Boise, ID – Think of Idaho in winter, and perhaps images of Sun Valley’s historic ski slopes come to mind. Or perhaps it’s the newer runs of Schweitzer in the state’s western portions, or perhaps the community slopes at Pebble Creek in the east.
The fact of the matter, however, is that winter in Idaho features not only world-class skiing and snowboarding, but plenty of off-slope diversions as well.
Pebble Creek, located in the town of Inkom about 35 miles southeast of Pocatello in the Caribou National Forest, is a true vertical playground for skiers of all skill levels. In existence for over 60 years, Pebble Creek plays host to 54 runs spread over 1,100 skiable acres, providing enough playful terrain for beginners and those demanding an honest challenge. A unique feature to Pebble Creek is its proximity to the famed Lava Hot Springs, and there’s nothing quite like a dip in the hot all-natural mineral water pools after a long day of hitting the slopes!
While Grand Targhee Resort technically lies in Wyoming, you have to get to it through Idaho, and there are many fun activities taking place right across the state line. Driggs is a fantastic city to stay and play in, not to mention that the locale ain’t too shabby—the city is nestled between the majestic Tetons and the beautiful Big Hole Mountains. Be sure to not miss the 3rd Annual Teton Valley Great Snow Fest running January 16-20, where the city will be full of snow sculptures and plenty of snow sport exhibitions.
The champagne powder and North America’s longest gondola are enticing, but what makes Silver Mountain Resort, located 30 minutes from Coeur d’Alene, so special is actually the weather on the other side of the thermometer: the heat! Silver Mountain Resort is home to the Silver Rapids Indoor Waterpark—Idaho’s largest water park—where it’s always a balmy 84 degrees. So hit the pool after hitting the slopes for a vacation everyone in the family will enjoy.
Schweitzer Mountain Resort includes a vibrant base village, and while many fly down the mountain on skis or boards, you can also fly down above-ground on Schweitzer’s very own new zip line. Grab a friend or ride solo as you soar down more than 700 feet of cable over the snow-packed mountain. Also at Schweitzer, Santa will be hitting the slopes December 23 and 24—search for the Clauses skiing on the mountain as they hand out treats to fellow mountain goers.
Located on Bogus Basin, a 501(c)3 ski area located 20 miles outside of Boise, the Goldrush Tubing Hill is fun and a great value for the entire family. Starting Dec. 20th you and the kids can experience the thrill of sliding down 800 feet, and then getting a comfortable tow back up to the top so you can go again… and again. And maybe once more.
Bring the family to McCall for a weekend of winter fun at Brundage Mountain Resort during the Mountain Beer and Gear Festival January 26-27. Enjoy gear demos featuring the latest technology, The Winter Wildlands Alliance Backcountry Film Festival, pancake feed, a clinic exploring new skiing techniques and technology and, of course, some delicious suds from Salmon River Brewery. This event is the first weekend of the popular McCall Winter Carnival which includes fireworks, live music, snow sculptures and more.
Split your winter fun time between McCall for the aforementioned Carnival and Sun Valley for the Nordic Festival, as both top-notch events run from the last weekend in January through the first weekend of February. Sun Valley, also known as “Nordic Town USA,” boasts some of the best Nordic skiing in the United States. Enjoy nine special days of activities, races, clinics and fun events culminating in the world-famous Boulder Mountain Tour.