Winter Wonderland

Did you know Idaho hosts the Number One Ski Resort in North America for 2021? Can you guess which resort?

Idaho natives have known for years that the state boasts some of the best skiing and snowboarding in the west. With the Sun Valley Resort ranking as the No. 1 Ski Resort in North America by SKI Magazine for 2021 (read article here), there are finally some bragging rights to back up those claims. Ketchum has been a state favorite for ski bums and weekend warriors alike due to the inviting nature of the locals and the vast array of activities after a day of hitting the slopes. Whether you are looking for a brewery to hit with your buddies after a day on the hill or a nice hot spring to soak your tired muscles, Ketchum has it all.

The Sun Valley Resort isn’t the only destination for skiers in Idaho, there are great mountains sprinkled throughout the entire state. Brundage Mountain is nestled above McCall and has nearly 2000 feet of vertical drop spread across its 1900 acres. Similar to Sun Valley, the town of McCall has plenty of recreational activities to enjoy outside of the resort; whether it’s the ice-rink at the Manchester Ice Center or tubing at the Activity Barn, McCall is the perfect example of a town that consistently showcases it’s local Idaho charm.

If you’re looking for more of a challenge on the sticks Schweitzer Mountain is the crowning jewel of the Selkirk Mountain range. Overlooking Sandpoint, Schweitzer is the largest ski area in Idaho and Washington with 35% of the mountain made up of advanced runs. Sandpoint is just 11 miles from the resort where you can enjoy horse-drawn sleigh rides from the Western Pleasure Guest Ranch or ice-skating from the Third Avenue Pier on Lake Pend Oreille.

If skiing isn’t your jam, there are a myriad of alternatives to try. Ice-fishing, snowmobiling, sledding, snowshoeing, ice-climbing, and visiting winter festivals are all easily sought after options wherever you are in the state. If you are new to an activity, guided trips are a great way to get advice and discover a new area.  Try renting a snowmobile and visiting eastern Idaho’s Island Park, or take a fat tire bike through the trails at Jug Mountain Ranch. Winter is often a time to stay inside, but in Idaho your only limit in the snowy months is your imagination. It is the perfect time to try something new and enjoy those bluebird days from any trail, spring, or bluff within the state.

 

AUTHOR: Clara Comer