I grew up in New England but we weren't a "skiing family". My parents raised us to be more indoor cats.

It wasn't until I moved to New Hampshire in my 30's that I truly began to embrace mother nature and all she has to offer. Hiking in the Summer and Fall and skiing in the Winter (and sometimes Spring) makes my heart happy. It's great to have an outdoor activity to look forward to no matter what season it is.

As my family is growing, I can't help but think about what a pricy hobby skiing and snowboarding can be.

What is the average cost of a day of skiing for a family of four?

According financialsamuri.com, a day of skiing for a family of four can range anywhere between $300-$800. This all depends on factors like resort location, rental costs, lift tickets, lessons, etc. Also, let us not forget to budget for food and drinks in the lodge because no one can do winter sports on an empty tummy!

How can you alleviate some costs associated with skiing?

Some suggestions are :

  • choosing less popular ski mountains
  • skiing on a weekday as opposed to a weekend
  • bring your own gear (if possible)
  • consider season passes (if it's worth it for you and your family)
  • keep an eye out for family packages

Many mountains are realizing that the cost of skiing is daunting for so many families and it is deterring people from going. To make mountains more accessible for family skiing, some resorts are offering specials such as free lift tickets!

A Lebanon, New Hampshire, ski resort called Storrs Hill Ski Area is hopping on board and is offering free lift tickets throughout the entire season. We love to see it!

Just a few days ago the community run ski area made the announcement that thanks to a generous donation made by the Jack and Dorothy Byrne Foundation free lift tickets are now possible for the public. They suspect tourists will be attracted to the mountain throughout the season, but it is really the people of Lebanon and the surrounding towns that will reap the benefits.

Do you need to make a reservation in order to access the free lift tickets?

No reservation is necessary! Skiers and snowboarders can simply show up to Storrs Ski Area on an operating day (they are open Friday-Sunday. Fridays from 5 to 9pm, Saturdays 11am to 9pm, and Sundays 11am to 5pm.). If you go to the ticket window you can claim a free lift ticket there.

It is so refreshing to see a mountain doing what they can to make skiing and snowboarding a little more accessible and a lot less stressful.

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