The 2001-2002 New York State Winter Travel and Ski Guide is now available free of charge from the New York State Division of Tourism.

The new 64-page guide is packed with color photos and lists all the state's downhill and cross-country skiing centers. It also includes details on each center's costs, rentals, number of lifts, lessons and lodges, and a New York state ski map showing the location of each center. Readers will find additional information on snowmobiling, winter events, family fun activities, ideas for off-the-slope winter fun and late winter activities.

The guide contains information on a cooperative program between the Tourism Division and SANY, "Learn to Ski 1o2o3," New York state's unique initiative that has introduced thousands of men, women and children to skiing and snowboarding. For $79.95, participating ski centers provide beginners with three full days of downhill skiing or snowboarding, including lessons, lift tickets and rentals. A similar program is available from cross-country ski centers for $49.95.

For the second winter, the state's Tourism Division, in cooperation with Ski Areas of New York (SANY), is offering the 4th Graders Ski and Ride Passport Program, which allows fourth graders from anywhere to ski or snowboard for free at participating areas when accompanied by an adult. Fourth graders may apply for the program using the application in the Winter Travel and Ski Guide, a copy of a recent report card or similar grading report, and a $10 processing fee.

To order the 2001-2002 I Love NY® Winter Travel and Ski Guide, dial 1-800-CALL-NYS; visit the web site at iloveny.com; or write: Winter Guide, I Love New York, P.O. Box 2603, Albany, NY 12110.