Schweitzer Mountain Resort

Go big in North Idaho

Schweitzer Mountain Resort
Schweitzer Mountain Resort

The largest ski area in the Inland Northwest with 2,900 acres of skiable terrain, Schweitzer Mountain Resort also boasts world-class amenities, ranking among the nation's top destination resorts, with plenty of accommodations, food and beverage options and the most amazing and expansive views of the surrounding mountains in the Cabinet and Selkirk ranges. And it's all a quick 90 minutes from Spokane.

Schweitzer's terrain, spread out over two massive bowls, offers pristine groomers, challenging steeps, and chutes and glades that would take weeks to fully explore. Most of the lifts at Schweitzer are high-speed, offering a quicker load time that enables skiers and snowboarders to get in much more time on the slopes. New for last season was the addition of the Sky House, a full-service mountaintop lodge offering panoramic views and delicious food and drink options, keeping you going for a full day on the slopes. "It's just going to be an amazing La Niña winter," says Marketing Manager Dig Chrismer, "and we hope to see everyone at the Sky House during its second year."

What's new?

Schweitzer has been busy the past several years improving infrastructure, with the aim of boosting the overall guest experience. This past summer season, they took advantage of the warmer temperatures to put the final exterior touches on the new Sky House lodge, which opened last December. Snowboarders will also notice the upgrades, with the addition of of a PistenBully ParkPro snowcat for building features in the three terrain parks.

After several years in partnership with the Powder Alliance program, Chrismer describes some additional benefits for Schweitzer passholders: "We are pleased to announce that the Powder Alliance has added Bogus Basin (north of Boise) and La Parva, Chile, to an already impressive list of resorts. Unlimited season pass holders will now receive 43 days free at 15 other resorts throughout the West and overseas."

Hot deals

The easiest and best way to explore Schweitzer, if you aren't going to buy a season pass, is to take advantage of the Ski3 ticket program. This sale runs through Nov. 10: For just $189 (plus taxes and fees), skiers and boarders can ride three days with no blackout dates, and the tickets are fully transferrable. "Score!" says Chrismer.

Lift tickets

Adult (18-64)

Full Day: $79; Half Day: $67;

Junior (7-17)

Full Day: $50; Half Day: $40

College/Military/Senior

(65 & over: ID required); 10 percent discount at window

Child/Super Senior

(6 & under or 80+)

Free

Beginner

(Musical Chairs only)

Full Day: $25; Half Day: $20

Musical Carpet

Free

The Santa Run 10k & 5k @ Coeur d'Alene Resort Plaza Shops

Sat., Dec. 7, 9-11 a.m.
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Jen Forsyth

Jen Forsyth is the editor of the Snowlander series.