Michigan’s youth snowsports passport

Cold is Cool

4th and 5th graders ski and snowboard all winter for just $50.

Students score up to two visits at participating Michigan ski areas, plus exclusive deals at partner ski shops.

$50Passport
2Visits per area
4th + 5thGrade students
DigitalEasy mobile access
Ski. Explore. Save.

Michigan winter just became the best field trip ever.

Cold is Cool makes it easier for families to explore new hills, build confidence, and spend more time outside together.

Incredible Value

One affordable Passport creates an entire season of possibilities.

Explore Michigan

Use the program at participating destinations across the state.

Grow Together

Turn a first day on snow into a family tradition.

Simple and Digital

Register, verify, sign the waiver, and keep the Passport on your phone.

Program Updates for 2026–27

A simpler Passport with more freedom.

  • Only $50
  • 2 visits at every participating ski area
  • No paid adult lift ticket required
  • Online purchase and electronic waiver
  • Easy digital redemption
Easy as 1, 2, ski

How It Works

1

Purchase

Complete registration and payment online.

2

Verify

Upload proof of current 4th or 5th grade enrollment.

3

Activate

Complete the waiver and access the digital Passport.

4

Hit the Slopes

Check the area details, redeem, and make some turns.

What’s included

One Passport. A whole state to explore.

  • Up to 2 lift tickets or trail passes at each participating ski area
  • Participating ski-shop savings
  • Access throughout the season outside published blackout dates
  • A built-in excuse to try somewhere new
Blackout dates: December 26–31, January 16–17, and February 13–14. Individual ski-area restrictions may also apply.
32 locations
Participating ski areas

Find your next Michigan adventure.

Explore the participating destinations below and check each area’s redemption details before visiting.

29 locations
Northern Lower Peninsula

Shanty Creek Resorts – Schuss Mountain

Bellaire

Visit ski area →
Frequently asked questions

The details, minus the moguls.

Who qualifies?

Current 4th and 5th grade students who meet the published enrollment-verification requirements. No residency requirements.

Does an adult need to purchase a lift ticket?

No. The updated Passport does not require a paid adult lift ticket for redemption.

How many times can my child ski?

Up to two visits at every participating Michigan ski area.

What are the blackout dates?

December 26–31, January 16–17, and February 13–14. Always review the participating area’s offer before visiting.

How is the Passport delivered?

It is purchased online and delivered digitally in the WinterKids app after verification and waiver completion.

Can multiple children use one Passport?

No, the passports are non-transferable. Each Passport is issued to one student.

When does it expire?

When the final participating resort closes for the 2026/27 season.

Additional Benefits

Passport perks beyond the lift line.

Your Passport also unlocks exclusive savings at participating Michigan ski shops on helmets, equipment, apparel, and accessories.

Bill & Paul’s SporthausBoyne Country SportsCrystal Mountain SportsDon Orr Ski HausMarquette Mountain Ski ShopNichol’s Ski & SnowboardSchummer’s Ski ShopShumaker’s Ski & SnowboardShumaker’s at the StableSun & Snow Sports - Ann ArborSun & Snow Sports - PlymouthThe Shop at Milham ParkTreetops Resort Ski ShopWhite Birch Outfitters
About the program

Building Michigan’s next generation of skiers and riders.

The Cold is Cool Passport was created by the Michigan Snowsports Industries Association to introduce more children to skiing and snowboarding while helping families experience everything Michigan winter has to offer.

Ready to ski?

Give your 4th or 5th grader an entire winter of adventure.

Purchase Your Passport Today