CLARKSTON — Twenty-four ski areas across Michigan have teamed up with Michigan McDonald’s restaurants to offer a fun and affordable program to learn to ski or snowboard for as little as $20.

Called “Discover Michigan Skiing,” the package includes a beginner lesson, ski or snowboard rental equipment and a beginner-area lift pass or cross-country trail pass.

Prices, valid Jan. 2-31, are $20 to learn to cross-country ski and $35 to learn downhill skiing or snowboarding. The lesson normally covers basic maneuvering, including stopping, turning, riding the lifts, and getting up from a fall.

“Michigan is the perfect state to learn to ski or snowboard in,” says Steve Kershner, chairman of the Michigan Snowsports Industries Association (MSIA) and director of snow sports at Shanty Creek Resorts. “No matter where you live, there is a ski area within 2 1/2 hours of your home, our slopes aren’t as intimidating or expensive as the mountains in the West and you’ll find trained, friendly instructors who know how to make it a really fun experience,” he added.

To sign up, interested beginners must fill out a Discover Michigan Skiing Voucher and then call or register online with the ski area they want to visit.

Vouchers are available at participating McDonald’s restaurants. Printable vouchers and online reservations are available at goskimichigan.org. Program times differ from ski area to ski area.

Participating ski areas in the Upper Peninsula include: Big Powderhorn in Bessemer, 1-800-501-7669; Big Snow Resort in Bessemer/Wakefield, 906-285-2200; Mont Ripley in Hancock, 906-487-2340; Pine Mountain in Iron Mountain 906-774-2747; Porcupine Mountain in Ontonagon, 906-885-5209; Ski Brule in Iron River, 1-800-362-7853.

Discover Michigan Skiing is part of the national “Discover Snow” campaign, which is designed to provide a way for people all across the country to learn to ski or snowboard safely and affordably. Additional information on Discover Michigan Skiing is available at goskimichigan.org or by calling MSIA at 248-620-4448.