This four-hour clinic includes equipment and a limited lift ticket. Gas up three times at a Mobil station to receive your coupon and details on how to reserve a lesson, which must be made 72 hours in advance. That question warrants a qualified answer. It depends upon your ability and skiing style. If you are a beginning or intermediate skier, your pursuit of a packed powder slope can be completely fulfilled at one of Maine or New Hampshire's smaller ski areas.
Neophytes can have just as much fun for a fraction of the cost visiting a smaller ski area.
Camden Snow Bowl, Titcom, King Pine and Gunstock are all less expensive than the big mountains. Also, these mountains are less intimidating to rookie skiers and riders. The day before your trip, try on your snow duds to make sure everything is good to go. If you are missing those all-important goggles or last year's gloves have a hole in them, go to your nearest ski shop and acquire what you need to avoid the last minute thrash. If you haven't upgraded to shaped skis, now in their sixth year, then treat yourself by renting a pair.