Skiing Paradise: Why Schweitzer Mountain Resort Should Be On Your Bucket List

If you're looking for the perfect winter-spring getaway, look no further than Schweitzer Mountain Resort in Sandpoint, Idaho. With over 2,900 acres of skiable terrain, Schweitzer is a winter wonderland that offers something for everyone.

Here are just a few reasons why Schweitzer Mountain Resort should be at the top of your bucket list:

Incredible Terrain

My boyfriend suggested 'we' go to Schweitzer to ski for Spring Break just him and I.  I was down for anything because it would be my first real getaway in almost 16 years unless of course you count work travel, which I don't.  And, this would be my first time skiing in 20 plus years.  Our first day, I thought I'll try it and see if I want to keep skiing.  The resort boasts over 2,900 acres of skiable terrain, with 92 named runs and 10 lifts to explore. 

Whether you're a beginner or an expert, there are runs for every level of skier.  I LOVED it.  In fact, I would say it surpassed all my expectations and I ended up skiing every day (three).

Stunning Scenery

I did not expect to fall in love with the view.  The views from Schweitzer Mountain Resort are simply breathtaking. From the summit, you can see Lake Pend Oreille and the surrounding mountains, and on a clear day (which was every day we were there), you can even see all the way to Canada. The resort's location in the Selkirk Mountains means that you're surrounded by stunning scenery no matter where you ski.  And, this goes for Sandpoint as well.

On the drive up we saw a baby mouse walking up the street, we had wild turkeys hanging out in our yard and of course several sightings of deer. 

Amenities

We visited Schweitzer Mountain Resort at the end of the season March 26-30.  There were no lines, and it was easy to rent equipment onsite.  When I mentioned the 'no lines' the guy helping me with my skis suggested that it was like this most of the year, but then later a fellow skier suggested that Saturday's were a bit more packed.

The lodging options are amazing—from ski-in, out condos, to the hotel onsite and even rentals closer to town.  We chose a rental about 8 miles from the mountain because we had our dogs.  Our rental had a large fenced in yard and was perfect for us.  Two days we even came back down the mountain grabbed a snack and let the dogs out for a bit and then returned for afternoon skiing.

Once I had my equipment for the week and Spring Fling pass ($200 for the week or rest of Spring) we could just park in the lower parking lot, ski down the green run and hop on the lift ... easy peasy.

Family Friendly

Schweitzer Mountain Resort is a great destination for families, with plenty of activities for all ages. In addition to skiing and snowboarding, the resort offers tubing, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing. There are also plenty of family-friendly dining options, including a cozy mid-mountain lodge and a large selection of restaurants in Sandpoint.

In conclusion, Schweitzer Mountain Resort is a winter/spring paradise that should be on every skier's bucket list. With incredible terrain, stunning scenery, and world-class amenities, it's the perfect destination for a winter getaway. I've skied in Oregon and Vermont, my partner has more mountain experience and we both agree this is our favorite.  It is small mountain vibe with great skiing and people.