Last Chance to Purchase Vail Resorts’ Epic Pass is Nov 19 for Access to 45 Iconic Mountain Resorts Worldwide

Skiing Park City Utah, largest ski area in the US. Vail Resorts’ Epic Pass provides unlimited access to 15 resorts, coast-to-coast and in 3 countries © 2017 Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

BROOMFIELD, CO– The deadline to purchase Vail Resorts’ 2017-2018 Epic Pass is Sunday, Nov. 19. The Epic Pass provides one of the best values in skiing and snowboarding, offering unlimited, unrestricted access to 15 resorts in three countries, including Whistler Blackcomb in Canada, the largest resort in North America, and Vail Resorts’ first East Coast mountain resort, Stowe in Vermont, plus limited access to 30 European ski resorts.

In addition to unlimited, unrestricted access at Whistler Blackcomb and Stowe, for $899, the 2017-2018 Epic Pass also includes unlimited, unrestricted access to Vail, Beaver Creek, Breckenridge, Keystone and Arapahoe Basin in Colorado (with the longest ski season in the country); Park City in Utah (largest ski resort in the US); Heavenly, Northstar and Kirkwood at Lake Tahoe; Perisher in Australia (for summer 2018); Afton Alps in Minnesota; Mt. Brighton in Michigan; Wilmot Mountain in Wisconsin.

Season pass holders save more than 40 percent compared to lift ticket window prices, and can pay for itself after just five days skiing.

2017-2018 Ski and Snowboard Season Pass Options

• Epic Pass™: Ski unlimited and unrestricted from opening day to closing day for only $899. The Epic Pass pays for itself in just over four days of skiing or snowboarding. Enjoy full access to Vail, Beaver Creek, Breckenridge, Keystone and Arapahoe Basin in Colorado; Park City in Utah; Heavenly, Northstar and Kirkwood at Lake Tahoe; Stowe Mountain Resort in Vermont; Afton Alps in Minnesota; Mt. Brighton in Michigan; Wilmot Mountain in Wisconsin; Whistler Blackcomb in Canada; and Perisher in Australia for the 2018 season. The Epic Pass grants limited access to Les 3 Vallées, Paradiski and Tignes-Val D’Isere in France; 4 Vallées in Switzerland; Arlberg in Austria and Skirama Dolomiti in Italy. A child pass (ages five to 12) is $469.
• Epic Local Pass™: For $679, receive unlimited and unrestricted skiing or riding at Breckenridge, Keystone, Arapahoe Basin, Wilmot, Afton Alps and Mt. Brighton with limited restrictions at Park City, Heavenly, Northstar and Kirkwood, plus a total of 10 days at Vail, Beaver Creek, Stowe, and Whistler Blackcomb with holiday restrictions. The Epic Local Pass pays for itself in just over three days. A child pass (ages five to 12) is $359.
• Epic 4-Day™: A convenient option for a short ski trip. The pass pays for itself in just over two days and includes a total of four unrestricted days valid at Whistler Blackcomb, Vail, Beaver Creek, Breckenridge, Keystone, Park City, Heavenly, Northstar, Kirkwood, Stowe and Arapahoe Basin, plus four additional free days at Afton Alps, Mt. Brighton or Wilmot Mountain. The Epic 4-Day Pass is $459 for adults and $249 for children (ages five to 12).

The deadline to purchase a 2017-2018 season pass is Sunday, Nov. 19. For additional information on season pass options and to purchase, visit EpicPass.com.

Vail Resorts, Inc., through its subsidiaries, is a leading global mountain resort operator. Vail Resorts’ subsidiaries operate 11 world-class mountain resorts and three urban ski areas, including Vail, Beaver Creek, Breckenridge and Keystone in Colorado; Park City in Utah; Heavenly, Northstar and Kirkwood in the Lake Tahoe area of California and Nevada; Whistler Blackcomb in British Columbia, Canada; Perisher in Australia; Stowe in Vermont; Wilmot Mountain in Wisconsin; Afton Alps in Minnesota and Mt. Brighton in Michigan. Vail Resorts owns and/or manages a collection of casually elegant hotels under the RockResorts brand, as well as the Grand Teton Lodge Company in Jackson Hole, Wyo. Vail Resorts Development Company is the real estate planning and development subsidiary of Vail Resorts, Inc. Vail Resorts is a publicly held company traded on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: MTN). The Vail Resorts company website is www.vailresorts.com and consumer website is www.snow.com.

See also:

Vail Resorts Unveils Major Improvements at Network of Ski Destinations

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Bromley, Cranmore, and Jiminy Peak Offer Free Lessons, Lifts, Rentals to First Timers on Sunday, Mar. 9, 2014

If ever there was a time to learn to ski or snowboard in the Northeast, that time is Sunday, March 9, 2014, when three New England resorts showcase for free their new Terrain Based Learning (TBL) programs to first time skiers and snowboarders. No small print. No hidden fees. Just register in advance, show up, get professionally fitted in free rental gear, and have access to instructors for 90 minutes at Jiminy Peak in Hancock, Mass., Bromley Resort in Peru, Vt., and Cranmore Resort in North Conway, N.H.

It’s a first for the TBL Program at these resorts, and a first in at least a decade that beginners are being invited to enjoy winter as guests of the resorts’ ski schools. All three host resorts are part of the Fairbank Group based at Jiminy Peak which has made a major commitment to learning by rethinking the process of transforming beginners into skiers or snowboarders on fun, specially designed fear-free slopes.

Terrain features such as rollers, half-pipes, and banks are carved into the surface to serve almost like training wheels to build confidence in sliding on snow, said Ben Wilcox, president and general manager of Cranmore Resort. “Once beginners learn the fundamentals, they progress to the rest of the mountain much faster.”

Adds Tyler Fairbank, president of Fairbank Group, “Through this unprecedented offer, we hope to capitalize on the buzz created by the Winter Games. What’s more, it will be a little warmer, a little sunnier than those days earlier this season when we were all under the spell of the polar vortex. “We believe TBL is a better way to become skiers and snowboarders and hope to expose more beginners to this most intuitive and enjoyable way to learn,” Fairbank says.

First time skiers and snowboarders, ages six and up, must register in advance at their preferred resort, then upon arrival will receive complimentary equipment rental, a rental helmet, and a beginners’ lift ticket valid all day after the 10:30 a.m. to 12 noon instruction ($89 value). They will also receive a discount on additional lessons, lift tickets, and rentals through the end of the 2013-14 winter season.

The offer is limited to the first 150 beginners at each resort. Some other restrictions apply. Terrain Based Learning instruction, now a permanent part of each resort’s learning programs, will continue to be available through the end of the 2013-14 ski season.

For more information online, visit: bromley.com, jiminypeak.com or Cranmore.com. Or call: Bromley (802 824 5522 x 301), Cranmore (603 356 5544 x 333), or Jiminy Peak (413 738 5500 x 3680).

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January is Learn to Ski and Snowboard Month in Colorado Ski Country USA

A children’s ski lesson at Winter Park, Colorado. January is Learn to Ski & Ride month at Colorado Ski Country resorts which are offering special deals to get newbies to the slopes © 2013 Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com

January is Learn to Ski and Snowboard Month and Colorado Ski Country USA (CSCUSA) resorts are offering deals to entice kids and adults to come to the mountains and give skiing and snowboarding a try, sharpen their skills or pick up a new discipline. In addition to CSCUSA’s First Class program, which provides a free beginner lesson and equipment rental to qualifying fifth graders in January, resorts are offering significantly discounted lessons and Learn to Ski and Snowboard packages that include lift tickets, equipment rentals, and lessons taught by highly trained professional instructors.

Taking a lesson is a wise step in progressing as a skier or snowboarder. Safety and knowing your limits also add to a great day on the slopes according to CSCUSA Ski Instructor of the Year Ashley Sifers with Ski Granby Ranch. “This is really important. Recognize when you’re tired. Be aware of your surroundings and listen to your body,” explains Sifers. “You don’t have to eke out every minute of the day to have a successful, awesome day on the hill.”

Here are some of the Learn to Ski and Snowboard offers from CSCUSA resorts:

Arapahoe Basin

Learn to Ski/Ride Month Super Sunday Special

Good for kid or adult first timers only, the Super Sunday Special package includes a lift ticket, equipment rental, and a beginner lesson. Guests who purchase a Super Sunday lesson will be entitled to discounts on future lessons. Prices for adults are $99 for skiing and $107 for snowboarding, while prices for kids are $79 for skiing and $84 for snowboarding. The items in these packages can be purchased individually; Super Sunday lessons will be $59. Adult ski rental: $20; adult snowboard rental: $28; kid ski rental: $10; kid snowboard rental: $15; Beginner-area lift tickets are $20 for adults, $10 for kids. 2014 Super Sunday Dates are January 5, 12, 19, 26; February 2, 9, 16, 23. Valid for morning, half-day lessons only (10am-12:30pm).

Free One Run Lessons

Guests are matched up with instructors who learn the guest’s ability level and goals during a Black Mountain Express chairlift ride. During one run down the mountain on terrain accessible from the Black Mountain Express lift, instructors coach relatively minor movements that make major improvements to guests’ skiing. Sign-up is day-of, first-come, first-served from 10:00 am – noon. 2013-14 Dates: December 7, December 15, January 4, January 26, February 9, March 9. For more information, visit www.arapahoebasin.com.

Aspen/Snowmass

Beginner’s Magic For Adult Skiers And Snowboarders

Learn the basics of skiing or snowboarding from professional instructors who practice a teaching method that promotes peak performance and confidence and educates about the right equipment and mountain awareness. Available at Snowmass and Buttermilk every day, this program is best for adults who are first time beginners or who are only comfortable on beginner terrain. Lessons start at $199 inclusive of lift ticket, equipment rental, and full-day lesson when booked at least seven days in advance.

For Kids & Teens – Experienced professional instructors share their wealth of knowledge and instill an appreciation for the mountain environment. Their passion is contagious and kids enjoy perfecting their skills while they develop a love for the sport. Beginners learn in a supportive and fun environment while developing confidence and life skills. They will explore the mountain, try new skills, terrain and snow conditions based on appropriate skill development and experience the thrill of the pipe and park and/or race course with expert coaches. Available at Snowmass and Buttermilk every day, kids will be in groups with other kids or teens of similar ages. Lessons start at $111 for a full-day lesson when booked at least seven days in advance. For more information, visit www.aspensnowmass.com/schools.

Copper Mountain

Free Skiing and Riding for Beginners During Ski and Ride Month and All Winter Long
All season long beginners can access and learn for free on the Easy Rider carpet located in Center Village. Once basic skills are learned, a ticket for the Pitchfork chairlift is $15, allowing beginners to master getting on and off the lift while perfecting turning and stopping.

Woodward at Copper Barn – Great for Newbies and Beginners
This past summer the Woodward at Copper Barn underwent a half-million renovation project which opened the door far beyond snowboards and skis to now include skateboards, BMX and slopestyle mountain bike . All synthetic snow surfaces were replaced with a surface designed for wheels. Families and amateurs alike are invited to experience the renovations expanded offerings for never-evers with additions including a new beginner foam pit with two-foot and four-foot jumps, a pump track designed for the development of park skills, and new programming to bridge the gap and see results on snow. For more information, visit www.coppercolorado.com.

Crested Butte

$59 Beginner Ski or Ride Package.

For Learn to Ski Month this January 2014, Crested Butte Mountain Resort is offering a $59 beginner ski or ride package. The package is available for adults to learn how to ski or snowboard at a 63 percent discount. This package is for first-time skiers and snowboarders, age 15 and up only.  It includes an Adult First Time Beginner Adventure Ski or Snowboard lesson and a 1-day adult lift ticket valid for limited lift access on the day of the lesson.  Participants can also receive a 50% on rentals when they redeem their Liftopia voucher at the Adventure Center. Visit www.skicb.com/learn for more information and to book this package through Liftopia.com.

Loveland

Free Unrestricted Season Pass for Qualifying Kids

All children (ages 4-14) regardless of ability, who pre-purchase or complete 3 full day lesson packages, receive a free unrestricted season pass to keep practicing their skiing or snowboarding skills for the rest of the season. Children’s full day lesson packages include lesson, lift access, rentals (ski or snowboard) and lunch.  Full day lessons are from 10am through 3:30pm daily. Phone reservations are available or register at the Loveland Valley between 8am and 9am. Pre-purchase price:  $315 for ages 6-14 skiers & snowboarders (Includes Season Pass) $345 for ages 4-5 skiers (Includes Season Pass) (4-5 yr old program includes early drop off beginning at 8:15am). For more information, visit http://www.skiloveland.com.

Monarch

First Timer Lessons

First-timer lessons at Monarch are conducted in a group setting and provide first time, basic, beginner instruction to get new skiers and snowboarders comfortable, moving and having fun on their equipment. Packages include all-day lift ticket, equipment and helmet rental, 2.5 hrs. of group instruction, and a snack.  Lesson begins promptly at 9:30 or 11:30 and are $89 for new snowriders aged 7-12 and $99 for ages 13 and older. For more information, visit www.skimonarch.com.

Powderhorn

Learn to Ski and Ride Season Pass Program

Powderhorn Mountain Resort and the Grand Junction Daily Sentinel join forces to bring back the Learn to Ski and Ride Season Pass Program for the 2013 – 2014 winter season. Designed for first time skiers or snowboarders ages eight and up, the Daily Sentinel’s Learn to Ski and Ride Season Pass program features three consecutive ski or snowboard lessons at Powderhorn Mountain Resort with the Intensive Series, which includes a full day group lesson with an hour break for lunch.

Lessons run from 10am – 12pm and 1pm – 3pm and focus on weather precautions, changing snow conditions, etiquette on the mountain and the Skier/Rider Responsibility Code. Participants emerge from the series with a great foundation in their chosen snow sport, and are able to put new skills to the test on-mountain. Upon completion of the three-lesson program, participants receive a free season pass for the remainder of the 2013 – 2014 season.

Cost for the program is $269 for youth and pre-teen participants (ages 8-17), $320 for adults (18+) and $299 for full time college students. Visit www.powderhorn.com for a list of regular season rates and details on the Learn to Ski and Ride Pass pass program.

Purgatory

Discounted Basic Beginner Packages

Purgatory at Durango Mountain Resort is pleased to announce two new low cost packages during January 2014 for children and adults who want to learn how to ski or snowboard. The program includes two new packages plus a discount card for future skiing or snowboarding.

The Basic Beginner Packages include full-day ski or snowboard lessons for adults/children, basic rental equipment, and lift tickets. Offered Jan. 6 – 31, 2014, the two-day package is $158, $100 off the regular price while the one-day package is $79, a savings of 39 percent.

Upon completion of the 1-Day or 2-Day beginner packages, participants will receive a card good for discounts on lessons, lift tickets and rentals for the remainder of the season through March 30, 2014.  These discounts are valid for use of the LSSM participant only and include lift tickets at $50 for adults, $40 for young adults, and for $30 kids; lessons are $39 for a half-day group lesson, $59 for full-day group lessons; ski or snowboard rentals are $20 for adult basic, $17 kids.  Blackout dates apply:  2/15/14 – 2/16/14 and 3/8/14 – 3/15/14. For more information, visit www.durangomountainresort.com.

Ski Granby Ranch

Get On The Snow Season Pass for Qualified Beginner Skiers and Snowboarders

For $199, complete two ski or snowboarding lesson days and graduate with a “Get On The Snow” season pass to Ski Granby Ranch, as well as a 20 percent discount coupon valid for a retail merchandise purchase. Get on the Snow is for level one, never-ever beginners ages 10 and up. This program is available from January 6 through March 6, 2014. Lessons do not have to be on consecutive days. Not valid with any other offers or promotions. No discounts offered for having equipment or passes. Black-out dates apply:  January 17 – 20, 2014 and February 14-17, 2014. Reservations required. For more information, visit www.granbyranch.com.

Sunlight

Learn to Shine Program For First Time Skiers And Snowboarders

The Learn to Shine package includes three days of lessons, equipment rental and lift tickets. Plus, participants receive a free 5-Day ski pass once they’ve completed the lessons – all for $365. The three lessons can be taken on the dates chosen by the student, whether those dates are consecutive or not.

Skiers and snowboarders that participate in the Learn to Shine program are matched with top-notch instructors that will have them navigating beginner terrain by the end of their first day. For more information, visit www.sunlightmtn.com.

Winter Park

Winter Park’s Family Easy Start
Learning to ski or snowboard is more fun as a family, and the Winter Park Ski + Ride School offers a great program that allows families to learn together, creating shared memories for one all-inclusive price. For $679 for a half-day or $859 for a full day a family of four gets four lift tickets, four equipment rentals, a private instructor, and access to all the amenities of the Private Lesson Center, including lockers, equipment storage, and a cozy lounge. For more information, visit www.winterparkresort.com.

Wolf Creek

First and Second Day Beginner Packages
These package is ideal for those who have never skied/snowboarded before. The First Day package ($60 for skiers, $66 for snowboarders) includes an all-day lift ticket to the Nova Lift and four hours of professional instruction (from 10am to noon, and from 1pm to 3pm) for new skiers and snowboarders ages 9 and up. The Second Day package ($70 for skiers and snowboarders) includes an all-day lift ticket to the Nova and Raven Lifts plus two hours of professional instruction. This package is designed as a follow-up to the 1st Day Beginner Package, although the 1st Day package is not a prerequisite. For skiers and snowboarders ages 13 and up. Prices quoted for the First and Second Day packages do not include equipment rental.

Children’s Camp Robber Clinic – January 11, 25; February 1, 8

This four-week program (Saturdays only) is designed to introduce 5 to 8 year olds to skiing or improve on the skills they already have, all in a fun environment. Children are grouped according to ability and ski with the same children and instructor each week to foster socialization and friendship. Activities include terrain garden, fun races, and mountain safety. Lift ticket, ski rental, four hours of instruction, lunch and snacks are all included each week. $210 for season pass holders; $240 for non-season pass holders. For more information, visit www.wolfcreekski.com.

Information about CSCUSA and its members can be found at www.ColoradoSki.com, on Twitter @ColoradoSkiUSA and on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/ColoradoSkiCountryUSA.

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New Hampshire Ski Areas Celebrate January Learn to Ski & Snowboard Month; Free Week Jan. 11-17

Snowboarding at Waterville Valley. Ski New Hampshire resorts are celebrating January as Learn to Ski & Snowboard Month © 2013 Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com

During the month of January, Ski New Hampshire (Ski NH) and its 33 member resorts will participate in a national program to introduce guests to the sports of skiing and snowboarding.  Learn to Ski & Snowboard Month is a program taking place across the United States that features special offers making it easy and affordable for people to learn to ski, snowboard, cross country ski or snowshoe, and for current skiers & snowboarders to enhance their skills by taking lessons from professional instructors.

Among the special offers being featured in New Hampshire is Learn to Ski & Snowboard Free Week from January 11-17. 2014.  During this week, participating NH ski areas will be offering a limited number of free learn to ski or snowboard packages.  These packages include a free beginner lesson, free equipment rentals, and a free beginner lift ticket or trail pass to those who register in advance.  Participants must visit www.SkiNH.com to register and download a Learn to Ski or Ride Free Coupon; they then contact one of the participating areas to make a reservation for a specific day that week.  Registration opens January 2, 2014 at SkiNH.com.  Participating alpine areas include Loon Mountain, Bretton Woods, Cannon Mountain, Waterville Valley, Gunstock Mountain Resort, Cranmore Mountain Resort, Pats Peak, King Pine, Dartmouth Skiway and Granite Gorge; participating cross country areas include Jackson XC, Great Glen Trails, Gunstock Mountain Resort XC, Purity Spring XC, Waterville Valley XC, Pine Hill Ski Club and Bretton Woods XC.

Every day of the ski season, New Hampshire’s ski areas already offer specially-designed learn to ski and snowboard programs to introduce new people to the sport. In addition to these learn to ski and snowboard packages, there will be many other special programs offered during January that normally are not available.  Among these offerings, guests will find free & discounted lift tickets for those who bring a friend to try the sport, special pricing on learn to ski or snowboard packages, and follow-up rewards for first timers who choose to hit the downhill slopes or cross country trails again.  Guests can visit the January Learn to Ski & Snowboard Month section on SkiNH.com for full details & offers.

Nationally the program is being promoted by a consortium of ski industry organizations & media outlets, as well as three well-known national ambassadors: ski icon Glen Plake, New Hampshire’s own Olympic & World Cup champion Bode Miller, and World Cup champion Darren Rahlves.

“Skiing, snowboarding, cross country skiing & snowshoeing offer a fun & healthy way to get outside and enjoy winter with family and friends,” said Alice Pearce, president of Ski NH.  “As the national slogan says, ‘Humans Were Never Meant to Hibernate.'”

To learn more about Ski NH’s January Learn to Ski & Snowboard Month events and New Hampshire’s 33 downhill and cross country resorts, visit www.SkiNH.com

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Ski Vermont’s ‘Check In to Win’ Program Offers Prizes for Using Mobile Tracking System

Smugglers Notch, Vermont © 2013 Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com

Ski Vermont’s Check In to Win program is returning the 2013-14 season and will be hosted by the ski and snowboard tracking application, Alpine Replay  and co-sponsored by Verizon Wireless. Check In to Win rewards skiers and riders for exploring Vermont resorts and tracking vertical, speed, jumps and more. This season the first skier to visit all 19 alpine resorts will win a pair of Rossignol skis and the first snowboarder to visit 18 resorts will win a snowboard from Burton.

Ski Vermont enjoyed a successful launch of the program during the 2012-13 season, winning the Governor’s SMART Biz Award for Marketing Excellence and a Travel + Leisure SMITTY award. It was the first statewide tourism program of its kind, promoting frequency and variety of visits to Vermont ski resorts via prize incentives.

Partnering with Alpine Replay and Verizon Wireless for the 2013-14 season allows Ski Vermont to expand the already successful Check In to Win program and make it even easier. Skiers and riders need only download the free Alpine Replay application, get to the mountain and press “play” to track the days skiing and snowboarding stats. At the end of the day, users download stats and share with friends on social media. The more Vermont resorts explored equates to more chances to win bigger and better prizes. Participants can also earn Vermont specific medals and participate in competitions like the Vertical Challenge to win a ski and stay package in Vermont.

“We are excited to expand the already popular Check In to Win program by partnering with Verizon Wireless and Alpine Replay,” said Ski Vermont’s Director of Marketing, Kyle Lewis. Our goals are to reward skiers and riders for visiting a variety of Vermont’s resorts and create an online community where you earn your bragging rights. We think of the program like a punch card at your favorite deli, except we reward you with the chance to win free lift tickets, Cabot Cheese and Green Mountain Coffee and more.”

Using the Alpine Replay application at multiple resorts in Vermont will automatically enter participants for the chance to win prizes from Ski Vermont partners such as free lift tickets from Vermont resorts, swag from Burton Snowboards, Rossignol, anon, Darn Tough and Kombi, and treats from Green Mountain Coffee and Cabot Cheese.

For more information and to download the application, visit skivermont.com/checkin

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Discover New York Skiing Promotes $12 Lift Tix, Kids Ski Free, $35 Learn-to-Ski Deals

Feel like an Olympian as you ski down Whiteface Mountain, in New York’s Adirondacks, where the Winter Olympics of 1932 and 1980 were held and which has sent athletes to every Olympics in the modern era © 2013 Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com

This winter, Ski Areas of New York (SANY) is rolling out three great deals to encourage travelers- not just New Yorkers, but skiers from around the country and the world – to discover New York’s ski areas. (Note: the deals must be booked in advance at the new site, iskiny.com):

Discover New York Skiing $12 Lift Tickets. On December 19, 2013 and January 9, 2014, 10,000 skiers per day will be able to take advantage of $12 lift tickets through the Discover New York Skiing promotion at 26 participating ski areas across the state. Organized by Ski Areas of New York (SANY), the promotion is an expansion of last year’s popular 10-10-10 one-day deal. Tickets must be reserved and paid in advance and are the perfect start to a long weekend getaway. For details, visit www.iskiny.com/ski-deals/discover-ny-skiing.

Kids Ski Free. SANY is offering free lift tickets and learn to ski packages for 3rd and 4th grade skiers and snowboarders throughout the 2013-2014 winter ski season at 25 ski areas across the state. Passes in the form of a Passport must be obtained in advance, and there’s a $22 processing fee for the season. For details, visit www.iskiny.com/ski-deals/free-kids-program.

Learn to Ski and Snowboard Month discounts. January is National Learn to Ski and Snowboard Month and New York ski areas are joining in with a great deal. This year, 28 NYS Ski Areas are offering learn to ski and snowboard packages which include lifts, lessons and rentals for $35 (some blackout dates apply and shipping and handling charges will apply at time of purchase). To obtain a Learn to Ski $35 voucher, go to www.iskiny.com. You must pay in advance and take your voucher to the ski area that you selected for your Learn to Ski and Snowboard experience.

More deals, special events and updated snow reports. A new mobile-friendly website, www.iskiny.com, offers the latest information on snow conditions, ski area events, updates, maps, adaptive programs, and other information about skiing in New York. The site, operated by SANY, is a one-stop shopping center that also has a section with bookable deals such as third-day-free, ski/stay weekends and other lodging specials.

For more information on skiing and snowboarding in New York, visit iskiny.com, facebook.com/skiandrideny and for other fun winter ideas and information in New York State, visit www.iloveny.com/winter.

See also:

Lake Placid, NYS’s winter resort, where you ski and bobsled like an Olympian (Photos)

Lake Placid remains New York’s quintessential winter destination (Photos)

Golden Arrow Lakeside Resort proves perfect hub for enjoying Lake Placid, NY (Photos)

See more about New York’s ski areas:

NYS entices skiers, riders with special deals, world-class venues thruout state

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Colorado Ski Country USA Resorts Delighted with Heavy Snow Accumulation for Early Season Conditions

 

Aspen, Colorado, shows off its abundant snow that will greet early season skiers and snowboarders.

A major snowstorm has blanketed Colorado Ski Country USA (CSCUSA) ski resorts with fresh powder, delighting skiers and snowboarders alike as snow totals pile up.

A potent combination of moisture and arctic air left significant amounts of new snow throughout the high country over the last couple of days. Central and southwestern resorts are experiencing the brunt of this storm and are expected to continue accumulating snow through Thursday. Snowfall has been extremely heavy at times in the last 48 hours; the powder piled up at a rate of two inches per hour in Telluride, which recorded 16 inches of snow this morning as the snow continued to fall at a remarkable pace.

Since the first flakes began to fall on Tuesday, Wolf Creek has received 19 inches of new snow so far, Monarch and Purgatory at Durango Mountain Resort measured 18 inches with snow still falling, Ski Cooper reported 15 inches this morning as the powder collected, and Crested Butte reported a foot of new snow.

Elsewhere in Colorado Ski Country, 15.5 inches of new powder fell at Loveland, Arapahoe Basin reported 14 inches of new snow, Aspen/Snowmass received more than a foot of new snow, with more expected through tomorrow, Sunlight recorded 12 inches of new snow, Steamboat received 9.5 inches with more on the way, Winter Park and Eldora each received 9 inches, Howelsen recorded 8.5 inches, Powderhorn received 8 inches, and Copper reported 7 inches.

Recent weather patterns have accelerated the scheduled openings of several CSCUSA member resorts, and today’s storm will make opening day conditions even better. Purgatory at Durango Mountain Resort will open for the season on Friday, December 6, Powderhorn will open Saturday, December 7, Ski Granby Ranch will open for the season on Wednesday, December 11, and Ski Cooper will open this weekend and will open for the season on Saturday, December 14.

Total recorded snowfall has already exceeded 100 inches for the season at Loveland; Aspen/Snowmass and Steamboat are zeroing in on this benchmark and may surpass it before this storm subsides, and many other CSCUSA resorts are close behind. While there’s nothing like an epic powder day in Colorado Ski Country, skiers and snowboarders should continue to keep safety in mind to get the most out of this fresh round of snow. Wearing the right equipment for enjoying deep snow, and taking extra precaution while skiing and snowboarding in flat light and reduced visibility is highly recommended. Know your responsibilities on the mountain; it’s the key to having a great day on the slopes.

Keep up to date on snowfall totals with the CSCUSA snow report updated by the resorts themselves: http://www.coloradoski.com/snow-report. Keep up to date on resort openings at http://www.coloradoski.com/resort-season-dates.

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Crested Butte, Colorado Opens for Season with Blast of Snow

Skier Scot Chrisman shows the skiing is looking pretty good in Crested Butte right now! (Photo by Chris Segal)

There are many reasons why one should be in Crested Butte, Colorado, right now. The first being that the resort is posting 12” of new snow in the last 24 hours and it’s still coming down. Second, the Silver Queen Express lift opens on Friday and the East River Express Lift on Saturday, meaning more incredible terrain to ski and fresh powder both mornings. Lastly, Crested Butte Mountain Resort (CBMR) is adding a little bonus to their passholders on Saturday, by opening the Silver Queen lift 15 minutes early to give them first tracks on the new terrain in the East River area. Calling it the Peak Pass Poach, CBMR is opening the lift at 8:45 a.m. on Saturday morning for Peak Pass, Peak Pass+, and Choice Pass holders to get first tracks. Untracked. Ungroomed. And it’s going to be unreal.

For terrain openings, the Silver Queen lift will open for the season this Friday, December 6, 2013 at 9 a.m. This will open almost 100 more acres by Friday. Saturday, with the East River lift opening, another 65 acres will open, making this early the season, one of the best in recent memory.

For those looking to make a visit:

Ski and stay now through December 17, 2013 for $79 per person with the Early Season Package. The offer is based on double occupancy for one night of lodging and one day of skiing per person. To make a reservation visit http://www.skicb.com/earlyseason or call Crested Butte Vacations at 800-600-2803.

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Ski New Hampshire Lift Ticket Packages, Snowsports Passport Make Ideal Holiday Gifts

Snowboarding at Waterville Valley, New Hampshire © 2013 Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com

Searching for gifts geared towards skiers and snowboarders? Ski NH’s Anywhere, Anytime Lift Ticket Packages offer one of the best gift ideas, especially for those that ski primarily on weekends and during holiday periods. The tickets offer savings of up to $26 off weekend & holiday rates at Ski NH member ski areas. The packages consist of the purchaser’s choice of fully-transferable lift tickets that are valid every day of the 2013-14 ski season. New for this season purchasers have the convenient option of printing their tickets at home or work, ideal for last-minute shopping.

Customers can choose their favorite ski areas or customize a mix of lift tickets to two or more ski areas; tickets are broken down into five price categories of $22, $32, $47, $60 and $70 per ticket. Packages begin at a minimum of six lift tickets and can be purchased in any increment above that. Ski areas included in the offer are Loon Mountain, Bretton Woods (sold out), Cannon Mountain (sold out), Waterville Valley, Mount Sunapee, Gunstock Mountain Resort, Cranmore Mountain, Pats Peak, Ragged Mountain, Black Mountain, King Pine Ski Area, Dartmouth Skiway, Granite Gorge, and McIntyre Ski Area. Ticket inventory is limited and many areas sell out quickly.  Currently less than 100 tickets remain for four ski areas.

The 4th and 5th Grade Snowsports Passport program is available to any 4th or 5th grade student, regardless of location. The passport costs $35, with a portion donated to the Make-a-Wish Foundation of New Hampshire. The passport consists of one, two, or three lift tickets or trail passes for each of the 33 member resorts of Ski NH, as well as savings on downhill lift tickets and cross country trail passes for parents and siblings, rental packages, lessons and more. To purchase a Ski NH Snowsports Passport, simply complete an application available on SkiNH.com and forward a copy of the child’s report card. Quantities are limited with only 4,000 Snowsports Passports available for the 2013-14 ski season, so it’s best to act sooner than later.

Lift ticket packages and the Snowsports Passport can both be purchased online at SkiNH.com, or by phone (phone orders are subject to a $10 shipping plus processing fee). For more details and to order, visit www.SkiNH.com or call 800-88-SKI-NH (800-887-5464).

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Colorado Resorts Offer Slew of Early Season Ski Deals

Winter Park, Colorado © 2013 Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com

To tempt skiers and riders to make the most of the 2013-14 season, Colorado Ski Country USA (CSCUSA) resorts are offering significant early season discounts. CSCUSA resorts are committed to providing the opportunity for families to have a well-priced, value-packed and enjoyment-filled ski experience. By partnering with lodging properties and leveraging ski school programs, resorts are able to put together packages with benefits that include free hotel nights to free skiing. Below is a sampling of some of the early season deals offered by CSCUSA member resorts.

Arapahoe Basin

From December 1-20, 2013, kids ages 14 and under can ski or ride for free at Arapahoe Basin. No purchase required, no strings attached – parents only need to bring their kids to the ticket window to receive their free lift tickets. Arapahoe Basin wants kids to experience the snow sports Coloradans love so much, and for families to explore the mountain without breaking the bank. This is a wonderful way to introduce kids to skiing and snowboarding, and also to keep kids in the sport longer. Additionally, Arapahoe Basin will be offering $10 off all class snowsports lessons from December 1-20, 2013 to incentivize people to transform their skills on the mountain. For more information, visit http://www.arapahoebasin.com.

Aspen/Snowmass

Aspen/Snowmass’s Perfect Holiday package allows kids to ski free with the purchase of an adult lift ticket, rent free with purchase of an adult equipment rental and stay free at the resorts. Kids also eat lunch free with a comparable adult purchase at select on-mountain restaurants. Equipment rentals include ski and snowboard packages and individual items. Package must be booked by November 15, 2013 and is valid December 20-25, 2013. For more information, visit http://www.aspensnowmass.com.

Copper Mountain

All the best things come in threes and there’s no exception at Copper Mountain. With the One. Two. Free! package, guests can receive a 3^rd night of lodging free, 3^rd day of rentals free and a 3^rd day of ski lessons free when booking at least three nights of lodging. Also, kids 12 years of age and under ski free with the purchase of an Adult Secret Pass. This package can be booked now for a stay any time during the 2013/14 winter season, November 1, 2013 – April 20, 2014. For more information, visit CopperColorado.com.

Crested Butte

A destination known for its past free skiing promotions, Crested Butte Mountain Resort offers free skiing on Opening Day of the 2013-2014 winter season. On November 27, 2013, everyone skis and rides for free, no strings attached. For guests who want to stay longer to enjoy the fun, the Early Season Ski Offer is available; $79 per person, per night to ski and stay at the Grand Lodge Crested Butte. Available November 28 – December 17, 2013, some restrictions apply. For details please visit www.skicb.com/earlyseason.

Durango Mountain Resort

Visitors can escape to the scenic Rocky Mountains in Durango, Colorado for $94 per person/per night with the Rocky Mountain Getaway at Durango Mountain Resort. Package includes two days of lift tickets and two nights lodging at Durango Mountain Resort. Skiers and snowboarders can plan their winter ski getaways by calling 1-800-525-0892. Some restrictions apply.

Eldora

Eldora offers the Boulder Ski Escape: Stay and Ski package starting at $70 per person. Stay at any one of 15 or more lodges and hotels in the city of Boulder and ski Eldora for as little as $70 per person. Guests can enjoy the dining, shopping and nightlife of Boulder and the skiing and riding at Eldora. Visit www.bouldercoloradousa.com/skiescape.

Loveland

Loveland 4-Paks are available through November 24 with no restrictions and no blackout dates. These tickets are valid anytime during the 2013-2014 season. The 4-Paks are four actual tickets that guests can take straight to the lift. Skiers and riders only need to grab a wicket and they’re ready to ski. Loveland’s 4-Pak tickets are fully transferable and can be used by anyone on any day of the season. Skiers and riders can use the four tickets on four different days or share them with friends and family all on the same day. Loveland 4-Paks are $129 equating to $33.25 per day, and only available online at www.skiloveland.com or by calling the ticket office at 303-571-5580 x136.

Powderhorn

Powderhorn Mountain Resort is offering its Learn to Ski or Ride Season Pass Series. Designed for first timers ages 8 and up, kids must be new to either the sport of skiing or snowboarding and ready to commit to three lessons. At the end of these lessons, they will have a great foundation and be able to take their new skills all over the mountain. Best of all, when new skiers and riders complete all three sessions, they will receive a free season pass for the rest of the season. For more information, visit http://www.powderhorn.com.

Steamboat

Reap the rewards of booking early with the Steamboat’s Early Rewards package, offering up to 20 percent off lodging and lift tickets. Book at least four nights’ lodging and a 3-day lift ticket through Steamboat Central Reservation by Nov. 30 to enjoy 20 percent savings. Special holiday savings of up to 10 percent are available from December 21 – January 4. For more information, visit  www.steamboat.com/earlyrewards or call 800-922-2722. Early Reward packages also enjoy 20 percent off Steamboat’s Snowsports School.

Sunlight

For first timers learning to ski or snowboard, Sunlight offers the Learn to Shine program. The package includes three days of lessons, equipment rental and lift tickets, as well as a free 5-Day ski pass, once the student has completed the lessons, for $365. The three lessons can be taken anytime, whether they are consecutive or not. Skiers and snowboarders that participate in the Learn to Shine program are matched with top-notch instructors that will have them navigating beginner terrain by the end of their first day. For more information please visit http://www.sunlightmtn.com/.

Winter Park

Skiers and snowboarders can get their ski and snowboard legs ready with a pair of great deals from Winter Park. Buy one night at any Winter Park Resort property between November 13 and December 20 and get a second night for half-price. Or, book at least two nights of lodging at regular price and get a free kid’s (ages 6-12) lift ticket with the purchase of an adult lift ticket, valid from November 13 to December 19. The offer is good for both single and multi-day tickets so bring the family and enjoy great early season conditions as well as great savings at Winter Park Resort. Details can be found by visiting http://www.winterparkresort.com/.

Wolf Creek

Wolf Creek Ski Area is offering a Ladies Day Ski and Board Clinic on Saturday, December 7. This is a women’s specific lesson and chairlift package that includes a 2-hour morning lesson from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM plus an All Mountain Lift Ticket for $69. Ladies of all levels, from beginners to advanced, are invited to attend a fun day on the slopes taught by women for women. For more information, visit http://www.wolfcreekski.com.

Colorado Ski Country USA (CSCUSA) is the not-for-profit trade association representing Colorado’s 21 ski & snowboard resorts. Information about CSCUSA and its members can be found at www.ColoradoSki.com, on Twitter @ColoradoSkiUSA and on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/ColoradoSkiCountryUSA.

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