Make plans now so you can avoid crowds like these on your ski vacation. Associated Press file photo 12/29/07

Skiing is not exactly a budget form of recreation. But there are deals to be had, especially if you book now, before the snow falls, for later in the season.
The following packages for winter, available at Ski.com, are all about adding value to your trip by getting extra nights and other freebies:

1. Cliff Lodge & Spa, Snowbird, Utah, offering seven nights with two nights free, and a six-day lift ticket from $1,534 a person (double occupancy), available Jan. 4-Feb. 4. Book at Ski.com by Oct. 24; package code 8785.
2. Hotel Terra in Jackson Hole, Wyo., a new “green” hotel offering a fourth free night and a $50 spa credit, available Jan. 12-Jan. 31 (blackout dates Jan. 22-24). Package is $660 a person, based on double occupancy, and includes three-day lift tickets. Book by Nov. 15; package code 8793 on Ski.com.
3. Independence Square Lodge, Aspen, Colo., offering five nights in a studio (fifth night free for Sunday arrivals), four-day lift tickets (fourth day free) from $538 a person (double occupancy), available Nov. 27-Dec. 12. Book by Nov. 14; package code 8522.
4. Westin Resort & Spa, Whistler Blackcomb, British Columbia, Canada, offering five nights in a junior suite (fifth night free) and a four-day discounted lift ticket from $706 a person (double occupancy), available Nov. 21-Dec. 19. Book by Nov. 15; package code 8596.

THE ASSOCIATED PRESS