Free Lift Tickets For Idaho's 5th Graders

Ski Idaho's Passport Program is out to get kids active and healthy. Idaho's fifth graders will be able to take advantage of the state's winter recreation opportunities for a one-time initial fee of $10. The program gives any Idaho fifth grader free skiing at 14 resorts. Equipment and know-how are not barriers either, as many of the participating resorts offer discounts on lessons and rental equipment.

Lori Otter, a former health and physical education teacher, is excited, "Get out and enjoy an active outdoors lifestyle on our millions of acres of wild forests," said Otter. "From skiing and snowboarding to cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, our outdoor winter recreation opportunities are endless."

Let's face it. If you want to live long and be happy, learn to ski. It has been proven that regular exercise decreases chances of getting heart disease, boosts immune systems and enhances self-esteem. In fact, the program helped more than 2,400 fifth graders become active during the 2007-08 season alone.

Registration to get the passport is easy; the application and program details can be found on the Ski Idaho Web site. After submitting the application along with a photo and check for $10, students can ski free at Bald Mountain, Bogus Basin Recreation Area, Brundage Mountain Resort, Grand Targhee Mountain Resort, Kelly Canyon, Lookout Mountain, Lost Trail, Magic Mountain, Pebble Creek, Schweitzer Mountain Resort, Silver Mountain, Soldier Mountain, Sun Valley, and Tamarack Resort.