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As if we needed any more motivation to go out and play in the snow this winter, January has been officially dubbed “Learn A Snow Sport” month. Resorts in over 20 states are offering special ski and snowboard packages as incentive to get your ass, and your friends’ asses out into the fresh air and learn something new. For those of you who already ski or board, now’s just as good a time as any to pick up snowshoeing or cross-country skiing.

Now, I know what most of you are saying. “It’s only January, the season JUST started, and you want me to pass up a day of riding for THAT?!” All I can say is this…try it. I’ve been a die-hard skier my entire life and I finally tried cross-country skiing two years ago in Colorado. There’s really no better way to get away from the things of man than to walk your way into the woods. Bring your iPod and your favorite tunes, pack a few goodies and some wine or beer (or both), and head out for a few hours of escapism until you find a nice place to camp out and reward yourself. Equipment rental and trail fees (if any) combined are a whole lot less than a single day lift ticket anywhere, and you’ll get better exercise. To be honest, it’s also probably the perfect date activity.

Unfortunately, California isn’t one of the participating states. I’m not sure why. But the good news is that plenty of surrounding areas including Oregon, Washington, Idaho, Utah and Colorado are joining in the fun. The snow’s probably better there in January anyway.

The initiative is supported by national organizations like the Snowsports Industries America (SIA), the Professional Ski Instructors of America – American Association of Snowboard Instructors (PSIA – AASI), the National Ski Areas Association (NSAA), and the Cross Country Ski Areas Association (CCSAA) as well as media sponsors such as SkiNet, Skiing Magazine, Ski Press, Ski Magazine, Ski Racing, Powder Magazine, Snowboarder, Freeskier and Snowboard, and a variety of other media and local groups listed here..