Hey, Avid Skiers: Thar’s Cold In Them Thar Hills

It may seem warm in the cities, but it’s still cold in the mountains, and there’s plenty of skiing left this season. Some opportunities:

The Cavanaugh’s Inn in Kalispell, Mont., has lodging and ski packages that include transportation to the Big Mountain resort. Rates vary from $72 (one person, one night, one day of skiing) to $284 (four people, two nights, two days of skiing). For information: (800) THE INNS or (406) 752-6660.

The Wallace Inn and Stardust Motel in Wallace each have family packages for ski weekends at nearby Lookout Pass. The price of $200 or $250, depending on motel, includes two nights’ accommodation and two days of skiing for two adults and two children, plus transportation to the ski area.

For information, call (800) N-IDAFUN.

Toot, toot: A classic, steampowered passenger train, the Coast Mountaineer, will make a special run next Sunday from Vancouver, British Columbia, to Whistler and Pemberton.

From heated coaches, passengers will be able to view a variety of scenery on the 190-mile run,, including bald eagles in the Brackendale area; four photo stops are planned. For information or reservations, call Discover BC at (800) 663-6000.

Sorry we missed it: On Jan. 28, 49 Degrees North ski area held its annual “Puke Your Guts Out” hill climb and ski descent.

Something fishy: The 18th annual Seafood and Wine Festival in Newport, Ore., described as the largest in the Northwest, is Feb. 24-26.

Events include amateur and commercial wine competitions, more than 120 booths, arts and crafts, and seafood tastings. For information, call (800) 262-7844 or (503) 265-8801.

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