For the second straight year, Learn a Snow Sport Month officially kicks off this week with free or discounted learning programs offered by alpine ski and snowboard resorts as well as Nordic centers throughout the U.S. Governors from 14 states have issued proclamations urging children and adults to get outside for some exercise during January.

In a statement, SnowSports Industries America (SIA) said the states are Alaska, Colorado, Idaho, Maine, Michigan, New Hampshire, New Mexico, New York, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Utah, Vermont, Washington, and West Virginia. Proclamations are pending for Minnesota and Montana. Details are available at LearnaSnowSport.org.

In addition to states with governors proclamations, five national organizations and resort associations representing  Massachusetts, Maryland, North Carolina, Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming, Tennessee, North Dakota, South Dakota, Missouri Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, and Ohio are supporting Learn a Snow Sport Month programs. Learning programs vary from state to state. For example, resorts in Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine are offering free lesson programs the week of January 4, 2010.   


Winter Trails is a free learn to snowshoe or cross country ski program for children and adults new to snow sports or alpine skiers and snowboarders who want to try an additional snow sport. Venues range from state and national parks to privately run Nordic centers. Locations have waived daily trails fees and equipment is provided. Winter Trails information is available at WinterTrails.org.


International ski icon Glen Plake is national spokesperson for Learn a Snow Sport Month. Plake appeared on NBC-TV's Today Show on Jan. 4, 2010 to explain how snow sports can contribute to a healthy lifestyle.


This is the second year for Learn a Snow Sport Month. It is an industry effort to make learning a snow sport affordable throughout the U.S.