Press Releases
The latest news from Schweitzer
For media contact information:
Dig Chrismer
Marketing Manager
dchrismer@schweitzer.com
208.255.3031
Latest Releases:
Schweitzer Gears Up for Exciting Winter with New Cat Skiing, Snowmobile Experiences and More
Headlining the new offerings is the launch of Schweitzer Backcountry Adventures, with new guided cat skiing and snowmobile tour options.
Schweitzer Purchases Selkirk Powder's Resort-Based Operation
After 21 years of operating at Schweitzer, the guided snowmobile and cat skiing company transitions ownership for the 24/25 winter season
Schweitzer Opens for Summer June 14
Opening Weekend includes Community Day on June 15 with $10 Scenic Lift Tickets and Mountain Bike Tickets, proceeds donated to local nonprofit
Schweitzer Announces Revised Opening Day for the Winter 2023/24 Ski and Snowboard Season
Due to limited early season snowfall and challenging snowmaking conditions, coupled with recent temperature fluctuations, the resort has made the difficult decision to push back the opening day to Saturday, November 25.
Schweitzer Unveils New High-Speed Quad and First Phase of The New Schweitzer Creek Village for Winter 2023/2024
Schweitzer, the largest mountain resort in Idaho, will debut an array of new features and enhancements this winter.
Schweitzer owner enters into agreement to sell resort operations business to Alterra Mountain Company
MKM Trust, owner and developer of Schweitzer, announces that it has agreed to sell Schweitzer’s resort operations assets to Alterra Mountain Company.
Schweitzer opens early for the 2022/23 winter season Saturday, Nov. 19
With more than three feet of natural snowfall and a head start on snowmaking, Schweitzer will open early for a bonus weekend of skiing and riding Nov. 19-20. Schweitzer plans to run the Basin Express chairlift on Saturday, Nov. 19 and Sunday, Nov. 20 from 9 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. with access to Midway trail.
Schweitzer Debuts New Spa and Lift Enhancements for the Winter 22/23 Season
Schweitzer, the largest ski resort in Washington and Idaho, is set to bring a little more “ahhh” to the ski season this year with the opening of a new spa in the village. Cambium, the new spa, headlines more than $5 million in improvements at Schweitzer for the 22/23 season from enhancements to the resort’s chairlifts and snowmaking to an increase in webcams and daycare capacity. This will also mark the second year Schweitzer is part of the Ikon Pass.
Construction Underway on Schweitzer’s Employee Housing Project in Ponderay
Foundations are being laid, both literally and physically, as Schweitzer’s new employee housing development takes shape in Ponderay. The primary excavation work and concrete foundations have been poured, marking the beginning of a multi-phase project and furthering Schweitzer’s dedication to providing first-rate employee housing.
Schweitzer Improves Guest Experience with Three New Bike Trails and Work Towards New Base Area
With increased interest in outdoor adventures, mountain resorts are enhancing their amenities and activities, providing year-round opportunities for their guests. Schweitzer is no stranger to these endeavors and is dedicated to growing summer season offerings while improving the overall resort experience for winter guests.
Summer Community Day Set for June 19 at Schweitzer
In an effort to further Schweitzer’s commitment to helping local non-profits and the community, the resort will be offering $10 lift tickets on Sunday, June 19 with all proceeds going to Bonner County Human Rights Task Force.
Schweitzer's Master Plan Continues to Unfold with Preparatory Work for New Parking
In early May 2022, Schweitzer began construction on a new road that will lead to approximately 1400 additional parking spaces and a new chairlift, with the goal of creating more efficient access to the mountain.
Schweitzer Announces New Employee Housing Project in Ponderay
Schweitzer has partnered with Eastmark Capital Group, a real-estate development company, to create an 84-unit apartment complex, providing much needed housing for Schweitzer’s employees. The complex will be located near the intersection of Schweitzer Plaza Drive and Triangle Drive in Ponderay, walking distance to shopping, dining, and transportation services including the public shuttle to Schweitzer.
Schweitzer’s Own the Night Program Raises Nearly $50K for Local Non-Profits
For over 20 years, Schweitzer’s Own the Night Program has been in place to help area non-profits raise additional funds during the winter season. The program is simple – for each twilight skiing ticket sold, half the proceeds are shared with selected area non-profits. For the Winter 2021/22 season, Schweitzer was able to contribute nearly $50K to 10 different organizations.
Schweitzer's Community Day Scheduled for March 25, 2022
Community Day, Schweitzer’s long-standing fundraiser for two local non-profits, Bonner Partners in Care Clinic and Community Cancer Services, is scheduled to return on March 25, 2022, after a hiatus due to the Covid pandemic.
Schweitzer Hosted Successful Selection Event for 5 Needles at White Pine
On January 27, 2022, Schweitzer hosted a selection event for 5 Needles at White Pine, the first residential project at Schweitzer since 2003. Twenty units were available for purchase with all being sold that evening, primarily to buyers from Spokane, Coeur d’Alene, and Sandpoint.
Humbird Opens at Schweitzer Offering Boutique Lodging and Ski-In/Ski-Out Access at Idaho's Largest Ski Resort
Schweitzer, the largest ski resort in Washington and Idaho, is expanding its village experience with the opening of the new Humbird hotel today. The boutique 31-room property provides ski-in/ski-out access to Schweitzer’s 2,900 acres of skiable terrain. Set above the quaint town of Sandpoint, Humbird offers a sleek updated take on the classic ski lodge with unparalleled views of the mountains and nearby Lake Pend Oreille, the largest lake in the state.
Schweitzer Opens New Employee Housing in Sandpoint
Schweitzer purchased a former assisted living facility on Hemlock Court in Sandpoint this past summer and since then, has completed significant renovations enabling the property to be used as housing for winter and summer seasonal staff.
Schweitzer Welcomes New Food & Beverage Director
Schweitzer is pleased to announce that John Calderon has been hired as Food and Beverage Director, effectively immediately. Calderon will be responsible for Schweitzer’s existing food and beverage services as well as coordinating the opening of the new signature restaurant in the Humbird hotel, Crow’s Bench.
What's New at Schweitzer - Winter 2021/22
Schweitzer, the largest ski resort in Idaho and Washington, is ramping up for a 2021/22 winter season that will be filled with new and exciting guest experiences.
Schweitzer Announces "5 Needles at White Pine"
With the demand for mountain residences at an all-time high, Schweitzer is poised to add residential options thanks to the newest village real estate project, “5 Needles at White Pine."
Schweitzer Offers Second Round of "Chairs for Charity" Fundraiser
Since the summer of 2019, Schweitzer’s “Chairs for Charity” program has raised over $174K for a variety of local non-profit organizations in the greater Sandpoint area. “The Snow Ghost chairs haven’t lost their appeal and we continue to get requests for them all the time,” continues Demmons. “We’d really like to be able to continue supporting our non-profits in the area, especially since a lot of fundraising events were cancelled this past year due to Covid. That’s a big reason why we think now is a great time to repeat the ‘Chairs for Charity’ fundraiser.”
Schweitzer Joins Ikon Pass Partnership
Beginning with the 2021/22 ski season, Schweitzer will become a partner on the Ikon Pass, joining 44 other iconic destinations including Crystal Mountain, RED Mountain, Snowbird, Alta, Revelstoke, Big Sky, and Mt Bachelor among others. Schweitzer is proud to be the first Idaho destination to join the Ikon Pass family.
Hotel Construction Ramps Up at Schweitzer
As drier weather arrives in the Inland Northwest, Schweitzer is ramping up its hotel construction project in the village. Humbird, the resort’s new hotel, is on target for its slated opening for the 2021/22 winter season thanks to the work of the Jackson Contractor Group, a regional general contractor serving seven states in the Pacific Northwest region.
Introducing Humbird - Schweitzer's New Hotel
Since breaking ground in the spring of 2019, Schweitzer Mountain Resort has been working diligently to complete the new hotel project in the village. The 66,580 square foot 31-unit hotel complex will be a ski-in, ski-out property that will provide essential arrival services and slopeside accommodations for Schweitzer's year-round destination guests.
Schweitzer Welcomes Lance Badger as New Chief Development Officer
Schweitzer Mountain Resort is pleased to announce that Lance Badger has been hired to fill the newly established Chief Development Officer role. Badger will be accountable for all real estate improvements for Schweitzer as well as creating and executing long-term development strategies for the resort.
Schweitzer Opening for 2020/21 Winter Season
Thanks to a combination of natural and man-made snow, Schweitzer Mountain Resort is offering a “sneak peek” for passholders who are ready to hit the slopes.
Schweitzer's Sustainability Partnership Garners Awards
In May of 2020, Schweitzer announced a partnership with
Resource Synergy, a Spokane-based sustainability consultancy, to help identify and pursue opportunities to reduce energy consumption and waste generation. In the first 7 months of this new endeavor, the resort has already been recognized by the National Ski Areas Association for its efforts.
Bonner County Food Bank Receives $5000 Donation from Schweitzer
It’s been a challenging year for many non-profits who have had to cancel fundraising efforts due to concerns over Covid-19, but Schweitzer Mountain Resort’s commitment to the Bonner Community Food Bank was able to continue thanks to one special passholder.
Schweitzer Mountain Resort Invests in Sustainability
Schweitzer Mountain Resort is pleased to announce a broad-reaching initiative to reduce the environmental impact of mountain operations and take steps toward sustainability. The initiative targets resource areas such as energy, water, waste, fleet fuels, supply chain and forest health.
Schweitzer Announces End of 2019/20 Winter Season
“After careful consideration and thought, we regret to inform you that Schweitzer Mountain Resort has decided that today, Wednesday, March 18, 2020 will be the final day of operations for the 2019/2020 winter season,” says Schweitzer CEO & President, Tom Chasse.
Schweitzer's Winter Season Hitting Full Stride
With just under 2 months to go in the winter season, conditions are optimum for exploring all 92 runs and 10 lifts at Schweitzer Mountain Resort. “We received 121” of snow in the month of January and thanks to consistent colder temps, the mountain has stayed in great shape” says Marketing Manager, Dig Chrismer.
Over 115" of Snowfall this Month at Schweitzer
The month of January has been a snowy one for Schweitzer Mountain Resort with over 115” of snow falling in the village as of January 29, 2020.
Grand Opening of Cedar Park Express
The recent snowfalls in the Sandpoint region have made it possible for skiers & riders to take in the majority of Schweitzer Mountain Resort’s front side terrain. Now, conditions are looking good to add Stella and the brand new Cedar Park Express chairlifts to the mix.
Community Day December 13, 2019
The spirit of giving hits a fever pitch during December and Schweitzer Mountain Resort is proud to continue their dedication to two local Sandpoint area non-profits with their December tradition of “Community Day” on Friday, December 13, 2019.
Schweitzer Opening for 2019/20 Winter Season
Schweitzer Mountain Resort is kicking off the 2019/20 ski season this coming Friday despite Mother Nature’s slow approach to winter. “Natural snow coverage is thin,” says Marketing Manager Dig Chrismer, “but thanks to Schweitzer’s snowmaking system, the recent cold temps, and our desire to get out there, we will be open daily for skiing and snowboarding starting Friday, November 29.”
What's New at Schweitzer - Fall Update 2019
It’s been an exceptionally busy summer at Schweitzer Mountain Resort with two major construction projects currently in progress.
27 Years of Craft Beers
The final long weekend of the summer is almost here and so is the perennial favorite Schweitzer event, Fall Fest. “This is our 27th year of hosting Fall Fest and we know that it’s become a ‘must-do’ for so many people,” says Schweitzer’s Marketing Manager, Dig Chrismer. “Wrapping up summer can be bittersweet, but a weekend sampling over 80 beers and ciders usually helps ease the pain a little.”
Northwest Winefest Scheduled for July 20 & 21
Summertime in North Idaho might inspire people to enjoy beers on a boat, but Schweitzer Mountain Resort knows that summer is also perfect for enjoying libations on the lawn. “There’s nothing like discovering some of the Pacific Northwest’s finest wines as live music accompanies you in your wine tasting journey,” says Dig Chrismer, Schweitzer’s marketing manager. “Our 5th Annual Northwest Winefest really is the perfect excuse to elevate your palate and learn some new notes for red, white and rosé.”
Schweitzer Announces Construction of New 30 Unit Boutique Hotel
A season of development is in full swing at Schweitzer Mountain Resort with construction beginning on a 30 unit, ski in/ski out boutique hotel directly adjacent to the existing Selkirk Lodge.
Schweitzer Proud to Host “Race the Wolf”
Schweitzer Mountain Resort is gearing up to become part of the nation’s most challenging trail running series, SkyRunner USA Series, with “Race the Wolf” on July 6 & 7, 2019. This trail running race series consists of 10 world class events designed to inspire athletes looking to tackle ultra-running challenges in exceptional mountain locations.
Schweitzer's Summer Homecoming with 5th Annual 7B Sunday
Schweitzer Mountain Resort is looking forward to its summer opening weekend and the resort’s 5th annual 7B Sunday on June 23. “This is one of our favorite summer events at Schweitzer,” says the resort’s Marketing Manager Dig Chrismer. “Getting to share a day on the mountain with so many fantastic people is a great way to reconnect as a community.”
"Chairs for Charity" Raises Over $146K
Thanks to the generosity from friends and fans of Schweitzer Mountain Resort, the resort’s “Chairs for Charity” program raised over $146K for a variety of local non-profit organizations in the greater Sandpoint area.
2400 Feet of Schweitzer Returns March 23, 2019
Registration is now open for 2,400 Feet of Schweitzer! This is your ONLY chance to ski a Giant Slalom course starting at Sky House on Schweitzer’s summit. Teams will ski and ride for prizes, bragging rights and most importantly, fundraising for Cystinosis research and Hank’s future.
Schweitzer Announces "Chairs for Charity"
With the planned Snow Ghost chairlift replacement project scheduled to start this summer, Schweitzer Mountain Resort has decided that the best thing to do with the old double-seat chairs is lift up local charities.
Schweitzer's Winter Season in Full Stride
Despite the El Nino forecast for the 2018/19 winter, Schweitzer Mountain Resort is experiencing a strong ski season with consistent snowfall and record skier visits culminating during the recent Presidents' Holiday weekend.
Community Day Nets over $24K for Bonner Partners in Care Clinic & Community Cancer Services
Thanks to local skiers and riders from Sandpoint and beyond, Schweitzer Mountain Resort’s annual Community Day fundraiser for Bonner Partners in Care & Community Cancer Services raised $24,800.
Schweitzer Opening for 2018/19 Season on Friday, November 23
Thanks to consistent cold temperatures and hard work from the Schweitzer Mountain Resort mountain operations team, the resort is pleased to announce they will open for the 2018/19 ski season on Friday, November 23, 2018.
Schweitzer Contracts Installation of Two New Lifts for 2019/20
As anticipated, Schweitzer Mountain Resort has signed contracts for the installation of two new chairlifts during the summer of 2019 to replace the current Snow Ghost double chair.
Schweitzer Mountain Resort Announces Management Changes & Promotions for 2018-19
Schweitzer Mountain Resort is pleased to announce numerous promotions and hires for the coming 2018-19 season including the appointment of the resort's first Director of Family Activities & Programs.
Future Plans Taking Shape at Schweitzer Mountain Resort
Coming off a record 2017/2018 winter season for snowfall, skier visits, and lodging occupancy, Schweitzer Mountain Resort is moving forward with plans to strengthen Schweitzer’s position as the premier family friendly destination resort in the Northwest.
It’s time for Schweitzer’s 26th Annual Fall Fest
With four days to try over 80 regional craft beers and ciders at Schweitzer’s 26th Annual Fall Fest, the resort is hoping to make the slow slide out of summer and into September savorable.
4th Annual Huckleberry Color Fun Run & Walk
Schweitzer Mountain Resort is looking forward to the 4th Annual Huckleberry Color Fun Run & Walk on August 5, 2018. “We love this event for so many reasons,” said Marketing Manager, Dig Chrismer. “Just watching everyone laugh as they get color bombed is such a fun twist on a trail run. This is a unique type of trail experience that is great for runners and non-runners alike.”
Northwest Winefest at Schweitzer Scheduled for July 21 & 22
Schweitzer's 4th Annual Northwest Winefest will take place in the heart of Schweitzer’s village with 20 different wineries featuring over 80 different wines.
New Hosted Ebike Trail Tours at Schweitzer This Summer
Schweitzer Mountain Resort is pleased to announce that it will be adding daily hosted ebike trail tours to their summer offerings this year.
Schweitzer and SPOT Establish Transportation Partnership
Schweitzer Mountain Resort and the Selkirks Pend Oreille Transit Authority (SPOT) are pleased to announce the transfer of the daily winter bus operations from the Red Barn to the village in 2018/19.
Schweitzer Closes Out Record Year with 434" of Snowfall For the Season
Thanks to consistent snowfall starting in November and continuing through the final weekend, 2017/18 was the snowiest winter on record for Schweitzer Mountain Resort. Schweitzer saw over 434” of snowfall throughout the season and wrapped up the winter with over 78” still in the base area and 152” at the summit.
Schweitzer Reports Over 300" of Snowfall So Far this Season
With over 300” of snowfall so far this season, Schweitzer Mountain Resort has been enjoying some of the best skiing conditions in the country.
Community Day December 15 at Schweitzer
Supporting the local community is something that Schweitzer Mountain Resort feels very strongly about and every December the resort sponsors “Community Day” offering full day lift tickets for $10 with 100% of all ticket revenue going to Bonner Partners in Care and Community Cancer Services.
Schweitzer Opening Saturday, November 18
It’s go time! Thanks to consistent temperatures for snow making and some significant early natural snowfall, Schweitzer Mountain Resort is pleased to announce the start of the 2017/18 season on Saturday, November 18, 2017.
Schweitzer Mountain Resort Announces New Mountain Operations Director
Schweitzer Mountain Resort is pleased to announce the appointment of Rob Batchelder as the resort’s new Director of Mountain Operations. Resort Also Promotes New Culinary Managers in Food & Beverage.
Schweitzer Mountain Resort Wraps Up Busy Summer
This past summer, Schweitzer Mountain Resort continued to expand their summer operations with new food service available on the summit at Sky House, engaging family friendly events like the Color Fun Run & Walk in August, and wine & beer tasting events such as Northwest WineFEST in July and the 25th Annual Fall Fest over Labor Day weekend.
Fall Fest at Schweitzer is 25 Years Old!
Over the years, festivals celebrating the ever-growing craft beer industry have sprouted up around the Pacific Northwest but none have aged as well as Schweitzer Mountain Resort’s Fall Fest. Coming into its 25th year, the resort is excited to offer new and exciting additions to this Labor Day staple.
Huckleberry Color Fun Run & Walk August 6 at Schweitzer
Schweitzer offers a 5K and 2.5K color fun run on August 6th.
Northwest WineFEST at Schweitzer Scheduled for July 15 & 16
Oenophiles rejoice! It’s time for the region’s premier wine tasting event – Northwest Winefest at Schweitzer Mountain Resort, July 15 &16.
Summer Homecoming with 7B Sunday at Schweitzer Mountain Resort
Resort Offering Free Chairlift Rides to the Summit
Silent Auction Held Closing Weekend Raises Money for Bonner Community Food Bank
As part of Schweitzer Mountain Resort’s final weekend of operations, the resort hosted a silent auction with proceeds benefiting the Bonner Community Food Bank.
Schweitzer Reports Over 114" of Snow in February
Amazing conditions extends season to April 16th.
Schweitzer Announces Opening of 2016/17 Season
Schweitzer Mountain Resort is pleased to announce the start of the 2016/17 season on Friday, December 2, 2016.
Schweitzer Mountain Resort to Open "Sky House" at the Summit
Schweitzer Mountain Resort, the largest, premier family-friendly ski resort in Idaho and Washington, will open the much-anticipated Sky House™ summit lodge on Friday, December 16.
Schweitzer Anticipates Completion of New Lodge at Summit
Construction on the highly anticipated lodge at the summit of Schweitzer Mountain Resort is nearing completion. The project, which began 17 months ago, is in its final stages with a sneak peek planned for local dignitaries and media December 16, 2016.
What's New at Schweitzer - Fall 2016
Schweitzer Mountain Resort continues progress on summit construction project, adds new staff, and prepares for the upcoming 2016-17 ski season.
Schweitzer Appoints New Snowsports School Director
Schweitzer Mountain Resort is pleased to announce the appointment of Nikol Hampton as the resort’s new Snowsports School Director following the departure of Terry McCleod.
24th Annual Fall Fest Is Back
For the last 23 years, Schweitzer has celebrated the end of summer with regional micro-brews, amazing food, and incredible live music. This year is no exception.
2nd Annual Northwest Winefest Scheduled for July 16 & 17
July 16 & 17, the resort will be celebrating this fusion of ice age history and modern viticulture during the 2nd annual Northwest Winefest. “We had such an amazing turn out last year, that we felt one day just wasn’t enough,” continues Weber-Quinn. “We’ll have over 20 different wineries with over 80 different wines to sample. We’re sure you’ll find a favorite!”
7B Sunday Kicks Off Summer at Schweitzer
Schweitzer Mountain Resort is celebrating the start of summer with 7B Sunday on June 26, 2016. "As we kick off the start of Schweitzer's summer season, 7B Sunday becomes the perfect opportunity for visitors & locals to learn about all the wonderful things we have in our backyard," said Schweitzer's Marketing Manager Dig Chrismer.
Schweitzer Unlimited Pass Holders Get 3 FREE Days in Kiroro Japan Thanks to Powder Alliance
The Powder Alliance, a consortium of 14 resorts in western North America (including Schweitzer Mountain Resort,) is pleased to announce that Kiroro Resort in Japan has join the alliance as its 15th member.
Schweitzer CEO Elected to National Ski Areas Association Board
During the May 2016 annual National Ski Areas Association (NSAA) convention held this year in Nashville, Tennessee, Tom Chasse President & CEO of Schweitzer Mountain Resort was elected to serve a 3-year term with the NSAA Board of Directors.
Schweitzer Extends Ski Season through April 14, 2013
Schweitzer Mountain Resort has announced the extension of the ski season one extra week, with the new closing date falling on Sunday, April 14 2013. A combination of excellent snow and weather conditions has prompted the resort to offer this extra week of operation.
What's New at Schweitzer
Schweitzer Mountain Resort has spent over a million dollars this summer and fall maintaining current infrastructure. Schweitzer is also spending capital on cutting a new F.I.S. homologated downhill course, new progression terrain park and a new sun deck outside of Taps Lounge.