Skiing has gotten disgustingly expensive, with single-day lift tickets soaring to $300 a pop on some mountains.
This winter, though, a historic New Hampshire ski area is offering access to its slopes for free.
Throughout the entire 2024–2025 season at Storrs Hill Ski Area in Lebanon, New Hampshire, the cost of lift tickets for skiers and snowboarders of all ages will be $0.
This is not a sales promotion and there are no catches. Storrs Hill is operated by the nonprofit Lebanon Outing Club, and the free skiing has been made possible by a donation from the Jack and Dorothy Byrne Foundation. The late John "Jack" Byrne was an investor as well as a former CEO of insurance giant GEICO, and his widow Dorothy made the contribution that funded the season of free passes.
“This project embodies the spirit of our community," says Cory Grant, president of the Lebanon Outing Club, in a statement, "providing an opportunity for everyone to enjoy the outdoors and experience the magic of winter sports.”
Dating to 1923, Storrs Hill is one of the oldest ski areas in the United States. The small, community-run operation has 20 skiable acres with a vertical drop of 300 feet. One lift supplies access to seven trails, a terrain park, and a 50-meter ski jump. Night skiing has been offered here since 1939.
How to Ski for Free at Storrs Hill Ski Area
To take advantage of free skiing at Storrs Hill, simply show up when the place is open (Fridays 5pm–9pm, Saturdays 11am–9pm, and Sundays 11am–5pm) and pick up a lift ticket at the window.
No registration or advance reservations are required. Expect uncrowded slopes and local community members outnumbering tourists. It's a throwback to the days when winter sports weren't only accessible to the filthy rich.
Note that equipment rentals are not available at Storrs Hill, though there are outfitters in the town of Lebanon. The Storrs Hill website recommends Omer and Bob's or Golf & Ski Warehouse.
Storrs Hill Ski Area is scheduled to open for the season on December 26. According to Boston.com, the donation could make free skiing possible in future winters as well.
For more information, go to SkiStorrsHill.com.
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