2nd Learn-to-Ski Day

Two ski groups--the National Ski Areas Assn. and Ski Industries America--are jointly promoting the second annual National Learn-to-Ski Day on Jan. 8, 1988.

The gratis ski offer, kicking off a “Let’s Go Skiing, America” month, has been expanded to include cross-country ski areas as well as downhill skiing. About 51,000 took part in the first program, according to a spokesman for the two ski groups. More than 250 ski areas throughout the United States are participating in the program, including sites in the San Bernardino Mountains, Lake Tahoe, Mammoth, Park City, etc.

The complimentary package includes a ski class, equipment and an all-day lift ticket usable only for the beginners’ slopes and trails.

Starting Nov. 1, consumers can call a toll-free number, (800) 88-TO-SKI, to get names and locations of participating ski shops in their area. All you have to provide is your ZIP code. There are more than 1,000 retail stores participating in the program on a national basis.

You have to call the ski area to make a reservation. Most of the areas have toll-free numbers. The earlier you make your reservation the better, as the offer is on a first-come, first-served basis and classes are expected to fill rapidly. You can call a ski area before the Nov. 1 starting date to request information; the areas will not take reservations for the free day until Nov. 1, the spokesman said.

Classes are generally for 8 to 10 people. There are no age restrictions and you can make reservations for more than one person. Depending on the number of registrations, there may be special children’s beginner classes.

Participating ski areas will offer the same instructional packages from Jan. 9 through Feb. 7 at discounted rates.

The cost will be no more than $15 midweek and $25 on weekends for alpine skiing, $10 midweek and $20 weekends for cross-country skiing.

Coupons for these special-priced packages will be available at the participating retail outlets as of Nov. 1 with no purchase necessary.

Also available on Nov. 1 from participating ski shops will be free new-skier information kits, with tips on safety and clothing.

These kits may also be obtained by writing to Let’s Go Skiing, America!, National Ski Areas Assn., 20 Maple St., Box 2883, Dept. D-S, Springfield, Mass. 01101.