Having Fun in the Snow
Chris Brunetti, Staff Reporter

Its that time of year to start gearing up for the snow season. Whether it be a day trip to one of Tahoe’s many ski resorts or spending multiple days treading on a mountain.

Winter sports can cut into a limited student budget but there are many deals available to cash strapped individuals. Some of the resorts in Calif. offer discounts to current college students.

The most popular spots to snowboard for residents in Monterey County include Heavenly Ski Resort, Kirkwood Ski Resort, Boreal Ski Resort, and Squaw Valley to name a few. Not all the hot spots cater to this student budget, so a quick investigation into their website is necessary to be sure.

Boreal Ski Resort, off of Highway 80 going towards Reno, NV, offers college days called Fridays at Boreal. During the entire 2007-2008 season, on any Friday, students with a valid student ID and proof of enrollment can attain a lift pass for just $15 which includes night skiing in the lighted areas. Boreal also offers a Monday-Friday season pass for college students for $129.

With lift tickets secured, a cheaper way to find lodging is to travel in larger groups. Most resorts have a group rate that keeps the expense of travel low. While lodging and lift tickets are important, getting to ones destination requires thoughtful consideration including being aware of the weather conditions or packing for a variety of road situations.

One essential piece of equipment is the ever-important snow chains. They come in either the standard chain link format or a lighter cable version. When weather conditions worsen, it is likely law enforcement will require vehicles to have snow chains in the driver’s possession.

Other things to consider before traveling to the snow is an adequate amount of windshield wiper fluid, an ice scraper, A Citizen Band (CB) radio and a shovel, for those who plan on traveling off the beaten path.

Now that the safety equipment and travel plans are finalized, getting ones snowboard and ski’s ready for the season is crucial. REI, the self proclaimed “world's premier outdoor gear store,” offers a variety of treatments for both snowboards and ski’s. For those who purchase REI’s membership for a one -time payment of $15, discounts for these treatments are available. One great deal is for an edge sharpening and hot wax which will make ones board silky smooth, costs members only $25.

• Not every snow enthusiast has their own board or ski’s but most resorts rent equipment that accommodates all shapes and sizes. For those who do not feel comfortable renting equipment when they get to the snow, used sporting goods stores and online sources like Craigslist offer cost effective options.

With finals and the winter break fast approaching, its time to step back and see yourself carving all over those mountains.