January is learn to ski month

Never hurtled down a snow- and ice-covered mountain while strapped to two sticks? Or, with both feet locked into a solid plank? January is the month to change all that. January is learn to ski and snowboard month and area resorts are offering a slough of deals for first-timers.

Lookout Pass: Get three lift tickets, three rentals and three lessons for $99. To sweeten the deal, upon finishing the three lessons you get a season pass for the remainder of the season. This offer is only valid to first-time skiers and snowboarders. Cross-over athletes (snowboarder to skier, vice versa) are not eligible for the season pass.

Mount Spokane: Get three lessons, three lift tickets and three rentals for $129. Available on weekends and holidays. Graduates of the course can get a season pass for $99.

Schweitzer Mountain: Get a lesson, lift ticket and rental for $40.

Silver Mountain: If you buy a lift ticket in January (adult $56, youth $41), you get a beginner group lesson and a rental package.

49 Degrees North: Get three lift tickets, three lessons and three rentals for $129. This deal is available on the weekends and holidays. Reservations must be made in advance.

- By Eli Francovich