Standing a mile high in the mountains of western North Carolina, Cataloochee Ski Area boasts 16 lighted slopes and trails, a terrain park, snow tubing, and even a snowbowl play area for kids too wee to ski. Just getting started with skiing or riding? Cataloochee has a ski school, plenty of beginner trails, and more than 4,000 sets of rental equipment (including clothes!) to make for an easy introduction.

Celebrating its 50th season, Cataloochee has teamed up with the area's tourism bureau to offer a Kids Stay Free Kids Ski Free program through March 31.  Stay at one of nearly three dozen participating hotels, B&Bs and cabins, and kids age 17 and under will receive a free lift ticket with each paying adult. That's a savings of $26 for each lift ticket for kids ages 5-12, and $38 for teens—which means that a family of four can save as much as $76 a day.  Some of the properties even sweeten the deal by offering discounts off the nightly rate, or free meals for kids.

The offer is valid for non-holiday stays Sunday through Thursday, with skiing on any non-holiday Monday through Friday.  Book directly with the participating hotel of your choice and mention the Kids Stay Free Kids Ski Free package.