Most of the training starts in summer or fall for some classes. So if your really up for it send me a message and I can get you in contact with people who run clases near you. It is similar to an EMT class.
You will need an Outdoor Emergency Care class. You will join a patrol and be a candidate the 1st year, you will need take the local "on the hill" and ski or snowboard tobaggan test. After that you will be all set.
http://www.nsp.org
You will have to pay dues to join a patrol and at most mountains you will have to make an investment in a jacket, back pack/fanny pack, and initial first aid supplies. Dues $60, Jacket $225, back pack $85, black ski pants $125, first aid supplies $60., misc. stuff such as letherman and snowboard tool $50. Plus volunteering your time most mountains have a min requirement of days/nights per week.
You will get to ride for fee while patroling and depending on the hill earn passes for friends/family. As for visiting aother mountains and getting hook ups, it all depends on that paticular mountain, some its a free ride and some offer nothing. The minimal hookups you get if your lucky you will break even.
It would be a lot less headache to buy a season pass and lift tickets, but I like helping people and supporting the sport and that's why I patrol.
