What makes a well-rounded winter vacation? How about when the itinerary includes a little something for everyone. Whether you’re planning a family trip or looking for things to do with friends this winter, Idaho ski areas know how to put smiles on the faces of the skiers and non-skiers alike.
1. BOGUS BASIN MOUNTAIN RECREATION AREA
Boise
For Skiers & Boarders
Whether you’re traversing one of the three double black diamonds on the face-side, casually carving your way down the multitude of runs on the backside, or trying to master that new trick at the terrain park, you’ll find Bogus Basin to be an enjoyable and challenging adventure. A newly installed high-speed chairlift makes it easier than ever to pack in a full day of runs. Get more run information and ticket pricing here.
For Non-Skiers
Feel the winter wind on your face with a ride on the Glade Runner Mountain Coaster. Securely mounted on a smooth metal rail system, this is one of the best ways to experience the snow-covered mountain while staying safely seated in a coaster cart. Tickets can be purchased in advance or on the mountain.
Keep the fun going with a trip down the 800-foot tubing hill. Don’t worry about hauling your tube back up the hill, a conveyor belt will do the work for you, all you have to do is enjoy the ride. Reservations are required in advance to make sure you have the best experience possible.
2. POMERELLE MOUNTAIN RESORT
Near Albion
For Skiers & Boarders
Pomerelle Mountain has an annual snowfall of more than 500-inches! These heavy snowfalls, paired with great runs make Pomerelle a worthy stop for skiers traveling in south central Idaho. You can wind your way down black diamond runs and slice through narrow tree gaps for an exhilarating ride. It’s also the perfect place for beginners to learn as there are plenty of lower-tier runs. Find all the information you’ll need to plan your runs here.
For Non-Skiers
Take a short day trip approximately 45 minutes from Pomerelle and you’ll find the City of Rocks National Reserve. This 14,407-acre reserve features a landscape peppered with towering natural rock formations. Grab a pair of snowshoes or Nordic skis and explore the trails. Trail maps of the reserve will help you navigate the massive area and make the most of your day.
When the sun sets on the City of Rocks, cozy up inside the Willow Glamping Yurt for the night at the adjacent Castle Rocks State Park. It’s the perfect place to hunker down after an evening of stargazing. Yurt reservations are managed by the Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation and can be made on their website. Be sure to book your spot early, the yurt can fill up six months in advance.
3. BRUNDAGE MOUNTAIN RESORT
McCall
For Skiers & Boarders
Brundage is a winter lover’s paradise. Located in southwest Idaho, Brundage features a multitude of skiable terrains, including 1,900 acres of in-bound areas and 18,000 acres of guided backcountry that’s accessible by snowcat. The mountain boasts six lifts, one of those being a high-speed option, along with extra long ski runs, like Temptation at over two miles long, as well as two separate terrain parks, Jammer Park and Bear Progression Park.
For Non-Skiers
If the rush of the slopes isn’t for you or you’re just looking to take a break for a bit, make plans to spend the day at The Activity Barn just south of McCall. This hub of winter outdoor activities features a six-lane tubing hill, free snowshoe trails, fat biking, and Nordic skiing and plenty of kid-friendly activities. Present a Brundage season pass or same-day lift ticket and receive a discount on a tubing session. Save yourself some time by filling out the liability form online before you arrive.
Take your tastebuds on a winter adventure with a meal at the Bear’s Den. This unique dinner begins with a snowcat ride to Brundage’s mid-mountain outpost. After a complimentary arrival drink, sit down for a four-course meal in this alpine getaway. With a full belly, ride the snowcat back down to the base to call it a night. Reservations are required.
4. SCHWEITZER MOUNTAIN RESORT
Sandpoint
For Skiers & Boarders
With over 2,900 acres of skiable terrain, 2,400 vertical feet, 92 designated runs, and three terrain parks, Schweitzer Mountain Resort is northern Idaho’s largest ski resort.
Snowsport enthusiasts travel from far and wide to take full advantage of some of the best powder in the Northwest, and for experiences they can’t find at other mountains, like Schweitzer’s 20 miles of cross country trails. Those Nordic ski trails lead to unbelievable views of the surrounding area and offer enjoyable opportunities for skiers of all skill and experience levels. So whether you’re cutting down the groomed runs or gliding across the trails, Schweitzer invites you to see how winter is done in the Idaho Panhandle.
For Non-Skiers
Schweitzer offers hosted snowshoe hikes to get out and explore the mountain. For $25 you can join the activities staff for one of three hikes – snowshoe rentals, trail pass, and chairlift ride included. If you’re feeling like pro, take your adventures out under the stars with a hosted moonlight hike along the snowshoe trails.
At the top of the mountain, Sky House, Schweitzer’s summit lodge, features full 360-degree views. For a full sit-down meal, grab a chair at The Nest. The food is delectable and the views are unforgettable. If you’re in a hurry, pop into The Red Hawk Cafe, grab a little something delicious and head back out.
Take sightseeing up a few notches and check out Selkirk Powder. Based at Schweitzer, this outfitter offers two guided snowmobile experiences with dazzling views of Lake Pend Oreille and the pristine Priest River from well-defined snowmobile trails. Excursions are available for beginner and experienced riders.
5. SILVER MOUNTAIN RESORT
Kellogg
For Skiers & Boarders
Silver Mountain Resort encompasses two mountains with over 70 well-maintained ski runs, 1,600 acres, and a 2,200-foot vertical face. The mountain boasts a healthy amount of fresh powder and offers multiple black diamond runs, beginner hills, and a tricked-out terrain park. Looking for rentals? Check out the available rentals at Silver Mountain Sports in the lodge.
For Non-Skiers
A waterpark in winter? Yup! While the skiers are shredding down the mountain, you can splash through the Silver Rapids Indoor Waterpark, located in the Morning Star Lodge. Featuring multiple water slides, kids-only zones, an endless river, and much more, this attraction is sure to wash the winter blues away. Admission to the park is included with a stay at Silver Mountain, however, a limited number of group and individual tickets are available online.
While at Silver Mountain, take a scenic ride on North America’s longest gondola. This 3.1-mile trip from the town of Kellogg up to the Mountain House at the mountain’s summit is a picturesque experience.
It doesn’t matter if your next winter trip to Idaho is all about the slopes, finding one-of-a-kind adventures, or a mix of both. You’re sure to make memories that last a lifetime. Share your #VisitIdaho adventures on social while exploring Idaho’s winter playground.
For real-time winter road conditions, visit 511.idaho.gov or download the free Idaho Transportation Department 511 app.
Feature Image Credited to Idaho Tourism.
Published on October 11, 2019