At 74, I’m Just Getting Started!
Free skiing for seniors, great ski clubs and winter adventures after 60.
Who decided that skiing was only for the young? Certainly not me!
There’s something magical about standing on a snow-covered mountain, breathing in that crisp winter air and looking out at a view that makes you forget everything else going on in the world.
And here’s the best part: you don’t have to be 25, an expert skier or even particularly athletic to enjoy it.
Sometimes you just have to say, “Why not?”
Learning to Ski at 74? You Bet!
I’ve always believed that life is meant to be lived, not watched from the sidelines.
Golf? Absolutely. New adventures? Count me in. Skiing? Well, why not give that a try, too?
Learning to ski at 74 wasn’t exactly something I had planned years ago. But I’ve discovered that some of life’s most wonderful experiences happen when we stop worrying about our age and start thinking about what we’d like to do next.
Was I nervous? You bet! Did I wonder whether I’d spend more time sitting in the snow than standing on my skis? Absolutely! But that’s part of the adventure.
And let’s face it, there’s something pretty satisfying about trying something new when the world seems to think we should be slowing down.
Free Skiing for Seniors? Yes, It’s Possible!
Here’s something that might surprise you.
Some ski resorts offer complimentary or discounted lift tickets to older adults, often beginning somewhere between ages 65 and 80. The qualifying age varies considerably from resort to resort, and some offers are limited to certain days or require advance registration.
That means your next mountain adventure might cost a lot less than you think!
Before heading out, check the resort’s current senior ticket policies. You may discover discounts on:
- Lift tickets
- Season passes
- Equipment rentals
- Lessons
And don’t forget to ask about weekday specials.
Before You Book: What to Ask the Resort
Ski Clubs: Where the Fun Really Begins
Now, here’s something I particularly love about skiing.
It’s not just about the skiing. It’s about the people.
Ski clubs can be wonderful places to meet others who enjoy winter activities, travel and good company. Many clubs organize group trips, social gatherings, dinners and special events throughout the year.
And here’s a little secret: you don’t necessarily have to be a skier to join the fun! Some members simply enjoy the mountain atmosphere, the friendships and the opportunity to get away.
Imagine spending the morning on the slopes, meeting friends for lunch and ending the afternoon sharing stories over a warm drink. Sounds pretty wonderful to me.
For adults over 60, ski clubs can offer something even more valuable than a lift ticket: connection.
Try this: Search “ski clubs near me.” Many clubs let you attend a monthly meeting for free, so you can check it out and see if you like the vibe. Don’t hesitate. Go to just one meeting and see how it goes.
What If You Haven’t Skied in Years?
Maybe you skied when you were younger but haven’t put on a pair of skis in 20 or 30 years. Or perhaps you’ve never tried it. Either way, there’s no rule saying you can’t start now.
The key is knowing your abilities and being willing to learn. A few things that help:
- Take a lesson. A qualified instructor can help you build confidence, develop good technique and understand how to ski safely.
- Try today’s equipment. Modern skis and boots may feel quite different from the gear you remember.
- Start on the beginner slopes. There’s absolutely nothing wrong with spending your first day there.
Personally, I’d rather enjoy the experience than spend the afternoon wondering how I’m going to get down the mountain!
The Mountains Offer More Than Skiing
Not interested in racing down a snowy hillside? No problem! Winter mountain destinations offer plenty of other ways to enjoy the day:
- Snowshoeing
- Scenic gondola rides
- Mountain restaurants
- Winter walks
- Simply soaking in the spectacular scenery
Some people love skiing. Others love sitting by a fireplace with a good book and a cup of hot chocolate. And some of us enjoy a little of both!
The point isn’t how you spend your day. It’s getting out, experiencing something different and enjoying life. Looking for more ideas? Browse our things to do for seniors near you or plan your next getaway.
New Adventures Often Lead to New Friendships
One of the things I’ve come to appreciate most about getting older is the importance of staying connected.
Friendships don’t always happen automatically anymore. Sometimes we have to make an effort to put ourselves in places where conversations and connections can begin.
That’s one reason I love activities like skiing and golf. You already have something in common with the people around you.
A simple conversation on a chairlift or over lunch might lead to a new friendship, another ski trip or an invitation to try something completely different.
You never know who you might meet. And isn’t that part of the fun?
A Little Preparation Goes a Long Way
Skiing can be physically demanding, especially at higher elevations. Before planning your next skiing adventure, run through this quick checklist:
- Consider your fitness level, balance and overall health.
- Returning after a long break or trying skiing for the first time? Talk with your healthcare professional about whether it’s appropriate for you.
- Book a few lessons.
- Get properly fitted equipment.
- Give yourself permission to take things slowly.
There’s no prize for being the fastest person down the mountain. The reward is enjoying the experience and looking forward to doing it again.
Life Doesn’t Stop at 60, 70 or Beyond
I’ve never understood why getting older is supposed to mean giving up the things that make life exciting.
Yes, our bodies change. Yes, we may need to approach activities a little differently. But curiosity, enthusiasm and the desire for adventure don’t have expiration dates.
Maybe your next adventure is skiing. Maybe it’s golf, hiking, traveling or joining a group of people you’ve never met. Whatever it is, don’t let a number decide what you’re capable of enjoying. It might just be the start of your second act.
Sometimes the hardest part is simply getting started. And sometimes the best memories begin with three little words:
“Why not me?”
Let’s Get Up and Go!
At Let’s Get Up and Go, we believe life after 60 should be filled with opportunities to explore, discover, laugh and connect.
Whether you’re looking for a ski club, a golf partner, a concert companion or simply someone to share a conversation with, you’re in the right place.
You don’t have to do everything. You don’t have to be an expert. And you certainly don’t have to do it alone.
Just go. Just do. Because life’s adventures don’t end at 60. Sometimes, they’re just beginning.
See you on the mountain or in the lodge! ⛷️
Let’s Get Up and Go — Community is our product. Connection is our purpose.