Schweitzer Magazine 2020-2021

2020 - 2021

m a g a z i n e

SUSTAINABILITY:

Working on it together SANDPOINT:

LAKE/SKI TOWN

+MORE

MAKING APRÉS-SKI KIDS a town that DINING SCENE

SKIS

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c o n te n t s

schweitzer magazine 2020 - 2021 vol 13

FEATURES 14

DEPARTMENTS 6 INSIDE LINES

With President and CEO Tom Chasse

9 FACE SHOT: LACIE BRUNDIN-JORDAN

23

Meet the ever-smiling manager of KinderKamp

13 #mySchweitzerID

Share your love about winter on the mountain

10

16 FOOD AND WINE

Off-the-slope dining options abound

10 MIDDLE SCHOOL SKI PROGRAM

19 PHOTO ESSAY

14 SUSTAINABILITY

26 THIS IS SCHWEITZER

23 MORE THAN A SKI/LAKE TOWN

30 SUMMER AT SCHWEITZER

Making Sandpoint a town that skis

Words and action for the mountain Year-round things to do in Sandpoint

Signs of the Times Stats and more info about the mountain and its town It’s a whole new season of mountain activity

inside lines

IT’S ALL ABOUT FUN!

A publication of

W

hen I arrived at Schweitzer 15 years ago, I was stoked to relocate to a western ski town with a nurturing culture toward outdoor winter activities. It didn’t take long to realize that Sandpoint is more of a summer destination with a ski hill than a true winter destination.

We’ve worked hard over the years to help encourage our local population to become skiing enthusiasts, and the new middle school program, coupled with the engagement that the Sandpoint Nordic Club has provided, is really helping the youth in our community create a connection with Schweitzer. The physical and mental health benefits associated with outdoor winter activity have spilled over into the classroom and these kids seem to be more engaged and inspired after a day on the slopes. I can attest to the health benefits and the development of life skills that this outdoor environment creates, as I see it in my own two schoolaged grandchildren who live in our community. We look forward to watching them have fun at Schweitzer with their friends and other local kids in the years to come.

If you got a chance to ski with us last winter before our early closure due to COVID-19, we hope you were as blown away by the changes in the North Bowl as we were. The two new lifts, seven new runs, and extensive glading totally transformed the ski experience in an area Tom Chasse skis on Primetime after participating in an avalanche that has been underutilized rescue dog drill with other members of the Schweitzer team. for years. This Kaniksu/Cedar Park zone has created a buzz that resonates with our core group of skiers and riders, offering intermediate challenges for the largest segment of our skiing population. This enhanced area offers a variety of options including wide-open glades, steep groomers, and direct access to the lower portion of the North Bowl.

Exploring the new runs and finding new lines through the trees made for some really fun days this past year. I’m anxious to get back out there and find more hidden gems this winter.

You know, fun is the reason why I wanted to go skiing when I was a youngster and why I’m still skiing today. It’s fun to be outside, with your friends, enjoying the mountain. I keep this foremost in my mind as we continue to improve the Schweitzer experience. Regardless of age or ability, we want our guests to thoroughly enjoy their time with us while reaping the benefits of this amazing place and community.

See you on the slopes,

Tom Chasse, President and CEO 6

schweitzer magazine | 2020 • 2021

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

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 © 2020 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 A skier enjoys Ridge Run back to Schweitzer’s village and base area.

Contents page A boarder drops into C-Chute, high above Lake Pend Oreille.

2020 • 2021 | schweitzer magazine 208.263.3622 · FinanMcDonald@gmail.com · 301 N First Avenue

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8

schweitzer magazine | 2020 • 2021

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fa c e s h o t

KINDERKAMP MANAGER IN HER ‘HAPPY PLACE’ MEET LACIE BRUNDIN-JORDAN

“This place holds a huge piece of my heart.”

0

n any given day during the winter season, KinderKamp can be viewed as a living embodiment of controlled chaos. Here you’ll find children of various ages playing, chatting, and putting on ski gear while the sound of babies squeaking and shrieking comes from the nursery next door. The brightly colored walls, festive carpeting, and large windows give the space a life of its own. Wandering in, you may have no idea which direction to turn amongst all the noise but then, like Glenda the Good Witch, Lacie Brundin-Jordan arrives to help you. With a flash of her magical smile, everything seems to fall into place.

Lacie is no stranger to the world of KinderKamp; she started working there when she was only 14 years old. Now at 32, she has come full

circle to manage what she calls her “happy place” at Schweitzer. “This Schweitzer community is unlike any I have worked with and this place holds a huge piece of my heart,” explains Lacie. “Even after college, moving around, living in cities large and small, I’ve come to understand that Schweitzer is where I need to be.” After stints in Food and Beverage, and four seasons as the Ski and Ride Center manager, Lacie took over the KinderKamp manager role after her first Schweitzer boss and mentor, Debbie Foster, retired in 2018. “I can’t tell you how many folks I have encountered in my various positions at Schweitzer that used to be Kinderkamp families. It’s truly amazing to have such a lifelong connection with our guests.”

“Working in KinderKamp for 12

years before going to the Ski and Ride Center most certainly played a role in my growth at Schweitzer,” Lacie said.

“When I took on the SRC supervisor role, I still felt young and inexperienced, but I already understood what it was to be an employee at the resort.

Stepping up from being front line staff to a supervisor is a very big deal, but I had been waiting for this to happen and I was ready for that challenge.”

While Lacie enjoys the times she has spent working with other aspects of Schweitzer, such as lessons and rentals, no other positions compare to the joy she gets when working with children. “There is never a dull moment in KinderKamp and I truly enjoy seeing these little skiers and riders come back each year. It’s the best watching how they fall in love with Schweitzer just like I did.”

2020 • 2021 | schweitzer magazine

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Sandpoint middle School YOUTH PROGRAM HELPS MAKE SANDPOINT ‘A TOWN THAT SKIS’

By Dig Chrismer

W

hen I first arrived in Sandpoint back in 2011, it came as a little bit of a shock to me that this town was not really a ski town.

Yes, there is a “ski scene” thanks to Schweitzer, but by and large people who call Sandpoint home do not necessarily ski. Based on a 2018 population count and season pass data from Schweitzer, there were 8,703 people who lived within the city limits and less than 30 percent of them had a ski pass to Schweitzer. As another example, if you look at the Schweitzer Alpine Racing School (SARS) numbers from 2019/20, out of the roughly 200 kids in the program only 40 of them call Sandpoint home. With this incredible access and mountain right in our backyard, why isn’t Sandpoint more of a ski town?

Obviously, cost is a huge reason for a lot of people not getting involved with skiing or snowboarding. Getting equipment and the right gear, from clothes to helmets and everything inbetween, can be prohibitive for a family. There’s also the question of culture. If your parents or family friends were not skiers, it’s understandable that weekends may have never centered around being on the slopes.

So how does the Schweitzer skiing community encourage our Sandpoint neighbors and friends to hit the slopes? An easy answer is to start with the kids. Learning to ski or snowboard at a younger age has been proven to help encourage a lifetime of participation in the sport and, as it turns out, it’s a lot easier to learn when you are younger. Schweitzer has been working 10

schweitzer magazine | 2020 • 2021

Above, Sandpoint Middle School Ski Program participants on day one in January 2020. Below, Adam Tajan takes a moment to check in with a student after their lesson. Right, a Schweitzer instructor points out the fall line to a group of middle school skiers on Jack’s Dream.

with local teachers and the Lake Pend Oreille School District (LPOSD) over the years, offering 4th graders a day on the slopes. But as Jaime Landwehr, SARS head coach, asks: “Why aren’t we having full P.E. programs in our schools? In some parts of Colorado, every grade gets one ski P.E. day a week for seven weeks. That seven days for 12 years of school can make a lifelong skier!”

A firm believer in exactly this approach is Sandpoint Middle School physical education teacher Adam Tajan. “My dad worked at Schweitzer when I was a kid, so I always had the luxury of an employee pass and a ride to the mountain on the weekends,” Tajan said. “Going snowboarding was just something I always did.”

As a teacher at SMS, he noticed that a large portion of the middle school kids did not have that same kind of connection. “A lot of the kids I am teaching aren’t connected to skiing and if any of them had been to Schweitzer, it may have only been once before thanks to that 4th grade day trip,” he said. “SMS’s Physical Education Department had been offering an additional Schweitzer ski/ride day for the last few years to build on that, but we always felt like we needed more. One and done was just not enough.”

Working closely with the LPOSD, Tajan was able to draft a six-week program where LPOSD provided the transportation and Schweitzer partnered with a deeply discounted lesson program that included a full winter season pass for each registered child. “So many of the kids that signed up were from families that didn’t already have skiing as a part of their world and even so, the parents stepped up to chaperone, load gear, donate equipment, and provide additional scholarship funds. I only expected about 20 to 25 kids to participate,” Tajan said. “In the end, we had over 100 in the program this year.

It was mind blowing.”

For 7th grader Jasmine Alexander, being a part of the SMS ski program gave her the chance to learn snowboarding. “My family is pretty busy, so we go skiing maybe three times a year. This winter, I made it up to Schweitzer seven times and I even got to the back bowl,” she said with a huge grin. “The program is great – I get out of school, get to ride a lot more, it’s really fun, and it’s so beautiful up here. Who wouldn’t want to do that?”

“Yes, it may be nicer to be on the mountain than at school,” agrees Tajan with a laugh. “But these kids have to be motivated to stay on top of their schoolwork and stay eligible each week.

Good grades and good behavior are a requirement to participate.”

As Tajan states, the program may be fun 2020 • 2021 | schweitzer magazine

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Top left, SMS Ski program participant, Will Clark, skis under Basin Express. Top right, Gavin Scheel and his instructor JP Schrambach, get ready to start their lesson. Below, middle school skiers wait to meet their instructor on the first day of the SMS ski program in January 2020.

Bottom, Gavin and JP set up to ski Midway.

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schweitzer magazine | 2020 • 2021

but it’s also about helping kids develop an affinity for a winter outdoor activity, improving their overall health and fitness, and ultimately challenging them to learn something new. “All five Idaho content standards for Physical Education were covered during the program,” he said. “That includes Skilled Movement, Movement Knowledge, Health Enhancing Personal Fitness, Personal and Social Responsibility, and Valuing a Physically Active Lifestyle.”

The middle schoolers in the program made huge strides over the course of the six weeks. “Some of them who didn’t know how to buckle bindings on day one were riding the Great Escape Quad by day three,” Tajan said.

“Winters in North Idaho can be long and getting outside isn’t always easy. It’s been great to see these kids build confidence and connect with the mountains in a very physical sense.”

Another key to the program’s success has been the positive response from parents. “Our parents are really pleased with how this has worked. I’ve had so many letters and comments thanking us for organizing this for their kids.”

Marni Gunn, who relocated with her family to Sandpoint last year, was excited to learn about this program for her boys. In an email to Tajan, Gunn wrote: “Coming from the Southern California desert, our boys had never snowboarded before. We found this to be an excellent opportunity for them to learn and are amazed with their progress from week to week. Thank you for making this happen.”

“We needed the parents to see the value in this program,” Tajan adds. “I didn’t know how much it was going to mean to them until we had a standing ovation and loud cheers on orientation night. It was incredibly humbling.”

Gavin Scheel, a 14-year-old from Sandpoint, had wanted to ski last year, but due to having plates removed from his hips that dream had to wait. Lucky for him, working through the SMS ski program this year made it possible to connect with Schweitzer’s adaptive program and learn more about how he could tackle the slopes. His first time on the mountain was one he’ll never forget. “JP, my coach, took me on two runs off the Basin Express and one run off the Great Escape Quad,” Scheel said. “I loved it.” He has decided that steeps and speed are his thing and even though he was “nervous but excited” about skiing, this trip to Schweitzer ranks as the “best day of his life.”

“Watching Gavin get out there was just incredible,” adds Tajan. “He’s just an example of all the pieces finally coming together. Schweitzer made skiing and snowboarding affordable, and the teachers and administrators were willing to support, promote and organize it. These kids all learned something new, made new friends, and had fun. Long term, we’d love to see more kids on the SMS ski bus.”

Will this program continue to work its magic and make Sandpoint more of a ski town? “We’re well on our way,” said Tajan. “I think it’s definitely a huge step in the right direction. But we don’t need to be a ski town, really.

We just need to be a town that skis.”

2020 • 2021 | schweitzer magazine

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sus·tain·a·bil·i·ty Doing our part to make a difference

By Dig Chrismer

I

n the past few years, the population of our area has grown organically with families moving to the region to enjoy the quality of life that we pride ourselves on in the Inland Northwest. The crystal-clear water, fresh air, and unspoiled landscapes offer us a true respite from the daily routines in our lives. We are lucky to live here. And more importantly, we are lucky to play here.

For those of us who are intimately tied to Schweitzer, be it as a guest, passholder, or employee, we have a responsibility to make sure our playground is kept in good shape.

It’s up to us to understand what it means to be “sustainable” and how by doing even the smallest thing, we are acting in the best interests of our mountain.

So what can we do to make a difference to Schweitzer’s sustainability? The National Ski Areas Association (NSAA) has been working on this nationwide issue since 2000 with their Sustainable Slopes initiative, creating an “overarching framework” for resorts in their quest to become more sustainable. As a part of this, NSAA also developed the “Skiers Sustainability Code,” a series of guidelines to help us all with what we can do.

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First, NSAA recommends raising your voice. Get out there and be active, engage with your elected officials on matters that affect our environment. If they’ve already started the good work, thank them for it. And most importantly, don’t forget to vote!

Secondly, find better ways to get to the slopes, trails, and mountains by “Greening Your Ride.” Take advantage of the free SPOT bus service in our area or carpool with friends. Looking for a new car? Why not purchase a more fuel efficient or electric vehicle?

Third step, focus on energy – how you are using it and how you can be more efficient in consuming power.

Find ways to save energy and work to promote renewable energy options in your own home and workplace.

The fourth recommended step is to reduce waste.

Limit using plastics as much as possible. Bring your own mug, water bottle, grocery bags, and drinking straw when you know you are going to need them. Recycle and compost both on and off the slopes.

Next step, find companies that are green. Look locally and online to find your gear (and your food) from

Noun.

1. the ability to be maintained at a certain rate or level. “the sustainability of economic growth” 2. avoidance of the depletion of natural resources in order to maintain an ecological balance. “the pursuit of global environmental sustainability”

businesses that make sustainability a priority.

And last but not least, engage your local ski area.

This is where we need you most! Schweitzer can put practices into place, but without your support we won’t succeed.

So what is Schweitzer doing about sustainability? The resort recently partnered with Resource Synergy, a Spokane-based sustainability consultancy, to help identify and pursue opportunities to reduce energy consumption and waste generation with six keys areas being targeted including fleet fuels, forest health, waste, and supply chain.

“Schweitzer has always kept the environment in mind with actions such as the purchase of REC credits from Northern Lights (Renewable Energy Credits),” said Dani Demmons, director of Family Programs and Activities.

“However, those actions have not been enough to keep up with our changing world and we feel now is a crucial time to step it up and take things to another level of involvement.

Resource Synergy has the experience and knowledge we need to help us be more successful in our endeavors.”

Through the partnership with Resource Synergy, Schweitzer is engaging in a lighting retrofit in both the

Previous page: Schweitzer’s village basking in morning alpenglow. Top photo this page, a skier enjoys fresh snow in the South Bowl. Bottom photo, skiers catch their breath on Ridge Run. Below, sunrise over Lake Pend Oreille.

Lakeview Lodge and the Mill Building. Erik Makinson, Resource Synergy’s founder and president, explains that this project “will result in a decrease of 108,473 kWh per year resulting in a cost savings of over $15,000 per year. This energy reduction is equivalent to the total annual energy consumption of almost 10 homes.”

Concurrently, in the spring of 2020, Schweitzer was awarded a grant from NSAA to implement a plastic/waste reduction plan. “Thanks to this grant, we will be able to replace all of the shampoo, conditioner, and lotion bottles we have in our lodging properties,” said Demmons. “This means over 14,000 single-use containers won’t be heading to the landfill.

“We know that there are lots of different directions we could go in our path towards sustainability,” she said. “But we need to focus on these key areas we’ve outlined with Resource Synergy and work with our community to make substantial change. It starts small with just picking up trash or refilling water bottles. If we all just took a moment to think about what little things we can do, we could make a huge difference.”

2020 • 2021 | schweitzer magazine

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fo o d a n d w i n e

OUR FRIENDS WITH FOOD MORE TASTES OF SCHWEITZER

By Matt Conger

Y

ou may know that Schweitzer Mountain Resort operates 10 food and beverage locations with a range of seasonal and year-round venues, offering a variety of food choices. But once you are off the slopes, there are even more choices to satisfy any lingering hunger pangs.

Pucci’s Pub, Powder Hound Pizza, and The St. Bernard enhance the dining scene at Schweitzer with their unique atmospheres and delicious food. There’s no question that we all have the same goal here on the mountain – to provide exceptional food, friendly service, and a spot for all of our guests at Schweitzer to enjoy their time on the mountain. So next time you’re up here, check them out!

PUCCI’S PUB. As you exit Schweitzer’s free mountain shuttle, you can’t help but notice Pucci’s Pub. Named after Schweitzer’s longest-serving Ski Patrol director and local legend John Pucci, this ski mountain pub has been proudly serving ski bums since 2006. With a mix of food options for the whole family, tons of local ski memorabilia on the walls, and large TVs to catch up on the latest sports games, Pucci’s is a go-to spot to enjoy some classic pub and bar food with a local twist.

One of my personal favorites, and an après ski staple, is their gigantic plate of loaded nachos. If you’re feeling particularly hungry or have someone to share with, ask for their off-menu specialty – the tater tot nachos (“totchos”).

You won’t be disappointed. If you want something on the lighter side, try their fresh and satisfying Greek-style gyro.

Pucci’s also offers an awesome beer selection that is coveted by our local beer devotees and finds most locals anxious to get into their coveted mug club. Pucci’s is open year-round with varying hours.

POWDER HOUND PIZZA. The go-to spot for pizza on the mountain and, some would argue (including myself), the best pizza spot in all of Bonner County. Powder Hound opened in 2010 and has been perfecting the combination of great food and drink with an atmosphere any mountain fan will enjoy. Located on the lower level of the Lazier Building, Powder Hound (also referred to as PHP) happens to have one of the best views on the mountain with large windows overlooking Lake Pend Oreille. After a long ski day, it’s a great spot to watch alpenglow light up the Cabinet Mountains to the east.

PHP has pizza by the slice and by the pie, plus a large beverage list. With all the normal pizza styles you expect at any pizza place, you can also create your own option.

Combine that with their specialty pizza selection, and there is definitely something for every pizza lover. My go-to pizza is the Husky Hawaiian, and this pie is more than a standard Hawaiian pizza. Topped with a barbecue sauce base, bacon, fire-braised chicken and beef, jalapenos, onions and pineapple then finished off with smoked Gouda, this is my favorite pie to share with a group of friends after a powder day. Not into pizza? Don’t worry, PHP has you covered with a good selection of non-pizza choices including fresh salads, wings and even poutine (cheese and fries covered in

Left, Powder Hound Pizza’s chalkboard menu lists some great options. Above, a mosaic tile of “P” for “Pucci’s.”

Right, what might be the best pepperoni pizza in Bonner County.

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schweitzer magazine | 2020 • 2021

gravy) for our friends from the north. Staying on the mountain, or not feeling like cooking after a day on the slopes? Powder Hound is a great spot for carry-out dining or for families who want an easy option for dinner. PHP is open during the ski season and select weekends during the summer.

THE ST. BERNARD. The newest addition to the Schweitzer food scene, The St. Bernard is located below the mountain village next to the Schweitzer Chapel. Some Schweitzer regulars may be familiar with The St. Bernard from years ago when it was one of the local staples on the mountain. After a few years of transition, it’s now back and better than ever with new owners and some amazing renovations. Taking their experience from two popular Spokane restaurants, Wild Dogs and Soulful Soups & Spirits, The St. Bernard offers homemade soups and sausages along with a variety of rotating seasonal food options. Open yearround, The St. Bernard has a large deck to enjoy the sunshine as well as enough space to accommodate a sizable group inside.

Want to be steps away from their delicious food? They now offer a few options for lodging! 2020/2021 will be the restaurant’s first full year of operation on the mountain so be sure to stop by and welcome them to the Schweitzer family. The St. Bernard hours may vary so check their Facebook page for the latest.

Nothing improves a day on the slopes like recapping your favorite moments with friends over delicious food and good beverages. These three amazing places enhance everyone’s experience on the mountain, and we are proud that they chose to make Schweitzer their home! So next time you’re feeling hungry, stop in and give them a try. You’ll be glad you did!

Top, inside Pucci’s Pub. Above, outside Pucci’s Pub in Schweitzer’s Village.

Below, inside the newly refurbished St. Bernard Pub.

2020 • 2021 | schweitzer magazine

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schweitzer magazine | 2020 • 2021

signs of the times

p h o to e s s ay

I

n each society or culture, symbols – such as gestures, signs, and words – help people understand that world. There’s a collective experience associated with these symbols, both spoken and unspoken, shared by those who call that culture home. We have our own unique culture at Schweitzer and one way we celebrate it is through our trail names. They mark not only a path to follow, but give name to an experience that we love to repeat over and over again. “Midway,” “Wayne’s Woods,” and “Kathy’s Yard Sale” all conjure up images in our minds of fun (and perhaps not so fun) days exploring and experiencing a Schweitzer winter to the fullest. Every trail name creates a connection to our home mountain, guiding our way and leaving an indelible memory.

A skier carves a turn near the start of “Casper,” one of Schweitzer’s newest ski runs.

Skiers check the trail map at 4 the top of the Colburn Triple.

Annie, Schweitzer avalanche rescue dog, supervises a snowboarder strapping into their bindings at the top of the Lakeview Triple.

2020 • 2021 | schweitzer magazine

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p h o to e s s ay

s i g n s of t h e t i m e s Schweitzer’s logo greets drivers at the roundabout as you arrive on the main road.

A snowghost gives a fierce winter hug to the sign for “Pucci’s Chute.”

One of Schweitzer’s lifties waves outside the Cedar Park 5 Express lift surrounded by signs depicting both safety and fun ... which of course is what lifties are all about!

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schweitzer magazine | 2020 • 2021

A sign welcomes cross-country skiers to “Picnic Point” on the Nordic trail system.

shawn@timberveilrealty.com

amurrayipp@gmail.com

2020 • 2021 | schweitzer magazine

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Sandpoint

north Idaho’s aprés – ski town

A CHARMING PLACE TO EXPLORE, SHOP AND DINE.

One-of-a-kind Boutiques | Winter Outfitters | Local Art Makers and Studios Children’s Shops | Organic Eateries | Family Bistros Craft Breweries | Coffee Cafes | Sweeteries

DOWNTOWNSANDPOINT.COM @sandpoint_SHOPPING_DISTRICT #sandpointshoppingdistrict

SANDPOINTSHOPPINGDISTRICT

ski lake town

more than just a

I

By Matt Conger

and

t’s natural to think of Sandpoint and Schweitzer as being places strictly geared to summer water sports and winter skiing, but is that all there really is to do here? Absolutely not! Yes, Sandpoint offers a world-class lake town experience and Schweitzer world-class skiing, but there’s a lot more to this lake/ski town than just skiing and swimming!

Just as the snow melts and the lifts close to skiers and riders, you will notice bicyclists starting to roam the streets while the lake is still too cold to swim. Road biking is a great way to build up some cardio while enjoying the outdoors and beautiful spring weather. With tons of bike paths and the lack of traffic that comes with living in a small town, road biking is a popular activity in the area. For riders looking to test their physical stamina, the recently resurfaced Schweitzer Mountain

Road is a challenging bike ride with the promise of good views once you reach the top and the possibility to celebrate your accomplishment with some food or a cold beverage in the Schweitzer village.

As soon as the snow on trails around the area begins to melt, you will notice another type of biker getting out there. Mountain biking has been growing in popularity over the past few years and there are plenty of bike trails to enjoy on Schweitzer and around Sandpoint. With lift-access mountain biking available during the summer months, beautiful crosscountry trails right out of the Schweitzer village, and trails connecting the mountain to the valley, there are options for almost all abilities. Add in the Little Sandcreek Basin trails, and you can ride almost 40 miles of trail around the mountain. The local bike club Pend

2020 • 2021 | schweitzer magazine

23

Oreille Pedalers takes great care of the system and is helping Sandpoint to become a mountain biking paradise.

Runners and hikers also enjoy the network of trails and paths. In the summer, these trail users tend to head for the high ground in order to escape the heat in town and breathe some crisp mountain air. Fall is an especially good time to check out the trails as most of the pesky bugs go away and the fall colors provide dramatic views of the area’s amazing scenery. Did you know that Schweitzer has a mountain lake?

Colburn Lake is a great hike for all abilities right from the village and is an awesome destination for a picnic.

For something a little more sporting, why not try golf? Frisbee disc golf that is.

Sandpoint has an awesome nonprofit disc golf course called Baldfoot that was recently ranked in the top 100 courses in the world!

Baldfoot boasts a small learning course and a more challenging 18-hole course that meanders through the woods on the western edge of town. Schweitzer also offers its own disc golf system with nine holes located on the edge of the Schweitzer Village and another nine holes located on the top of the mountain, winding through fields of beargrass and old mossy snags around the Sky House. Both halves of the Schweitzer course have beautiful sweeping views of Lake Pend Oreille and Sandpoint.

Once summer starts to slowly turn to

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fall, people start venturing off the trails in search of Idaho’s official state fruit. Huckleberries are all over the mountains of North Idaho, and Schweitzer is no exception. These delicious dark purple berries litter the ski runs and underbrush on the mountain and are a local delicacy. Humans aren’t the only ones that crave this delicious fruit; animals of all kind scour the slopes in order to devour this berry. Bears are particularly fond of huckleberries, so if you’re out picking it’s always smart to be bear aware.

North Idaho is home to wildlife big and small, and while some animals are extremely common to see others are more of a rare treat. For example, deer, whitetail and mule can be seen most of the year grazing on grass while the bigger animals like moose and bear are shy and only spotted occasionally. Big animals aren’t the only ones to frequent the mountains though – rabbits, ermine, and ground squirrels can be seen scampering around the hillsides. Be sure while viewing wildlife to keep a safe distance and never feed wild animals.

Blessed with great weather most of the non-winter months, Sandpoint and Schweitzer are recreation paradises any time of year. So when you’re in between beach days and ski days, go try something new – you’re bound to find something to keep you active regardless of the season.

add some

WOto theW! POW

When you’re here for the deep powder and epic runs at Schweitzer — don’t miss the

wow! of Sandpoint. Just 20 minutes down the mountain, Sandpoint is host to a bustling

entertainment scene, more than 40 excellent restaurants and taverns, and that’s not to mention the eclectic shops, galleries and sumptuous spas for any non-skiers in your crowd.

Cross-country and snowshoe trails at nearby Pine Street Woods, the Pend d’Oreille Bay Trail or Western Pleasure Guest Ranch are superb, too.

Make your visit the complete experience. We’ll see you in Sandpoint!

Get visitor information at 800-800-2106 • www.VisitSandpoint.com

this is schweitzer

DISCOVER YOUR HOME MOUNTAIN

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onsidered by many as the best skiing in Idaho and the best familyfriendly resort in the Pacific Northwest, Schweitzer Mountain Resort is independently owned and proud of it. Ranking as one of the nation’s top winter resorts, Schweitzer offers 2,900 acres of terrain with 2,400 feet of vertical for skiers and snowboarders. The resort receives an average of 300” of snowfall annually and guests never tire of exploring the two massive bowls and prime tree skiing that’s available.

Located in the rugged Selkirk Mountains of the northern Idaho panhandle, and only 80 miles from Spokane, Wash., Schweitzer overlooks the town of Sandpoint, Idaho, and offers breathtaking views of three states, Canada, and the impressive Lake Pend Oreille. Sandpoint,

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with a population of approximately 8,000, hosts a plethora of year-round events including the renowned Festival at Sandpoint summer outdoor music series. The amazing 148-squaremile Lake Pend Oreille is a fantastic spot for swimming, boating, and fishing during the summer months. The unforgettable friendliness at Schweitzer and in town are some of the biggest reasons why people keep coming back to their home mountain year after year.

Since its beginning in 1963, Schweitzer has transformed into a true destination ski and snowboard resort with an intimate village that offers shopping, dining, and après ski at an easygoing pace. Slope-side 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.

VILLAGE DIRECTORY

lodging

Selkirk Lodge features hotel-style accommodations with a variety of room types that can accommodate couples and families, all just steps away from three outdoor hot tubs and the resort’s heated pool. Also slope-side, 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.

Schweitzer.com, 877-487-4643

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 tavern fare at Pucci’s Pub, ski hill favorites at Lakeview Café, après-ski at Taps, pizza at Sam’s Alley or Powder Hound, and coffee at Cabinet Mountain. For delicious sharable appetizers, Gourmandie is the go-to spot for light eats and specialty wine and craft beer selections. The Outback, 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 lunch options from the Red Hawk Café.

children’s center

Drop off your children, ages four months to six years, at KinderKamp, Schweitzer’s fully licensed day care center. Younger kids will enjoy outdoor snow play, structured activities, and games. Older kids can also be signed up for group or private lessons with one of our experienced instructors. 208263-9555, ext. 2271

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. Multi-week programs are available for kids ages 5-14. 208-255-3070

meetings and events

Looking for a place to host your mountaintop wedding, corporate retreat, or family celebration? Schweitzer’s Group Sales team can offer customized event planning to fit any group’s needs at our unique mountain setting. Let us ar-

range all your group’s needs, from banquets to cocktail receptions 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

schweitzer activity center

Staff members at the Schweitzer Activity Center, located on the first floor of 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.

208-255-3081

terrain parks

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 enter-

tained while beginners build skills in the Terrain Garden on smaller rails and jumps.

The Southside Terrain Park features unintimidating, medium-sized features. It’s Schweitzer’s most popular park and is located on Crystal Run. 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.

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 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.

selkirk powder

Selkirk Powder offers backcountry cat skiing in an adjacent 4,350 acres of terrain, featuring 72 named, west-facing runs. Skiers and riders are led out of backcountry gates to join their comfortable snowcats by 9 a.m. and typically complete up to 10 runs / 14,000 vertical feet before 3 p.m. Selkirk Powder’s summit lodge is located just 100 yards from Schweitzer’s Great Escape Quad; from there, snowmobile tours can zip along groomed trails using new Polaris machines.

For serious trekkers and backcountry enthusiasts, selfpropelled backcountry ski tours and AIARE avalanche classes are available. Heli-skiing experiences are also available, providing exceptional experiences for first-timers and experienced outdoor enthusiasts alike. Plan for your entire family to augment their Schweitzer vacation with a Selkirk Powder adventure! SelkirkPowder.com or call 208263-6959

solstice spa

Treat yourself to a relaxing massage with Solstice Wellness Spa, located in the Selkirk Lodge. A wide variety of therapies are available, from Eastern bodywork, hand and foot massages, to full-body treatments. Call Solstice direct, 208-263-2862.

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 free SPOT bus connection.

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stats 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 ten lifts with an uphill capacity of 16,300 people per hour.

LIFT Basin Express Great Escape Lakeview Sunnyside Stella Colburn Cedar Park Express Musical Chairs Idyle Our Musical Carpet

TYPE Quad Quad Triple Double 6-Pack Triple

RISE 1,063 feet 1,678 feet 710 feet 1,280 feet 1,550 feet 1,360 feet

TIME 4 minutes 5 minutes 4.5 minutes 8 minutes 5.5 minutes 8 minutes

Quad Double T-bar Carpet

1,447 feet 592 feet 60 feet 385 feet

5 minutes 6 minutes 4 minutes 6 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.

2020 • 2021 | schweitzer magazine

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summer SENSATIONAL SCHWEITZER

SUMMER

trampoline jumper. Check out The Source for gifts and gear, the Artists’ Studio for local creations, or pick up sundries and spirits at The Market.

OUT ON THE TRAILS. Check out Schweitzer’s 32 kilometers of cross-country mountain biking and hiking trails or get matched up with a fantastic horse for a beautiful trail ride to Picnic Point.

dining

SKY HOUSE. Open daily during summer operations, weather permitting, take the lift to the summit and enjoy a fabulous bite to eat at The Nest while taking in the breathtaking 360° panorama laid out before you.

MOJO COYOTE CAFÉ. Get your mornings off on the right foot with a specialty coffee or breakfast sandwich from this grab-and-go Schweitzer staple located in the Selkirk Lodge.

CHIMNEY ROCK GRILL. Schweitzer’s main restaurant in the village offers lunch or dinner served inside or on the shaded patio. Delicious salads, burgers, and pasta to choose from!

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GOURMANDIE. Relax by the village green while sipping one of the fabulous wines Gourmandie offers. Sample some delectable lighter fare too for a perfect summer experience.

activities

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, year round!

hen you need space to explore during the summer months, come home to Schweitzer! From late June through Labor Day, the mountain offers lift-accessed mountain biking, scenic chairlift rides, festivals, and more huckleberries than you can pick. There are plenty of places to discover out on the cross-country trails or while taking in the views of three states, Lake Pend Oreille, and Canada from the summit. Come enjoy the mountain during the warmer months and see for yourself why Schweitzer feels like home all year long.

SCENIC CHAIRLIFT RIDES. Take the Great Escape Quad to access Schweitzer’s exhilarating downhill mountain bike trails or just ride the lift for the jaw-dropping views of Lake Pend Oreille and the rugged Selkirk and Cabinet mountains.

IN THE VILLAGE. Mine for gems at the Cranky Jennings sluice box, enjoy aerial thrills on the 750-foot zip line, or jump to your heart’s content on the popular

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lodging

SELKIRK AND WHITE PINE LODGES. When it’s time to hit the hay, staying on the mountain is easy and Schweitzer’s lodging options are close to everything.

Offices on Schweitzer Mountain & Downtown Sandpoint

As Mountain Residents, We’ve Been Selling Schweitzer for over 20 years!

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166 Village Lane #302

169 Crystal Springs Rd #502

Truly Ski-In/Ski-Out, the Balcony overlooks into the village, you can see the buzz in the village from your deck! Includes a parking space in the parking garage, a great perk on Powder days!

Large Ski-In, Ski-Out Schweitzer Mountain Top Floor Condo featuring vaulted ceilings, high end kitchen finishes, stone fireplace, multiple balconies. Conveniently located next to the Resort.

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166 Village Lane #201

Conveniently located in the heart of the Schweitzer Mountain Village and only steps from the chair, this is as close as it gets! Features a spacious 1,100 square feet and open floor plan. Parking Garage, with Elevator to your front door.

Randy Stone, REALTOR®/Broker Darla Wilhelmsen, REALTOR® randy.stone@coldwellbanker.com

208.255.8268

— cbsandpoint.com —

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58 Ullr Dr #1

Located close to the Schweitzer Village. Features include Spacious Master Suite with Vaulted Ceilings, Fireplace, Jetted Soaking Tub, walk in shower, 4 additional ensuite bedrooms each w/ additional sleeping lofts.

Experience and hardwork are driving forces for success...

Let’s be successful together!

We Look Forward to Hearing from you.

- Randy & Darla

WWW.ALPINESHOPSANDPOINT.COM

Schweitzer Mountain in the Village 208.255.1660

Downtown Sandpoint 213 Church St 208.263.5157