Best Ski and Snowboard Discounts in Northern California

These days everyone seems to be on a budget, but that doesn't mean we all need to stay cooped up inside during the beautiful winter months. Skiing has traditionally been an elitist sport due to the expenses involved. These days it is easy to spend $150 on a lift ticket and equipment at some of the top Northern California ski and snowboard resorts. But if you're on a budget, like many of us, don't fret because there are many deals out there for you to take advantage of.

Alpine Meadows
2600 Alpine Meadows Rd. Tahoe City, CA 96145
http://www.skialpine.com/

Alpine Meadows is one of the cheaper ski and snowboard resorts in Northern California. The mountain is best for those at beginner and intermediate levels, as the trails are not as difficult or strenuous as those at other larger resorts.

Alpine offers $64 lift tickets, which is considerably lower than most other ski and snowboard resorts in Northern California. If you join the Alpine Club for only $10 you are eligible for great discounts all season long. By joining the Alpine Club, you'll get 10% off of all lift tickets, but you must purchase these 1 day ahead. Additionally, you will be able to take advantage of the numerous $39 lift ticket days (usually on week days). Discounts are also available on children and adults ski and snowboard lessons, as well as equipment rentals. REI is selling unrestricted discount lift tickets for $58.00.

Boreal Ski and Snowboard Resort
19659 Boreal Ridge Rd. Truckee, CA 96161
http://www.rideboreal.com/winter/index.html

Boreal is another great discount resort that is especially geared towards beginner skiers and beginning to intermediate snowboarders. Boreal has a great terrain park for adventurous snowboarders looking for a thrilling ride.

Currently, Boreal in Northern California is offering a great discount- 3 lift tickets for the price of 2! Just sign up on the website for the iRide Reward Card and you'll get a free ticket when you purchase two lift tickets (these tickets do not have to be consecutive days). Lift tickets normally go for $47 for adults, which is quite a discount. College students get off even cheaper-present your college ID and you'll receive a discount lift ticket for only $20 on most Fridays. Boreal offers wonderful discounts for PM skiing and snowboarding for only $25-so if you'd like to view the beautiful Northern California skies from a snowboard at night, don't pass up this discount.

Sugar Bowl Ski and Snowboard Resort
629 Sugar Bowl Rd. Norden, CA 95724
http://www.sugarbowl.com/more

Sugar Bowl is one of the most challenging and advanced ski and snowboard resort in Northern California-with great trails and wonderful vistas, wouldn't you expect high prices?

Sugar Bowl is offering a great discount for skiers and snowboarders who can hit the slopes on a weekday. Discount tickets are $66.00, and this includes a lift ticket, a 2-hour group lesson, and a free basic equipment rental. Can it get any better? If you can't make it on the weekends, Sugar Bowl Ski and Snowboard Resort has a great deal for you too. For only $19 you purchase the "Daily Season Pass" and get a $10 discount off each lift ticket throughout the season, as well as $10 for 2 of your companions. REI is offering unrestricted discount lift tickets for $60.

Kirkwood Ski and Snowboard Resort
1501 Kirkwood Meadows Drive, Kirkwood, CA 95646
http://www.kirkwood.com

Kirkwood is another premier ski and snowboard resort in Northern California. The vast amount of trails makes Kirkwood suitable for all levels.

College students are eligible again for great discounts at Kirkwood in Northern California. With a valid college ID, you can purchase a discount lift ticket for only $35 on weekdays and $45 on weekends. Anyone can get a discount of $5 by purchasing lift tickets online in advance or save 20% when using an American Express card. You can also purchase 3 ski and snowboard lift tickets for only $99-an $117 discount. Lastly, REI is offering unrestricted discount lift tickets for $60.