Updated for 2023!
For many, the word winter is synonymous with skiing. As soon as the first snowflake hits the ground, they are hitting the slopes. Although skiing is an exciting way to enjoy the outdoors, it can be quite pricey making this sport out of reach for many families. I am here to tell you that skiing doesn’t have to be out of your budget this season. All across the country are Ski for FREE programs that allow children to be introduced to this amazing sport as well as perfect their skills. I have put together a list of programs that allow kids to ski for FREE. The list is in alphabetical order by state. Happy skiing!
Ski for FREE Programs for Kids
3rd- 6th Grade Passport: Colorado
Children in 3rd-6th grade can ski for FREE at 21 locations across Colorado. The Colorado Passport offers kids 4 FREE days of skiing at each participating ski mountain. This program costs just $59. For more information, visit the Colorado Ski Country USA website.
Ski Free Passport Program: Idaho
This winter, 5th and 6th graders can ski for FREE at select mountains across the great state of Idaho. The Ski Free Passport for 5th graders provides 3 FREE days of skiing at each of the 17 participating locations, while the 6th grade program offers 2 FREE days at each location. The processing fee is only $18. To learn more, visit the Ski Idaho website.
Ski & Ride Passport: Michigan
Kids in 4th and 5th grade can get the Cold is Cool Ski & Ride Passport that offers 3 FREE lift tickets or trail passes at 29 participating ski areas throughout Michigan. The program is conveniently available via an app. The processing fee for the passport is just $25 (covers app development and maintenance). To learn more and to sign up, visit the Go Ski Michigan website.
4th and 5th Grade Snowsports Passports: New Hampshire
Explore New Hampshire with your kids this winter where your 4th and 5th graders can ski for FREE! Each passport offers one free lift ticket or trail pass at over 30 resorts/mountains. The passport is $59 and can be purchased on the Ski New Hampshire website.
*This passport is sold out for 2023 season.
Ski or Ride for FREE : New York
The Ski or Ride for FREE program is for 3rd and 4th graders who already know how to ski or snowboard. The passport provides kids with 2 FREE lift tickets at participating ski mountains when accompanied by a paying adult. Each program has a $41 processing fee. To learn more and apply, visit the I Ski NY website.
4th Grade Snowpass Program: Shawnee Mountain, Pennsylvania
When accompanied by a paying adult, 4th graders can ski for FREE for up to 3 visits at Shawnee Mountain. This program also includes rentals and helmet, and there is only a $5 application fee To learn more and to apply, visit the Shawnee Mountain website.
4th-6th Grade Passport Program: Utah
Hitting the slopes in gorgeous Utah this winter? Well if you have a 4th-6th grader then you have to sign them up for the Passport Program that allows them to ski for FREE at 15 participating resorts. All grades receive 3 lift tickets per resort. There is a $55 application fee. To learn more, visit the Ski Utah website.
5th Grade Passport Program: Vermont
Both of my boys learned to ski in Vermont, and I have to say, it is one of the best places to learn! This winter, get your 5th grader the Ski Vermont Passport that allows them to ski for FREE at select resorts throughout Vermont. The processing fee for the passport is only $20 making it an amazing deal! Learn more at the Ski Vermont website.
In addition to the passport programs listed above, many resorts around the country offer Kids Ski FREE programs. These often require a vacation package in order to participate so make sure to research each resort carefully before booking your winter getaway.
Know of another Ski for FREE program near you? Put it in the comments section below, and we will add it to the list!
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I didnt see any for Indiana.
It doesn’t look Indiana has any programs at this time. Hopefully, they will start one!