Stellar Snow, Short Lines, Great Rates: Schweitzer Delivers

Being green in the middle of winter is something the staff at Schweitzer Mountain Resort is quite proud of. But don’t think they’re lacking any snow. Averaging 300 inches of snowfall annually, the “green” you’ll see is in the operations, where mindfulness of its carbon and environmental footprint is impressive. The mountain’s latest sustainable projects include new LEED-certified Mountainside homes, available for fractional and full ownership, and phase two of the snowmaking system—the most energy-efficient and low impact system available, which produces 25 percent more snow for the amount of energy consumed as compared to other systems. “We’re so excited about our new snow-making capabilities … it’ll help us ensure our guests have the best ski experience possible,” said Haley Sorbel, communications coordinator. “The driving force behind everything this year is to make certain our guests get what they came for—a fun, comfortable and convenient ski vacation that is also affordable.” Located in the rugged Selkirk Mountains of North Idaho, Schweitzer Mountain soars to an elevation of 6,400 feet, affording spectacular views of not only nearby Sandpoint and Lake Pend Oreille but of “three mountain ranges, three states, and Canada.” Already ranked as the Pacific Northwest’s Favorite Resort, as well as Best Ski Hill Nightlife by onthesnow.com in 2008, Schweitzer has won praise as the third Best Hill for Tree Skiing in North America by Skiing Magazine’s 2008 Resort Guide. Recently, examiner.com bestowed on Schweitzer the honor of Best Themed Chairlift for “Stella”—Idaho’s only high-speed six-pack, designed by former Disney Imagineer Geoff Puckett—for its charm and fictional storyline. And if that’s not enough to get you dusting off your gear, also new this year is Schweitzer’s incredible family ski-and-stay package, The Schweitzer Difference—starting at just $39 per person. This amped-up version of their traditional family package was designed for flexibility and value and guarantees guests a slopeside unit at either Selkirk or White Pine Lodge. Each unit comfortably sleeps five and includes a microwave, sink and refrigerator; a buffet breakfast at Chimney Rock Restaurant; two complimentary adult ski/snowboard clinics; unlimited wireless internet, local and toll-free calls; parking; and use of the pool, hot tub, and fitness room. When it’s time to hit the slopes, jump on one of nine lifts to ski or board your pick of 92 trails, renowned massive bowls and amazing gladed terrain, for more than 2,900 acres of snow. Schweitzer keeps a nice mix of beginner to advanced terrain, dedicating 40 and 35 percent at the intermediate and advanced levels respectively. Lift tickets typically range from $20 for the beginner’s chair to $59 for an adult day pass. For frequent skiers/boarders, the Great Escape Card or season pass is the ticket. Purchase Schweitzer’s Great Escape Card now online through December 31, and you’ll pay only $75 which pays for your first day on the mountain; $20 lift tickets thru Dec. 25; $10 off lift tickets Dec. 26-March 31; $10 off one lift ticket for a friend on the first Tuesday of January, February and March; and ski free April 1 through the end of the season. If you’re a college student, consider a season pass, especially if you buy by Dec. 1 and pay just $299—40 percent off regular price. As well, there are plenty of other activities to keep you active in the fresh mountain air. With 32 kilometers of cross country trails maintained daily, cross country skiing is a great alternative to get your blood pumping while enjoying stunning scenery. Also available are snowmobile tours, snowshoeing, and tubing at Hermit’s Hollow Tubing Center (reservations recommended). However, if staying cozy inside is more your speed, shopping awaits you at Schweitzer Village or a relaxing day of Oriental bodywork and massage at the Solstice Center of the Healing Arts. There are also arts and crafts waiting to be crafted and movies in the Selkirk Theatre. Don’t miss their Holiday Kick Off, Saturday Dec. 5, at 4 p.m., when the lights come on and the holiday season officially begins with cocoa, cookies and carolers in the Village. The fun continues Dec. 12, and come Dec. 24, see Santa and Mrs. Claus leading a balloon parade and handing out goodies in the Selkirk Lodge. Schweitzer Mountain Resort is quickly rising in the ranks of the nation’s top destination resorts, while still maintaining local charm and affordability. So check out the fun and festivities of this relatively hidden gem, and see what everyone is talking about. For more information on Schweitzer Mountain Resort call 800.831.8810 or visit www.schweitzer.com. Schweitzer participates in the Green Tags program. In 2008-09, enough Green Tags were purchased to offset the energy consumption of three lifts: the Basin Express, Lakeview Triple and Great Escape Quad.