Sandpoint, ID

Now that the first snow has fallen on Sandpoint, the boats have been put away, the boxes in the closet marked “Winter” pulled out and dusted off, most of us start anticipating the ski season at our local snowy playground, Schweitzer Mountain Resort. Of the three mountain ranges surrounding Sandpoint, the Selkirk, Cabinet, and Bitterroot Mountains, Schweitzer sits in the Selkirks and offers 2900 acres of skiing fun.

It’s only a couple miles from town to Schweitzer Mountain Road, then another 9 miles or so to the ski mountain, where there’s usually plenty of parking. Another option is to park at the base of the mountain and take the shuttle up. I usually drive up myself, since they keep the roads pretty well sanded and parking isn’t a problem if you go early enough. About a week ago I drove up to Sandpoint and was surprised by the new traffic circle about three-quarters of the way up the road. Unfortunately, it made me think of some sort of automobile ice rink…let’s hope I’m wrong. At least the new fancy Schweitzer sign looks good. Two other new features I’m excited about are high-speed chairlifts, The Basin Express and The Lakeview Triple (which brings people all the way to the top of the mountain, an elevation of 6,400 feet). At the top you can see the three mountain ranges, as well as three states, and Canada. Even veteran skiers pause at the top on a clear day to take in the breathtaking views of the mountains and lake. Definitely a photo spot – although I don’t think I’ve ever taken a photo of someone who doesn’t look very, very cold!

As winter brings us shorter days, and it seems like it’s dark before most people get out of work, you can look up to what looks like a cheery little “Who-ville” nestled up there in the mountains. It lends a touch of optimism to the cold nights and a promise of skiing to come. Now let’s all do a snow dance and hopefully we can hit the slopes soon!