Mt. La Crosse is preparing its slopes for the winter season, and this year the hill is adding a new way for local kids to try skiing at no cost.
The ski area's Learn to Ski for Free program is aimed at fourth graders, with a goal of getting 200 children out on the slopes. Mt. La Crosse is described as the first ski area in Wisconsin to offer a free learn-to-ski program of this kind.
The idea came through the Mt. La Crosse Ski Patrol, which pitched it at La Crosse SOUP last month and won. The award brought in $2,378 for the program, and the La Crosse Community Foundation is providing additional support.
General Manager Darcie Briedel and Ski Patrol member Keachen Abing talked about the mountain's winter preparations, including snowmaking, during an appearance on The Rick Solem Show.
Before the season gets underway, Mt. La Crosse will also hold its annual Ski and Snowboard Swap on November 7-8, giving families a chance to buy or trade gear.
