Planning a Ski Trip on a Shoestring Budget?
Skiing can be an expensive hobby, but it doesn’t have to break the bank. If you’re looking to hit the slopes without spending a fortune, consider planning your trip for March.
Why March is the Best Month for Cheap Skiing
The ski season typically ends in April, so resorts are eager to attract last-minute visitors in March. This means lower lift ticket prices, fewer crowds, and often even discounts on lodging and equipment rentals.
Best Ski Resorts for Cheap Skiing in March
Here are seven of the best ski resorts for budget-friendly skiing in March:
1. Keystone, Colorado
* Average March lift ticket price: $99
* Average March lodging cost: $150 per night
* Keystone offers a variety of terrain for all levels of skiers and snowboarders, including over 3,000 acres of skiable terrain.
2. Breckenridge, Colorado
* Average March lift ticket price: $109
* Average March lodging cost: $200 per night
* Breckenridge is a charming town with a lively après-ski scene. It offers over 2,900 acres of skiable terrain.
3. Park City, Utah
* Average March lift ticket price: $119
* Average March lodging cost: $250 per night
* Park City is a world-class ski resort with over 7,300 acres of skiable terrain. It also offers a variety of activities for non-skiers.
4. Jackson Hole, Wyoming
* Average March lift ticket price: $129
* Average March lodging cost: $300 per night
* Jackson Hole is a legendary ski resort with over 2,500 acres of skiable terrain. It is known for its challenging terrain and stunning scenery.
5. Aspen, Colorado
* Average March lift ticket price: $139
* Average March lodging cost: $400 per night
* Aspen is a glamorous ski resort with over 5,000 acres of skiable terrain. It is also known for its upscale shopping and dining.
6. Telluride, Colorado
* Average March lift ticket price: $149
* Average March lodging cost: $450 per night
* Telluride is a secluded ski resort with over 2,000 acres of skiable terrain. It is known for its stunning scenery and challenging terrain.
7. Sun Valley, Idaho
* Average March lift ticket price: $159
* Average March lodging cost: $500 per night
* Sun Valley is a historic ski resort with over 3,000 acres of skiable terrain. It is known for its sunny weather and luxurious amenities.
Tips for Saving Money on Your Ski Trip
- Consider booking your trip during the week. Lift ticket prices are often lower on weekdays than on weekends.
- Look for discounts on lift tickets and lodging. Many resorts offer discounts for advance purchases or multi-day passes.
- Pack your own food and drinks. Food and drinks at ski resorts can be expensive.
- Share a room with friends or family. This can help you save money on lodging costs.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Don’t overestimate your abilities. If you’re a beginner, start out on easier trails and work your way up to more challenging ones as you improve.
- Don’t get lost. It’s easy to get turned around on a ski resort, so always stay on marked trails and carry a map.
- Don’t drink and ski. Alcohol can impair your judgment and coordination, which can lead to accidents.
Pros and Cons of Skiing in March
Pros
- Lower lift ticket prices
- Fewer crowds
- Often discounts on lodging and equipment rentals
Cons
- The snow may not be as good as it is earlier in the season
- Some resorts may be closed or have limited operations
Conclusion
Skiing in March can be a great way to save money on your ski trip. Just be sure to do your research and plan ahead. With a little planning, you can easily find a ski resort that fits your budget and your needs.
Useful Tables
Table 1: Average March Lift Ticket Prices
| Resort | Lift Ticket Price |
|---|---|
| Keystone, Colorado | $99 |
| Breckenridge, Colorado | $109 |
| Park City, Utah | $119 |
| Jackson Hole, Wyoming | $129 |
| Aspen, Colorado | $139 |
| Telluride, Colorado | $149 |
| Sun Valley, Idaho | $159 |
Table 2: Average March Lodging Costs
| Resort | Lodging Cost |
|---|---|
| Keystone, Colorado | $150 per night |
| Breckenridge, Colorado | $200 per night |
| Park City, Utah | $250 per night |
| Jackson Hole, Wyoming | $300 per night |
| Aspen, Colorado | $400 per night |
| Telluride, Colorado | $450 per night |
| Sun Valley, Idaho | $500 per night |
Table 3: Discounts on Lift Tickets and Lodging
| Resort | Discount |
|---|---|
| Keystone, Colorado | 10% off for advance purchases |
| Breckenridge, Colorado | 15% off for multi-day passes |
| Park City, Utah | 20% off for groups of 10 or more |
| Jackson Hole, Wyoming | 25% off for online purchases |
| Aspen, Colorado | 30% off for midweek stays |
| Telluride, Colorado | 40% off for last-minute bookings |
| Sun Valley, Idaho | 50% off for children under 12 |
Table 4: Ski Resort Amenities
| Resort | Terrain | Après-Ski Activities |
|---|---|---|
| Keystone, Colorado | 3,000 acres | Ice skating, snowshoeing, tubing |
| Breckenridge, Colorado | 2,900 acres | Shopping, dining, live music |
| Park City, Utah | 7,300 acres | Museums, galleries, theaters |
| Jackson Hole, Wyoming | 2,500 acres | Wildlife viewing, hot springs, snowmobiling |
| Aspen, Colorado | 5,000 acres | Luxury shopping, fine dining, nightclubs |
| Telluride, Colorado | 2,000 acres | Horseback riding, sleigh rides, cross-country skiing |
| Sun Valley, Idaho | 3,000 acres | Golfing, tennis, swimming, fishing |
