Make the most of winter terrain while snowshoeing the panhandle
The weather in Idaho is the stuff of legends; if you don’t like it, wait 10 minutes. Don’t wait for a fresh batch of snow, however; there’s plenty in varied elevations where skiing and boarding aren’t the only way to experience nature. Here’s our guide to local snowshoeing.
Celebrate the season at FOURTH OF JULY PASS, where a parking permit from Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation gets you numerous trails for all abilities. Visit Panhandle Nordic Club’s website for maps and info. Or check out conditions down low on the TRAIL OF THE COEUR D’ALENES for more than 70 miles of nearly flat terrain. Some trail etiquette: keep to the sides of the trail as you walk so as not to impact the portions groomed for Nordic skiers).
There’s plenty of room for nordic skiers and snowshoers, as well, at FARRAGUT STATE PARK, about 20 miles north of Coeur d’Alene. Choose from routes that span from 1.5 to up to 10 kilometers. The terrain is mostly flat, making it a great destination for more inexperienced snowshoers or for families. All will enjoy the beautiful views of the park and the magestic mountains surronding Lake Pend Oreille. Snow conditions do vary due to the low elevation of the park, so call 208-683-2425 to check conditions before heading out.
At SILVER MOUNTAIN RESORT, you can board, ski and tube the day away. Snowshoers can grab a lift ticket to the top (ages 19-61, $19; ages 4-17, $15; ages 2-3, $7) and stop into Silver Mountain Sports Rental for trail info and snowshoe rental ($15).
Head north to SCHWEITZER MOUNTAIN where you can explore on your own or take advantage of several hosted hikes through Hermit’s Hollow or to the summit ($25, including snowshoe rental). Mark your calendar for the last moonlit hosted snowshoe hike of the season, Feb. 18, which includes snowshoe rental, headlamp and a light snack at Gourmandie on the mountain ($40). Visit schweitzer.com/play/snowshoeing for info.
Are you more of a solo SNOWSHOE EXPLORER? Schweitzer snowshoe trail fees are just $17 for adults, $14 for kids, with rentals available at the Schweitzer Ski & Ride Center from $15-20. In Coeur d’Alene, rent snowshoes from VERTICAL EARTH ($20/day, verticalearth.com) or TRI-STATE OUTFITTERS ($15/day, t-state.com) and hear from local experts about where to go.
Special Events
She Loves Me
JANUARY 24-27
Head to Lake City Playhouse for this warm, romantic comedy with an endearing innocence and a touch of Old World elegance. $23-25; Thu-Sat 7:30 pm, Sun 2 pm; Lake City Playhouse.
Aureum
JANUARY 25
An adventure told through heart-stopping aerial routines and amazing acrobatics, set to an original musical score. $25-50; 7:30 pm; Salvation Army Kroc Center Theatre.
Scenic Hot Cocoa Cruise
JANUARY 25-27
Warm up this winter on Lake Coeur d’Alene with a toasty hot cup of cocoa in your hands. Sit back and enjoy the 90-minute scenic tour of the lake. A hot cocoa bar will be available on-board for purchases. $10-15; 11:30 am and 1:30 pm departures; go to coeurdalene.org/cda-events for ticket purchase information.
Bavarian Brewfest
JANUARY 27
There’s fun to be had for adults and kids at Lookout Pass’ Bavarian Brewfest. Compete as a family in the snow bowling event (where kids on saucers act as the ball) and then enjoy brats and brews on the deck afterward. Beers and brats will be available 11 am-2 pm; Snow bowling starts
at 1 pm.
