2015 - 2016
m a g a z i n e
POWDER
ALLIANCE Passage to powdery exploration
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NUDGE a
A NATURAL FASCINATION
Tips and tricks to get started
GROWING UP FLORA
SCHWEITZER FAUNA NEWBIE From cradle to career
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Shopping, Dining, Lodging, Arts and Entertainment, Health Care, Educational Opportunities, Professional and Personal Services, and so much more.
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schweitzer magazine 2015 - 2016 vol 8
co n te n ts
FEATURES
DEPARTMENTS 6 INSIDE LINES
With CEO and President Tom Chasse
24 30
17 20
22
17 HOW TO GET STARTED AS A SKIER OR RIDER Tips and tricks to get newbies in on the fun
20 POWDER ALLIANCE
The multi-resort pass program for 14 resorts
22 CELEBRATING 10 YEARS
Solstice Spa treats clients to relaxation, naturally
24 EXPLORING FLORA AND FAUNA
Fascinating plants and animals on the mountain
30 GROWING UP SCHWEITZER
Some never leave home – the mountain, that is
8 FACE SHOT: KIRK JOHNSON Ski and Ride Center manager a team builder
10 MOUNTAIN LIVING
Excitement mounts for summit lodge construction
12 FOOD AND WINE
Food and drink pairings a specialty at Gourmandie
14 TIPS FROM THE TOP
Top-level managers share their mountain wisdom
26 PHOTO ESSAY: FROZEN PHENOMENA Fantastic images of cool natural formations and illusions
35 OFF THE MOUNTAIN
Browsing downtown shops and galleries, Sandpoint style
36 DINING A LA SANDPOINT A guide to noshing in town
38 THIS IS SCHWEITZER
Stats, the particulars, calendar and more about the mountain and its town
42 SUMMER AT SCHWEITZER
Come summer, it’s a whole new mountain of activity
2015 • 2016 | schweitzer magazine
5
inside lines
CREATING LEGACIES
A publication of
W
ow, what a season – one for the record books, even if it was for all the wrong reasons. It was a winter that made us appreciate all the epic winters we have had over the past 10 years. Although challenging from an operations standpoint, the 2014-15 season brought the entire community closer together. I was approached many times in the grocery store, post office, basically everywhere I went, by people wondering how we were doing. It made me realize not only the economic impact that Schweitzer has throughout the region but how genuine the emotional support is from our neighbors and fans. This past winter may not have lived up to our expectations, but hard-core winter enthusiasts and the occasional participants came out to support us anyway. We thank you. Like many of you, I grew up in a skiing family where weather didn’t seem to faze anyone. You dressed for it and felt fortunate to have the opportunity to slide around on anything. During the pre-snowmaking era of the 1960s and ’70s, I had my share of wet New England winters: low snow, hard snow and everything in between. Since its inception in the early ’80s, snowmaking has become somewhat of a game changer in our industry. When we decided to invest in snowmaking at Schweitzer there were, and likely still are, many skeptics. Last season could have been catastrophic had we not had snowmaking to supplement what little natural snow we did receive at lower elSchweitzer CEO and President Tom Chasse evations. With the challenges we face in this with daughter Jenna and granddaughter Charley weather-dependent business, the investment has paid off so far and sets a benchmark for future investment in the mountain. Our ownership is committed to the future of Schweitzer and will continue to invest in areas that will enhance the overall guest experience. As you may know, we’ve broken ground on the summit lodge. As a food-and-beverage venue, it will take pressure off the Lakeview Lodge and provide an extremely unique dining experience in both summer and winter seasons. We’ll continue the planning process for lift enhancements, additional food-and-beverage upgrades and real estate development while continuing to provide an outstanding resort experience that’s renowned for unparalleled customer service. As I reflect back on this past winter, I feel very lucky to be part of the Schweitzer community with all of the support and encouragement from our regional fans, our ownership group and our loyal passholders. I’m inspired by the confidence you’ve instilled in us and hope that we can continue to share our passion and invite others to this spectacular playground we call home. See you on the slopes!
SCHWEITZER MOUNTAIN RESORT 10000 Schweitzer Mountain Road Sandpoint, ID 83864 208-263-9555 www.schweitzer.com
Published by KEOKEE CO. PUBLISHING, INC. Sandpoint, Idaho
Publisher CHRIS BESSLER Editor BILLIE JEAN GERKE Copy Editor BETH HAWKINS Art Director JACKIE PALMER Sales Director CLINT NICHOLSON
Keokee Co. Publishing, Inc. 405 Church St. Sandpoint, Idaho 83864 208-263-3573 www.keokee.com Entire contents © 2015 Keokee Co. Publishing, Inc. All rights reserved Schweitzer Magazine is the official publication of Schweitzer Mountain Resort, published annually and distributed to Schweitzer visitors; local advertisers’ restaurants, retail shops and other establishments; and by mail to season pass holders, mountain lodging guests and potential real estate clients. Schweitzer Magazine is published for Schweitzer by Keokee Co. Publishing of Sandpoint. For advertising information, contact Keokee Publishing. View the digital flip-page edition at www.schweitzermagazine.com On the cover Taking in Schweitzer’s view of the Cabinet and Selkirk mountains. Contents page Sunrise silhouette of Musical Chairs.
Tom Chasse, CEO and President 6
schweitzer magazine | 2015 • 2016
Our Bonner General Health First Aid Station at Schweitzer Mountain Resort is open during the ski season to provide prompt medical attention for those needing immediate care.
Schweitzer Mountain Resort First Aid Station 10000 Schweitzer Mountain Road Sunday – Thursday 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Fridays, Saturdays and Holidays 8:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. No appointment necessary.
Should you need care beyond first aid, we are here for you: Immediate Care
400 Schweitzer Plaza Drive, Suite 1, Ponderay (208) 263-0649
BGH Emergency Department 520 N. Third Avenue, Sandpoint (208) 263-1441
Performance Therapy Services
423 N. Third Avenue, Suite 150, Sandpoint (208) 265-3325 606 N. Third Avenue, Suite 202, Sandpoint (208) 265-3751 30544 Highway 200, Suite 103, Ponderay (208) 255-3676 119 Main Street, Suite 205, Priest River (208) 448-4151
520 N. Third Avenue • Sandpoint, ID 83864 • 208-263-1441 • BonnerGeneral.org
fa c e s h o t
TEAM BUILDER KIRK JOHNSON, MANAGER FOR SCHWEITZER’S SKI AND RIDE CENTER By Dig Chrismer
S
“Being with people who work well together, achieving one goal ... It’s amazing.” 8
schweitzer magazine | 2015 • 2016
chweitzer’s 2014 Manager of the Year, Kirk Johnson, 43, is a dedicated Grateful Dead fan who has spent the last 14 years living the dream at Schweitzer Mountain Resort. From his first job on the mountain at the Wang Shack where “we had beer and two dozen demo skis” to his current tenure as the rental shop manager, Johnson always had a feeling he would end up in the ski industry. “I went to the University of Idaho and moved back to Colorado for a ‘real job.’ Six months later, I was in Sandpoint,” he said. After two seasons at the Wang, Johnson started working in the rental shop and has held various positions until becoming the Ski and Ride Center’s fulltime, year-round manager nine years ago. He has created a strong department with passionate employees who return season after season: “My secret to a great team is that I won’t hire anyone who doesn’t want to ride. In the interview, I want to know what their best ski day was. If they can’t remember one, but they can remember 10, that’s who I want.” Johnson’s crew consists of 23 employees during the winter and three staffers during the summer months when the focus shifts from skis and boards to creating new trails and features for mountain bike enthusiasts. “In the summer I get the chance to be more of a mechanic than manager,” said Johnson. “I get the chance to help create another side of Schweitzer.” Johnson’s passion isn’t limited to mountain bikes; he has been involved with the 3,000-mile road bike Race Across America (RAAM) since 2011 as both a member of the support team and as a rider. He rode again in 2015. “It’s the experience that draws you back,” said Johnson. “Being with people who work well together, achieving one goal, raising awareness for cystinosis research. It’s amazing – the teamwork and the passion.” Those two factors play big in Johnson’s feelings for Schweitzer as well. “If Schweitzer were a Grateful Dead song, it would be ‘Playing in the Band’ because we’re all playing all the time up here. We’re a band in the rental shop and on the mountain as a whole,” he said. The song is a good pick not just for Schweitzer but for Johnson too. It’s obvious as he stands in front of the rental shop in the spring sunshine with a huge grin on his face that he’s “standing on a tower, world at my command, you just keep a turning, while I’m playing in the band.”
Call Your Schweitzer Real Estate Experts: Randy & Darla (208) 255-8268 EXPERIENCE AND HARD WORK ARE DRIVING FORCES FOR SUCCESS...
LET’S BE SUCCESSFUL TOGETHER!
A Message from Randy & Darla YOUR SCHWEITZER MOUNTAIN REAL ESTATE EXPERTS
We have exciting news to share! The activity at Schweitzer has picked up and we have been extremely busy. Inventories are changing. In the last 12 months there have been 41 SOLD/CLOSED Residential Sales on the mountain, totaling $13,601,366.00. Currently there are 4 Pending Sales and 46 Active Listings on the mountain, ranging from $82,000 to $849,900. If you or someone you know are thinking of buying or selling, we would love the opportunity to work with you! We are looking forward to seeing you. Stop by our office in the Schweitzer Village.
New Homes and Condos Available
CALL US FOR DETAILS !
Photo courtesy of Schweitzer Mountain Resort
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R E S O RT R E A LT Y
Coldwell Banker Resort Realty • 2016 Ave. | schweitzer magazine 9 202 South2015 First Sandpoint, ID 83864
mountain living
EXCITEMENT MOUNTS FOR NEW
SUMMIT LODGE
S
chweitzer Mountain Resort broke ground in July 2015 for the construction of a $5.9 million summit lodge at the top of the resort’s Great Escape Quad. “We are excited with the board’s decision to move forward with this project, especially following the challenging winter we had in 2014-15,” said Tom Chasse, Schweitzer CEO and president. “It’s great to have such strong support from our owners, allowing us to improve the resort’s infrastructure and deliver a better experience for our guests.” The planned 13,000-square-foot, three-story building was designed by Sandpoint-based architect Tim Boden and engineered by Dave Thompson
and will feature stunning 360-degree views. The lower floor of the building will become the new home for Ski Patrol dispatch and provide much-needed restrooms on the summit. The building’s main level on the second floor will host a restaurant and full-service bar with indoor and outdoor seating for up to 180 people. The third floor of the lodge will offer a one-of-a-kind lodging experience in both winter and summer months. Options for private functions, including an enhanced venue for mountaintop weddings, are also included in the overall plan. Schweitzer chose Sandpoint-based Idagon Homes to manage construction of the project. “Idagon has a solid
Corner-to-corner, 180-degree view from the summit lodge building site. By the 2016-17 season, the lodge will be a prime destination atop the mountain.
reputation and has already done some amazing work in the area,” said Bill Williamson, mountain operations director at Schweitzer. “One such project was the recently completed restoration of Sandpoint’s historic train depot. We feel they have the experience and the vision to help us create yet another iconic structure in the Northwest.” Chasse added: “The view from the top of the mountain and the feeling you get looking out over the lake is unparalleled, and the summit lodge will give us the ability to share that experience. Summer or winter, we think the lodge will become a destination for locals and visitors alike.” Completion is planned for fall 2016.
Architectural rendering, design subject to change
10
schweitzer magazine | 2015 • 2016
Local . Natural . Delicious.
Thank you to the Schweitzer Team...
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fo o d a n d w i n e
FOOD AND DRINK PAIRINGS A SPECIALTY AT GOURMANDIE
Gourmandie Manager Kelley Kennedy showcases her passion for good food and drink at the gourmet market through frequent wine and beer tastings and food pairings
12
By Dig Chrismer
S
chweitzer Mountain Resort’s top-notch dining options offer not only great food but unforgettable experiences that leave your taste buds singing. At Gourmandie, Schweitzer’s own “wine and cheese” and beer pairing extravaganzas are perfect examples. “Tastings are great because you get to try new wines and beers without having to take a risk on just one bottle or six pack,” said Kelley Kennedy, manager of Gourmandie. “Gourmandie started out as a retail venue, and now we offer amazingly delicious foods with fantastic beer-and-wine options.” Wine and beer tastings at Gourmandie are popular and frequently appear on Schweitzer’s events calendar. Kennedy enjoys offering a variety of different tastings throughout the year from wine tastings featuring great Pacific Northwest red wines to fabulous champagne tastings paired with an organic brunch featuring Prosecco, champagne, Brut and sparkling rosé. As for beer tastings, Gourmandie invites some of the Northwest’s renowned craft breweries, such as Ninkasi Brewing, 10 Barrel Brewing, and Deschutes Brewery to showcase their brews while pairing them with homemade specialty foods. “There has been an incredible explosion of
schweitzer magazine | 2015 • 2016
great craft beers in the Pacific Northwest over the last five years,” she said. “It’s so fun helping our guests learn that there’s a craft beer for everyone, from the staunchest hop lover to your regular après-ski PBR fan.” Tasting events aside, winter or summer, Gourmandie’s upscale, organic deli is filled with delectable cheeses and lunch options such as farmers market fresh paninis and designer versions of everybody’s favorite, mac and cheese, plus homemade soups, breads and other delights prepared by the insanely talented Kennedy. She loves to showcase her passion for good food and drink at the gourmet market that has changed and grown considerably since it opened in 2009. Kennedy rotates Gourmandie’s beer and wine list at least twice a season, giving guests even more opportunity to learn about all the flavors and tastes available. “The wine or beer you choose as an accompaniment could make or break a dish,” Kennedy said. “Trust me, wine paired with food is a totally different experience than having a glass of wine.” Kennedy adds that interacting with the wonderful staff is another plus: “Our guests get to experience a personal relationship with the servers and the amazing food. No pretensions.” Just how we – and our guests – like it.
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2015 • 2016 | schweitzer magazine
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tips from the
TOP By Kerri Kuntz
Mary Weber Quinn, events and activities director, has some good suggestions for the single or more social guests. If you are riding alone, Quinn recommends strategic uphill movement: “Don’t catch a chair solo, wait for someone to come along to ride with. Awesome relationships can be formed on chairlift rides.”
Jade Smith, resort services director, exposes his retail experience with a plethora of tips on gear maintenance. “Never wipe the inside of your goggles when wet; you’ll wipe away the anti-fog layer on the goggles, and never use tissue to clean glasses or goggles,” Smith said. “Also, keep your gear tuned. Contrary to popular belief, waxed skis with sharp edges don’t just mean faster skiing, they actually keep you in control. And always put a coat of wax on your gear prior to summer storage.”
From first-year employees to seasoned veterans, Schweitzer Mountain Resort’s employees are known for their friendly, outgoing personalities. They’re passionate about what they do and are readily available with a wealth of information on how to enjoy the mountain and surrounding area. Here are some tips from some top-level managers who have the inside line on getting the best out of your time at Schweitzer.
Devin Marks, Schweitzer’s lodging director, recommends the simplest way to get the most out of your day on the mountain: eat. “Food is fuel. Make sure you remember to eat and stay hydrated,” he said. “With basically non-existent lift lines, you’re going to be making a ton of turns in a short amount of time. Keep yourself fueled so the only wall you hit is Headwall.”
Rod Engel, CFO for Schweitzer, suggests anyone staying on the mountain stay slope side. “Ski in, ski out is the easiest way to get rolling in the morning,” Engel said, “and when you finally need a break, you’re back to the condo in just minutes.”
Marcus Ward, IT manager, is a fan of the edges: “Where the groomed meets the ungroomed are some of the best snow stashes. On a foggy day, follow the corduroy or ski the trees to give you some depth perception.”
Maybe the best mountain tip to find those sweet spots comes from Food and Beverage Director Michael Williams: “Find a local and chat ’em up. Smart riders make local friends who will show them the good lines.”
14
schweitzer magazine | 2015 • 2016
While many employees are not overly anxious to reveal secret stashes in a publication, Bill Williamson, mountain operations director, has some good early morning picks to share: “Sundance first thing in the morning is convenient, good morning exposure, and there are usually not a lot of people. Little Blue Ridge is another good one for a quiet, fresh, long leg burner to get warmed up.”
The most creative – and anonymous – tip heard may be geared toward Washington visitors: “Leave your wacky tobaccy/herb at home. It’s the exact opposite of legal here. There are so many other ways to get high at Schweitzer.”
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10:24 AM 2015 • 2016 | schweitzer9/17/15 magazine
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schweitzer magazine | 2015 • 2016
how to
Get started
as a
skier or rider
TIPS AND TRICKS TO GET NEWBIES IN ON THE FUN
T No matter the age, new skiers and riders who start with lessons find it’s the best way to try out winter sports. At right, Laura Richardson takes her second lesson ever
By Terry McLeod
hink back, maybe way back, to your first day at a REAL ski area complete with a lodge, chairlifts and groomed runs. If you’re like me, you had already been sliding on snow in your backyard, pasture or on the sledding hill, but you officially became a skier/boarder when you bought a lift ticket and attached it to the zipper on your jacket. Maybe the challenge and thrill of that first slippery day is what enticed you to come back, or maybe you were one of the unfortunate ones who was unwittingly led to the top of “The Devils Black Diamond” and then berated or abandoned by people you used to call friends. For most of you reading this, you returned to the slopes over and over, inevitably becoming a skier or snowboarder. So how can you help guide others down this snowy path? How can your non-riding friends embrace the magic of playing outside during the coldest season and become obsessed by it just like you did? Easy. Just start talking about it. By sharing your wealth of knowledge and experience, you become the perfect ally for new skiers and riders to try out winter sports. Advise them on their choice of clothing, lead them to the rental shop, and help them get signed up for lessons. Become their personal guide through all the places and processes involved in getting on the mountain, without repeating that horrible part of leaving friends at the top of The Devils Black Diamond. A great local example is Cindy Rust, a high school science teacher from Post Falls, Idaho, who was named the 2015 Snow Sports Ambassador of the Year by the organizers of Learn to Ski and Snowboard Month/ Bring a Friend Initiative. Rust founded the Post Falls Ski and Snowboard Club several years ago to “provide an opportunity for low-income students, students without ski/snowboard parents, and anyone else who wants to learn.” Last year she organized trips and beginner lessons for 27 students from the club. She added the novel approach of having the kids try a new discipline – learning how to ski if they were already a solid snow2015 • 2016 | schweitzer magazine
17
boarder and vice versa. The organization rewarded her with a season pass to Schweitzer, gifts from industry sponsors, and a $250 gift card from www.skis.com and www.snowboards.com. The ski/snowboard industry developed Learn to Ski and Snowboard Month, designated each January by the National Ski Areas Association (NSAA), and now has more than 300 resorts that participate (www.skiandsnowboardmonth.org). The collaborative effort is also supported by manufacturers and industry suppliers with the aim of getting people outside in the winter and participating in healthy activities. The organization’s website, www.learntoskiandsnowboard.org, has links to resorts, gear and lift ticket deals with an incredible amount of information targeted for people who have never been to a resort before. It includes tips on how to dress, how to prepare ahead of time, ways to save money, the health benefits of winter sports, and getting children involved without going crazy in the process. Packages, programs and specials can make getting involved in winter sports more affordable.
NSAA reports that it has facilitated more than 500,000 “first lessons” since the beginning of the program. Schweitzer Mountain Resort has been involved with Learn to Ski and Snowboard Month for several years and developed a package of lift ticket, lesson and gear rental for just $39 for first-time skiers or boarders. This also includes follow-up offers for two reduced-price lesson packages and the ability to get a free “Grad Pass” good for spring skiing. Schweitzer also created the “Ski FREE in 3” beginner package – three days of lift tickets, lessons and rentals for just $159 – and added a “Bring a Friend” promo. If two people sign up together and complete the program, they both get a free lift ticket to use anytime in the season in addition to their free spring Grad Pass. The motivation behind this is that it’s more fun to learn with a buddy and easier to laugh at beginner guffaws when your friends are with you. The Sandpoint Nordic Club takes this learn-to-ski program to heart on Winter Trails Day in January when people can try Nordic skiing without having to pay for rentals or trail fees. The club also provides free lessons that day so beginners can learn the basics from an experienced Nordic skier. Cost can be a factor in getting involved in snow sports and 18
schweitzer magazine | 2015 • 2016
may present a barrier to getting started. That’s why these programs have been so successful. They help to keep the initial dollar commitment low, making it easier to sample the goods. Greater Sandpoint is fortunate to have a local nonprofit organization that specifically helps youth afford skiing or snowboarding. North Idaho Mountain Sports Education Foundation (NIMSEF) offers scholarships for qualifying kids to participate in the eight-week Funatics program that runs January through March each season. Jeff Rouleau founded this nonprofit program after a young student, following a free ski day, wrote, “That was the best day of my life, and I’ll probably never get to do it again.” Now NIMSEF helps about 60 kids each season to have the best day of their lives, over and over again. Through raffles, auctions and private donations, Rouleau and the NIMSEF board raise money and then review the applications each fall to select the kids to sponsor that year. Visit www.nimsef.com for all the details and information on how you can get involved. Sometimes affordable skiing can even support a worthy cause. Schweitzer hosts “Community Day” annually, offering $10 tickets and donating proceeds to local charities. The event started in 2006 as “A Day for Heather” in honor of longtime resident Heather Gibson who lost her fight to cancer earlier that year. One hundred percent of the proceeds for this day are shared with Bonner Partners in Care and Community Cancer Services. More than $128,497 has been raised over the past 10 years, enabling roughly 12,850 people to go skiing or snowboarding for only $10. A $10 day may be a once-a-year promotion, but there are other affordable options to get your friends skiing. Schweitzer’s “Sell the Night” program supports various local associations each winter by providing them with discounted night skiing tickets to sell. These tickets are only $8 and must be purchased in town, with proceeds going directly to the associations themselves. Come up on one of the big event weekends, such as the Laser Lights Show or the Let it Glow Parade and Fireworks, and have an exciting date night for just $8. Lastly, anyone with a Toyota can just plain ride for free once a year on Toyota Ski Free day. As the name implies, drive a Toyota to Schweitzer and get one free lift ticket. Best thing is, it doesn’t matter how old or rusty that Toyota is. But let’s get back to the notion of you, the avid snow sports enthusiast, helping your friends to get fired up about skiing, snowboarding, telemarking or ski blading without feeling like they need to take out a loan. There’s always the possibility that you have another group of friends who are already connected to a local ski resort. Many areas give their staff and passholders deals and discounts that they can share during the season. A portion of those perks may be lesson/ticket/rental packages or other specials designed specifically for novices. This could be just the type of resource you need to network one set of skiing friends to another set of friends who you would like to get up on the hill. Give a gift that keeps on giving and pack an extra person into the car the next time you go to the mountains. Find a friend who wants to learn how fun it can be to slide around on the snow. Besides loving you for getting them started in a new wintertime sport, they’ll be impressed at your wisdom on how to save money in the process.
www.LQ.com 1-800-531-5900 Reservations 208 263-9582 • 800 282-0660 415 Cedar Street • Sandpoint, ID 83864 Professionally managed by hospitality Associates, Inc
Stay with us in Sandpoint ... ... the rest is easy
Alison Murphy, Associate Broker
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Full Time ReAlToR® and Schweitzer enthusiast Mountain Resident • Lifelong Local Providing the most professional, informative, and dedicated service in the real estate industry. It’s not enough to have the dream ~ Live it!
Inn Features:
• Free Breakfast with Belgian Waffles • Connie’s Restaurant & Lounge • Kids stay FREE • Large Spa & Fitness Room •Schweitzer Ski Packages •FREE Wi-fi •100% Smoke Free
www.LQ.com 1-800-531-5900 Reservations 208 263-9582 • 800 282-0660 415 Cedar Street • Sandpoint, ID 83864 Professionally managed by hospitality Associates, Inc
208.290.4567 • Alison.Murphy@SothebysRealty.com • www.LivingInSandpoint.com
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MillersCountryStoreSandpoint.com 2015 • 2016 | schweitzer magazine
19
HOW TO
ski and ride
FREE at 14 powdery resorts
UNLIMITED PASSHOLDERS GAIN ENTRANCE TO THE POWDER ALLIANCE
By Dig Chrismer
W
hat would you say if your full, unlimited season pass to Schweitzer Mountain Resort allowed you access to 138 lifts, 1,015 trails, 31,326 vertical feet, 22,257 acres, and 4,674 inches of cumulative annual snowfall? You would think Schweitzer’s marketing team finally spun things a tad too far, right? Nope, they’re spinning with excitement about the Powder Alliance. This alliance, a consortium of 14 independent ski resorts in the Western United States and Canada, is a major benefit for unlimited passholders. Sure, there’s nothing better than catching freshies at your local resort, but when looking for a change of scenery and an adventure, Schweitzer’s unlimited passholders can hit the road and get three 20
schweitzer magazine | 2015 • 2016
free days (excluding Saturdays) at each of the participating resorts. New to the alliance this season is Whitewater Ski Resort in Nelson, British Columbia, Sandpoint’s sister city. The chance to explore other mountains is something Katie Miller, a Schweitzer passholder for 15 years, enjoyed last season. “The Powder Alliance gave me the opportunity to travel to several different ski resorts out West,” she said. “From meeting new people, to skiing new mountains, and even enjoying some epic powder conditions, it was so great to get to explore.” Schweitzer’s participation in the program also offers unlimited passholders from the other Powder Alliance resorts a chance to experience what Schweitzer is all about.
Sara Snedeker and John Vernon, season passholders from Stevens Pass in Washington, visited Schweitzer for the first time last season thanks to the program. “Every year, I like to take at least one trip elsewhere,” said Snedeker. “I wouldn’t have come to Schweitzer if it hadn’t been for the Powder Alliance deal.” “Having these free days at other resorts is the best value out there,” added Vernon. “A lodging and ski ticket deal where you don’t even have to think about the lift ticket price is the best way to make any ski trip more affordable.” The couple had originally planned to ski five areas during their road trip, but they ended up skiing Schweitzer for two days and not making it to one of the other resorts. “When the ticket is
POWDER ALLIANCE STATS 14 Resorts 138 Lifts 1,015 Trails 31,326 Vertical Feet 22,257 Skiable Acres 4,674 Cumulative Annual Snowfall
Stevens Pass passholders Sara Snedeker and John Vernon, below, hit the road last season and skied at four other resorts including Schweitzer as part of the Powder Alliance. (Photo by Billie Jean Gerke)
free, that flexibility thing can still remain a priority,” said Snedeker. As for Miller, visiting other resorts in the alliance gave her a deeper appreciation for her home mountain, Schweitzer. “I had an amazing time at each resort I visited,” Miller said. “I fell in love with each of these places, but I was always happy to come back to Schweitzer.” The Powder Alliance is more than just a free ticket program. It’s an opportunity for skiers and riders to appreciate what each mountain brings to the table. Facilitating the opportunity to explore other resorts and terrain is the beauty of this partnership. For all the details on the program visit www.schweitzer.com or www.powder alliance.com. 2015 • 2016 | schweitzer magazine
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Celebrating 10 YEARS
SOLSTICE SPA TREATS CLIENTS TO RELAXATION, NATURALLY
Solstice Spa’s Marc Vroman eases the day’s tension with a foot massage. Opposite: Marc Vroman and his team of trained therapists use a variety of techniques to personalize treatments.
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schweitzer magazine | 2015 • 2016
w By Dig Chrismer
hen you walk into the Solstice Spa at Schweitzer, Marc Vroman isn’t probably who you would expect to see sitting behind the desk. With his penetrating, dark eyes and impressionable beard, Vroman is someone you might imagine running into in a biker bar. But don’t let the tough-guy look fool you. This man knows his massage. Since its creation 10 years ago in a spare closet near Chimney Rock Grill, the Solstice Spa has grown and built a reputation for serious massage in a chilled-out environment. “I like to approach our treatments by asking our guests what they need from their massage therapist,” said Vroman, adding that the focus of Solstice is to create an experience that complements Schweitzer Mountain Resort’s atmosphere. “The mountain is friendly, familiar and personal. That’s how everyone’s time at Solstice should be too. It’s important for us to get them to verbalize what’s going on with their bodies so we can create that individual experience.” Vroman’s mountain-casual attitude may be a change for many of those who have had massage and spa treatments at other places, but clients are consistently enthusiastic and positive. “I was blown away by the foot massage,” said Schweitzer Marketing Director Sean Mirus. “My ski boots wreak havoc with my feet and that massage was awesome. From the initial salt scrub to the paraffin wax at the end, it all made a huge difference in relieving the tension from a hard day’s skiing.” The scrubs and lotions that the Solstice therapists use are all products made in-house by Vroman and his team: “We make everything here using only natural ingredients. This way, we know that all the products are fresh and honest.” These homemade body butters and scrubs can then be personalized for each client before their treatment. “Smells are so unique to each person, and what scents make me happy and relaxed may not work for you,” said Vroman. “Before we begin the treatment, we ask these questions, then mix in the right amount of sandalwood, lavender or other essential oils, connecting you to the treatment through more than just one of your senses.” This layered personalization is something that Vroman and his therapists take to heart. “The therapists are all highly educated and acutely aware of how important it is to listen to our clients,” said Vroman. “It starts by simply asking our clients how they see relaxation.” For first-timers, being able to vocalize what they want from a spa treatment may not be easy to do. “I was a bit apprehensive at first, but I asked questions the entire time,” said Kelly Farmin, who experienced her first-ever spa treatment with Vroman last spring. “Marc was great at explaining his training, his approach and the science behind it all.” Vroman says his approach is directly inspired by the personal connection he has to the mountain. “I’ve lived all over the world, but Sandpoint and Schweitzer are home to me. I get such energy from this community. Here, my team and I are not just treating clients but others who are as passionate about being in the mountains as we are.” 2015 • 2016 | schweitzer magazine
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Exploring the mountain’s
flora
and
FAUNA
By Dani Demmons
S
pend some time tromping around the mountains at Schweitzer Mountain Resort and you’re bound to take notice of an interesting tree, a brightly colored flower, or perhaps a bird making strange noises. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of a large mammal, such as a black bear or moose, or a small one, such as a snowshoe hare with its large hind feet that keep it from sinking into the snow. Picking flowers in the summer? You may want to be aware that some of our most tempting flowers to pick can make you ill despite the fact that they look beautiful in a bouquet. Whether your visit is focused on finding the perfect powder turns or hiking to the summit, we encourage you to take a moment to stop and smell the flowers, or maybe just look at them. Schweitzer is home to many animal and plant species – too many to cover here – and some of the most interesting flora and fauna in this special spot in the Selkirk Mountains of northern Idaho are highlighted below.
moose
You’ve heard of people carrying bells to alert the bears of their presence when hiking, but that jingling noise may also be good at giving moose a heads up so they know where you are. Moose, which can be aggressive due to their protective nature, have poor eyesight and rely upon their sense of smell and hearing to compensate. The next time you spot one chewing on some plants – they only eat plants as they have no front upper teeth – keep your distance and make your presence known by making lots of noise. You wouldn’t want to startle a moose as they can run up to 35 miles per hour! 24
schweitzer magazine | 2015 • 2016
whitebark pine and Clark’s nutcracker
High on the summit of Schweitzer, if you search hard, you may come across a twisted-looking tree called the whitebark pine. This species likes to grow in areas that were once disturbed, and the summit is a great spot as there was a large fire that burned through many years ago. If you happen to spot one of these trees, one of five species in a group called “stone pine” due to their tough seeds, consider yourself lucky as whitebark pine are a threatened species. These slow-growing trees have been under attack by beetles and disease. With the passing of each whitebark pine, the bird known as Clark’s nutcracker also finds itself in trouble as it relies upon the high-nutrient seeds to sustain itself through winter. The tree’s cones stay closed and depend upon the birds and other small critters to crack them open and spread their seeds for reproduction. It is a perfect symbiotic relationship.
monkshood
This eye-catching purple flower can be found along many Schweitzer hiking trails, but often spotted on Upper Grr. Be careful when you reach out to handle this flower as it contains a poison called aconite that could be deadly if eaten. It is so toxic that if you got the poison on your hands and forgot to wash up before lunch, you could get sick. Monkshood is also known as wolfsbane as its toxins may have historically been used to kill wolves. On a mythical twist, it is said that the plant was used to keep werewolves away or used to identify werewolves. If the flower casts a yellow shadow on the suspicious person’s chin, then they must be a werewolf!
Top photos clockwise from left, moose, Clark’s nutcracker, wolf and whitebark pine. Below from left, western screech owl, alder cones and leaves, monkshood, and elderberry leaves and berries.
Photo credits: Ryan Hagerty, Dave Menke, Gary Kramer, Bjorn (www.flickr.com/photos /62005704@N00), Gary M. Stolz, Gunilla G. (www.flickr.com/photos/nillanilzon), Billie Jean Gerke
wolves
Speaking of wolves, they have been a hot topic over the past 20 years. The wolf species was almost completely wiped out from the United States by 1960. The gray wolf was placed on the endangered species list in 1974 and included in a recovery plan by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. In 1995 the wolf was reintroduced to the region. Reintroduction has been so successful in repopulating that the gray wolf was removed from the endangered species list in 2011. In most recent years, wolves have been sighted at Schweitzer, particularly at the top of the Lakeview Triple.
alder
If you’ve hiked around Schweitzer in the summer, or skied during a low snowpack year, you’ve encountered alder. This tall, deciduous shrub is quite hardy and helps in many ways, such as controlling erosion and creating windbreaks. When alder are cut or damaged by the environment, they reproduce from the stump or the root system known as underground rhizomes. Alder tends to grow back stronger and even more heavily when cut; they must be excavated to stop growth permanently. Long story made short, skiers need to do their snow
dances to ensure there’s enough white stuff to cover up all the alder during winter!
western screech owl
Idaho boasts 14 species of owls, but the bird of prey locally residing at Schweitzer is the Western screech owl; the mountain even has a summer bike trail named for it. While the screech owl does make a distinctive sound, it is more of a cycle of hoots as opposed to a “screech.” While the small owl rests in the open during the day on a tree branch, they are hard to spot as they are well camouflaged to look like tree bark.
elderberry
This small bluish purple berry has a reputation for being delicious to make wine, jams, syrups and pies. However, the species of elderberry that grows at Schweitzer (Sambucus cerulea) produces high levels of cyanide and can make a person quite sick if eaten. That said, the fruits of locally grown elderberry shrubs are edible but should be cooked first, perhaps in wine or jelly. Many species of elderberry are used to make extracts or syrups used to fight cold and flu, but the natives used sambucus cerulea to induce vomiting.
frozen PHENOMENA
p h o to e s s ay
W
e get pretty excited as soon as the first snowflakes start to fall up here at Schweitzer. Those billions of tiny unique snowflakes make up the playground on which we ski and snowboard. Deep powder days are what winter enthusiasts dream of, but the amazing world of ice crystals creates
more than just the snow beneath your skis! Whether it’s a dazzling display of sparkles and rainbows or a subtle accumulation of frost forming interesting figures or patterns, water, ice, sun and atmospheric conditions create some amazing natural phenomena. Some can be seen almost every day; oth-
ers are more rare, but if you spend enough time outside this winter you might be lucky enough to see it all. Check out these photos taken at Schweitzer. Next time you go skiing you can keep an eye out for these cool natural formations and illusions created by the ice crystals around you.
INVERSION: A sea of clouds over Sandpoint and Lake Pend Oreille. Inversions are formed when warmer air rests on cooler air, trapping clouds to
the ground level. Although inversions are not created by ice crystals, a lot of the conditions shown on these pages will occur during the same time.
22° HALO: A large ring
or rainbow around the sun produced by light interacting with suspended ice crystals, often at a radius of about 22 degrees. When only a side portion of this rainbow arc is visible, it’s called a sundog.
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schweitzer magazine | 2015 • 2016
SUN PILLAR: A vertical shaft of light extending upward
or downward from the sun is typically seen during sunrise or sunset and is formed when sunlight reflects off the surfaces of ice crystals. Light pillars can also form around the moon, street lights or other bright lights.
FATA MORGANA: The Cabinet Mountains to
the east look like buttes or plateaus. These cool mirages happen when a warmer layer of air rests upon a cooler layer of air, creating an atmospheric duct. This duct acts as a lens producing a mirror image of what is below.
2015 • 2016 | schweitzer magazine
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p h o to e s s ay
f ro z e n p h e n o m e n a
DIAMOND DUST: A ground-level cloud composed
of tiny ice crystals. The cloud is not always visible, but a column of super bright light shimmers and glitters and appears to move with you.
SNOW GHOSTS: Trees encrusted
in snow and rime.
RIME: A
white granular deposit of ice formed when water particles in clouds become supercooled, then freeze nearly instantaneously when they land upon cold, exposed objects such as trees, lift towers, buildings, and sometimes even skiers and snowboarders.
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schweitzer magazine | 2015 • 2016
SURFACE HOARFROST (also at left): Feathery crystals
form on the snow surface during clear and calm conditions, essentially frozen dew.
2015 • 2016 | schweitzer magazine
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Growing up Schweitzer
some never leave home – the mountain, that is
I
By Dig Chrismer
f it sounds like an oxymoron to be a family-oriented ski bum, think again. It just so happens that ski bums do find each other on the slopes, on a lift, or in the lodge and decide they want the American dream – children, real jobs and a house with a white picket fence. The only difference is that their real jobs don’t involve suits, and the picket fence is made of old skis. Even though the workplace and lifestyle may not be typical, caring for the baby ski bums that follow is important, and that’s where Schweitzer’s on-moun30
schweitzer magazine | 2015 • 2016
tain day care has been a boon not just for visitors but also for employees. These little Schweitzerites learn the nature that nurtures through The Children’s Center, formerly Kinder Kamp, and its kind and loving staff. Debbie Foster, the center’s manager for more than 20 years, loves the closeness that the on-mountain day care provides. “The parents are right here with their kids and get to see them whenever they want during the day, sometimes just to have lunch or take them skiing,” said Foster. “It’s so amazing that these
parents can share their passion for their place of work with their kids.” The resort has offered day care and lessons for about 30 years, and over time, there have been several children who find themselves just as attached to the mountain as their parents have been. Erica Kingsland, 17, is a great example. Kingsland started at Kinder Kamp when she was just 4 months old. Her father and mother were both heavily involved with the resort’s ski school, and it made sense for the family to take advantage of the on-mountain day care
Ski bums Dan Nylund and Angie Quinn-Nylund grew up at Schweitzer, where they met and later married. These lifers have worked on the mountain since age 14.
for their daughter. “I was in Kinder Kamp five days a week until I turned 6. “All my early memories are of Schweitzer,” said Kingsland. “I think my parents felt bad about all the time I spent there,” she added, “but Kinder Kamp and Schweitzer are a second family to me.” So much so that when it was time for Kingsland to look for work, she went to what she knew best: The Children’s Center. “I’ve worked here for two seasons now. I’ve learned compassion and that it’s easy to be good with all kinds of people, no matter how short
the time with them,” said Kingsland. “My connections to Schweitzer are huge: the space, the people, the vibe. This will always be my playground.” “Exactly. Who needs a playground of swings and slides when you have terrain parks and a T-bar?” asked Dan Nylund, 37, who started playing on Schweitzer when he was 5. “Both my parents were working on the mountain. I spent summers biking and then winters, I would beg to go ski.” By the time Nylund was 7, he was going everywhere on the mountain on
his own. “Once, I even got to the top of The Face, ski boots unbuckled and launched myself into some Volkswagensized moguls,” he said. Nylund didn’t make it too far before he lost his ski and the boot attached to it before being rescued by a Schweitzer employee. “I can’t remember if they were a patroller or a lifty, but it didn’t matter. They knew who I was and were ready to help me get the snow out of my boot.” It’s this sense of community and belonging that most kids who grew up on Schweitzer connect to. Angie Quinn 2015 • 2016 | schweitzer magazine
31
Erica Kingsland was just 4 months old when she started day care at Schweitzer. Now she works there. Below, Erica in different stages of growing up in Kinder Camp, now The Children’s Center.
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schweitzer magazine | 2015 • 2016
Nylund, 30, became part of the fabric of Schweitzer when her mother started working for the resort when she was 9. “It was awesome having my mom working here. My sisters and I were Mill Building kids. We’d come in to the administration offices and everyone would know who we were,” Quinn Nylund remembers. “It was OK to meander through the building and say hi to the GM. Everyone was family.” The closeness extended to other kids Quinn Nylund raced with during Schweitzer’s Junior Starlight series. “It was a laid-back racing group and we had kids from all over the region. It didn’t matter where we lived; we were playing together at the mountain.” Both Nylund and Quinn Nylund started working for the resort when they were 14. Nylund is now the resort’s terrain parks manager and Quinn Nylund works on ski patrol. With more than 20 years on the mountain, Nylund has already earned his lifetime pass and managed to find his bride. “I remember seeing Angie around the mountain. I knew who she was, but it wasn’t until we had a conversation outside of Taps that I was hooked.” “He was the cute guy in the terrain park,” said Quinn Nylund. “Everyone knew who Dan was!” “Without the mountain, we wouldn’t have known each other,” the couple said. “Chair 6 was where it happened for us.” These “lifers,” aka ski bums, feel that Schweitzer is home. “Our quality of life is more important to us than the quantity of a paycheck,” said Nylund. “It sucks to work places where it just feels like a job. This is a way of life.” “When we have kids, they will be on the mountain at an even younger age than we were,” said Quinn Nylund. “Getting them into The Children’s Center and skiing young, it’s our plan.” “Our kids will grow up just like we did,” said Nylund. “It takes a village and we love this village.” The Children’s Center manager feels that way too. “This community turned out to be the greatest place for me to work. I love this job, the kids and the families, past, present and future,” said Foster. And so it goes at Schweitzer. Each generation growing, learning and remaining connected to a truly special mountain community.
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SANDPOINT STYLE BROWSING DOWNTOWN SHOPS, GALLERIES
ne of the coolest parts of any trip to Schweitzer is spending some time exploring downtown Sandpoint. Voted “Most Beautiful Small Town in America” by Rand McNally, Sandpoint is the perfect place to just meander. Stroll the avenues and get a feel for the variety of “mom and pop” shops that reflect the vibrant creativity of the people who call this place home. Check out Sandpoint’s “music row” with visits to Wilburn Custom Shop and Fiddlin’ Red. Sit and chat awhile with the passionate owners and learn about strummin’ and strings. After you’ve bought that guitar of your dreams, it’s time to check out the latest in winter gear at the Alpine Shop, a local source for all things mountain and lake since 1966. Looking for something that represents the soulful essence of Sandpoint? Look no farther than Santosha or Pedro’s on First Avenue. Both carry unique items and clothing from all over the world that fit perfectly with the laid-back and friendly nature of the area. Zero Point, Sandpoint’s unique gem and crystal shop, has an impressive collection of precious stones to help lift your spirits yet keep you grounded. Looking for that perfect winter puffy? Locals’ favorites Finan McDonald and Larson’s Department Store both offer fantastic selections of high-end goods from Patagonia, Kühl, North Face and Mountain Hardwear. Pop into Weekends & Company where you can see the latest kitchen gadgets that will simplify your culinary life, from cookware to corkscrews. Owner Tina Ward stocks the right tools to help you successfully entertain all your guests both at home and during your vacation at Schweitzer. Sandpoint is also known as an arts town, and the galleries on First Avenue truly make that evident. Stop into Art Works Gallery, a cooperative featuring 30 artists with a large variety of mediums. Have you enjoyed seeing those Ross Hall photos in the Selkirk Lodge? Check out the full collection at Hallans Gallery. Other local artists, like Ward Tollbom and his exquisite watercolor paintings or Jerry Ferrara’s amazing wildlife photography, are on display at Hen’s Tooth Gallery and Cedar Glen Gallery. You can find beautiful handcrafted furniture, artwork and gifts from other local artisans and regional craftsmen at Northwest Handmade. All in all, Sandpoint’s unique location, nestled between a world-class mountain and a world-class lake, fosters the imagination, creating an eclectic and unforgettable “feels-like-a-real-town-not-a-ski-town” experience.
Photo by David Marx
O
By Dig Chrismer
Sandpoint has a vibrant downtown hub. Clockwise from top: Pedro’s, the Panida Theater, Wilburn Custom Shop, Santosha, Zero Point, Weekends & Company and The Corner Book Store.
EICHARDT’S
2015 • 2016 | schweitzer magazine
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D i n i n g a la
Sandpoint
BERND BARREL
Take Oute Availabl
BANGKOK CUISINE
202 N. Second Ave. Enjoy authentic Thai food in a welcoming atmosphere. All of Bangkok’s dishes, including a wide variety of vegetarian, are cooked to order using the freshest ingredients with no added MSG. Bangkok offers a fine selection of wine and beer as well as Thai tea and coffee. All desserts are made on-site. Enjoy your meal on our sidewalk dining area. Closed Sundays.
311 N. First Ave. What better way to wind down after an epic day of skiing/snowboarding than to cozy up by the fire in one of our oversized leather chairs sipping a glass of your favorite wine or craft beer?! Join us at The Bernd Barrel ... your new favorite downtown après ski destination! Upstairs at the historic W.A. Bernd Building. “In wine there is wisdom, in beer there is freedom, in water there is bacteria” - Benjamin Franklin
208-265-4149
208-263-1596
EVANS BROTHERS
IVANO’S RISTORANTE
524 Church Street, by the Historic Granary tower. A craft Roasting Studio and Café focused on the very best coffee experience. Top scoring micro-lot coffees are roasted on-site, sourced directly from our partners at origin. Talented baristas prepare espresso drinks, pour-overs, and high quality chai, loose leaf tea, and fresh baked pastries. The café is newly renovated in an urban rustic style, with indoor and outdoor seating, and a giant rollup door to the espresso bar.
102 S. First Ave. Serving the community for more than 27 years, Ivano’s Italian dining accompanied by classic wines and gracious atmosphere add to the enjoyment of one of Sandpoint’s favorite restaurants. Pasta, fresh seafood and steaks, veal, chicken and vegetarian entrees round out the fare. Gluten-free menu. Also open on the Hope Peninsula in summer and at the La Rosa Club, a casual gathering place featuring craft cocktails, martinis and an innovative food menu with plates and bites designed to be shared.
208-265-5553 www.EvansBrothersCoffee.com Like us on Facebook!
208-263-0211 www.IvanosSandpoint.com
MONARCH MOUNTAIN COFFEE 208 N. Fourth Ave. Sandpoint’s original coffee roastery serving Idaho’s freshest coffee since 1993. Bring all your friends for the very best espresso drinks, real fruit smoothies made with all-natural ingredients, handcrafted milk shakes, granitas, iced or hot tea, yerba mate and fresh lemonade. Enjoy Monarch Mountain’s half-pound breakfast burritos or homemade soup.
208-265-9382 www.facebook.com/monarchmountaincoffee
SPUDS 102 N. First Ave. Located on beautiful Sand Creek overlooking the marina, Spuds Waterfront Grill offers the freshest of lunch and dinner entrees specializing in American regional recipes. Spuds Waterfront Grill has been a landmark restaurant in Sandpoint since 1995. 208-265-4311 www.SpudsOnline.com
CONNIE’S CAFÉ
EICHARDT’S PUB & GRILL
323 Cedar St. Historic hospitality! Connie’s Café, the landmark Sandpoint restaurant, is known as “a coffee shop with dinner house quality.” The eatery’s wholesome, made-from-scratch menu is filled with mouthwatering breakfast, lunch and dinner dishes of the highest quality, while the relaxed, beautifully restored 1950s decor makes everyone feel right at home.
212 Cedar St. A comfortable pub and grill, Eichardt’s is located downtown in a charming, historic building. This relaxing pub mixes casual dining with seriously good food. There’s something for everyone – more than a dozen beers on tap, good wines including oak cask local red wines, and regional touring live music. Upstairs you’ll find a fireplacewarmed game room with a pool table, darts and shuffleboard. Eichardt’s has been nationally recognized and locally supported since 1994. Open daily at 11:30 a.m. for smokeless dining seven days a week.
208-255-2227
208-263-4005
JALAPEÑO’S RESTAURANT
MICKDUFF’S BREWING CO.
314 N. Second Ave. A Sandpoint favorite for over 20 years offering both traditional and Americanized Mexican dishes in a fun family-friendly atmosphere. Full bar, summer patio seating, banquet facilities, glutenfree menu, quick to-go menu, indoor waterfall and fish tank offer something for everyone.
220 Cedar St. Twenty-one years and older brewery tasting room boasting 10 taps, local bar art, free popcorn and weekly entertainment. 208-209-6700.
Like us on Facebook! 208-263-2995 www.sandpointjalapenos.com
Now two great locations!
312 N. First Ave. Enjoy handcrafted ales in a family-friendly downtown atmosphere, with a menu including traditional and updated pub fare – gourmet hamburgers, sandwiches and handcrafted soups. 208-255-4351
www.MickDuffs.com
SWEET LOU’S In Hope, 46624 Highway 200, overlooking Lake Pend Oreille at Holiday Shores Marina, check the website for hours. In Ponderay, 477272 U.S. Highway 95, open every day 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Proudly serving hand-cut steaks, freshly ground burgers, wild salmon and smoked ribs. Both locations offer a family-friendly atmosphere with full bars and tasty items. Come hungry, stay late, eat well. Hope 208-264-5999 Ponderay 208-263-1381 www.sweetlousidaho.com www.facebook.com /sweetlous
AT C I T Y B E A C H
TRINITY AT CITY BEACH 58 Bridge St. Enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner on the shore of Lake Pend Oreille. Waterfront dining with an outstanding view and menu featuring seafood, steaks, salads and appetizers; great selection of wines, beers and cocktails. Open daily from 7:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.
208-255-7558 www.TrinityatCityBeach.com
this is schweitzer
SCHWEITZER
UNSPOILED
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ituated in the Selkirk Mountains in Idaho’s Panhandle, Schweitzer Mountain boasts an impressive open bowl that is easily visible from the idyllic town of Sandpoint, Idaho. This stunning view showcases some of the varied terrain that can be found at Schweitzer but only offers a glimpse of all that the mountain has to offer. The “hidden” backside is another impressive open bowl, giving Schweitzer a total of 2,900 acres of lift-served terrain and access to some incredible backcountry skiing and riding. Since its beginning in 1963, Schweitzer Mountain Resort has transformed into a true destination ski and snowboard resort lauded for superb tree skiing, outstanding snow, and dramatic views of three states, Canada and the impressive Lake Pend Oreille. With 2,400 vertical feet and an average of 300 inches of snowfall annually, there are plenty of places to explore and enjoy all winter long. Schweitzer’s home base on the lake is the musicand-arts-loving town of Sandpoint. The town has been named a “Top Ski Town” and “Most Beautiful Small Town in America” by USA Today & Rand McNally and one of the “Top 10 Coolest Mountain Towns” by Men’s Journal. The unforgettable friendliness of both the town and the mountain are one of the biggest reasons that people keep coming back year after year. Beyond its unspoiled and uncrowded terrain, Schweitzer’s intimate village offers shopping, dining and nightlife at an easygoing pace that invites guests to really relax. 38
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VILLAGE DIRECTORY
rentals from Rossignol and a full-service tuning and repair shop with one of the region’s most extensive alpine demo fleets. Lesson packages and specialty clinics taught by certified coaches are offered for skiers and riders of all levels and ages. (208-255-3070)
lodging
The condominium-style, slopeside White Pine Lodge boasts gas fireplaces, views overlooking Schweitzer’s village or Lake Pend Oreille, and other amenities such as full kitchens, cable TV and DVD players. Also slopeside, the Selkirk Lodge features hotel accommodations, an outdoor pool and hot tubs. Other condominiums are located throughout Schweitzer Village and feature full kitchens, ski-in/ski-out access, and luxury amenities. (Schweitzer.com, 877-487-4643)
selkirk powder
Located 100 yards from Schweitzer’s Great Escape Quad, Selkirk Powder’s guided snowmobile tours zip along groomed logging roads through thousands of acres of private and state-owned forests on four-stroke Arctic Cats. Daylong cat-skiing adventures start from the summit of our lift served terrain and have skiers and riders on untracked backcountry powder by 9:30 a.m. Customers typically complete up to 10 runs and rack up as much as 14,000 vertical feet on 3,000 acres of diverse terrain. (www.SelkirkPowder.com, 866-4643246)
meetings and events
dining
Schweitzer’s village has something to suit everyone’s cravings, from the Chimney Rock Grill’s comfortable fire-side dining featuring burgers, steaks, salads and pasta to the Mojo Coyote Café’s casual eatery, offering sandwiches and fresh baked goods. Other village options include tavern fare at Pucci’s Pub, Mexican cuisine at the Lakeview Café, après-ski at Taps, gourmet pizza at Sam’s Alley, and coffee at Cabinet Mountain. For delicious delights like Gorgonzola Mac ‘n Cheese, Gourmandie is the go-to spot for home cooked food and specialty wine and craft beer selections. The Outback Inn, located in the mountain’s Outback Bowl, offers hot food and cold drinks inside or on the deck near the bonfire during the winter months.
shopping
Anyone needing a ski break can choose from several village shopping options right at their fingertips. The Source and The Alpine Shop
sell mountain gear essentials like goggles and gloves, plus specialty equipment and demo rental equipment. The Artists’ Studio, a local artist cooperative, showcases unique photos, drawings, paintings, glass art, jewelry and more. The Market at Schweitzer has a great selection of fine spirits, sundries and ice cream as well as those forgotten items you might need to make your stay more enjoyable.
services
Drop off your children, ages 4 months to 6 years, at The Children’s Center for lessons, crafts and snacks, then head to the Ski and Ride Center to try the latest demo equipment. Afterwards, treat yourself to a fantastic spa experience at Solstice Spa, choosing between a wide range of therapies that specifically target ski-related aches and pains.
ski and ride center
The Ski and Ride Center features top-quality
Looking for a place to host your mountaintop wedding, corporate retreat or family reunion? Schweitzer’s Group Sales team can offer customized event planning to fit any group’s needs at our unique mountain setting. Let us arrange all your group’s needs from comprehensive audio/visual equipment, banquets, bars, and outdoor group activities including skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, geocaching and tubing. The Schweitzer staff is wholly committed to creating memorable experiences for your group event. (208-2639555 ext. 2820)
schweitzer activity center
Staff members at the Schweitzer Activity Center, located on the first floor of the Selkirk Lodge, can offer a variety of adventures and suggestions to help round out a vacation at Schweitzer. Guests may opt for a moonlit snowshoe hike or an evening in Sandpoint. The staff also operates Hermit’s Hollow Snowtubing, located a short walk from the village. The Schweitzer Activity Center makes it easy to organize a day on or off the mountain. (208-255-3081)
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terrain parks
The Stomping Grounds Terrain Park offers an extensive variety of some of the most unique custom park features around. Rails, boxes and jumps keep the experts entertained while beginners build skills in the Terrain Garden on smaller rails and jumps. The Southside Terrain Park features hiker-friendly, unintimidating, medium-sized features. It’s Schweitzer’s most popular park and is located on Crystal Run.
SCHWEITZER BOWL
CROSS COUNTRY TRAILS
CROSS COUNTRY TRAILS
Park features are groomed nightly by those who ride them daily, and the crew aims to add new features each week. Rangers staff the park whenever the resort is open, bringing safety, education, oversight, support and a fun vibe to the park.
orientation
Schweitzer is located at 10000 Schweitzer Mountain Rd., in Sandpoint, Idaho. The resort is 45 miles from Coeur d’Alene/I-90 and two hours from Spokane International Airport. The nearest business district is 11 miles away in the city of Sandpoint and can be reached via the SPOT bus connection in winter.
OUTBACK BOWL 877-487-4643
www.schweitzer.com
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calenda r
stats 2015-2016
DECEMBER 2015 11 Community Day Fundraiser
Slopestyle contest on first day and banked slalom races the next day.
Ski or ride for only $10, and 100 percent of lift ticket proceeds benefit local nonprofits.
6-7 College Daze
23-24 Santa Skis Santa skis, visits and delivers treats! On Christmas Eve, Santa leads a balloon parade with Mrs. Claus and hears last-minute wishes at the Selkirk Lodge.
31 New Year’s Eve Parties Parties for all ages including the rockin’ concert in Taps, the tubing party and the ever-popular “tween” party for the kids. Tickets always sell out and go on sale Dec. 1 in the Activity Center.
JANUARY 2016 2-3 SARS Northwest Cup Ski race held on Zip Down.
8-29 Junior Race Series Friday nights in January on NASTAR sponsored by Independence Race League.
9 Winter Trails Day Complimentary access to Nordic trails, plus cross-country and skate ski lessons and equipment rentals.
6-7 Chad Engstrom YSL Race 12-21 Sandpoint Winter Carnival Family-friendly events to celebrate winter.
13-15 Presidents Weekend Celebration Special activities featuring Laser Light Show on Sunday with night skiing.
20 Winter Carnival Finale Fireworks in the village.
25-28 Masters Racing and Clinics 26 Final Starlight Party Annual themed party – a “not to be missed” event!
MARCH 2016 5 Vertical Express for MS 5-10 Western Regional Junior Championships SARS event on Zip Down.
25-26 24 Hours of Schweitzer
16-18 MLK Weekend
24-hour skiathon on Quicksilver raises funds for cystinosis research.
Special activities all weekend, kicking off with Northern Lights at Schweitzer – fireworks and torchlight parade followed by a party with live music in Taps – on the 16th.
APRIL 2016 9-10 Spring Celebration and Rotary Ducky Derby
23 Smoking Aces Slopestyle 25-31 Western Regional Speed Series SARS event on Zip Down and Cathedral Aisle.
29 Toyota Ski Free Day Free lift ticket for the driver of any Toyota driven to Schweitzer.
30-31 Stomp Games Banked Slalom FEBRUARY 2016 5-26 Starlight Racing Four weeks of evening racing on Friday nights followed by fun and fabulous parties in Taps.
6-7 USASA Competition
MOUNTAIN TERRAIN Skiable Terrain: 2,900 acres Tree Skiing: more than 1,200 acres Summit Elevation: 6,400 feet Village Elevation: 4,700 feet Lowest Elevation: 4,000 feet Vertical Drop: 2,400 feet
Bring out your Hawaiian shirt for some fun in the sun! Pond skimming and lots of family activities daily, plus the ever-popular Downhill Dummy Derby Sunday.
SUMMER 2016 EVENTS June 26 Summer Celebration July 16 Northwest Winefest August 7 Huckleberry Festival September 3-5 Fall Fest All dates and information subject to change. For more events and up-to-date information, visit www. Schweitzer.com or call the Schweitzer Activity Center at 208-255-3081.
LIFTS Schweitzer features nine lifts with an uphill capacity of 12,500 people per hour. LIFT Lakeview Basin Express Great Escape Sunnyside Stella Snow Ghost Musical Chairs Idyle Our Musical Carpet
TYPE Triple Quad Quad Double 6-Pack Double Double T-bar Carpet
RISE 710 feet 1,063 feet 1,678 feet 1,280 feet 1,550 feet 1,906 feet 592 feet 60 feet 100 feet
TIME 4.5 minutes 4 minutes 5 minutes 8 minutes 5.5 minutes 13 minutes 6 minutes 4 minutes 4 minutes
TRAILS Alpine Runs: 92 designated runs Longest Run: 2.1 miles (Little Blue Ridge Run) Open Bowls: 2 (Schweitzer and Outback) Nordic: 32 kilometers ABILITY-LEVEL BREAKDOWN Beginner: 10 percent Intermediate: 40 percent Advanced: 35 percent Expert: 15 percent HOURS 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Twilight skiing: Fridays, Saturdays and holidays from Dec. 26 to March 6 from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.
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summer
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SUMMER
AT SCHWEITZER
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schweitzer magazine | 2013 • 2014
eople may like Schweitzer for winter fun, but they get hooked when summer rolls around. From late June through Labor Day, the mountain offers lift-accessed mountain biking, scenic chairlift rides, festivals and more wildflowers than you can pick. There’s nothing like taking the Great Escape Quad to the summit for jaw-dropping views of Lake Pend Oreille and the rugged Selkirk and Cabinet mountains. From there, a variety of mountain biking trails are available, including the sensational Beargrass Route. Need directions? The folks in the Activity Center will be happy to get you on the right biking and hiking trails or matched up with a fantastic horse for a mountain adventure. Schweitzer has plenty of options for young and old, including mining gems at the Cranky Jennings sluice box, aerial thrills on the 750-foot zip line, and the popular “Air Jumper” bungee trampoline. Got some time to search for the Northwest’s fruit of choice? Join Schweitzer when it celebrates this amazing little berry at our Huckleberry Festival in August. It’s a familyfun event full of all things purple including our Huckleberry Color Fun Run! The resort offers live music and crafts vendors during our other summer festivals – the Northwest Winefest in July and Fall Fest, our infamous beer tasting event, over Labor Day weekend. Hungry after playing on the mountain? Refuel in the Chimney Rock Grill, with lunch or dinner served inside or on the shaded patio. If a light bite is all you need, visit Gourmandie and enjoy scrumptious lighter fare by the village green. Once you’re refueled, explore The Source and The Artists’ Studio or stock up on sundries and spirits at The Market. Staying on the mountain is easy and Schweitzer’s lodging options are close to everything. Lodging packages are available, including our “third-night-free” deal on the mountain or nightly rustic cabin rentals at Bottle Bay Resort and Marina. Schweitzer Mountain’s natural complement is the amazing 148-square-mile Lake Pend Oreille. This vast, beautiful lake is a fantastic spot for boating, sailing, wakeboarding and fishing. Stop and explore City Beach and get a taste of summer Sandpoint style. The town hosts a plethora of events including the renowned Festival at Sandpoint outdoor music series. With so many options, it’s no surprise that Schweitzer has become the perfect choice for group events. Each year, the mountain successfully hosts mountaintop weddings, casual family reunions and company outings. Contact Group Sales, 208-263-9555 ext. 2820, to help you get your group hooked, year-round!
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