for $45, though many have age restrictions. You’ll find the most bang for your buck at Park City Ski Resort, where children as young as 6 can take advantage of the program, with special hours for ages 6 to 14 hosted 1 to 3 p.m. in the afternoons.
California
In California, you can enjoy learn-to-ski incentives all winter long with Homewood Mountain Resort’s Learn to Ski/Ride promotion, priced from $47. Better yet, head to June Mountain, where kids 12 and under ski free at all times!
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