May 14, 2009
Media Contacts:
Haley Sorbel - 208.946.8731
Communications Coordinator
Patrick Sande - 208.255.3031
Marketing Manager
Sandpoint- When Old Man Winter took an extended Thanksgiving nap, skiers and snowboarders (and Schweitzer employees) grew restless. After last season’s dramatic, record-breaking snowfall, high expectations and anticipation hung in the air like the barren winter clouds.
With little assistance from nature, Schweitzer was began operations December 12th thanks to the new snowmaking system installed in the summer of ‘08. The season kicked off with cold and windy weather and only one chairlift servicing two runs. Nevertheless, Schweitzer’s loyal skiers and riders were here, enjoying every minute.
Then, one December night, powder made a house call and didn’t leave until records were challenged.
By the first week of January, less than four weeks into the season with three months to go, Schweitzer had almost broken a midseason snowfall record at 150 inches. The average annual snowfall is 300 inches.
Despite concerns that the economy and unpredictable snowfall would impact skier turnout, Schweitzer visitor numbers summited during the last open weekend at more than 200,000 skier visits, with over 300 inches of snowfall throughout the season.
“This was a great year for Schweitzer in a lot of ways,” said event director Mary Webber-Quinn, “The community events and fundraisers were a huge success. Everything from 24 hours for Hank to the outstanding turnout for ski free food drive, and the epic weather and crowds for Tropical Daze will leave the season on our minds for years to come. We are so grateful to the community for enjoying these events with us.”
Schweitzer plans to open for summer operations on Friday, June 26th with the summer celebration festival on Saturday, June 27th. With plans to unveil a new family-friendly 6-mile bike trail, the “Beargrass Cruiser,” summer at Schweitzer should be amazing as well.
Season passes for the 2009-2010 season are on sale at prices from two season’s ago through May 31st, increasing June 1st. The passes can be enjoyed all summer as well as next season. For more information on summer events and season passes visit www.schweitzer.com
