Lake Tahoe: Beginners ski, board for $30 this weekend

Learning to ski or snowboard can be a little daunting -- and expensive. Several Lake Tahoe ski resorts this Saturday and Sunday are offering an insanely cheap deal called Learn to Ski and Board. It costs just $30 for gear, a group lesson and a lift ticket but only this weekend. Here are some participating resorts:

Squaw Valley: Beginners ages 3 to 13 can learn how to ride or ski in morning or afternoon classes. Children check in at Squaw Kids. Reservations required; call (530) 452-7166. Adults report to the Snowsports School or Squaw Valley Ski Rental to take advantage of the deal. Contact: (800) 403-0206.

Alpine Meadows: The ski resort, which opens for the season Saturday, offers beginner sessions at 10 a.m. or 1 p.m. Start at the rental shop about 8:30 a.m. to allow time to get your gear and be ready for class. Contact: (800) 441-4423.

Northstar: Beginners must be 13 or older to take advantage of this offer at 10 a.m. or 1:30 p.m. Students take lessons at the Ski and Snowboard School and receive an all-day limited-access lift ticket. Reservations are recommended (Saturday was almost full when I called Wednesday morning; Sunday had more space). Contact: (800) 466-6784.

Sugar Bowl: The resort’s deal requires students to be 13 or older. Students take a two-hour group lesson at 10:30 a.m. or 1:30 p.m. The lift ticket is limited to the White Pine run. Contact: (530) 426-9000.

The deal: This is an amazing savings off the price of a beginner package. For example, a first-time ski or snowboard session for kids at Squaw Valley usually runs about $149. I recommend getting to whatever resort you choose on the early side so you can rent gear and not miss the class.