Cover photo courtesy of Silver Mountain

Sunny spring conditions and frequent March and April storms often deliver some of the best days of the season, so don’t put your gear in storage just yet. End your season in celebratory fashion with a fun spring event or two and plenty of good mountain vibes. Find details and operation schedule updates online. 

49° North Mountain Resort (Chewelah, Wash.) 

• March 6: One complimentary lift ticket for each Toyota vehicle driver for Toyota Free Ski Friday plus party on the deck.  

• March 8: Chewelah Peak Challenge Fat Tire Bike Race, in partnership with North Division Bicycle, includes demo bike (with registration fee) and 7 k race, conditions permitting. 

• March 14: Seafood Boil family-style lunch.  

• March 21: Annual Hawaiian Daze features a full day of competitions including snow golf, scavenger hunt, poker run, costume contest, Slush Cup and more. Proceeds benefit 49’s volunteer ski patrol and mountain host programs. 
  
  

Mt. Spokane Ski & Snowboard Park (Spokane, Wash.) 

• March 7: Getting Down to Vizziness, a terrain park two-hour jam session with host and judge Pro Rider Austin Visintainer.  

• March 14: Final night ski includes Wild Mike’s Rail Jam event—a collaboration with Wild Mike’s Pizza, providing $10 off night-ski pizza-box coupons—and Après After Dark Party. 

• March 20: Toyota Free Ski Friday—one complimentary lift ticket for each Toyota vehicle driver; must arrive before 1 p.m. to receive lift ticket from Toyota reps in parking lot of Lodge 2.  

• April 8-12: Youth ages 17 and younger ski free during spring break.  

Schweitzer Mountain Resort (Sandpoint, Idaho) 

• March 21: Celebrate the first-ever Pride On the Mountain event, in partnership with Sandpoint Alliance for Equality (SAFE). Schedule includes Rainbow Ridge Ski Parade and evening drag show. 

• March 27: Discounted lift tickets for annual Community Day. 

• March 28-29: Snow Ghost Banked Slalom competition, in collab with 7B Boardshop. Fundraiser for Bonner County Skatepark Association. 

• April 4: Hillside Hustle rider-choice grassroots events.  

• April 12: Closing day—details TBA online. 
  
  

Silver Mountain Resort (Kellogg, Idaho) 

• March 7: Doug E. Fresh Banked Slalom for snowboarders—11^th annual fundraiser for the Doug Johnson Memorial Fund. Stick around for Ski Bum Prom (costumes encouraged) with night skiing til 6 p.m. and party at Moguls. 

• March 13: Toyota Free Ski Friday.  

• March 14 and April 18: Hang out with Silver Mountain ski patrollers and their avy dogs during Jackass Apres Club nights, 6:30-9:30 p.m., at The Beanery (446 Railroad Ave), less than a mile from base village. 

• March 21: Marchi Gras (not a typo) is like Mardi Gras but at Silver Mountain—bead necklaces provided at the gondola base and New Orleans-inspired food atop the mountain.  

• March 28-29: Silver Cup Ski Race—register online. 

• April 4: Jackass Rain Jam with free day-of registration at Chair 2 Terrain Park (starting at 11:45 a.m.).  

• April 11: Who doesn’t love a Pond Skim?! Silver’s first and only previous event was in 2019, so this is kinda a big deal. No fee to participate. 

• April 18: Leadman Triathlon, presented by Dave Smith GMC, is the annual charity fundraiser adventure tri—ski, bike, run—for teams and individual racers.  

Lookout Pass Ski Area (Mullan, Idaho) 

• March 7: Season Pass Holder Appreciation Day with a parking lot party, 4-6 p.m. 

• March 27: Toyota drivers ski or ride free for Toyota Free Ski Friday. 

• March 29: Lookout’s annual freestyle Rail Jam (11 a.m.-3 p.m.) includes divisions for all ages and skill levels plus prizes. Great spectator event! 

• April 4: Bring your own club to play nine holes on America’s only snow golf course! Free to play for all ages; course open noon-3 p.m. 

• April 5: Easter Egg Hunt while you ride the slopes—all ages with one-egg limit per person. All eggs include candy and prize-winning number opportunity. 

• April 10: Ski/ride free at Lookout Pass for Parker Subaru Experience the Outdoors Day with a free voucher provided in person at Parker Subaru in Coeur d’Alene (limited availability). Bring voucher to the mountain ticket booth to redeem for a free lift ticket valid only for April 10.  

• April 12: Dress festive for Lookout’s annual Hawaiian Luau day, which includes a Cardboard Box Derby where participants use sleds made entirely of cardboard and duct tape.  
  
  

Whitefish Mountain Resort (Whitefish, Mont.) 

• March 14-15: Two-day event and one of the longest-running of its kind in North America, the 27^th annual Nate Chute Banked Slalom & Boardercross Competition raises funds for the Nate Chute Foundation dedicated to youth suicide prevention. 

• March 21: DREAM Adaptive Shred Fest for all abilities includes vertical or adventure challenge event and fundraiser to support adaptive recreation opportunities in Flathead Valley. 

• March 28: Corn Cup Slopestyle—skier and snowboarder freestyle competition.  

• March 28: Sample regional brews at Spring Brewfest and enjoy music and food trucks in the resort village. 

• March 29: Women-only event for all skill levels (includes trans women and non-binary riders) for the Lady Power Park Hour, noncompetitive slopestyle event to build terrain park confidence and community.  

• April 4: Classic Pond Skim competition with cash prize.  

Big White Ski Resort (Kelowna, BC) 

• Tuesdays through March 17: Ski BINGO—Pick up a bingo card from the village and mark off while hitting the slopes, noon-3:30 p.m.  

• Thursdays through March 19: Twinkling Trail in Happy Valley—group walk after paper lantern craft activity.  

• March 21-22: Loose Moose Challenge inspires terrain coverage to find hidden letters to reveal a mystery word for a prize.  

• Fridays through March 27: Tube & Groove at the snow-tubing park and dance party with resort mascot Loose Moose.  

• Saturday nights: Carnivals at Village Centre through March 28 and weekly fireworks shows through April 4. 

• April 5: Easter Egg Hunt throughout the Village on Easter Sunday, 9-10 a.m., with a designated area for kids age 5 and younger. Bigger kids can search for hidden “chicks” to claim for treats.  
  
  

RED Mountain Resort (Rossland, BC) 

• March 14-15: Rattlecat Cup is a two-day banked slalom race, all ages and skill levels. 

• March 22: Park Project Rail Jam is a low-pressure session for all abilities (ages 7+) with a supportive community to promote skill progression. Open to skiers, snowboarders and snowskaters.  

• March 28: Bring your dog to the slopes for the 5^th annual Wiener Take All, a canine race event with prizes. 

• April 4: Slush Cup to go big and win prizes. 

Whitewater Mountain Resort (Nelson, BC) 

• March (every weekend): Spring Music Series—live music performances at the resort village throughout March.  

• March 21-22: Blast Beerfest—celebrate local breweries and cideries with samples in Whitewater’s on-the-snow beer garden; enjoy live music and scenic views of Ymir Peak.  

Former junior high Ski Club member Amy McCaffree now stays on the groomers but still downhill skis with her husband and their two kids, now teenagers, who ski much faster than she ever will again—and she’s okay with that. 

The post Chase the Spring Snow Festivals, Races and Pond Skims Across the Region  appeared first on Out There Venture.

Remember when winter used to be pure fun? When snow days meant skipping class, hot chocolate and laughing so hard your cheeks actually hurt? That kind of joy isn’t gone—you’ve just got to know where to find it.  

This winter, rediscover that feeling at Big White Ski Resort. Located just outside Kelowna, British Columbia, Big White is where adulting takes a back seat and real winter fun kicks in. Easy to get to, hard to leave, and built for skiers, snowboarders and families who want more than just great snow—they want great memories. 

From Washington to Big White in Under Five Hours 

With direct flights from Seattle to Kelowna International Airport (YLW), Big White is one of the most accessible international ski destinations from Washington state. Skip the long drives and border waits—just hop on a 1.5-hour flight, then let the Big White official airport shuttle handle the rest. In under an hour, you’re pulling up to the resort. 

Prefer to drive? From Washington, Big White is just 4.5 to 6 hours away. Coming from Spokane? Head up U.S. 395, cross at Laurier, then cruise BC 33 from Rock Creek straight to Big White Road. Driving from Seattle or western Washington? Cross at Peace Arch, Pacific Highway or Oroville, then follow BC 97 through Kelowna to BC 33. Smooth roads, stunning views and a drive that hits just right. Just don’t forget your passport. 

Pro tip: Book through Big White Central Reservations for a five-night stay and get the Fly & Ski Free deal—your lift ticket on arrival day is free. You could literally be skiing in just over an hour after clearing customs. 

Ski-In, Ski-Out Living Means No Wasted Time 

Big White isn’t just partly ski-in, ski-out—it’s entirely ski-in, ski-out. Every lodge, condo and cabin connects directly to the slopes or is a short walk to the lifts. You’ll spend more time on snow and less time wrangling gear and finding parking. Prefer to have a car? There’s ample free parking and many accommodations come with dedicated spots. But honestly, once you’re here, you won’t need it. Big White is designed so you can ditch the keys and focus on the important stuff—like first tracks and après cocktails. 

Your Dollar Goes Further in Canada 

Big White is in British Columbia, which means your U.S. dollar stretches further. Factor in the favorable exchange rate and you’re saving without even trying. That après beer? Cheaper. That extra ski day? More doable. Looking for a deal? Check out Sundance Resort’s “Buy 3, Get 4 Free” offer—stylish, spacious accommodations with pools, hot tubs, steam rooms and underground parking. You also get ski/snowboard storage and access to grocery delivery. It’s luxury without the markup. 

Family-Friendly, Without the Chaos 

Big White is proudly family-owned, and it shows. The vibe is friendly, down-to-earth and refreshingly unpretentious. You won’t find ego here—just great snow, helpful staff and tons of ways to make life easy for parents. The Kids’ Centre Ski/Ride Valet handles lesson logistics so you can ski without juggling schedules. For littles too young to hit the slopes, Tot Town Daycare is a lifesaver—safe, warm and staffed by pros. Whether your kids are learning pizza turns or just chasing Loose Moose around the tubing park, they’re in good hands. 

Beyond the Slopes 

While the Okanagan champagne powder gets the spotlight, Big White stands out for delivering so much more than just great snow. Sure, the powder is legendary, but the off-slope activities keep the fun going all day and night. Skate on North America’s highest outdoor rink, race down the tubing hill, ride through the snow on a horse-drawn sleigh or take a snowmobile tour through the backcountry. Unwind at the Spa at Stonebridge or glide through the forest on a dog sled ride—it’s all part of the adventure. 

Night skiing runs Tuesday through Saturday and covers the largest lit terrain in Western Canada. There’s also a new Slopeside Arcade under the Snow Ghost—27 classic and modern games that are as fun for adults as they are for kids. And yes, Loose Moose, Big White’s iconic mascot, is still out there making memories and photobombs. 

Eat, Drink, and Be Cozy 

Hungry? Big White’s food scene hits every craving. Grab comfort food at Underground Pizza, treat the kids to iconic pink donuts at The Bullwheel, or go upscale with a night out at 6 Degrees Bistro, Sopra: Sam’s Italian Kitchen or the new Kettle Valley Steakhouse. 

Want to keep it cozy in your condo? The Market at Big White has everything you need for home-cooked meals—and offers delivery straight to your door. Local wine, live music, craft beer and seasonal menus round out a food scene that punches well above its weight. It’s not just fuel—it’s part of the experience. 

Ready for a Grown-Up Winter Break? 

Here’s the bottom line: Big White makes it easy to say yes to winter. No long-haul flights, no long queues, no rental car headaches, no logistics to untangle. Just grab your gear, make the easy drive or catch a short flight, and let the resort handle the rest. 

With ski-in, ski-out access, family-first amenities and genuine Canadian hospitality, Big White isn’t just a resort—it’s a full-on reset. The kind of place where everyone—parents, kids, couples, groups of friends—can unplug, unwind and actually have fun again. 

Lock in the best rates and serious perks at bigwhite.com. Book now, head north and let Big White do the rest. 

Sponsored

The post Big Snow. Bigger Laughs. Welcome to Big White.  appeared first on Out There Venture.

Gearing up for a season of skiing or snowboarding can be affordable, especially if you know where to look. By mid-winter, with ski swaps behind us, your best bet for finding deals on all the equipment and outerwear necessary to get out in the mountains with your family is to check out the region’s two used-gear shops or to rent or lease an entire ski setup. You can spend hours on Facebook Marketplace, but with options like these, you no longer have to. 

“What I really came to recognize is that skiing can be an expensive sport, but it doesn’t have to be.” Gear Garage owner Matt Dingman 

The Making of a Used-Gear Peddler 

Growing up, Lake City local Matt Dingman worked with his family in the antique business and was accustomed to bargain hunting at garage and estate sales. So it was a natural fit for him to found Coeur d’Alene’s only shop that specializes in used ski and snowboard equipment and other outdoor gear.  

It all started when Dingman heard through his sons’ ski race team that another family was selling a bunch of kids’ gear. They met in the Silver Mountain parking lot, and Dingman came home with more than he’d bargained for. “I bought everything they had. I kept what I needed for my kids and threw the rest on Craigslist.” Dingman sold it all in one weekend and realized he was onto something. He went back to his antique hounding, but now with an eye for picking up ski gear. 

At first, Dingman says he made enough selling online to offset the cost of his kids’ ski racing and family gear and passes. Dingman gained a reputation around town as the guy who sold gear out of his garage. His operation quickly snowballed, and he started buying larger quantities of rental and demo ski and snowboard equipment. Then, one day, a company he’d been working with in Jackson Hole offered up their entire inventory. “I picked up the biggest U-Haul I could and drove it all back to Coeur d’Alene.” He soon grew out of his own garage and chanced upon the ideal spot for his now 3,200-square-foot shop in downtown Coeur d’Alene in November 2022.  

The Gear Garage specializes in used winter sports gear but also has a large selection of new equipment. You can find new and used skis, snowboards, boots, bindings and poles as well as new and used goggles, new gloves, new helmets, some used jackets and ski pants and many other new accessories. Gear Garage also buys quality used equipment and takes trade-ins. “Families love it,” Dingman said. “Every year they come in and trade out gear as the kids grow and get credit toward another pair.” The shop’s new inventory includes the full 2025–26 lineup from Blizzard, Völkl, Nordica, Icelantic, Never Summer and other top brands. They also have a great deal on full-season ski or snowboard rentals with sizes from youth to adult, starting at $129. Geargaragecda.com 

Save Big at Spokane’s Evergreen Gear Exchange 

Spokane’s Evergreen Gear Exchange, which opened in the spring of 2025, specializes in quality used outdoor gear, including ski and snowboard equipment, accessories and outerwear. Located just off I-90 near downtown Spokane (1003 E. Trent Ave.), the shop operates under the same consignment model as Spokane’s previous used-gear shop, Rambleraven. New gear gets consigned daily, and a budget-minded family would be wise to make the shop their first stop when gearing up for winter sports for adults and kids. 

If you have gently used gear collecting dust in your garage, take it down to the shop. “We know there is a huge demand for ski and snowboard equipment, especially kids’ stuff,” said co-owner James Nisbet. “If you have ski or snowboard gear, we encourage you to bring it down. We want to help you get it out of storage and into the hands of someone who can use it.” As an outdoor family with three kids, the Nisbets have experienced firsthand how challenging it can be to outfit a family for outdoor sports and are proud to offer the Spokane community affordable gear options that let more people enjoy the outdoors. Evergreengearexchange.com 

Lease Kids’ Ski Equipment at Spokane Alpine Haus and Save 

One of the simplest and most affordable ways to get kids set up with ski gear is to lease it for the whole season. Kids grow fast, making buying and selling new ski gear each year a hassle and a drain on your wallet. Leasing also allows your child to use the same gear all winter long without having to rent and adapt to different skis and boots each outing. Spokane Alpine Haus offers the only kids’ ski-equipment season-lease program in Spokane, with more new equipment added this season. Starting at $160 for a complete setup, the lease ensures a comfortable, safe fit. Stop by either the South Hill or North Spokane Alpine Haus location to get your child fitted for their skis, boots, bindings and poles. Reserve your leased ski gear early for best selection. Thespokanealpinehaus.com 

The post Where to Find Affordable Family Ski and Snowboard Gear in the Inland Northwest appeared first on Out There Venture.

By Brad Naccarato 

The first snowflakes of the 2025-26 season have already started accumulating at area resorts. Stoke is high, and the general feeling is that this could be another stellar year in the mountains. If you’ve made the decision to finally upgrade your ride or style, local shops stock some of the hottest new gear of the season. These are a few of their season favorites. 

Solnix (Spokane on North Division)     

Solnix (previously Shred Sports) continues to grow both its hard- and soft-good lines offered throughout the store. With a full-service ski and snowboard tech center already in place, they’ve got big plans for next year to add a rental fleet.   

If you’re looking to upgrade your skis this year, take a look at the Armada ARV. “Armada is really killing it this year with their all-mountain ski lineup,” said Solnix sales associate Dax Murrell. “It’s a versatile one-ski quiver with tip and tail rocker that moves easily from groomers to powder.” The ARV is offered in 95, 100, or 106 millimeters at the waist. The men’s ski retails for $699 and the women’s for $599. 

On the snowboard side of things, the patented new FASE step-in binding system is taking the snowboard world by storm. It’s now being utilized by several binding manufacturers for the 25/26 season. One of those leading the pack is the ROME Katana. “It’s like a standard highback, two-buckle binding, but with the added advantage of being able to slide in or out of it super quick,” said Murrell. The Katana uses a hinging high back mechanism that enables the user to step-in without completely disengaging the buckles. “There are no drawbacks like with the old step-in systems of snowboarding’s early days. You still have the great edge control of a standard high-back binding, but now the ease of use that comes with a step-in system.” The Katana retails for $429. 

Need some new goggles? Oakley is charging hard this year with its 50th anniversary collection. “Oakley has what it calls the ‘perfect lens’ with zero distortion and an enhanced field of view,” said Murrell. “They also use Switchlock tech, so you can swap out lenses super quick based on conditions.” The Oakley Line Miner Pro goggles retail for $317 and come with two sets of lenses.  

Alpine Haus (North Spokane and South Hill) 

Alpine Haus is celebrating the one-year anniversary of their new Northside location, in addition to the 10^th anniversary of the current owners taking over and revitalizing the long-standing Alpine Haus shop on the South Hill. Alpine Haus continues its tradition of investing in future skiers and riders with the ever-popular bargain season-lease program for $159 for kids or $259 for adults.  

Looking for a different type of snowboard boot? The Union Reset Pro might scratch the itch. “The Reset is really a revolutionary new boot in that it’s built to last 100 plus days, much like a ski boot, with a durable outer shell and BOA tech for a locked-in fit,” said store manager Chad Ohman. “They’re a higher price-point boot, but they’re handcrafted in Italy and are fully heat moldable,” he added. The Reset Pro comes in at $649.  

On the ski boot front, Armada is making waves with its new AR One freeride boots. “It’s similar to the old Full-Tilt style boots, but it utilizes a ‘slingshot’ buckle across the ankle that operates through a cable pulley at a 45-degree angle, locking you tight into the heel pocket,” said Ohman. “With Salomon and Atomic under the same parent company, Armada was able to lean on a lot of tech from their sibling companies in the development of this boot.” The AR is offered in a 90/100/110/120/130 flex. Prices range from $450-$875.  

Most people overlook socks, but you don’t want to look past Le Bent’s line of Pro-Series socks. “Le Bent uses traditional merino wool, but, instead of blending it with polyester, they use bamboo, which gives them an amazingly soft feel,” Ohman said. “They recently surveyed 120 of the best boot fitters around the country and 100 of them said Le Bent was their go-to sock.” Le Bent offers several cushion levels ranging in price from $42-$44. 

Escape Outdoors (Coeur d’Alene) 

Nestled in the heart of the Village at Riverstone, Escape Outdoors has been supplying Coeur d’Alene’s skiers and riders with stylish, high-end outdoor apparel and accessories for the last 17 years. Founded locally in 2004, Escape also operates a Bellevue, Wash., location.  

As one of the oldest outdoor apparel manufacturers in the world, Helly Hansen has been outfitting adventurers since 1877. They know a thing or two about what works. As one of the region’s only Helly dealers, Escape’s assistant manager, Ashley Taylor, is hyped for their new Legendary Pant for women. “It’s a breathable, lightweight, waterproof pant that’s just a great all-around ski piece for ladies,” said Taylor. “The best part though is the PrimaLoft insulation that gives you that extra bit of warmth on those super chilly days,” she adds. The Legend retails for $205.  

Norrona, a Norwegian-based company, has been a rising star in the American outdoor apparel industry. While they might not be on most American’s radar yet, they’ve been a big player in the Northern European market for decades. “We just started carrying Norrona this year and I’m very excited about their Lofoten Pro Gore-Tex Freeride Jacket,” Taylor said. “It comes in some really unique colorways and it’s also got all the bells and whistles—zip-off powder skirt, pit zips and a helmet-compatible hood.” With an elite level of 3-layer Gore-Tex protection, the Lofoten retails for $899.  

On the accessory side of things, Autumn’s new winter beanie collection has been a best seller at Escape. “Autumn has a really diverse collection with lots of cool patterns to choose from. They are super comfy and super popular,” said Taylor. Autumn’s new winter collection of beanies retails from $24-$28. 

Ski Shack (Hayden) 

Ski Shack has been serving the Hayden community and well beyond for almost 50 years. A full-service ski and snowboard shop, they also have rental and demo options available. You’ll also find a large assortment of soft goods and accessories packed into their eclectic shop on Government Way. 

Year after year, Nordica always hauls in the ski-test awards with the Enforcer line-up. This year is no exception. “They did a slight re-design on the ski, making it a little lighter and a little more flexible,” said ski tech Carson Dowell. “It’s the most versatile and advanced all-mountain ski that Nordica has ever made, and it continues to dominate the market,” he added. New for this year, the Nordica Enforcer now comes in waist widths of 89/94/99/104. It retails from $849-$899. 

For snowboards, Dowell is pretty high on the new Nitro Alternator. “It’s a lot of value for the money. It’s got an 8 flex, with a big spooned-out nose, so it’s more of an all-mountain board but still rides really good in powder,” he said. As the region’s only Nitro dealer, Ski Shack has the Alternator listed at $579.  

2-Wheeler & Ski Dealer (Hayden) 

2-Wheeler has been a staple in the Nordic gear department for folks over in Hayden for decades. For this upcoming season, the shop is not carrying any new in-line Nordic products, but they still have a great selection of skis, boots and bindings from last season.  

If you’re looking for a whole new setup, it’s hard to beat Rossignol’s BC 65 ski/binding combo. “Rossi’s BC 65 is our bestselling setup because it works great for on-track snow but will go anywhere off-track you’re willing to take it,” said assistant manager Pat Hutchins. “The waxless Positrack base makes it super grippy for small climbs when you need it,” he added. The BC retails for $399 (with Nordic bindings).  

If you’re going to spring for new skis, you might as well go all-in and grab a new pair of boots like the Rossignol BC X5 women’s or BC X6 men’s boot, designed specifically to pair with the BC line of skis. They retail for $199 and $225, respectively.  

Gear Garage (Coeur d’Alene) 

Located in the heart of downtown Coeur d’Alene, Gear Garage has become the go-to place for used ski and snowboard equipment but they also sell and demo new equipment and are the area’s only dealer for Icelantic skis and Never Summer snowboards.  

Owner Matt Dingman is super excited about the shop’s new demo ski packages they now have in stock. “We’ve got a ton of Völkl, Nordica and Blizzard demo skis on the wall this year. These are this year’s models and many of them have only been on snow a handful of times, and some are brand new,” said Dingman. “You’ll save up to 30% off with these models since they are considered used by the manufacturer since they’ve been mounted,” he added. Prices range from $479-$1,039 (price includes a mounted demo binding). 

Alpine Shop (Sandpoint) 

Serving Sandpoint since 1966, Alpine Shop operates both a downtown store and a mountaintop location in Schweitzer Village. Both shops offer full-service ski and snowboard tuning as well as custom boot fitting.  

If you’re looking for that groomed snow, all-star performer, the Stökli Stormrider 88 has been one of the shop’s bestselling skis. “It’s a pure hand-made Swiss ski that’s nimble, versatile, and really knows no speed limit,” said general manager Andre Bircher. “It loves to run on the groomers, but really can be skied anywhere,” he added. The Storm Rider retails at $1,439. 

If battery-powered, heated accessories are your thing, Alpine Shop has several new offerings from Thermic, one of the pioneers of heated footbed technology. “Thermic now has rechargeable, heated base layers, glove liners and socks. These are the kinds of things that really come in handy on those cold January days,” he said. Thermic’s heated gloves retail for $339. 

Outdoor Experience (Sandpoint) 

This downtown Sandpoint shop has always been the city’s primary Nordic ski shop. They also offer a full line of winter apparel from many of the industry’s top manufacturers. On the hard goods side, they are strong believers in the Rossignol BC setups, which have always been big sellers. 

On the soft goods side of things, Outdoor Experience sales associate Hank Graves loves the new Deviator Hoody from Outdoor Research. “It’s a super breathable, fast-drying midlayer, but can be used as an outer layer on nicer days,” he said. “It’s a very versatile soft-shell piece that’s well suited for the aerobic demands of backcountry skiing.”  

If you want to match the bottom with the top, then you’ll want to grab the Deviator Wind Pants as well. “These are athletic, softshell wind pants. Together, these two make for a killer combo that’ll have you covered in all but the most extreme conditions,” Graves added. The Deviator Hoody and Pants retail for $229 and $139, respectively.

The post 2025–26 Winter Gear Preview: Local Shop Favorites Across the Inland Northwest appeared first on Out There Venture.

For Ben and Kacey Deakins, owners of Solnix, running a local gear shop is just a way to tap into what they really love: the passionate outdoors community of Spokane. Have just one conversation with either of them, as we did one morning this fall, and you can sense their love for that community and how it translates to a great gear shop culture. 

The Deakins have been at the helm of Solnix, formerly known as Shred Sports, since December 2023. “Sol” means sun, “nix” means snow, and the cross-season nod in Latin isn’t just indicative of the gear options you can find in the shop; Ben and Kacey do all the sports in all the seasons, which has included teaching their five kids to snowboard on local mountains. It puts them in a prime position to curate and recommend top-of-the-line gear that will perform for their customers, like kids’ gear designed to expand as kids grow.  

Ben’s roots with the shop go back to the mid-90s, when he got a job as a teen at what was then called Sports Outlet. The shop sported a neon color scheme and discount gear that had been over-manufactured. Kacey, who he was dating at the time, drove him to his work shifts on Argonne from Deer Park, because he didn’t have a car. Ben left the shop for a career in the corporate world in the early 2000s but often still took shifts when he was back in town for seasonal stints. Even when he traveled for his full-time job, shop culture was on his radar; he stopped in at gear shops across the country to check out the offerings and chat with employees. “I like to talk about gear. That’s always been a part of my life,” says Ben. 

Josh, the shop manager at Solnix, walked in for the morning, and Ben paused our interview to introduce us. Josh gave a wave and headed to the back of the shop to get ready for the day.  

During his travels, Ben noticed that some shops had a far more welcoming atmosphere than others. In late 2022, when the opportunity arose for Ben to take the lead at Shred Sports, he knew the type of shop culture he wanted to continue.  

“The overwhelming trend when you go into another shop [can be that] you just don’t feel like you’re welcome. You’re not core enough, not wearing the right clothes, or maybe you don’t look like you have enough money, whatever that is. As the leader of the shop, I feel like overall the culture and the vibe of the shop is that anyone can walk through that door and be welcome. Our employees are valued and shown that they matter to the business,” he says.  

Ben’s oldest son, Rome, walked in for his shift. Ben paused our interview to put us on a first-name basis and told a story about buying snow gear for Rome that lasted through all five kids.  

Solnix is a family affair: Kacey works side by side with Ben, and most of their kids have pulled time behind the counter. It’s a metaphor for how rooted Solnix is in the local outdoors community. They treat other members of that community like family.  

To support that larger community, Ben and Kacey started an annual parking lot movie night each November, a kickoff to winter that raises funds for the Idaho Panhandle Avalanche Center (IPAC). They’ve continued the employee mountain party that the shop has historically hosted, a private event for employees of the four local mountains—ski patrol members and lifties alike—to gather at the shop for food, beer, prizes, and a special discount on brand-new gear, so even teen employees can have a shot at getting outfitted in the best brands. “I think that’s one of the real flagship events for the shop, where it’s just to give back,” says Ben. “It’s to show appreciation for them keeping the mountains open, and it’s a fun night.”  

Connor walked in for his shift a bit before opening time, 9 a.m., and Ben again paused to introduce us, greeting him by first name like he did each employee.  

Solnix offers first responders and ski patrol members discounts year-round to help stoke the backbone of the outdoors industry they love. They’ve also continued the Out Cold event, an early December party (held Dec. 9 at Brickwest Brewing this year) that shows the “super cheesy” ‘90s snowboarding movie and offers attendees raffle prizes and free ski and board waxings, with funds donated to a local snowboard and ski nonprofit like IPAC or Mt. Spokane Ski Patrol. This year, it will be IPAC, which lost some of its funding from federal budget cuts.  

“I love Spokane,” says Ben. “We were born and raised in this area. And I know it gets a lot of shade, but it’s a great town. We have such abundant access to outdoor activities that there’s hardly a place around that could parallel it. I love the community, and I want people to do these sports, not just as a business.” 

Check out the Deakins’ curated gear and culture at Solnix at 4505 N. Division St. in Spokane. And don’t be surprised if you leave knowing a few names of the people working at the shop, supporting the outdoors industry we all love.  

The post Solnix Gear Shop: Building Outdoor Community and Curated Gear in Spokane appeared first on Out There Venture.

Ski the NW Rockies programs make family skiing more affordable. 

These programs sponsored by Ski the NW Rockies resorts in Washington and Idaho will change the way your family thinks about winter. Spend time outdoors together and save money with free skiing or snowboarding for 5^th graders and these affordable, all-inclusive learn-to-ski or snowboard programs.  

EZ Ski or Ride 1-2-3 Program  

Kids and parents can learn to ski or ride in three days with lift tickets, rentals and lessons. 

The EZ Ski or Ride 1-2-3 program makes learning to ski or snowboard for the very first time affordable and easy for kids and parents. All four Ski the NW Rockies association resorts offer a three-visit package to first-timers at an incredible price ($199 and up) that includes three lift tickets, three rentals (boots, poles, skis or snowboard), and three lessons (ages, prices and details vary by resort).  

How It Works: Pick one of the participating ski areas (Lookout Pass, Mt. Spokane, Silver Mountain or 49 Degrees North) where you want to sign up. Purchase the EZ Ski or Ride 1-2-3 package by calling the ski area to purchase your package and schedule the lessons. Then show up the day of the first lesson with plenty of time to get fitted for your rental gear. Your child (and maybe you) will be on your way to learning to ski or snowboard! More info at Skinwrockies.com. 

5^th Grade Ski or Ride Free Passport 

Fifth graders can ski or ride for free all season at four Ski the NW Rockies resorts. 

This popular program helps get 5th graders out on the slopes for free for three full days at each participating resort (some blackout dates may apply). To participate, parents need to submit an application with a $30.27 one-time processing and convenience fee at Skinwrockies.com/5th-grade-ski-passport. A parent or guardian must be present at the mountain’s ticket offices to receive your child’s lift ticket. 

How It Works: Submit your application and pay the processing fee online. You’ll receive an email with your passport that can be used to claim up to three lift tickets at Lookout Pass, Mt. Spokane, Silver Mountain and 49 Degrees North. You can either print the passport and bring it with you or pull it up on your phone to present it at the ticket office. Check with the specific ski area for full details. Visit Skinwrockies.com for details. 

Sponsored

The post Affordable Family Ski Programs in the Inland Northwest: EZ Ski and 5th Grade Free Passport appeared first on Out There Venture.

SNEVA MFG Skis

Win a Toyota-branded pair of skis from Spokane’s SNEVA MFG that are handmade in the USA! SNEVA makes around 1,000 premium skis or snowboards in a year so this grand prize will deliver some smiles.

Lift Tickets to Inland NW Resorts

We are giving away one lift ticket to one of the five Inland NW resorts to each of our three prize package winners!

 

 

Alpine Tune w/Stone Grind from Two Wheeler & Ski Dealer

One winner will get their boards tuned on the house courtesy of Hayden, Idaho’s Two Wheeler & Ski Dealer! ($60 value) 

One lucky winner will pick up a Swix North Tune ski/board tune kit and some other gear from Spokane Alpine Haus! 

Two winners will enjoy a night’s stay for two people at the Wallace Inn in historic Wallace, Idaho, PLUS two lift tickets to Lookout Pass! Enjoy historic, walkable Wallace and the town’s excellent eateries, breweries and bars after a day on the slopes!

One winner will score up to $500 redeemable towards any in-stock snowboard or skis (men’s or women’s, any size) that they have down at the Solnix shop in Spokane on Division Street! To illustrate how this killer prize could work, if you choose a $450 board, you pay nothing, or alternately, if you pick a $700 pair of skis, you would only pay $200. And so forth.  

Each of our three lucky winners will score a $100 gift card to Solnix ski & snowboard shop in Spokane courtesy of Out There Venture!

Each sweepstakes winner will receive 2 tickets to the Spokane Great Outdoors Expo happening Feb. 21-22, 2026 or the 2027 event.

Crazy Creek from Red Lodge, Montana, makes awesome outdoor adventure chairs, and two winners will take home either a Hex Original chair or a Rachel Pohl Snow Ghosts Hex Original chair plus a Crazy Creek hat.

The post Toyota Get Out There Winter Sweepstakes 2025/2026 appeared first on Out There Venture.

Ski and Outdoor Gear Swaps: One of the best ways to outfit kids and adults with gently-used skis and snowboard equipment, boots, outerwear and more, you can also sell your used gear at these swaps. The regional ski swap season kicks off Oct. 18 with the 49° North Ski Swap at the Colville Fairgrounds. The Mt. Spokane Ski Patrol Ski Swap follows Oct. 25–26 at the Spokane Fair & Expo Center. Find the final swaps of the season at the University of Idaho Nov. 6 in Moscow, Sandpoint’s SARS Ski Swap Nov. 8 at the Bonner County Fairgrounds and the Coeur d’Alene Ski Swap Nov. 15 at the Kootenai County Fairgrounds. 

Used Gear and Consignment Shops: Gear Garage in Coeur d’Alene has hundreds of used skis and snowboards and a wide range of other winter-sports gear for sale at its shop on Sherman Ave. Spokane’s Evergreen Gear Exchange at 1003 E. Trent Ave. also carries gently-used ski and snowboard equipment, accessories and outerwear. Both shops will have plenty of winter gear for bargain hunters to check out later this fall. 

Season Lease Equipment: Kids grow fast, making buying and selling new ski gear each year a waste of time and money. Spokane Alpine Haus offers the only kids’ ski equipment season-lease program in Spokane, with more new equipment added to the program this year. Starting at $160 for a complete setup, the lease ensures a comfortable, safe fit. Stop by either the South Hill or north Spokane Alpine Haus location to get your child fitted for their skis, boots, bindings and poles. Get your leased ski gear reserved early for best selection.  

Rental Gear: If you or your kids only plan to spend a few days on the mountain this winter, renting equipment at the ski area or from a local shop can be a much more affordable option than buying or leasing gear. 

The post Where to Find Gear on a Budget  appeared first on Out There Venture.

The Inland Northwest ski and snowboard scene is unique in that it still offers an affordable gateway for kids to learn to ski or snowboard. Parents can ski or snowboard with them, or even learn themselves for the first time, with relative affordability. These deals from the region’s five ski areas offer up a world of winter fun for the whole family on the mountain. 

5^th Graders Ski or Snowboard Free at Four Spokane-area Resorts 

The Ski the Northwest Rockies Association’s 5th Grade Ski & Ride Passport allows parents of any 5th grader across the region to apply to the program, which grants three complimentary days at each participating hill. That includes familiar names like 49 Degrees North near Chewelah, Wash.; Lookout Pass near Wallace, Idaho; Mt. Spokane just north of Spokane; and Silver Mountain in Kellogg, Idaho. The program opens up multiple options to introduce a 5^th grader to different local ski areas without paying for the student’s lift ticket (gear and lessons not included).  

To register, submit an application to Ski the Northwest Rockies and pay a $28 one-time processing fee. You’ll then receive a digital version of the passport that can be printed or shown on a phone at the ticket window (parent must be present). Blackout dates may apply; check participating resorts’ schedules for details. As a bonus, some ski areas include special deals on equipment rentals and lessons with the passport.  

The 5th Grade Passport Program is an incredible, once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to introduce your child—or your whole family—to exploring four of our region’s resorts on skis or a snowboard. Find more information or apply starting Oct. 1, 2025, at Skinwrockies.com. 

Free Skiing for 5th and 6th Graders at Schweitzer and Other Idaho Resorts 

Parents can also take advantage of Ski Idaho’s Peak Season Passport program for 5th and 6th graders to ski or snowboard multiple mountains for free. For a one-time $29 processing fee, the passport provides 5^th graders with three free lift tickets and 6th graders with two free lift tickets at each of 17 participating Idaho resorts, including Schweitzer, Silver Mountain and Lookout Pass (some blackout dates apply). Families don’t need to be an Idaho resident to take advantage of the program. Parents must be present with participating children and need to present their passport in print or on a phone. Find details and register at Skiidaho.us. 

The Most Incredible Learn-to-Ski Deal for Kids and Adults 

The four Ski the NW Rockies Association resorts around the Spokane area offer one of the most affordable and easy ways for kids or adults with no skiing or snowboarding experience to lock in an all-inclusive, total-beginner’s package. Sign yourself or your kids up and hit the slopes the right way for their first time. The EZ Ski 1-2-3 program is a three-visit package that bundles lessons, lift access and gear rental for one low price, typically $175-$300, depending on the resort.  

The package is available at all four participating association resorts—49 Degrees North, Lookout Pass, Mt. Spokane, and Silver Mountain. Typically, the first two days focus on beginner terrain and learning the basics, while the third may include exploring other areas of the mountain. The structured pace serves beginners of any age well—building skills, confidence and enjoyment in rhythm with the slopes. 

At the end of the program, some resorts offer a discounted season pass for participants to continue learning their new winter sport at a bargain rate. Each resort handles pricing, program details and scheduling availability slightly differently. Find program details and sign up at Skinwrockies.com. 

Sponsored by Ski the NW Rockies

The post Affordable Ways for Families to Hit the Slopes  appeared first on Out There Venture.

A few local powder chasers share what it’s like to travel for turns during the Inland Northwest summer months. The short answer? Pure magic. Here are their stories and a few tips on how to plan your own trip.  

Chasing Powder and Good Vibes in Chile and Argentina 

By T. Ghezzi  

 Chile, Argentina, the Andes Mountains, a rental truck, 1,800 miles of driving, four friends, eight different resorts, 15 days of riding, countless Royal Guards, asado, chimichurri, cactus, donkeys, woodfire stoves, DEEP pow, empanadas, snow parakeets, steep T-bars, lengthy pommel lifts, hot springs, foxes, sopapillas, active volcanoes, vibrant music, border crossings, and so much more.  

The vision of the trip was to chase powder all year round, ride new resorts, and soak in the culture and “buena onda” or “good vibes” wherever we went. 

  Leaving Spokane and flying into Santiago, Chile, in August 2024, the trip kicked off fast as we scooped up the rental truck, tossed our gear in the back, and headed northeast to stay in Los Andes. After spending a few days in the Andes Mountains east of Santiago, we cruised south to the Chilean mountain town of Las Trancas. Leaving Chile, we dropped southeast into Argentina and did some cat skiing. We then rented a house in the super cool lakeside town of Bariloche before drifting back west into Chile, exploring more resorts and ending in Puerto Montt for our return flight home 17 days later. 

  The first day on snow was a cat skiing trip with Ski Arpa. The operation is located two hours northeast of Santiago. The snow was horribly memorable, but our guides did their best to get us the goods. Thankfully, we did find pockets of soft snow later in the day as it warmed up. The biggest eye-opener was that the cat had no cabin or seats! Metal railings like a pen kept us “safe” as we stood in the elements, holding tight so we wouldn’t slide around once the cat started climbing up the steep terrain.  

  The next part of our trip led us to Tres Valles and we got skunked. With no new snow, flat light, and death ice, we explored the resort of La Parva. Storm tracking and intel from local guides had us eagerly opting to leave two days early to chase snow five hours south at Nevados de Chillán (and we scored big). The highlights of this part of the adventure were ripping runs with pro surfer Ivan Florence, mid-lodge beers, the sunset looking over the Santiago, dinner with Ivan and Alex Florence and catching lunch with Chilean pro snowboarder and backcountry guide JP Audisio, where I got to learn first-hand how he made his way to Stevens Pass and the Pacific Northwest. 

  Pivoting south to Nevados De Chillán was the right move. We stayed in the little mountain town of Las Trancas. I loved it there, as the vibe reminded me of a bigger Glacier, Wash. The night we arrived, Nevados De Chillán got dumped on and it continued through the next day, totaling more than two feet of cold smoke pow in just over 24 hours. The two days we rode there were insanely epic, and it would not have happened without our friend and local guide Sebastian. 

  In Argentina, we started off by staying at the bougie backcountry lodge of Baguales. The inclusive cat skiing operation is located in the northern region of Patagonia, and, because of its price and remoteness, we basically had everything to ourselves. We experienced all kinds of terrain with prime snow conditions. With no more than five of us in the cat, we were burning laps. In two days, we had 20 bumps in the cat and would have gotten even more runs if the second day didn’t start off with a wind and snow delay. 

  The laid-back vibe of Bariloche and quick access to Cerro Catedral made it easy to settle in for a week. La Laguna is a zone at Cerro Catedral that will forever live in my memory. It was a bluebird day when we hiked into this backcountry area. The giant amphitheater-shaped bowl surrounded us, and its towering rock spires seemed to fill the air with magic. Looking from below, I picked my line and boot packed to the rocky ridge above.  

The view from the sketchy ridge was next-level, providing a full panorama of Lake Nahuel Huapi and across the valley to the east. The terrain looked gnarly, with unrelentingly steep chutes slicing all the way down to the narrow valley below. Strapping in, I cautiously executed my first few turns before alternating my lane choice. Threading the needle of a rock section, I aimed for a sweet, wind-loaded drop that spit me out into the apron.  

  I must shout out to my travel friends—snowboarders Carl Montoya, Ashleigh Montoya, and Travis Knoop, from Wenatchee, Wash.—because this trip couldn’t have happened without them! For a deeper dive of the trip, please check out the Wild Cannons podcast, Episode 7 on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or YouTube.  

T. Ghezzi has been writing snowboard articles for Out There since 2018. Keep up with his adventures on Instagram @northwest_raised and @wildcannons 

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