What is the cheapest but best place to go skiing?

It depends on where you live. In Colorado there are several small relatively inexpensive ski areas like Ski Cooper, Monarch, and Sol Vista. They offer nice recreational skiing for a reasonable price. However, for me the best value is Loveland Ski area near Georgetown, CO. It has a wide variety of terrain from beginner to expert, good services and they really try to make skiing affordable. You can get discounts through the Entertainment books, local stores, and the Colorado GEMS card. They also offer free parking and a hamburger for less than a 5 Star restaurant charges for a fillet. Something unknown at major resorts.