January 04, 2008
For Immediate Release:
Media Contacts:
Lisa Gerber, Big Leap Creative
208.255.2775
Jennifer Ekstrom, Schweitzer Mountain Resort
208.255.3082
Holiday Snow Storms Means Great News for Northern Rockies Ski Resorts
Six feet of snow fell in the last two weeks of December
Sandpoint, ID – A very snowy holiday season that is forecasted to continue meant record skier visits at Schweitzer Mountain Resort and plenty of happy skiers and snowboarders. Almost 6 feet of snow fell between Dec 14th and Dec 28th providing prime conditions for the holidays.
The lower temps meant drier, lighter powder. “It’s been phenomenal,” said Tom Chasse, Schweitzer’s president and CEO, “We had one storm that buried the doorknob to my office overnight. I had to dig down to the handle when I came in early to join the other early birds for some fresh powder, what a way to start the day,” he said.
Even though conditions were excellent this time last year, Schweitzer is reporting a 10% increase in visitors during the peak period of Dec 27 through Dec 30th compared to the same period in 2006. The mountain can easily handle this increase in capacity thanks to two new lifts, one of which is a high-speed detachable quad chair that quickly disburses visitors over its 2900 acres of terrain.
The Northwest is fortunate again this year thanks to the location of the jet stream, which is just to the south and driving up to Canada giving these ski areas more of the white stuff than other North American mountain resorts. The colder temperatures and consistent snowfall mean quality, dry powder.
As of January 3rd, Schweitzer has received 145” of snowfall, just under half of their annual average (300") with January and February, the snowiest months, and March still ahead of them. They have a settled snow depth of 63” – 90”, more than resorts in Utah, California and most of Colorado. For more information, and lodging packages, visit www.schweitzer.com.
About Schweitzer Mountain Resort
Schweitzer Mountain Resort, rated by Skiing Magazine readers as a top 25 ski resort in North America, is situated in the Selkirk Mountains in the northern Rockies on the Idaho panhandle 90 minutes from Spokane International Airport. Overlooking the town of Sandpoint and Lake Pend Oreille, Schweitzer has long been famous for its massive bowls and breathtaking views. Schweitzer continues its transformation into a year-round destination resort. More information on Schweitzer Mountain Resort is available by calling 800.831.8810 or visiting www.schweitzer.com.
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