How Vermont makes winter sports affordable for newcomers
Vermont, with its snow-covered mountains and charming villages, is a haven for winter sports enthusiasts and beginners alike. While many associate skiing and snowboarding with a hefty price tag, the Green Mountain State offers an array of budget-friendly options, making winter sports affordable for families and newcomers.
Discounted Lift Tickets and Passes
Vermont's ski resorts frequently offer deals to make the slopes more affordable. Midweek discounts, group rates, and early-bird season passes can significantly lower costs. In Southwestern Vermont, Bromley Mountain in Peru sells inexpensive season passes. Additionally, programs such as Ski Vermont's "Take 3" pass allow beginners to take three lessons, including rentals and lift access, at an affordable rate.
Affordable Gear Options
Purchasing gear can be expensive, but Vermont boasts numerous rental shops and second-hand stores where high-quality equipment is available at a fraction of the cost. Many resorts also rent gear on-site, often bundling it with lesson packages to maximize savings. Local thrift shops and winter sports swaps are other excellent options for finding affordable clothing and gear. Come spring, many towns host used gear swaps and sales, so there’s always a cheap way to buy great gear!
Free and Low-Cost Activities
For those looking to enjoy Vermont’s winter wonderland without breaking the bank, there are plenty of free or inexpensive options. Cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and fat biking are popular and affordable alternatives to downhill skiing. State parks such as Prospect Mountain in Woodford VT (5 minutes from Bennington) offer trail access for a minimal fee or even free of charge. Additionally, Vermont’s frozen lakes and ponds provide natural rinks for ice skating and pick-up hockey games, often at no cost.
Photo source: Prospect Mountain in Woodford VT
Community Programs and Events
Many Vermont towns host free or low-cost winter events, from guided snowshoe tours to bonfires and outdoor festivals. Community recreation programs often provide discounted access to local trails and facilities. Look out for "Free Ski Days," where resorts waive lift fees to encourage participation and celebrate the winter season.
With strategic planning and a little creativity, winter sports in Vermont can be an affordable recreational option for families and newcomers. Whether you're carving turns on the slopes, gliding through a snowy forest, or skating on a frozen pond, Vermont ensures adventure is within reach for everyone.