A dusting of fresh snow—1 inch overnight—has refreshed the slopes at Schweitzer Mountain Resort this December 21, 2025. Schweitzer Mountain Resort is a popular ski destination in Idaho known for its diverse terrain, stunning views, and uncrowded slopes.
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Humidity
With an early morning temperature of 22°F, the snow is crisp and carvable, ideal for skiers and riders looking to make the most of the groomers. The current base depth sits at 34 inches, which is below average for this time of year, but a major storm is on the horizon. Forecasts predict over 16 inches of new snow in the next five days, with 2.74 inches expected in the next 72 hours. This incoming system could be a game-changer heading into the holiday weekend.
Despite the lower-than-average snowpack, Schweitzer remains one of the most beloved and affordable ski resorts in the country. Recently named the third-most affordable leading resort in the U.S., it now boasts Ikon Pass access and has joined Alterra Mountain Company's expanding portfolio. Snowmaking efforts have helped fill the early-season gap, ensuring solid coverage across key runs. With $85 million in new development on the horizon and the Northern Lights occasionally dancing above the peaks, Schweitzer offers more than just skiing—it's a full winter experience. Bundle up and get ready for a powder-filled Christmas week!
Snow Water Equivalent (SWE) shows how much water the snow holds. This is ideal for year-to-year tracking of real snowfall and water resources. Measurements from Schweitzer Basin.
Snowpack depth measures how much snow has accumulated in the area. This is a key indicator of powder quality, trail coverage, and how epic your runs are going to be this season at Schweitzer Mountain Resort.
Recent air temperature fluctuations at Schweitzer Mountain Resort impact snow quality and stability, from powder to slush.
Schweitzer Mountain Resort is located in the Selkirk Mountains of northern Idaho. The resort offers stunning views of Lake Pend Oreille and the surrounding peaks. Some of the key mountain ranges and aspects of Schweitzer Mountain Resort include:
1. Selkirk Mountains: Schweitzer Mountain Resort is situated within the Selkirk Mountain range, which is part of the larger Columbia Mountain range. The Selkirk Mountains are known for their rugged terrain, deep snow, and stunning alpine scenery.
2. Schweitzer Peak: The resort's main peak, Schweitzer Peak, stands at an elevation of 6,400 feet and offers a vertical drop of 2,440 feet. It is the highest point at the resort and offers a variety of terrain for skiers and snowboarders of all levels.
3. Outback Bowl: Located on the backside of Schweitzer Peak, the Outback Bowl offers some of the most challenging terrain at the resort, including steep chutes and glades. It is a favorite among advanced skiers and snowboarders looking for a thrill.
4. Lakeview Bowl: Situated on the front side of Schweitzer Peak, Lakeview Bowl offers stunning views of Lake Pend Oreille and the surrounding mountains. This area is popular for its wide-open groomed runs and tree skiing.
5. Colburn Mountain: Located adjacent to Schweitzer Mountain Resort, Colburn Mountain is a popular backcountry skiing destination for those looking for untouched powder and challenging terrain.
Overall, Schweitzer Mountain Resort offers a diverse range of terrain and mountain aspects for skiers and snowboarders to explore, from gentle beginner slopes to steep chutes and glades for the more advanced riders.
Some of the best trails to try out include Stella, Little Blue Ridge, and Ridge Run. An interesting fact about the resort is that it was originally developed by Jack Fowler, who was inspired by a visit to the Swiss Alps in the 1950s. For beginners, the resort offers easy trails such as Midway and Musical Chairs. For après-ski, head to Taps, a popular bar located in the village with a great selection of craft beers and live music on weekends.
Night Skiing | Yes |
Lift Count | 10 Lifts |
Hourly Lift Capacity | 12502 per hour |
Base Elevation | 1207 Meters |
Terrain Park | Yes |
Acreage | 2900 Acres |
Established | 1963 |
Run Count | 92 Trails |
The ski area received 1" of new snowfall since yesterday.
Weather today, a 10 percent chance of snow after 4pm. mostly cloudy, with a high near 27. southwest wind 6 to 8 mph.
Schweitzer Mountain Resort is expected to receive up to 16.67" of new snowfall in the next 5 days.
Idaho is gearing up for a major snow event, with the heaviest 5-day snowfall forecasts centered around the Wood River and Sawtooth regions. Galena Summit and Chocolate Gulch near Sun Valley are expecting up to 44–46 inches of snow, while the nearby Vienna Mine tops the chart with a 48-inch forecast. Stickney Mill and Hyndman, also in proximity to Sun ... Read more