Ski and Snowboard News, Deals, and Events

Northstar and Sierra-at-Tahoe, sister resorts that lie at opposite ends of Lake Tahoe, are offering free skiing and snowboarding for the rest of the current season - mid to late April, depending on conditions and/or interest -- with the purchase of a 2009-10 season pass.

The dual-mountain pass, a.k.a. the Double Whammy, gives holders access to 4,490 acres of terrain, 129 trails, 29 lifts, three halfpipes, some of the most innovative terrain parks in the country, snowshoe trails at both resorts, and more than 40 km of cross-country trails at Northstar.

There are several pass options available.

The Value Season Pass ($329 for adults) is good at Northstar Sunday through Friday and any day of the week at Sierra, exclusive of blackout dates. The Limited Season Pass ($429 for adults) is good any day at Northstar, except for blackout dates, and has no restrictions at Sierra. The Unlimited Season Pass ($649 for adults) has no restrictions at either resort. The College Season Pass ($229 for eligible college students between the ages of 17-69) is valid at Northstar any day except for the usual blackout dates and at Sierra every day without restrictions.

Besides the nice prices, another reason to get a Double Whammy pass now is that if you buy one before April 30 they will knock off up to $50 off the asking price, depending on type of pass purchased.