Skiing: Whistler, Western ski resorts already rolling out deals

Granted, it’s the middle of the summer.

But for some, it’s never too early to start planning the coming winter’s ski and snowboard trips -- especially when there are good deals to be had.

Whistler Blackcomb in British Columbia is offering savings of more than 40% for schussers who book lift and lodging packages by Aug. 31. Families can save even more, resort officials say, because ages 12 and under can stay, ski and rent gear at no cost.

The best bargain starts at $81 per person per night for five days on the slopes and seven nights of lodging from Nov. 28 to Dec. 20. A shorter stay of four nights and three days of lift tickets during the same period is $89 a night.

For details, go to the Whistler Blackcomb website.

Closer to home, 12 resorts in the Western U.S. have created the Powder Alliance, which allows pass holders from participating resorts to ski free at other member areas.

They include Mountain High, just up the road near Wrightwood; Snowbasin Resort in Crested Butte, Utah; Tahoe’s Sierra-at-Tahoe; Washington’s Stevens Pass; Oregon’s Timberline; Idaho’s Schweitzer; China Peak in the central Sierra; Arizona’s Snowbowl; Mt. Hood Skibowl in Oregon; New Mexico’s Angel Fire Resort and Bridger Bowl in Montana.

For the price of a local season pass, Powder Alliance members of any age receive three free days at all other participating areas as well as special offers on lodging, rentals, buddy tickets and other deals.

Passes are valid Sundays through Fridays, are not good for holiday periods and must be used during the 2013-14 season. For details, go to Powder Alliance or a participating resort’s website for a complete list of holiday dates and resort benefits.

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