Blacktail Mountain in Lakeside, Mont. is nicknamed the "upside down hill" because skiers go from top to bottom before settling onto a lift. The terrain makes this cheap ski destination most appropriate for skiers with some experience; 70 percent of the slopes are rated intermediate and 15 percent as expert. Adults pay just $38 for a day of skiing while children up to age 7 can ski for free. A freebie is also offered on birthdays and "Fifth For Free" entitles all fifth graders a free day pass or, for a $10 processing fee, a free season pass. Another inexpensive ski resort, Turner Mountain, is not too far away.
