If you haven’t already firmed up your plans for Christmas or New Year’s Day, consider skiing or riding at the resort closest to you. Both days are ideal for hitting the slopes because the crowds are guaranteed to be smaller than other days this time of year, meaning shorter lines for lifts, less congestion on trails, and groomed runs that last longer. For anyone who loves skiing or snowboarding but hates the crowds, these two days are perfect—and much cheaper than usual. Read on to find irresistible resort deals for December 25 and January 1.
Lift Tickets
The online lift-ticket marketplace Liftopia is offering up to 72% off single-day lift tickets purchased for Christmas or New Year's Day. The site using dynamic pricing, so the sooner you buy, the better the discount. Here are some examples of discounts currently available on theie site:
• Caberfae Peaks, MI: one-day lift tickets starting at $9.99 (72% off)
• Bolton Valley, VT: one-day lift tickets starting at $19.99 (59% off)
• Ragged Mountain, NH: one-day lift tickets starting at $34.99 (56% off)
• Anthony Lakes, OR: one-day lift tickets starting at $17.99 (49% off)
• Snowbasin, UT: one-day lift tickets starting at $48.99 (45% off)
• Smuggler’s Notch, VT: one-day lift tickets starting at $39.99 (44% off)
• Arapahoe Basin, CO: one-day lift tickets starting at $50.99 (43% off)
• Jay Peak, VT: one-day lift tickets starting at $41.99 (42% off)
• Mt.Abram, ME: one-day lift tickets starting at $14.99 (40% off)
• Hoodoo, OR: one-day lift tickets starting at $28.99 (40% off)
• Whiteface, NY: one-day lift tickets starting at $57.99 (35% off)
• Snowshoe, WV: two-day lift tickets starting at $114.47 (35% of)
• Homewood, CA: one-day lift tickets starting at $57.99 (34% off)
• Mt. Hood, OR: one-day lift tickets starting at $49.99 (32% off)
• Crystal Mountain, MI: one-day lift tickets starting at $45.99 (31% off)
Lessons & Equipment
In New Hampshire, Cranmore Mountain Resort is offering first-time skiers (ages 13 and older) the chance to learn the slopes and get their first pair of skis. For $299, the GET Skis Package includes three beginner lessons plus rental equipment, instruction, and lift tickets. Upon completing the third lesson, participants will receive a new pair of Rossignol Experience 74 skis with binding, as well as a discount on Rossignol boots. Quantities are limited, but the package is still available for now.
In Vermont, Killington is offering an even better deal with its Discovery 4-Day Learn to Programs. For $299, first-timers (ages 18 and up only) will receive four two-hour lessons plus four days of rental equipment and lift tickets. After the fourth lesson, participants will receive a new pair of Elan skis and bindings. (A similar program for snowboarding that included a free Burton snowboard has sold out for the season.)