Schweitzer offers slate of free activities

By Ben Olson
Reader Staff

We’re right in the thick of winter and Schweitzer has a few events coming up that will provide access for free, as well as a few other interesting events to help you get the most out of your winter experience on the mountain.

Toyota Free Ski Friday

For Toyota, Scion or Lexus vehicle owners, Friday, Jan. 28 is your day at Schweitzer. Those who drive the aforementioned cars or trucks can receive one free lift ticket for the day.

To receive a free ticket, look for the Toyota and Schweitzer representatives stationed at the Red Barn Shuttle Parking at the bottom of the mountain, as well as the roundabout on the way up to the on-mountain parking lots. One free lift ticket will be given for each Toyota vehicle driven to the resort. Tickets are only valid on Jan. 28.

Tickets can be picked up after 1:30 p.m. at Guest Services. You must present your vehicle registration and a valid ID to get a ticket. Registration is required to prove ownership of a Toyota, Scion or Lexus. 

Call the Schweitzer Activity Center at 208-255-3081 for more information.

Winter Trails Day

With more than 32,000 kilometers of trails to explore, Schweitzer has you covered when it comes to snowshoeing, Nordic skiing and snowbiking. Winter Trails Day on Saturday, Jan. 29 is when all trail fees are waived for your Nordic adventures.

Nordic trails vary from easy out-and-back loops to intermediate trails with rewarding views of the valley below. Some have upward of 600 feet elevation gain, while others only climb a couple hundred feet. When conditions are right, all Nordic trails are accessible by snowbikes, which can be rented from the Ski and Ride Center in the Schweitzer Village. When snowbike status is “red,” snowbikes will be limited to the GRR and Overland trails.

Transceiver Sundays with Ski Patrol

Do you own an avalanche beacon? If you spend any time in the backcountry or are a regular tree skier, it’s a good idea to carry one at all times so Ski Patrol can help track you down in the chance you are caught in a slide. 

Come practice using an avalanche transceiver and receive a tutorial Sunday mornings at 10 a.m. by the clock tower, then head to the beacon park for hands-on practice. It’s always a good idea to be safe on the mountain.