Each year, Michigan Snowsports Industries Association (MSIA) is offering free skiing via a “Cold is Cool” Passport to all 4th and 5th graders in Michigan.
Free Skiing Offer
Kids will be allowed up to 3 lift tickets or trail passes at each of 29 participating ski areas with their Cold is Cool passport. As of 2021, the program uses an app instead of the traditional paper passport.
Is It Really Free to Ski?
They saying goes “If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.” That applies here, It is not quite free. There is a $30 administrative fee for each passport. $25 goes towards administrative costs and $5 is donate to MIsnow. Additionally, the child using the passport also needs to be accompanied by a paying adult (season pass does not qualify).
The passport also does not include the cost of renting or purchasing equipment. It does include coupons for both 20% off on a helmet and $20 off a $100 purchase of ski equipment at participating locations including Sun and Snow in Ann Arbor. They recommend securing equipment rental in advance due to equipment shortages.
Where to Ski Free Near Ann Arbor
Participating locations near Ann Arbor include:
- Mt Brighton – 4141 Bauer Rd, Brighton
- Alpine Valley Ski Area – 6775 Highland Rd, White Lake
- Mt Holly – 13536 Dixie Hwy, Holly
All of the locations in southeast Michigan offer only Downhill skiing and are valid for 2
If you want to try cross country skiing, check out Rolling Hills County Park they offer inexpensive rental of cross country ski equipment when there is sufficient snow.
When to Ski Free Near Ann Arbor
The passport is good through April 30, or the end of the 2022/2023 ski season.
Mt Holly accepts the passport all season long with no blackout dates.
Mt Brighton and Alpine Valley Ski Area only accept the passport on weekdays (Monday-Thursday) and have blackouts over the first week of winter break, MLK Weekend, and President’s Day Weekend. (Verify exact dates on the passport)
How to Get Your Cold is Cool Pass
There are two ways to get your Cold is Cool Passport.
- Complete the Registration Form. You will need to upload a report card photo showing your child’s grade and wait for validation
- Apply at a participating Ski Shop – Ann Arbor’s Sun & Snow is included in the list. You will need a report card to show your child’s grade level.
