Cover photo courtesy of Alistair Sedgwick 

Fifty years ago, a small group of dreamers carved out a little ski hill in the Selkirk Mountains. There were no grand plans, no corporate blueprints and no intention of becoming anything other than a place where powder seekers felt at home. Half a century later, Whitewater Mountain Resort has evolved and expanded, yet the heart of the experience remains unchanged. It is still the place where deep snow, great food and an unbeatably friendly community set the tone for your entire trip. 

Located less than an hour north of the Canadian border, Whitewater sits in the snowy heart of the West Kootenays, where reliable storm cycles keep the snow deep all winter long. The terrain is playful, the atmosphere relaxed and the American dollar stretches even further. While the industry around it has shifted toward corporate models and major developments, Whitewater has stayed true to its roots. The resort remains independently and locally owned, with a focus on exceptional snow, memorable meals and a genuine connection to the people who visit. 

A Place to Stay That Feels Like Yours 

For slope-side seclusion, the Hummingbird Lodge boutique suite sleeps six and is one of the most peaceful stays in BC. Quietly tucked near the resort’s Nordic trails, the suite offers a level of privacy that is rare in ski country. Mornings start slowly as light rises over Ymir Peak and evenings settle into a calm that encourages you to linger by the fire. Whether you are here for a long stay or a quick getaway, the suite feels like your own mountain retreat. 

If you prefer to base yourself in Nelson, the vibrant and eclectic city just 13 miles away, you will find excellent dining, live music, boutique hotels and the creative spirit the Kootenays are known for. The area is also a gateway to natural hot springs, Nordic skiing, and world-class backcountry, cat and heli adventures. 

A Smooth Trip to Deep Snow 

Travelers from Spokane and beyond can book a direct shuttle from Spokane International Airport to Nelson at Kootenaycharters.com. Operating five days a week throughout the winter, this convenient service allows you to relax and focus on the adventure ahead. From Nelson, it is a simple connection on the Whitewater shuttle for a stress-free, car-free trip to the mountain. 

Honoring the Past While Looking to the Future 

As Whitewater celebrates its 50th winter, the resort continues to write the next chapter of its mountain story. The recent expansion into Ymir Bowl, accessed from the Raven Chair, introduced new runs, new glades and the resort’s first south-facing alpine terrain. The result is a larger playground that still feels uncrowded and true to the Whitewater way. 

As the resort grows into a four-season destination, the core values remain unchanged. Whitewater is still independently and locally owned, community-focused and dedicated to preserving the character that has defined it for 50 years. If you’re looking for an authentic and unforgettable ski getaway, you’ll find it at Whitewater this winter. Learn more at Whitewatermountainresort.com and stay up to date on the latest and greatest resort updates at @whitewatermountainresort. 

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A trip up to soak in the mineral-rich thermal pools at Ainsworth Hot Springs Resort—north of Nelson, BC, along Kootenay Lake—is a routine pilgrimage for many Out There readers, and winter is an exceptionally magical time to visit. Sitting in the main 96-degree pool, wrapped in steam and gazing out at the snow-covered Purcell Mountains rising up from the lake is pure rejuvenation. A quick overnight trip up from Spokane for Ainsworth’s hot-springs cave and soaking pool is worth the drive all on its own, but the resort has much more to offer.  

The lake-view Ktunaxa Grill—named after the Ktunaxa First Nations whose traditional lands include a vast expanse of territory surrounding the resort—features an indigenous-inspired menu built around local ingredients. It’s a culinary experience that typically inspires repeat visits. Stay a night or two in one of the resort’s spacious, modern rooms or suites—each with hot springs access and guest-only hours—and you have yourself a full-on restorative getaway. But Ainsworth has one more surprise that elevates the whole experience.  

After a day on the slopes at nearby Whitewater or snowshoeing the river trails around Kaslo, few things beat a hot springs soak—except following it with a massage at Ainsworth’s on-site Spirit Water Spa. The spa offers Swedish, deep tissue and targeted massage work. Let skilled hands unwind tight quads or a worked-over back, giving your nervous system a full reset. The Spirit Water Spa also offers energy therapies, detoxifying clay applications and indulgent body wraps. Treatments are designed to complement time in the pools, pairing heat and minerals with whole-body relaxation.  

Ainsworth blends natural thermal relaxation, striking scenery and unpretentious resort comforts that will make any winter adventure in the Kootenays more memorable. Learn more or book your trip at Ainsworthhotsprings.com.

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Cover photo courtesy of RED Mountain/ Iain Reid

There are ski trips—and then there are ski experiences that stay with you long after the snow melts. Just two hours north of Spokane, tucked into the stunning Monashee Mountains and a mere breath from the U.S. border, RED Mountain offers that deeper kind of escape. This is where the lift lines are short, the locals are friendly, and the mountains feel like they still belong to the people who love them most. This is where The Good Life runs deep. 

For decades, RED has held strong as one of North America’s most authentic, unspoiled ski destinations. And while its reputation for big terrain, uncrowded slopes and endless powder stashes has spread far beyond the Kootenays, the resort has never lost its soul. In a world of ever-expanding mega-resorts, RED remains fiercely independent—reflected in its laid-back culture and commitment to community. 

A Ski Destination That Still Feels Real 

RED Mountain isn’t about flash or pretense. It’s about phenomenal skiing in a place that feels grounded. With 3,850 acres of terrain, spread across five distinct peaks, RED is one of the largest ski resorts on the continent—but you wouldn’t know it from the vibe. There are no crowds buzzing around village plazas, no elbow-to-elbow lift queues and no pressure to “be seen.” What you’ll find instead are wide-open groomers, steep trees, playful natural features and that unmistakable Kootenay powder that keeps loyal skiers coming back season after season. 

A typical morning at RED might start with sunrise views over the Monashee Mountains as you drop into perfectly corduroyed runs off Silverlode or Paradise. For the adventurous, Granite Mountain’s renowned tree skiing offers some of the best fall-line terrain in BC, while Grey Mountain delivers bowl after bowl of powder-faced bliss. And if you’re seeking something truly unique, RED still operates pay-per-run cat skiing on Mt. Kirkup, giving guests a taste of backcountry-style skiing for the mere cost of $20 CAD per lap. 

In short, if you dream of skiing like it used to be—unfiltered, unhurried and unbelievably good—RED is your place. 

Where the Community Shapes the Experience 

One of RED’s most defining features has nothing to do with snow—it’s the people. The resort sits at the edge of Rossland, British Columbia, a storied mountain town that feels both timeless and full of energy. Known as the “Mountain Biking Capital of Canada” in the summer and an outdoor wonderland year-round, Rossland is the kind of community that still opens doors for strangers and gathers everyone at the local brewery after a big storm cycle. 

Rossland’s roots run deep. Founded in the late 1800s as a booming gold-rush town, it has evolved into one of the most vibrant adventure-sport communities in the Pacific Northwest. Its historic downtown, with brick storefronts and friendly cafés, sits just minutes from RED and offers everything from craft beer and artisanal bakeries to gear shops and independent boutiques. But what truly sets Rossland apart is its sense of belonging. Visitors often comment that within a day, Rossland feels less like a destination and more like a place you’ve always known. 

And the connection between town and mountain is seamless. Skiers grab après at local favorites like Rossland Beer Co. or the Flying Steamshovel before heading back into the snowglobe glow of this cozy, walkable community. Festivals, live music, and local events breathe life into winter nights, making a ski vacation here feel like more than just a getaway—it’s an immersion. 

Close to Home, but a World Away 

For skiers and riders in Spokane and the greater Inland Northwest, RED Mountain offers an unbeatable combination: world-class terrain that’s close enough for a weekend, but with an international twist that makes it feel like a true escape. 

From downtown Spokane, the route to RED is straightforward and scenic. Within 90 minutes, you’re at the U.S.-Canada border in Frontier, WA/Northport, WA, and from there it’s just a short drive to Rossland’s welcoming streets and RED’s base area. Many Spokane residents are surprised to learn just how close BC’s legendary Powder Highway really is—and that some of its best skiing begins almost immediately across the border. 

Because RED is so close, it’s perfect for families wanting a low-stress trip, couples looking for something new, or groups chasing fresh snow without the hassle of long travel days or busy airports. A passport, a tank of gas and a sense of adventure are all you need. 

The Good Life Lives Here 

RED Mountain Resort has built its identity around more than just incredible skiing. “The Good Life” is a phrase you’ll hear often—and it isn’t marketing fluff. It represents a way of living that prioritizes time over hurry, connection over crowds and genuine experience over polished perfection. 

You feel it when you’re riding the chairlift with someone who moved here decades ago and never left. You feel it when you ski terrain that feels untouched, even days after a snowfall. You feel it when you walk through Rossland and realize the town doesn’t just live next to the mountain—it lives with it. 

That authenticity is exactly what today’s travelers crave, and it’s what keeps RED Mountain at the top of “hidden gem” lists year after year. Yet RED remains committed to staying true to its roots: friendly, accessible, community-driven and wildly fun. 

Plan Your Winter Escape 

Whether you’re seeking deep powder, long groomers, family-friendly vibes or simply a resort with soul, RED Mountain delivers. And with its close proximity to Spokane, the ease of the border crossing and the warm embrace of Rossland’s mountain community, your next great winter adventure is closer than you think. 

This season, discover a place where skiing feels pure again. Discover a community where everyone is welcomed. Discover a mountain where The Good Life isn’t a slogan—it’s a way of being. Discover RED. 

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Remember when winter used to be pure fun? When snow days meant skipping class, hot chocolate and laughing so hard your cheeks actually hurt? That kind of joy isn’t gone—you’ve just got to know where to find it.  

This winter, rediscover that feeling at Big White Ski Resort. Located just outside Kelowna, British Columbia, Big White is where adulting takes a back seat and real winter fun kicks in. Easy to get to, hard to leave, and built for skiers, snowboarders and families who want more than just great snow—they want great memories. 

From Washington to Big White in Under Five Hours 

With direct flights from Seattle to Kelowna International Airport (YLW), Big White is one of the most accessible international ski destinations from Washington state. Skip the long drives and border waits—just hop on a 1.5-hour flight, then let the Big White official airport shuttle handle the rest. In under an hour, you’re pulling up to the resort. 

Prefer to drive? From Washington, Big White is just 4.5 to 6 hours away. Coming from Spokane? Head up U.S. 395, cross at Laurier, then cruise BC 33 from Rock Creek straight to Big White Road. Driving from Seattle or western Washington? Cross at Peace Arch, Pacific Highway or Oroville, then follow BC 97 through Kelowna to BC 33. Smooth roads, stunning views and a drive that hits just right. Just don’t forget your passport. 

Pro tip: Book through Big White Central Reservations for a five-night stay and get the Fly & Ski Free deal—your lift ticket on arrival day is free. You could literally be skiing in just over an hour after clearing customs. 

Ski-In, Ski-Out Living Means No Wasted Time 

Big White isn’t just partly ski-in, ski-out—it’s entirely ski-in, ski-out. Every lodge, condo and cabin connects directly to the slopes or is a short walk to the lifts. You’ll spend more time on snow and less time wrangling gear and finding parking. Prefer to have a car? There’s ample free parking and many accommodations come with dedicated spots. But honestly, once you’re here, you won’t need it. Big White is designed so you can ditch the keys and focus on the important stuff—like first tracks and après cocktails. 

Your Dollar Goes Further in Canada 

Big White is in British Columbia, which means your U.S. dollar stretches further. Factor in the favorable exchange rate and you’re saving without even trying. That après beer? Cheaper. That extra ski day? More doable. Looking for a deal? Check out Sundance Resort’s “Buy 3, Get 4 Free” offer—stylish, spacious accommodations with pools, hot tubs, steam rooms and underground parking. You also get ski/snowboard storage and access to grocery delivery. It’s luxury without the markup. 

Family-Friendly, Without the Chaos 

Big White is proudly family-owned, and it shows. The vibe is friendly, down-to-earth and refreshingly unpretentious. You won’t find ego here—just great snow, helpful staff and tons of ways to make life easy for parents. The Kids’ Centre Ski/Ride Valet handles lesson logistics so you can ski without juggling schedules. For littles too young to hit the slopes, Tot Town Daycare is a lifesaver—safe, warm and staffed by pros. Whether your kids are learning pizza turns or just chasing Loose Moose around the tubing park, they’re in good hands. 

Beyond the Slopes 

While the Okanagan champagne powder gets the spotlight, Big White stands out for delivering so much more than just great snow. Sure, the powder is legendary, but the off-slope activities keep the fun going all day and night. Skate on North America’s highest outdoor rink, race down the tubing hill, ride through the snow on a horse-drawn sleigh or take a snowmobile tour through the backcountry. Unwind at the Spa at Stonebridge or glide through the forest on a dog sled ride—it’s all part of the adventure. 

Night skiing runs Tuesday through Saturday and covers the largest lit terrain in Western Canada. There’s also a new Slopeside Arcade under the Snow Ghost—27 classic and modern games that are as fun for adults as they are for kids. And yes, Loose Moose, Big White’s iconic mascot, is still out there making memories and photobombs. 

Eat, Drink, and Be Cozy 

Hungry? Big White’s food scene hits every craving. Grab comfort food at Underground Pizza, treat the kids to iconic pink donuts at The Bullwheel, or go upscale with a night out at 6 Degrees Bistro, Sopra: Sam’s Italian Kitchen or the new Kettle Valley Steakhouse. 

Want to keep it cozy in your condo? The Market at Big White has everything you need for home-cooked meals—and offers delivery straight to your door. Local wine, live music, craft beer and seasonal menus round out a food scene that punches well above its weight. It’s not just fuel—it’s part of the experience. 

Ready for a Grown-Up Winter Break? 

Here’s the bottom line: Big White makes it easy to say yes to winter. No long-haul flights, no long queues, no rental car headaches, no logistics to untangle. Just grab your gear, make the easy drive or catch a short flight, and let the resort handle the rest. 

With ski-in, ski-out access, family-first amenities and genuine Canadian hospitality, Big White isn’t just a resort—it’s a full-on reset. The kind of place where everyone—parents, kids, couples, groups of friends—can unplug, unwind and actually have fun again. 

Lock in the best rates and serious perks at bigwhite.com. Book now, head north and let Big White do the rest. 

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Cover photo by Ashley Voykin courtesy of Tourism Rossland

Winter in Spokane can mean gray skies, a mix of slush and snow, and the kind of ice that turns every sidewalk into a trust exercise. But did you know that just 2.5 hours north, winter tells a completely different story? One filled with frosty peaks, crisp white snow and a downtown that feels downright magical. Rossland, British Columbia, Canada is known as a true winter escape for powder seekers, but it can be a surprisingly fun haven for the summer loyalists who just need something to do while the rest of the family chases fresh tracks.

 

If you’re the kind of person who lives for sun on your face, warm breezes, and an endless summer, the Rossland Winter Carnival from Jan. 22-24, 2026, might just flip your winter script. Sure, it’s cold—but the streets are bustling with a vibrant energy, the locals are in full-on festival mode, and there are enough snow‑fueled activities to keep your heart racing and your cheeks rosy. Wash it all down with a specialty drink or two, and suddenly winter feels a lot less like frostbite and a lot more like fun in a snow globe you actually want to be in. Because in Rossland, winter isn’t just something you survive—it’s something you celebrate. 

The Rossland Winter Carnival is Canada’s longest-running carnival in the West Kootenays, dating back to 1898. The event was started by the legendary Norwegian miner Olaus Jeldness, one of the pioneers of ski culture in North America and basically the inventor of winter fun. From ski jumping to snowshoe races and masquerades, there was something for everyone to enjoy—winter and summer lovers alike. Olaus laid the foundation for a tradition tha

If you ask the locals, one of the highlights of the Carnival during the day is the Sonny Samuelson Bobsled Race. Teams of four design, build and ride their creative creations down eight icy blocks, on one of the steepest streets in town—Spokane Street. Reaching speeds of 44 miles per hour or more, this is hands down the wildest, most creative event of the Carnival. But the fun doesn’t end there–just two streets over on Queen Street, piles of snow are transformed into The Game Rail Jam, a custom-built downtown terrain park. Skiers, snowboarders and snowskaters glide, jib and slide across rails, boxes and jumps, showing off tricks that are equal parts skill and showmanship. The rail jam is open to anyone who is brave enough to tackle the streets and be part of the spotlight—where else would you have the chance to slide down a city street? 

When you’re ready to wander and explore the rest of the full lineup of winter fun, the Rossland Museum & Discovery Centre becomes a hub of family-friendly activities featuring a snow maze, toboggan run, snowman building, snow painting, cozy campfires, icy crafts and a true Canadian tradition—maple taffy stations! The other surrounding events include ice sculptures, free outdoor skating, snow volleyball, luge lessons, markets, variety shows, local shopping, bake sales, food and drink specials and more! Check out the full festival lineup at Rosslandwintercarnival.com. 

When the day turns to night, the energy becomes electric as Blizzard Music Festival takes over Rossland’s downtown, bringing live music to multiple venues and a variety of musical styles to suit every taste. Three days, five stages—grab an all-access pass to experience the full lineup or be selective with your favorites. Don’t miss a show at the Olaus Ice Palace, an outdoor venue built entirely from snow, where stoic ice sculptures welcome you into the party and set the stage for a truly unforgettable night. For the full lineup and ticket information visit Blizzardmusicfest.ca. 

Sure, most visitors travel to Rossland in winter for the world-class skiing at Red Mountain Resort, Black Jack Cross Country Ski Club or Big Red Cats, but trust us—you’ll want to come for the Rossland Winter Carnival & Blizzard Music Festival and stay for the extra outdoor adventures between events, from snowshoeing to fat biking. Mark your calendar and plan your trip for Jan. 22-24, the perfect weekend to experience a town that turns winter into a full-on celebration, where mountains meet music, community meets celebration and winter meets wonder.  

To explore all that Rossland has to offer in winter (and summer), visit Tourismrossland.com for accommodations, local suggestions and visitor information.  

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When visiting a ski area with kids or anyone who is still learning to ski or snowboard, it’s important to know the best runs that will match their ability levels. Some beginner-friendly runs are less steep and shorter, making it easier to get down the mountain before fatigue sets in. Some lifts are easier for kids and adult beginners to get on and off safely. The best way to set the stage for a great day on the slopes is to ask resort staff from the ski school for advice on which lifts to take and which runs to ski based on the abilities of your family, the current snow conditions and the weather. But by far the best decision you can make for your child or anyone learning a winter sport is to sign them up for lessons. 

These beginner-friendly runs at the four Ski the Northwest Rockies resorts are a great option for new riders who are just getting started or looking to take the next step beyond the magic carpet or bunny hill terrain. 

49 Degrees North  

Location: Chewelah, WA 

Surface Lift: Gold Fever, located near the lodge in the ski school teaching area. A great place for kids and adults to learn. 

Bunny Hill: 49 has some of the longest and most diverse bunny hill terrain of any local mountain that is accessed via the Payday Lift (Chair #3). Give Easy Slide, Gold Chute or Fool’s Gold a try. 

Beginner Runs: 49 Degrees North is the second largest ski area in Washington State and has plenty of beginner-friendly slopes. Local favorites include Huckleberry Ridge and Big Bear located in Sunrise Basin, Quartzite Ridge off Angel Peak and Lost Dutchman to the 4800 Road in the West Basin. 

Lookout Pass  

Location: Mullan, ID 

Bunny Hill: Success Slope via Success Triple Chairlift provides a slow, comfortable beginner chairlift experience for kids, parents or anyone just learning, followed by some excellent low-angled practice slopes to help boost beginner confidence. 

Beginner Runs: Huckleberry Ridge to Grub Steak run. Get there via the Peak One Quad Chairlift and ask the liftie to slow it down for the beginners in the group. The Huckleberry Jam Progression Park allows parents and kids to learn to ride on small terrain-style features.   

Mt. Spokane 

Location: Mead, WA 

Magic Carpet: Located just below Lodge 2 (main lodge) near the ski school building and bunny hill chairlift. 

Bunny Hill: Ego Flats via the Beginner’s Luck lift (Chair 5). 

Beginner Runs: Northwest Passage, via Parkway Express (Chair 3). Also try Half Hitch, staying skier’s right to avoid the terrain park or Jim’s Gem via Northwood (Chair 6), which is a more challenging beginner run on the backside of the mountain that requires a long return to the front side and lodge via Northwest Passage. 

Silver Mountain 

Location: Kellogg, ID 

Surface Lift: Prospector Adventure Lift (covered conveyor lift) located by the Mountain House. 

Bunny Hill: Easy Street—near the surface lift and Mountain House. 

Beginner Runs: Check out Ross Run, which follows the gondola line down to Dawdler, Bear Grass or Huckleberry before ending up at Chair 5. Below the Magic Carpet, try the Claim Jumper run that leads to the bottom of Chair 5 which runs slower for kids and beginners. 

The post Top Beginner Ski Runs for Families at Northwest Rockies Resorts appeared first on Out There Venture.

Ski area ratings help visitors gauge what to expect on the slopes, from terrain difficulty, run length and grooming frequency to family friendliness and overall resort amenities. Individual runs are marked by color-coded ratings—green for beginner, blue for intermediate and black for advanced—to help skiers and riders choose terrain that matches their ability level and comfort on the mountain. New skiers and snowboarders should stay on green runs until they are ready for more challenging terrain. 

Ski run ratings are important to pay attention to, but they shouldn’t be your only consideration when picking your next run. Not all green, blue and black runs are equally challenging. A green run at one mountain can seem more like an intermediate compared to another mountain, and a green run from the top of the mountain will be more physically demanding than shorter runs on the bunny hill or lower down the mountain. How recently a slope has been groomed and considerations like the current weather and snow conditions can also affect the feel of a beginner run. When in doubt, ask for advice at the ski school or ticket office, or flag down a ski patroller if you’re already up on the mountain. 

GREEN CIRCLE ICON = Beginner 

BLUE SQUARE ICON = Intermediate level 

BLACK DIAMOND ICON = Advanced 

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Cover photo courtesy of Silver Mountain Resort

Lifts: 7  

Vertical: 2,200 

Skiable Acres: 1,600 

Number of Runs: 80 

Night Skiing: 8 runs for skiing under the lights 

Family Amenities: Indoor water park and new village arcade 

Lodging: Base village with on-mountain lodging 

Operating Schedule: Opening day Nov. 28. Open 7 days a week. 

What’s New on the Mountain 

Silver Mountain Resort in Kellogg conducted extensive thinning in new areas of the North Face Glades, yielding additional steep fall-line tree skiing and reducing the need for traversing. It also expanded Sheer Bliss, a run on skier’s left, and installed a permanent rope line for safety and clarity. In addition, the resort trimmed and gladed traverses throughout the mountain to improve flow and access. 

Other mountain improvements include updated signage that provides more accurate run status updates and links to backcountry forecasts at backcountry gates, as well as transceiver park repairs and updates to support avalanche-safety training and practice. Tubing sessions are now extended to seven days per week, and Silver Rapids—Idaho’s largest indoor water park—will boast extended midweek hours. Plus, a new partnership is bringing the Rossignol Experience Center to Silver Mountain Sports, which will offer a wealth of branded hard goods and expanded demo experiences. 

Silver Mountain/49° North Combo Pass 

A combo pass gives you unlimited access to both ski areas. That’s a combined 3,925 acres, 14 lifts, 170 trails, 4 summits, and 4,051 feet of vertical to ski or ride all season long for only a couple hundred dollars more! 

Splash, Ski and Save 

Enjoy 1,600 acres and 2,200 vertical feet of light, dry powder on Silver Mountain! With over 70 trails with everything from perfectly groomed runs to steep, gladed powder skiing, there is really something for everyone. After a fu-filled day on the slopes, what could be better than enjoying the endless summer at Silver Rapids Indoor Waterpark, where it’s always a tropical 84 degrees. After perfecting your surf moves on the FlowRider®, have a relaxing float in the Lazy River or play a game of basketball in Hoop Lagoon. Packages start at $106.57 per person per night based on 4-person occupancy in a family studio and include two days of access to Silver Rapids Waterpark and one day of lift tickets. 

Snow Tubing at Silver 

Not a skier or boarder? Grab your snow tube and get ready for nonstop fun at Silver Mountain’s tubing hill! The resort’s magic carpet lift whisks you and your tube effortlessly back to the top so you can keep the fun going run after run. With four lanes at 640 feet long, there’s excitement for the whole family. 

Tubing sessions are two hours long and run daily throughout the winter season. Be sure to check out the Hours of Operation for the latest hourly schedule. Included in your booking is a gondola ride and a tube rental; all you need to bring is weather-appropriate clothing, such as snow boots, insulated pants and a winter jacket. 

Signature Events at Silver Mountain 

Mark your calendar and don’t miss your favorite Silver Mountain events. Be a part of the passionate community of skiers and snowboarders who approach these events with a lot of spirit and revelry. 

• Christmas and New Year’s on the Mountain! Bring the whole family and celebrate Christmas at Silver Mountain. They will have the lifts turning and the water park flowing to make this Christmas one to remember. Santa may even make some turns on the ski hill after a long night delivering presents. Then, on New Year’s Eve, bring your snazziest bathing suit and join in at Silver Rapids Indoor Waterpark. Then the resort is hosting a balloon drop to send off 2025 and welcome 2026. The balloons will be falling at 9 p.m. from the second-floor balcony by the Flowrider. The mountain is also hosting a prime rib dinner from 3-9 p.m. Call 208-783-2440 for reservations. 

• Jackass Day: Jan. 8 
  This annual birthday celebration for Silver includes $20 vintage-priced lift tickets and free birthday cake up at Moguls. 

• Doug E Fresh Banked Slalom and Ski Bum Prom Night Skiing: March 7  
  The banked slalom race is held annually in honor of the life of Doug Johnson, followed by night skiing and dancing with vintage ski attire at the Ski Bum Prom. 

• Toyota Ski Free Friday at Silver: March 13 
  Drive any Toyota vehicle up to Silver and the driver receives a lift ticket voucher for free. 

• Silver Cup Ski Race: March 28-29 
  The 2026 Silver Cup is March 28 and 29! Stay tuned for more information and a registration link.  

• Leadman Triathlon: April 18  
  Ski, mountain bike and run the mountain at this popular annual charity fundraiser. 

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Cover photo courtesy of 49 Degrees North

Lifts: 7 

Vertical: 1,851 

Acres: 2,325  

Summits: 2 

Number of Runs: 90 

Nordic Center: Included with day ticket or pass 

Operating Schedule: 7 days a week (as conditions allow) 

What’s New on the Mountain  

Resort upgrades continue across 49° North both in the lodge and out on the mountain. The Calispell Creek Lodge received another major enhancement this season with 150 additional guest seats on the lower level, plus brand-new ADA and family restrooms — all made possible by last year’s relocation of skier services to the 7,000 sq. ft. Experience Center. 

On the slopes, extensive summer trail work resulted in brush-cutting on 80 of 90 runs, improving early-season coverage and snow consistency across the mountain. Grooming also levels up with the addition of the Prinoth Leitwolf, the world’s largest and most advanced groomer, capable of laying down 21–22 feet of beautifully consistent corduroy in a single pass. 

Looking ahead, engineering and forestry preparation is 95% complete for next summer’s replacement of the Payday Lift with a new fixed-grip Doppelmayr quad. The refined alignment will streamline loading and unloading and improve access to the popular Animal Trails zone. That area also underwent a major forest-health and fuels-reduction project, removing over 3,500 tons of hazardous material and preparing the terrain for future mountain bike development. 

Guests will also notice four new connector trails that improve navigation and flow, including a smoother link from Klondike to Silver King. 

The Corporate Season Pass 

New this year, 49° North’s Corporate Season Pass brings a fresh perk to local businesses looking to share some mountain time with their teams. The pass is fully flexible and transferable, making it easy for employees to take turns getting in some midweek laps or for companies to host laid-back client outings in the snow. It also fits right into workplace wellness efforts, giving staff a fun incentive to get outside and stay active all winter. If your office has been hunting for a unique benefit with real stoke value, this one’s worth a look. 

Primetimers’ Club  

The Primetimers’ Club at 49° North has become a lively home base for skiers and riders 55 and older who want to stay active and connected on the mountain. Each week, the crew gathers for casual ski meetups that blend easygoing laps with plenty of chairlift chatter. Throughout the season, they mix in social get-togethers and fun winter-long events that make the club feel more like a community than a program. It’s a welcoming way for adults to find their people on the slopes and keep the stoke high all winter long. 

Gift Cards Make the Best Stocking Stuffers  

Still looking for last minute Christmas gifts? Or the classic question, “What do you get for the person who has everything?” Gift cards to 49 Degrees North make the perfect stocking stuffer no matter who you’re shopping for. Recipients can use their gifts for rentals, lift tickets, lessons, in the lodge and more.  

Ski, Stay and Save 

Planning to stay? Ski or ride all day (weekend or weekdays) and then spend the night at one of 49’s neighbors’ fine facilities. Ski & Stay lodging/lift packages are available from partners like the Chewelah Motel and RV Park, Mid-Mountain Cabins, Mistequa Casino Hotel and more. It’s the perfect opportunity to plan a winter staycation.  

 

Snowsports Schools  

If you’re looking to level up your skiing or riding this winter, 49° North’s snow school lineup is packed with options for every age and ability. The mountain offers everything from tiny-tot first turns to adult confidence-building sessions, making it easy to jump into whatever progression path fits your style. 

Families will love the kid-focused programs, starting with Lil’ Cubs for ages 3 to 6 and moving into Youth Lessons for riders ready to build skills and explore more terrain. First-timers of any age also get plenty of support, thanks to beginner-friendly lessons designed to make that very first day on snow both comfortable and fun. Teens and adults have their own dedicated sessions too, covering everything from boosting confidence to dialing in more advanced technique. 

For anyone wanting a season-long push, the multi-week programs deliver steady progression in a fun group setting, while specialty clinics offer deep dives for skiers and riders chasing those “aha” breakthroughs. Together, they round out a snow school menu that makes improving at 49° North both approachable and exciting. 

Find more info at Ski49n.com.  

Featured Events 

• Nordic Wintersports Festival: Jan. 31 
  A full-day celebration at the Nordic Center with tours, clinics, demos, and family-friendly cross-country skiing activities. 

• Melody Riders Skijoring Competition: Jan. 24–25 
  Two days of high-energy skijoring with horses, riders, and skiers racing a fun, fast-paced course—always a crowd favorite. 

• Chewelah Winterfest: Feb. 7 
  49 Degrees North is hosting an evening rail jam in downtown Chewelah as part of the community’s Winterfest event. 

• Valentine’s Snow Moon Dinner: Feb. 14 
  An elegant five-course dinner with wine or champagne pairings, live music, and gorgeous night-sky views under the Snow Moon. One lucky couple will also win a tour in 49’s state-of-the-art Prinoth Leitwolf groomer. 

• Toyota Ski Free Day: March 6 
  The driver of any Toyota vehicle receives a free lift ticket for the day, with a deck party and live music adding to the fun. 

• Mardi Gras Seafood Boil: March 14 
  A Mardi Gras–themed, family-style seafood boil on the deck, featuring shrimp, crab, clams, crawfish, sausage, potatoes, hushpuppies, beignets, drinks and live music. Costumes encouraged! 

• Hawaiian Days: March 21 
  A spring tradition with a pond skim, snow golf, costume contest, poker run, scavenger hunt, silent auction, live music and a big deck party. Proceeds support the 49° North Volunteer Ski Patrol and Mountain Hosts. 

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