One of our favorite winter travel destinations is Schweitzer, the largest ski resort in Idaho and Washington located in Sandpoint, Idaho. This winter, Schweitzer opened an additional 4,350 acres of backcountry terrain with the addition of guided cat skiing and snowmobile tour options.

Offering stunning views of Lake Pend Oreille and a ski-in ski-out hotel, Schweitzer is a hidden gem in the Pacific Northwest known for their diverse terrain, deep powder, and laid-back atmosphere.

For Seattleites, Schweitzer is an excellent destination because it offers a more relaxed and affordable alternative to Washington’s busy ski resorts. The resort has minimal lift lines, a charming village with cozy lodging and dining options, and a welcoming vibe. It’s about a six-hour drive from Seattle or a quick flight to Spokane plus a scenic 90-minute drive.

Schweitzer is renowned for their tree skiing and is the ideal destination for avid skiers. Even if you don’t ski (like me!), there are so many activities to partake in. Between snow tubing, Nordic skiing, scenic lift rides, relaxing massages at Cambium Spa, world class dining, heli-skiing, snowmobiling, snow-biking, and the most gorgeous guided snowshoe hiking, there truly is something for everyone! 

Where to Stay: Humbird

Humbird is a modern, boutique-style hotel at Schweitzer, offering a sleek yet cozy alpine retreat. Designed with Scandinavian-inspired architecture, Humbird blends contemporary luxury with the warmth of a mountain lodge.

Amenities at Humbird include ski-in/ski-out access, a rooftop hot tub with beautiful views of Lake Pend Oreille, a fitness center, and a stylish lounge area with a fireplace. The hotel also features an on-site restaurant, Crow’s Bench, known for its upscale, locally sourced cuisine. Guests can enjoy heated gear storage, complimentary breakfast, and access to Schweitzer’s extensive ski and snowboard terrain.

Where to Eat + Drink

Crow’s Bench: Upscale dining inside Humbird Hotel with a seasonal menu, high quality meats, and craft cocktails. We recommend the bison chili, the lamb shank, and the pecan and walnut pie!

Chimney Rock Grill: Cozy bar & grill in the heart of Schweitzer Village. Recommendations: rosemary baguette with whipped blue cheese, grilled top sirloin with caramelized onion butter, and pappardelle with roasted butternut squash.

The Nest at Sky House: Intimate mountain-top restaurant with unbeatable views and delicious cocktails! We recommend the stuffed mushrooms, the Philly jack sandwich, and the chow mein.

Gourmandie: Artisanal meats & cheeses, sandwiches, flatbreads, and the mountain’s best selection of beer and wine. It’s also a wine and gift shop! We love the prosciutto and goat cheese flatbread and the ‘Down the Hatch’ sandwich.

Lakeview Cafe: Cafeteria-style dining with all the classic breakfast and lunch favorites, and beautiful views of Lake Pend Oreille. We recommend the chorizo burrito, the caramel apple French toast, and the spicy chicken sandwich.

Tap’s Bar: Schweitzer’s prime après spot with live music, big screen TVs, pool tables, a stage, and a dance floor. Tap’s is 21+ and has a full bar plus 20+ beers on a tap. Food is available from Sam’s Alley, which offers pizzas, sandwiches, and apps.

Powder Hound Pizza: A local favorite for pizza, beer, and lake views. They also have a variety of salads and appetizers. We love going with a classic pepperoni pie, but for something more unique try the spicy Thai pizza.

Activities

Skiing & Snowboarding: Over 2,900 acres of skiable terrain, renowned tree skiing, and an additional 4,350 acres of backcountry terrain. There is also twilight skiing available!

Snowmobiling: Schweitzer Backcountry Adventures offers two distinct guided snowmobile tours for everyone in your group to enjoy a unique adventure just beyond the resort boundaries. There are half day and full day snowmobile tours offered.

Snowshoeing: You can explore on your own or enjoy a guided snowshoe hike with a guide. Guided hikes include Hermit’s Hollow, Summit, and Moonlight.

Cambium Spa: Located in Schweitzer Village, Cambium Spa offers therapeutic massages including a Himalayan salt stone massage, infrared therapy, facials, yoga, Pilates, and more. We highly recommend the salt stone massage!

Nordic skiing: Schweitzer’s Nordic trails provide 32 kilometers of fun, challenging terrain, and spectacular views in every direction. The trails are groomed to accommodate skiers of all levels. 

Snow Tubing: Schweitzer’s tubing park has two lanes of sliding fun that stretch over 100 yards. Slide on down then sit back and relax as you get pulled back up to the top. 

Beyond skiing and snowboarding, Schweitzer has great backcountry access, Nordic trails, and a growing après-ski scene. The combination of epic views, excellent snow conditions, and a low-key, uncrowded feel makes it a top choice for a Pacific Northwest ski getaway.