Ready to start planning for ski season? A new pass option gives you a chance to see a lot of slopes on the cheap. ---

Beginning today (Aug. 1), Ski Utah is offering the brand new Yeti Pass for the 2011-2012 season. For $499, you'll be able to ski one day each at all 14 of the state's ski and snowboard resorts. And if our math is correct, that's about $35 a lift ticket. Only 100 passes are available this year, so fast action is recommended.

As part of the new program's launch, Ski Utah also invites those who purchase the pass to participate in the Yeti of the Year competition. The first pass-holder to squeeze in his/her day at all 14 resorts will win a free heli-ski day from Wasatch Powderbird Guides. Just take a picture of yourself at each resort's ticket window with lift ticket and Yeti Pass booklet in hand, and post the photo to the Ski Utah Yeti Facebook fan page. Be sure to tag each photo "Ski Utah Yeti," and start preparing to make statewide tracks.