Schweitzer Magazine 2018-2019

2018 - 2019

m a g a z i n e

PUPS ON Schweitzer’s

PATROL

avalanche rescue dogs

TEEN TELEMARK

JOBS WELL

Farli Boden

FAREWELL TO 2 DIRECTORS

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schweitzer magazine 2018 - 2019 vol 11

FEATURES

DEPARTMENTS 6 INSIDE LINES

With CEO and President Tom Chasse

16

23

8 FACE SHOT: DOUBLE DUTY Twins proud of their Schweitzer careers

11 MOUNTAIN LIVING

Second homes are all about the experience

18 FOOD AND WINE

26 16 MEET FARLI BODEN

Top female U.S. telemark teen racer

23 ALL IN THE FAMILY

Meet three families who carve turns and make memories at Schweitzer

26 AVALANCHE DOGS READY TO SERVE

Schweitzer builds its avalanche dog program

37 FOND FAREWELL

Two Schweitzer retirees reflect on careers

37

Dani Demmons takes us on a tour of Schweitzer eateries

22 TIPS FROM THE TOP

Great sans-ski activities at Schweitzer

30 PHOTO ESSAY: LIGHT AND SHADOW Sun plays and darkness entices in these sensational images

42 OFF THE MOUNTAIN

Sandpoint’s beauty inspires local artists

44 DINING A LA SANDPOINT Favorite eateries in town

46 THIS IS SCHWEITZER

Stats, calendar and the particulars about the mountain and its town

50 SUMMER AT SCHWEITZER

Come summer, it’s a whole new mountain of activity

2018 • 2019

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inside lines

FAMILY TRADITIONS

A publication of

W

ow, what a season! This past winter was one for the record books.

The record snow generated record visits for the resort and I logged more days (80-plus) last season than I have in years. It wasn’t as if I had to drag myself out on the hill – the enthusiasm and passion that resonated through the village each and every morning inspired me every day.

I thoroughly enjoyed seeing families with young kids eagerly waiting for first chair, especially on some of those days when the “powder flu” was most contagious.

I was introduced to the sport of skiing at an early age. My dad was a parttime volunteer patroller at a small ski area in New Hampshire. I can remember my parents loading the family and a few neighborhood kids into the station wagon as we made our way north.

The drive up was filled with enthusiasm as we planned our strategy on how we would attack the ski area that day. Once we arrived, mom would find a cozy spot near the fireplace to camp out for the day. The rest of us would start out skiing as a large group, but eventually split up as we each got more and more excited about being out on the slopes. We’d always make it back to the lodge for lunch and regroup for the afternoon, sharing the thrills of our morning Schweitzer CEO and President Tom Chasse (back, left) with his family with each other. Like many of you diehards out there, we would ski ‘til last chair and have patrol escort us off the hill at the end of another amazing day.

Having forged a career in the industry, I’ve been fortunate enough to raise my family on the hill and instilled in my three children the same routine and passion for winter that my parents instilled in me. Fast forward almost 60 years and now it’s time for “papa” to share this passion for winter with my three grandchildren. There has been no greater joy than taking on this challenge and starting the cycle all over again.

As I stroll through Schweitzer on a typical weekend, I see firsthand that my family’s addiction is shared by many of you who are introducing your own children and grandchildren to this wonderful winter activity. Your devotion to this special time together and to skiing is uplifting. It’s wonderful having you all as part of this extended Schweitzer family.

See you on the slopes,

Tom Chasse, CEO and President 6

schweitzer magazine | 2018 • 2019

SCHWEITZER MOUNTAIN RESORT 10000 Schweitzer Mountain Road Sandpoint, ID 83864 208-263-9555 877-487-4643 www.schweitzer.com Published by KEOKEE CO. PUBLISHING, INC. Sandpoint, Idaho

M E D I A

+

M A R K E T I N G

Publisher CHRIS BESSLER

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 © 2018 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 Ski patrollers Steve Parsons and Jeff Thompson take pause with Abbey and Annie on Down the Hatch.

Contents page Sunrise inversion over a fresh-groomed run off the Great Escape Quad.

Call Y Your our Local Schweitzer Mountain Real Estat Estate Experts

Randy and Darla A Message From Randy and Darla

You Can Rely on Our Local Insight and Years of Experience To Be Your G uidee Explori uid Exploring Eve v rything ve Guide Everything Schwe w itzer Has to Offer! we Schweitzer

Schweitzer has picked up and we have been extremely busy. Inventories are changing. In the last 12 months there have been 52 SOLD/CLOSED Residential Sales on the mountain, totaling $17,195,000. Currently there are 9 Pending Sales and 17 Active Listings on the mountain.

If you or someone you know are thinking of buying or selling, we would love the opportunity to work with Village. We are looking forward to seeing you soon.

(208) 255-8268

randystone@coldwellbanker.com

(208) 290-4373

darlaw@coldwellbanker.com

fa c e s h o t

“Grandma had a very strong work ethic and we both had that ingrained in us early on.”

Jennifer Robinson, Schweitzer custodial manager

Heather Tompkins, left, and Jennifer Robinson

DOUBLE DUTY TWINS PROUD OF THEIR SCHWEITZER CAREERS

By Dig Chrismer

I

t may come as a surprise to some people but there are actually folks who live and breathe everything Schweitzer without being an avid skier or a snowboarder. Look no further than the resort’s custodial manager Jennifer Robinson, and executive housekeeper Heather Tompkins, as perfect examples. The last experience these two identical twins had on the snow was back in the fourth grade. “We were born and raised in Sandpoint, but never got into the whole skiing thing,” laughs Tompkins. “I think I’ve ridden the chairlift once in the winter over the last 15 years and it scared the heck out of me!”

Oddly enough, the twins don’t actually share the same birthday: “I was born on October 31 and Jen followed three minutes later on November 1,” explains Tompkins.

“I’ve always had to go my own way,” said Robinson. “With me right into housekeeping,” adds her sister. From the age of three, the twins grew up under their grandma’s strict and watchful eye.

“Grandma had a very strong work ethic and we both

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schweitzer magazine | 2018 • 2019

had that ingrained in us early on,” adds Robinson.

“When I started looking for a job, Schweitzer was the only place that offered full time employment,” said Tompkins. “But what I didn’t realize was that I got a second family in the deal.”

Both women started working for Schweitzer about 15 years ago and, at the time, looked a lot more alike than they do now. “Our lodging director couldn’t keep us straight,” said Robinson with a huge grin. “He figured it out eventually!”

Working in the ski community has been incredibly beneficial for both of them – personally and professionally. “I don’t have a GED or a college degree, but I’m now the executive housekeeper for the mountain. I never imagined achieving something like that until I got here,” said Tompkins.

“I want to be Schweitzer’s CEO one day,” said Robinson, smiling. “I love learning about this place, the business, the guests, and staff that make it such a family. We both have enjoyed being a part of Schweitzer as it has grown over the years, and where we are now is amazing.”

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2018 • 2019

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schweitzer magazine | 2018 • 2019

Knowledgeable Experienced

mountain living

SECOND HOMES AT SCHWEITZER

ALL ABOUT THE

EXPERIENCE

By Dig Chrismer

T

he thought of having a second home or condo on the mountain definitely has its advantages.

After a hard day crushing the slopes, it’s nice not to have to drive too far to put your feet up and enjoy a well-earned après-ski snack. But what is owning a condo at Schweitzer really like? Is it really worth all the time and effort to have a place you may only use on random weekends? And if you are set on getting a property, what do you look for in terms of size and location?

There are all kinds of people who own a second home or condo on Schweitzer. Some travel from farther afield and having a mountain residence just makes sense. Others, like the Aitken family from Sandpoint, just like having an escape that isn’t that far away at all. “We decided to buy a home on the mountain because we feel at peace up here,” said Stephanie Aitken, who, with her husband Bill, own a cabin named the Green Hornet. “Our cabin was built in 1967 and I think everyone we’ve met on the mountain has been to a party at the place at some time or other!”

Historically speaking, the real estate market at Schweitzer kicked off roughly the same time the resort started running lifts in 1963. “The first condos built were the Red Cricket condos in 1964,” said Ron Nova, former general manager of Schweitzer, and current broker and agent with Evergreen Realty. “After that, things moved along with the Blue Beetle buildings, some independent homes, and full condo developments like Wildflower and The Glades.”

Top: Autumn on the mountain. Middle: White Pine Lodge. Bottom: Red Cricket condos.

2018 • 2019

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11

mountain living As developments continued to arrive on the scene, so did a variety of units that families now use more as a home than a hideaway. “On average, condos used to be about 900 square feet.

Nowadays, people are building homes that are close to 6,000 square feet,” said Nova. “There’s a real difference in how people are using these properties.”

Nova also explains that with such a small window for construction on the mountain, duplexes and triplexes are popular for families who want new construction. “Price is the real driver when looking for a second home,” he said.

“The best value right now is in new construction with location being key. The lower you are on the mountain, the lower the price.”

While the Aitkens’ Green Hornet cabin isn’t ski-in or ski-out, the slightly more isolated location is just what they were looking for. “We feel like we are miles and miles away from everything.

The Aitkens purchased the 1967 Green Hornet cabin as their second home. As the sign suggests, the cabin is where the family escapes their busy life.

AT S C H W E IT ZE R VILLAGE

R E NTA L S

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schweitzer magazine | 2018 • 2019

213 Church St Downtown Sandpoint 208.263.5157

It’s so nice to just be able to relax,” said Stephanie. They typically use the cabin on weekends and holidays during the winter season, but more and more they find themselves wanting to get away from the busy lake scene in the summer, too.

“Is it worth it? Yes,” Bill enthusiastically responds. “I have friends that buy timeshares in Mexico or Hawaii and then feel obligated to trade away their holidays since they’re locked into a certain week. We spend nearly every weekend during ski season, most of the kids’ winter break, birthday sleepovers in May, fall colors in October, as well as during all the summer activities up here. We have a boat and love being on the water, but when it gets super hot in town or it’s too crowded, coming up to the mountain is awesome. There is a sign hanging on the inside that says, ‘This is our happy place.’ That couldn’t be more accurate.”

The Spires offers property owners impressive views of the area and ski-in/ski-out access to the resort.

own the experience

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Ski – bike – hike – fifty acres

of private access recreational land in this gated community at Schweitzer Resort. With spectacular views of Lake Pend Oreille, groomed and powder ski-in / ski-out trails and a wide variety of lot options, your home can be a true outdoor paradise.

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each office is independently owned and operated

2018 • 2019

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Wildflower

in beauty may we walk

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In-Residence massages available for Schweitzer guests.

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schweitzer magazine | 2018 • 2019

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For owners who live further away from Schweitzer, owning a second home can be more challenging, but working with Schweitzer’s property management team helps keep owners connected to the Schweitzer experience. According to Devin Marks, the resort’s lodging director, having an Owner Services liaison as part of the team gives owners near and far a dedicated person to go to with any concerns they may have. “Combine that with the ability to access everything about their unit through an online owners’ portal, and managing from afar is really very easy.”

Condo owner Ron Landeck couldn’t agree more. “Owning a Selkirk unit puts us in the most convenient place to stay, recreate, entertain and experience Schweitzer life. We feel quite at home with our friends on the mountain,” he said. “Having our unit managed by Schweitzer also keeps our place in top shape not just for us but for the guests too, and that helps us keep a steady return on our investment.”

In the end, purchasing a second home or condo at Schweitzer can take many shapes and forms, matching the

variety of properties that are available.

This includes splendid single-family homes right on the slopes to small cozy condos with killer views. There are options for everyone searching out those mountain adventures. As Nova correctly points out, “Real estate is all about the experience.”

Selkirk Lodge is a welcome home away from home for owners in both the winter and summer seasons.

Unique homes dot the landscape around Schweitzer including the impressive Chateau Melusine.

2018 • 2019

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Teen telemark racer

‘on her game’ SCHWEITZER’S BODEN IS TOP FEMALE RACER IN U.S.

By Dig Chrismer

O Top: Farli Boden tackles a traditional telemark turn at Schweitzer Mountain Resort.

Center: Farli Boden in Schweitzer’s village. Winter 2017/18 Bottom: Young Farli on her first pair of skis.

16

ne could argue that Farli Boden, an 18-year-old who was born in Sandpoint and raised next to the bunny hill at Schweitzer, has literally had skiing in her sights her entire life. “My parents put me on alpine skis as soon as I could walk,” she laughs. “Then, I started telemark skiing when I was five or six. Our friend Craig Marine had to help remold the shell of the boots and double up my socks just to make them fit.”

Several years later, she discovered racing.

“When I was about nine, my parents put me into a Schweitzer Alpine Racing School (SARS) Christmas camp hoping to make me a better skier,” Farli said. “What we didn’t expect was how much I would really like racing.”

Farli notes that she was relatively late to the racing scene when she started competing at the age of 10. “When I went to my first junior national telemark competition, I was amazed by all the people cheering everybody on. It got me hooked.”

Balancing both alpine and telemark training has been exciting for Farli, with telemark racing adding even more to her schedule when she made the U.S. Telemark Development Team at

schweitzer magazine | 2018 • 2019

the age of 13. By the time she was 16, she was competing for the U.S. National Team.

Her hard work isn’t just on the race course.

Farli graduated in the spring of 2018 from Sandpoint High School with a solid 4.0 GPA, and has plans to head to college. “I want to continue racing both alpine and telemark in college, but I can see that with telemark racing I have a better opportunity to compete on a national and international level so I may need to defer those plans for a year to focus on training.”

In fact, Farli just wrapped up the 2017/18 season by winning the U.S. Telemark Nationals and becoming the top female racer in the U.S. “If telemark racing gets sanctioned for the 2022 Olympics, there’s a chance I could compete in Beijing and that’s really exciting.”

“Telemark racing has more components to it than alpine,” Farli continued. “There’s a jump section, a 360-degree turn called a wrap, and a skate portion. It’s a very demanding race. With tele, you’ve got to be on your game.”

And she’d like to squash the notion that telemark is a mature sport. “It’s funny to me that people think only old people telemark ski,” the teenager said with a smile. “That’s so not true.”

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fo o d a n d w i n e

THE MANY SPICES OF A FLAVOR TOUR ‘ROUND THE MOUNTAIN 3 By

Dani Demmons

I

am not a food critic, but I am a food lover. While my schedule typically dictates a brown bag lunch, there are days that I get to treat myself to something amazing from a Schweitzer restaurant. Only problem is, I tend to stick to choices that are familiar. So when asked to try some of the dishes around the mountain, I couldn’t wait to step outside my usual burger box and explore the many spices of Schweitzer.

During the winter season, there are a variety of food outlets to choose from and each one has its own unique style. Depending on your mood, there is always a culinary delight at Schweitzer to match it. Two outlets are independently owned but both are worthy of a visit.

Pucci’s Pub serves up a mean nacho platter to go with your beer, and Powder Hound Pizza serves up some of the best pizza in the region.

In the village, Gourmandie is recognizable with its orange and tan sails out front.

They are known for their diverse wine and beer options, but also have amazing cheese platters and lighter fare. Perfect for an après ski snack or grabbing a quick employee favorite - a Landjager meat stick to go.

The Mojo Coyote Café serves up delicious lattes, mochas, and other amazing brews, but what you might not know is that Mojo has incredible breakfast burritos and panini sandwiches that are perfect for a quick bite on the way to the lift. Cabinet Mountain Coffee in the Lakeview Lodge provides similar menu options with a slight twist on their breakfast burrito – using French fries instead of roasted potatoes as part of the filling.

The Outback, located at the base of the Stella chairlift, is known for their loaded baked potatoes and Wednesday burger deals. They are also rumored to have a legendary grilled peanut butter and jelly sandwich that I have yet to try.

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schweitzer magazine | 2018 • 2019

5 Spicy Noodle Bowl at Chimney Rock Grill

5 From left: The Outback, Lakeview Cafe,

SCHWEITZER

Gourmandie and Chimney Rock Grill

What I did get to sample in my flavor tour around the mountain were some tasty bites at Chimney Rock Grill, Lakeview Café and Sky House. Here’s what I discovered:

Spicy Noodle Bowl at Chimney Rock Grill

If you’re looking for more of a sit-down restaurant experience, Chimney Rock is your “go to” spot. You can count on plenty of menu options, basically guaranteeing there is something to please every appetite in your party.

There’s always a pasta option, a seafood option, salads, and sandwiches. If you’re looking for something a little lighter with a spicy flavor, order the noodle bowl. This dish is perfect for filling you up, but still won’t keep you from the second half of a powder day. The entrée features Asian-style noodles piled high with a flavorful broth and fresh veggies including diced asparagus cooked to perfection. It doesn’t stop there as the true hero of this dish is the pulled pork perfectly paired with the noodles. Delicious and warming on a cold winter day!

Spicy Chicken Teriyaki Bowl at Lakeview Café

You may not have considered Schweitzer’s classic ski resort cafeteria, but don’t let the Lakeview Café fool you with their mess hallstyle set up. They serve some unexpected meals beyond their kid-friendly chicken fingers and top-notch burger options. Lakeview also offers gourmet salads and an incredibly tasty spicy chicken teriyaki bowl. This authentic teriyaki bowl is both sweet and tangy with a spicy kick, and consists of chicken with broccoli, shoestring carrots, onions and peppers tossed in a distinctive sauce and served over a bed of rice.

It is full of flavor and won’t leave you wishing for anything more. While you can always grab a delicious burger at the Lakeview, the teriyaki 5 Spicy Chicken Teriyaki Bowl at Lakeview Café

2018 • 2019

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fo o d a n d w i n e

Dani watches closely as Chef Richard Nakatani prepares her lunch in the Lakeview Café.

6 Noodle Bowl at The Nest in Sky House

bowl is a perfect alternative when you’re looking for something different but hearty.

Baked Spaghetti at The Nest in Sky House

Sky House has spectacular dining options to match the spectacular panorama you get from the summit. The Red Hawk Café offers a more refined cafeteria experience with an incredible selection of pastries that are perfect for a mid-morning snack. When you are ready for lunch, The Nest is the spot for a mountaintop meal. Choose from delicious sliders, an amazing version of an Asian-style noodle bowl, or a delectable braised chicken sandwich. That said, if there is any one meal I will be returning for this winter it is the baked spaghetti. Chef Jordan takes my family favorite to an entirely new level! This spaghetti will remind you of lasagna with its crispy, bubbling edges and layers of flavor. The amazing tomato sauce is elevated with a sweet balsamic reduction drizzle, just the right amount of fresh shaved parmesan on top, and a delicious crispini to complement each bite. It’s a meal that creates a memory … just as unforgettable as the view.

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schweitzer magazine | 2018 • 2019

5 Baked Spaghetti at The Nest in Sky House

5 Sky House

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FAB FUN for nonskiers

t i p s f ro m t h e to p

TUBING This is just the ticket for folks who want to slide, just not on skis or a snowboard!

Hermit’s Hollow Tubing Center at Schweitzer has two lanes of fun for the entire group. The yurt sells hot chocolate and when the tunes are blasting, it’s a great evening of family fun!

SNOWSHOEING Not a fan of skiing or snowboarding? Sign up for a hosted snowshoe hike at the Activity Center and explore some of the quiet trails that start right from the village. Learn about the flora and fauna of Schweitzer while you get some great exercise too!

YOGA

Start your winter Saturdays with a refreshing yoga session in the Selkirk Lodge. The sessions are open to the public, and make a perfect kickoff to your weekend!

SNOWMOBILING

Want to explore some of the backcountry? Get in touch with Selkirk Powder for a full or half day tour at SelkirkPowder.com.

SCENIC RIDE TO SKY HOUSE FOR LUNCH

The summit of Schweitzer offers some of the best views in the region and they aren’t just for our skiers and snowboarders – foot passengers are welcome too! Get a ticket from any ticket window and take the chairlift up to Sky House summit lodge and enjoy a delicious lunch by the fire. That way you can hang with the skiers and snowboarders and take in a full winter experience without having to click into bindings!

SPA TREATMENTS

Ahhh … the Solstice Spa in the Selkirk Lodge offers a variety of treatments to help you fully relax while on the mountain!

GAMES AND CRAFTS

THE GREAT BEER BLAST

(21-plus fun). Who says treasure hunts are just for kids? Check out the Beer Scavenger Hunt Map from the Activity Center and have a blast tasting and touring all the great spots to enjoy a beer on the mountain!

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schweitzer magazine | 2018 • 2019

Put those phones down and grab a game from the Activity Center for a little brain stimulating action! The Activity Center has a great selection of quick and easy crafts to go, as well as crafting afternoons for the kids! Games can be checked out and taken to guests’ rooms, condos or even just over to the day lodge.

MOVIES IN THE THEATER

Who doesn’t love watching a great movie on the big screen?

The Selkirk Theater offers FREE movies, three times a day, during the winter season. There’s a set schedule of options with G, PG, and PG-13 movies selected each day.

Schweitzer families come in all ages, shapes and sizes … and sometimes they aren’t even related! But regardless of who they are or where they’ve traveled from, we’re always excited to have them as part of our own Schweitzer family on the mountain. Here are three families who come to the mountain for their dose of quality time!

All in the family

THREE FAMILIES WHO CARVE TURNS AND MAKE MEMORIES AT SCHWEITZER

the three MUSKETEERS TED MCBEE, 76 MEL KNUTSEN, 76 CHUCK GORDON, 75

T

ed, Mel and Chuck may not look like a traditional family, but these three friends have been a part of each other’s lives since they went to grade school together near Seattle. They have stayed connected over the years, even after settling in Chelan, Blanchard and Priest Lake. Thanks to selfdescribed mid-life crises in their 50s, the group decided that skiing looked like something they needed to try when, according to Ted, “they found some winter clothes laying around.”

The trio has never taken a lesson; they learned to conquer the slopes together instead. First stop for them on any given Wednesday since 1992 is the Ski and Ride Center where they check in with the Schweitzer crew and get caught up with their extended ski family. “Just keep in mind that if the weather is really good on a Wednesday, that means Mel couldn’t make it,” said a smiling Ted.

Ted McBee in red, Chuck Gordon in white, and Mel Knutsen in blue are “like family” friends.

2018 • 2019

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the TEXANS JOSH SR., 42 JEANIE, 41 JADEN, 16

JORDAN, 12 JOSHUA, 7 JONNY, 5

T

he Flohr-Crumpton family hails from Austin, Texas, and discovered Schweitzer through Jeanie’s father, who grew up in the Silver Valley near Wallace. Josh Sr. recalls how it all started. “On a trip to Wallace, he and I took a day trip over to Schweitzer and I was impressed with the infrastructure and lack of lift lines,” he said. “The next season I brought the whole family up for a week.” That includes Jeanie and their four children. “We spent half our time at another mountain and half our time at Schweitzer. While we were at Schweitzer we enrolled the kids in ski school and were so happy with the instructors. We couldn’t wait to be back at Schweitzer the next year.”

Their 7-year-old, Joshua, has loved skiing since he was a toddler, and prefers watching Warren Miller ski films to cartoons. “When he turned four, I started looking for places to spend an extended winter and ski 40-plus days,” Josh Sr.

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schweitzer magazine | 2018 • 2019

recalls. “I laid out a spreadsheet comparing all the kids’ programs, and the KinderKamp program at Schweitzer was, and still is, the best kids’ ski program in the country. We have made a lot of friends in Sandpoint and most of them we’ve met through KinderKamp.”

For the Flohr-Crumptons, Schweitzer means family. “The mountain is great and the lack of lift lines is a bonus, but the real value at Schweitzer is in the people,” he said. “The employees at Schweitzer are among some of the nicest, friendliest, warmest resort employees in the country.”

While the family still goes on a small ski tour every year to visit five to ten ski areas, Josh says that nothing compares to Schweitzer. “The people that work at Schweitzer are a family and they welcome the visitors to the mountain in such a way that will make you feel like you are too. Schweitzer is a great mountain, but it’s the people that work here that make it amazing.”

the weekend WARRIORS CHRIS BELL, 40 KJERSTIN BELL FISHER BELL, 2

T

he Bell family lives in Spokane, Wash., but many of their big life events have happened at Schweitzer. “I met Kjerstin in Spokane, but asked her to meet me at Schweitzer for one of our first dates,” Chris said. “I took her out on her first snowshoe in the side country and she’s been hooked ever since.”

And now, snowshoeing is one of the couple’s favorite activities to do together at Schweitzer. “We throw our son in the pack, grab the dog, and pick one of the great trails leading from the roundabout parking lot,” he said.

The couple married at Schweitzer, which was a “no-brainer” decision for them. “We joked that weddings are just an excuse to throw a party for friends and family so we wanted to do something that had special meaning for us,” he said. So instead of walking down the aisle as newlyweds, the Bells skied down with a patrol escort. “We still get comments from guests that it was a wedding they will never forget.”

The Bells purchased a condo at Schweitzer so that they could enjoy the mountain year round. “It’s a perfect spot to look for moose in the summer and watch skiers come down Sundance in the winter,” Chris said.

“It’s pretty fun!”

Kjerstin Bell is a big fan of Schweitzer’s KinderKamp program. “It has been the best experience a parent could hope for,” she said. “The staff is incredible and the friendships our son is making will last a lifetime. We have a great routine now where we drop him off, do the ‘tour d’face’ and sometimes hit up the T-Bar, have lunch, and then ski with him in the afternoon.”

Chris sums it up nicely: “We work for our weekends and the time we get to spend together as a family.

Having a place on the mountain allows us to spend more time together here in both winter and summer.

That is really important to us.”

Photo by Matt Shumate

2018 • 2019

| schweitzer magazine

25

AVALANCHE DOGS

STAND READY TO SERVE (WHILE BEING THE MOST ADORABLE SAFETY AMBASSADORS EVER!)

By Dig Chrismer

26

schweitzer magazine | 2018 • 2019

I

Left: Annie is ready for another day of work at Schweitzer Mountain Resort.

Top: Steve Parsons and Abbey, part of Schweitzer’s Avalanche Dog Patrol team.

Bottom: Annie watches for commands from her handler, Jeff Thompson.

t’s funny how dogs can change people. Take Schweitzer ski patroller Steve Parsons, for example. When I first met Steve about two years ago, he was pleasant enough but a bit reserved. I knew he worked for our patrol crew but the extent of any conversation with him lasted only a few minutes at most.

And then he got Abbey. “Now I’m all sorts of social,” Parsons laughs.

Parsons has always wanted to have a patrol dog. “I love my patrol work but I wanted to do more than just respond to accidents,” he said. “I wanted to learn more about avalanche control and how patrol dogs are a part of the process. I didn’t expect having to become a social butterfly though,” he adds with a grin.

It’s almost impossible not to be social when you are a patrol dog handler, since a large part of any avalanche dog program is community outreach and education.

“Besides the actual searches, an important role the dogs perform is in helping us promote avalanche safety and education,” said Jeff Thompson, who is the director of the Idaho Panhandle Avalanche Center in addition to his duties as a Schweitzer ski patroller and coordinator of the Schweitzer Avalanche Rescue Dogs program. “The dogs generate a lot of exposure and awareness to the dangers and possibilities of avalanches. With that, there’s always lots to talk about.”

Schweitzer has had a couple of avalanche dogs throughout the years, including Chaco – a longtime fixture on the mountain who retired in April 2018. But it wasn’t until last season that the program was formalized.

“We currently have one certified dog, one dog in training, and a new puppy,” said Thompson. The puppy, named Murphy, joins seasoned colleagues Abbey, age 1 1/2, and Annie, age 3. All three are American Field Labradors, and came from the same kennel in Colorado.

“They are smaller in stature than other labs, and that’s really important because we often transport the dogs around the mountain on our shoulders,” Thompson said. “Anything bigger would require a sled.”

The patrol strives to have a variety of ages. “We always want a couple of dogs certified and in their prime, ready to respond,” said Thompson. “We also like to have some younger puppies coming up through the system as well. Older dogs serve a role, as well, making great ambassadors. They are the perfect candidates to go to schools and meet different groups to promote avalanche awareness.”

“Abbey’s so fun when we go to schools,” said Parsons. “She gets so excited about sniffing all the kids and checking things out.”

The dogs are based at Sky House on the summit, which makes it convenient to respond to an avalanche.

“If we get a call, we can load the dogs quickly on our shoulders and get to the scene,” Thompson said.

2018 • 2019

| schweitzer magazine

27

With the addition of Murphy to the team, Schweitzer’s growing program is focused on becoming a primary resource for avalanche rescue. “There are more and more people exploring the backcountry in our region and we know that with an increased number of people out there, that elevates the risk of an avalanche emergency,” said Parsons. “There are avalanche rescue dogs in Whitefish, Montana, but other than that, our team is it. That’s a lot of territory to cover.”

Thompson hopes to see the program grow to approximately four to six dogs in the coming years with Annie, Abbey, and Murphy leading the pack. And it must be said that having the dogs on the mountain not only provides another level of response in an avalanche situation, but they also are some of the best ambassadors for Schweitzer. On countless days, people see the dogs and immediately want to interact with them. Inevitably, they start asking questions about the dogs and what they do and that gives the handlers an opportunity to educate on avalanche safety.

“For example, the winter of 2017/18 was a challenging season with the amount of snow we received and we had to use the dogs in a real avalanche situation in which a person was partially buried,” Parsons said. “Having the dogs on site

speeds up the search without question. It can take two hours to probe a debris field with patrol and even other volunteers.

With a dog, it can take 20 minutes. If someone is caught in an avalanche without a transceiver, a dog is their best chance of being found.”

For those rare minutes in action, the dogs spend months and years in training. “These dogs are constantly practicing.

From one big snow scenario a week with a few smaller situations as well, they are learning specific skills for avalanche rescue,” Parsons adds. “When they are on the mountain with us, it’s not like having your pet with you at work. These girls are learning and perfecting their skills. It’s critical.”

During the summers, Parsons said the dogs are still working on honing their skills with obedience games and mastering commands. “These dogs are smart and honestly, we humans are the dumb ones on the end of the leash,” he said.

“We do things wrong and have to practice listening as much as the dogs do. There’s a connection here between Abbey and I that I never expected. It’s a whole new level for me.”

The relationship between Parsons and Abbey is obvious.

Even when she’s surrounded by a crowd of people just wanting to pet her, her gaze is focused on her handler. Unlike some

Jeff and Annie set off from the summit.

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schweitzer magazine | 2018 • 2019

other resorts with avalanche dog programs, Abbey and Parsons are a team for life. “She and I are in it for the long haul and if I were to leave Schweitzer, Abbey would travel with me wherever I headed,” he said. “Schweitzer has been really positive about the program and I see us continuing to grow and develop here with this team.”

As any dog owner knows, taking care of our fourlegged friends isn’t cheap – especially if your pup is a working dog. Fortunately, both Thompson and Parsons have some fantastic partners who support them and the program. “North Idaho Animal Hospital in Sandpoint has been amazing in helping us keep the girls healthy,” Thompson said. “They’ve also trained us in some basic canine first aid so that if anything were to happen to them, we can provide immediate care like we do for our humans on the mountain.”

“I’m especially grateful for Dr. Tim Hunt,” Parsons adds. “He’s a former musher who created his own line of dog food. We reached out to him in the beginning and he’s been beyond supportive of our program.”

It’s easy to get excited about Schweitzer’s avalanche dogs. Yes, the adorable puppy faces help, but the importance of their work and presence on the mountain can’t be overlooked. They are working dogs who are trained to help find you in the event of an avalanche. Schweitzer is grateful to have these working dogs as part of the family so when you see them on the mountain, feel free to enjoy a few moments learning about them, their handlers, and the program.

Top: Annie and Abbey, with Jeff and Steve, head up the lift on an exceptionally snowy day in January 2018.

Left: Spring 2017 was Abbey’s first season on the mountain. Here she learned the importance of meeting her audience face to face.

Below left: Annie has a plethora of skills and would love to add snowmobile driver to her resume.

Bottom: Top dog is hard to determine some days.

Regardless, play time is key for both Abbey and Annie.

2018 • 2019

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29

p h o to e s s ay

l i g h t a n d SHADOW

C

arl Sandburg once said, “Poetry is an echo, asking a shadow to dance.” One could argue that as we experience the light and shadow around us at Schweitzer, we are creating our own poetry with snow, sun and cloud – lingering, captivating, enchanting each one of us in nature’s own beautiful dance.

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schweitzer magazine | 2018 • 2019

Night skiing through the spotlight. || TRACY TUTTLE ||

Lake Pend Oreille, Sandpoint and Schweitzer bask in the alpenglow of a winter’s evening. ||

A snowboarder holds the key to winter joy in his hands. || TRACY TUTTLE ||

RYAN ZIMMER

||

As the day starts, the near full moon sets behind the summit of Schweitzer’s Lakeview Triple chairlift. || TRACY TUTTLE ||

2018 • 2019

| schweitzer magazine

31

p h o to e s s ay

light and shadow

Feeling out where the clouds end and the powder starts. || TRACY TUTTLE ||

In the dark of winter, the light from fireworks, torches and color wands light up the village. || TRACY TUTTLE ||

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schweitzer magazine | 2018 • 2019

A helping hand and a smart nose help bring a patroller to the light as he is “rescued” during a snow burial drill. || BENJAMIN NACHLAS ||

Early morning sun permeates the clouds as ski patrol looks at avalanche conditions on the Lakeside Chutes. || BENJAMIN NACHLAS ||

Late nights carry a magic of their own when groups arrive at the resort by coach from Spokane. || JEFF KYLE ||

2018 • 2019 | schweitzer magazine

33

p h o to e s s ay

light and shadow

Early morning sunrise lights the way for the snowcats and groomers on a December morning. || TRACY TUTTLE ||

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schweitzer magazine | 2018 • 2019

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TALL TIMBER 4-bed/4-bath $1,099,000 2018 • 2019 | schweitzer magazine

35

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schweitzer magazine | 2018 • 2019

ond farewell Retirees reflect on Schweitzer careers

A

By Kerri Kuntz

Mary Weber Quinn, above, and Bill Williamson, below, both retired this past year after 37 combined years of extraordinary service at Schweitzer.

career in the ski industry may sound glamorous, but it has good and bad moments just like any other profession out there. There are times when ski resort employees may question their career choice, namely on those days when they’ve missed out on family time during the busy holiday season, or just commuted in to work during a big winter storm.

But here’s the good part: when it’s all over, what you’ll remember about working at a ski resort is that you had the time of your life. You are able to work in sync with your love for the sport alongside likeminded people. You meet the best friends you’ve ever had in an industry that draws multiple personality types together into one big dysfunctional family. It’s a beautiful experience being a part of this thing called ski life.

Two people who are prime examples of this extraordinary blending of hard work and passion are Mary Weber Quinn and Bill Williamson, both Schweitzer directors who retired this past year with a combined 37 years of experience in the industry. It’s safe to say that they were two of the most enthusiastic employees to sit at the director level and yet their respective departments sometimes mixed about as well as oil and water! You see, it was the job of Mary We-

ber Quinn, Director of Events and Activities, to brainstorm and organize diverse, creative events and activities that would appeal to guests of all ages. And it was the job of Bill Williamson, Director of Mountain Operations, to build snow features, transport people and materials, provide lift operations, maintenance, manage patrol staff, and generally mitigate the risk and liability for the resort. In short, sometimes it was Mary’s job to give Bill heartburn!

A workplace conversation between these two former directors would often go something like this: Mary – “We were thinking of putting on a race for closing weekend that would involve kayaks maneuvering through ski gates, followed by a badminton competition in a manmade halfpipe, and finishing with a sunset air board race back to the village and fireworks. Can we pull this off?”

Bill – “No.” Mary – “Attitash held a similar event last weekend and it was really popular!”

Bill – “No, sounds dangerous.”

Mary – “What if we forget the air boards and used fat bikes instead?”

Bill – “Last time I checked, we were running a ski area.”

Mary – “Can the halfpipe be built by next Saturday?”

Bill – “Yes, for sure.”

2018 • 2019

| schweitzer magazine

37

Left: Mary works the sales tent during one of Schweitzer’s early Fall Fest events in 2006.

Below: Bill and avalanche dog Chaco ride the chairlift to check on conditions at Schweitzer.

Bottom: Bill and Chaco take a call in his office.

While this might be a slight exaggeration, no matter what the event, weather, or other obstacles faced, these two always pulled it off and pulled it off epically, safely and responsibly for Schweitzer and our guests. What they were able to accomplish at Schweitzer, each with their own different needs and expectations, made them like a Bonnie and Clyde team of the ski industry.

Their absence will be deeply felt.

But it isn’t solely these two departments that are responsible for the success of Schweitzer’s events – it definitely takes a village and in this case taken literally it takes the entire Schweitzer village family to make these events happen. Here, Bill and Mary reflect on how much the ski industry family meant to them:

Did you plan on making a career in the ski industry?

Mary – Not really. My career has always focused on recreation and education. Recreation was my passion and I had never worked outside of public recreation. When I had the chance to work in the ski industry, it seemed like a great transition.

Bill – Absolutely not. In fact, I probably didn’t think it was a career for me up until 10 or 15 years ago when I had already worked at ski areas for over 30 years.

What was your biggest obstacle in your career?

Mary – Me. I get really excited about an idea and want to forge ahead. The word “NO” discourages me and I really have to work hard to move on from it.

Bill – The first challenge, which I failed tremendously at, was balancing personal (family) time and work. Over the past 20 years, I felt I was on duty 24/7 and was often consumed with my job while not considering those closest to me. The other was dealing with people and trying to be fair, after employees and occasionally guests were negligent.

What did you enjoy most about working in the ski industry?

Mary – Working at Schweitzer has given my family the opportunity to live an amazing lifestyle and learn that they can love what they do. I also love working with people who have made a choice to follow passion and I love to see guests enjoying and doing things that are extraordinary for themselves.

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schweitzer magazine | 2018 • 2019

Th e R E S T of the story

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2018 • 2019

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39

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schweitzer magazine | 2018 • 2019

213 Church St Downtown Sandpoint 208.263.5157

Right: Mary cheers on runners during Schweitzer’s Huckleberry Color Fun Run and Walk.

Below: Bill drives a snowcat during his time at Alpine Meadows.

Bottom: After retirement, Mary looks forward to more time with her granddaughter when she can enjoy a cuddle like this one, captured during 2018 Northwest WineFEST.

Bill – The great people that you get to meet and the camaraderie and friends that have evolved. My over 20 years of ski patrolling is what built my huge passion for the sport of skiing and the avalanche community. They were also my most consistently enjoyable times in the industry.

What was your proudest moment in your career?

Mary – It’s when a co-worker grows through working here, and advances either at Schweitzer or with another employer and calls to say thanks.

Bill – There were several proud moments while participating in rescues and completing large projects, but I think the proudest moments were recognizing the teams that I’ve worked with.

If you could change jobs with anyone at Schweitzer, whose job would you want?

Mary – Only mine, really. I have been fortunate to have lots of different jobs on the

mountain and loved this one.

Bill – Maybe a rank-and-file ski patroller because those were the best days in the industry for me.

What are you most glad to leave behind?

Mary – Waking up in the middle of the night thinking of things I need to do!

Bill – The frustrations of dealing with all the different personality types that it takes to run a ski area.

What are you most looking forward to in retirement?

Mary – Being available for my family, babysitting my new granddaughter, and having great adventures with my husband, Gary.

Bill – Going to bed without thinking about the problems that occurred during the day and what the plan is for tomorrow.

What did you neglect to do in your planning for retirement?

Mary – I wish we would have purchased property on the mountain years ago.

Bill – Plan? I was supposed to have a plan?

If money was no object and there was one more thing you would’ve liked to accomplish at Schweitzer, what would it be?

Mary – Build a pool and recreation center that would keep our guests playing when they are not out on the mountain.

Bill – Replacing the Great Escape with a gondola and using the old quad for a beginner chair.

If you could pick a movie title to describe your experience in the ski industry, what would it be?

Mary – Close Encounters of the Third Kind.

It never ceases to amaze me how many different types of people are attracted to the ski industry.

Bill – One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest.

2018 • 2019

| schweitzer magazine

41

off t h e m o u n t a i n

IT COMES NATURALLY SANDPOINT’S STUNNING BEAUTY INSPIRES LOCAL ARTISTS

Clockwise from top left: The Sandpoint Farmers Market at Farmin Park in downtown Sandpoint is a quaint summertime destination to shop for unique artisan crafts such as Cool Bike Baskets’ woven creations.

Suncatchers gleam in the window at The Artists’ Studio at Schweitzer Village. Peruse fine artwork, notecards, and jewelry, also at The Artists’ Studio. Sunshine Goldmine is a unique shop in downtown Sandpoint featuring custom jewelry designs. Find rustic furniture and more at Northwest Handmade.

Another glance at the Farmers Market. Oneof-a-kind jewelry from Four Winds Creations on display.

42

W

ith such inspiring natural beauty in northern Idaho, it should come as no surprise that Sandpoint is home to a large community of artisans. From furniture makers, stained glass artists and jewelry designers to photographers, soapmakers and potters, Sandpoint inspires art.

During the summer months, take a stroll through the Farmers Market in downtown’s Farmin Park – it’s a charming place to meet local artisans and browse their wares. The sights and smells are a sensory treat, too; check out the handmade jewelry from Four Winds Creations, or the homemade herbal soaps from Land to Bath Soap Co. Pick up a uniquely Sandpoint souvenir like Cool Bike Baskets’ woven creations, or dried lavender bouquets from the Sandpoint Lavender Farm. There’s so much to enjoy!

Winter visitors can stop into Northwest Handmade on First Avenue in downtown Sandpoint and explore handicrafts from over 100 regional artists and woodworkers. The shop specializes in quality rustic furniture made from locally sourced woods, and has an extensive collection of furniture to choose from. Northwest Handmade also features works from other local artisans that include photog-

schweitzer magazine | 2018 • 2019

raphy, watercolor paintings, and rock art.

If furniture is too big to take home, pay a visit to Sandpoint’s fine jeweler and goldsmith Sunshine Goldmine just down the street. They specialize in custom designs, lost-wax casting, and hand fabrication of rings, pendants and earrings. They carry a mix of traditional styles as well as pieces influenced by the natural contours of nearby mountain ranges and lakes.

ArtWorks Gallery, also on First Avenue, is a perfect stop for any art fans in the family. Browse the collection of fine art paintings and photography as well as sculptures, textiles and other items available for purchase. Established in 1995, ArtWorks’ goal is to make fine art available to the public in a cooperative space for artists to display and sell their wares.

When you are back on the mountain, stop in to The Artists’ Studio in Schweitzer Village and peruse an eclectic collection of art works from craftsmen around the region. You’ll find paintings, photography, pottery, fused glass, jewelry, art cards, books, quilts and textiles, and more. In addition, the gallery is often staffed by the artists themselves so you can meet them in person and find out more about the inspiration behind their creation … no doubt the region’s abundant natural beauty played a part!

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43

Sandpoint Dining a la

BAXTERS ON CEDAR

EICHARDT’S PUB & GRILL

109 Cedar Street. An upscale pub serving American cuisine. From our half-pound burgers and local farm salads to the fresh wild halibut, we use the freshest local ingredients whenever possible and we are here to serve you as our guests!

Give us a try ... you will love it! ~Rich and Tommy your hosts

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.

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EVANS BROTHERS 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.

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JALAPEÑO’S RESTAURANT 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.

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MICKDUFF’S BREWING CO. Now two great locations!

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.

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

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SWEET LOU’S

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.

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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.

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this is schweitzer

A DESTINATION THAT

LIFTS YOUR SPIRITS

A

s the largest ski area in Idaho and Washington, Schweitzer Mountain Resort offers 2,900 acres of liftserved terrain and access to some incredible backcountry skiing and riding.

Thanks to two impressive open bowls, 2,400 vertical feet, and 300 inches of snowfall annually, there are plenty of places to explore and enjoy all winter long. The resort is lauded for its superb tree skiing, outstanding snow, and dramatic views of three states, Canada, and impressive Lake Pend Oreille.

Since its beginning in 1963, Schweitzer Mountain Resort has transformed into a true destination ski and snowboard resort with an intimate village that offers shopping, dining, and nightlife at an easygoing pace. Slopeside lodging is available in a variety of styles – from cozy hotel rooms to village condos and private homes, accommodating any mix of families, friends, or groups.

Schweitzer’s home base on the lake is the music- and arts-loving town of Sandpoint. With a population of 8,000, the town hosts a plethora of year-round events including the renowned Festival at Sandpoint summer outdoor music series.

The amazing 148-square-mile Lake Pend Oreille is a fantastic spot for sailing, wakeboarding, and fishing during the summer months. The unforgettable friendliness on the mountain and in town is one of the biggest reasons why people keep coming back year after year. Find the community portal site at SandpointOnline.com.

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schweitzer magazine | 2018 • 2019

VILLAGE DIRECTORY

ski and ride center

The Ski and Ride Center features top-quality 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

Selkirk Lodge features hotel-style accommodations with a variety of room types for couples and larger families, all just steps away from three outdoor hot tubs and the resort’s heated pool. Also 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, DVD players and two outdoor hot tubs. Other condominiums are located throughout Schweitzer’s mountain community and feature full kitchens, ski-in/ski-out access, and luxury amenities. (www.Schweitzer.com, 877-487-4643)

selkirk powder

dining

Schweitzer’s village has something to suit everyone’s cravings, from Chimney Rock Grill’s comfortable fireside dining featuring burgers, steaks, salads, and pasta to Mojo Coyote Café’s casual eatery offering sandwiches and fresh-baked goods. Other village options include pizza at Powder Hound, tavern fare at Pucci’s Pub, ski hill favorites at the Lakeview Café, après-ski at Taps, gourmet pizza at Sam’s Alley, and coffee at Cabinet Mountain. For delicious, sharable appetizers like artichoke dip, Gourmandie is the go-to spot for light eats 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. Sky House, Schweitzer’s premier mountaintop venue, offers small plate options in the intimate bar, The Nest, or delicious upscale “grab-n-go” options from the Red Hawk Café.

shopping

Anyone needing a ski break can choose from several village shopping options right at their fingertips. The Source and Alpine Shop sell mountain gear essentials like goggles and gloves, plus specialty equipment and demo rentals. 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.

children’s center

Drop off your children, ages 4 months to 6 years, at KinderKamp for lessons, crafts and snacks, then sign your older kids up for lessons at the Ski and Ride Center. They’ll enjoy their group or private lesson with one of our experienced instructors. Multi-week programs are available for kids ages 5-14.

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 stateowned 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 4,350 acres of diverse terrain. Selkirk Powder has also expanded their backcountry experiences with the only heli-skiing operation in Idaho. (www.SelkirkPowder.com, 208-263-6959)

solstice spa

Treat yourself to a relaxing massage at the Solstice Spa, located in the Selkirk Lodge. A wide variety of therapies is available – from Eastern bodywork and hand and foot massages, to full-body treatments. Appointments can be made through The Activity Center at 208-255-3081.

meetings and events

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 and tubing. The Schweitzer staff is wholly committed to creating memorable experiences for any event. (208-263-9555 ext. 2820) 2018 • 2019

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schweitzer activity center

SCHWEITZER BOWL

Staff members at the Schweitzer Activity Center, located on the first floor of the Selkirk Lodge, can offer a variety of adventures and day-out 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. (208255-3081)

CROSS COUNTRY TRAILS

CROSS COUNTRY TRAILS

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.

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 12 miles away in the city of Sandpoint and can be reached via the SPOT bus connection.

schweitzer magazine | 2013 • 2014

Photo by Ryan Zimmer

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OUTBACK BOWL

calenda r

stats 2018-2019

DECEMBER 2018 1 Opening Day (weather depending)

16-18 Presidents Weekend Celebration

6 Schweitzer’s Birthday

17 Coca Cola “Let it Glow!”

Special activities with Sunday night skiing.

Schweitzer turns 55 -- celebrate by taking a few laps on your favorite runs!

Night parade and fireworks.

23 Santa Skis

Annual themed party – a “not-to-be-missed” event!

Santa will be on the slopes visiting and delivering treats.

24 Santa Skis Santa and Mrs. Claus are visiting to ski, host a balloon parade for all the kids and hear last minute wishes in the Selkirk Lodge.

31 New Year’s Eve Parties Parties for all ages – tickets go on sale Dec. 1 on Eventbrite.

JANUARY 2019 4-25 Junior Race Series

22 Final Starlight Party

MARCH 2019 2 Mega Alpine & Snowboard Demo Day PAFE MegaDemo in the village.

9-10 Stomp Games Banked Slalom Presented by Smith Optics.

16 Jimmie Heuga Ski for MS Be a part of this important fundraiser that supports life-changing programs.

23 2,400 Feet of Schweitzer

Friday nights in January on NASTAR course.

Sponsored by Independence Race League.

Nation’s longest GS race benefits cystinosis research.

19 Northern Lights at Schweitzer

APRIL 2019 6-7 Schpring Finale and the Rotary Ducky Derby

Fireworks and Torchlight Parade followed by live music in Taps.

19-21 MLK Weekend

Celebrate spring with great music and tons of fun!

Special activities to keep you busy all weekend. Enjoy night skiing on Sunday.

7 Closing Day

25 Toyota Ski Free Friday FEBRUARY 2019 1-22 Starlight Racing Four weeks of evening racing on Friday nights followed by fun and fabulous parties in Taps.

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.

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 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 3:30 p.m.

Twilight skiing: Fridays, Saturdays and holidays from Dec. 26 to March 1, from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.

2018 • 2019 | schweitzer magazine

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summer

ROCKIN’ IT ALL

SUMMER, TOO!

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schweitzer magazine | 2018 • 2019

S

chweitzer isn’t just a big winter mountain; it’s a big summer mountain too! From late June through Labor Day, the mountain offers lift-accessed mountain biking, scenic chairlift rides, festivals and more wildflowers than you can pick – all experienced in the high-elevation resort’s cooler clime, making it the perfect way to shake off summer heat.

Schweitzer kicks off summer with 7B Sunday, a day celebrating all the great things from “The 7B” (a reference to Bonner County’s license plate code) with free chairlift rides, local vendors, and live music. Come July, we’re thrilled to host regional wine tastings at our Northwest WineFEST! August is all about family fun with our Huckleberry Color Fun Run and then we wrap up the summer in style with our ever popular Fall Fest over Labor Day Weekend!

Young and old alike will find plenty to do, including mining gems at the Cranky Jennings sluice box, aerial thrills on the 750-foot zip line, and the exciting trampoline jumper. When you are ready to set out by bike or on foot, the folks in the Summer Activity Center will be happy to get you on the right mountain biking and hiking trails, or even match you up with a fantastic horse for a beautiful trail ride to Picnic Point!

Whatever the season, 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.

Once you are on top of the world, pause and enjoy a fabulous bite to eat at Sky House while taking in the breathtaking panorama.

After lunch, explore the summit trails or head back to the village and check out The Source for gifts and gear, the Artists’ Studio for local creations, or pick up sundries and spirits at The Market. You might just find yourself ready to refuel in the Chimney Rock Grill with lunch or dinner served inside or on the shaded patio. If a snack is all you need, visit Gourmandie and enjoy delectable lighter fare by the village green.

When it’s time to hit the hay, 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 in our Selkirk or White Pine lodges.

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 to help you get your group hooked yearround!

Never miss a bluebird day.

Bonner General Health, we’re right where you need us.

Bonner General Health First Aid Station Located in the Schweitzer Mountain Resort Lakeview Lodge 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.

Providing prompt medical attention to those in need at Schweitzer Mountain Resort.

Should you need care beyond first aid, we are here for you: Bonner General Immediate Care

400 Schweitzer Plaza Drive, Suite 1, Ponderay (208) 263-0649

BGH Emergency Department 520 N. Third Avenue, Sandpoint (208) 263-1441

Bonner General Orthopedics

606 N. Third Avenue, Suite 201, Sandpoint (208) 263-8597

Performance Therapy Services

423 N. Third Avenue, Suite 150, Sandpoint (208) 265-3325

520 N. Third Avenue • Sandpoint, ID 83864 • 208-263-1441 • BonnerGeneral.org

We put the FUN in your

Winter Adventures!

CAT SKIING * HELI SKIING * SNOWMOBILING Locations at Schweitzer and Sandpoint, Idaho

selkirkpowder.com (208) 263-6959