By Bri Loveall 

Cover photo courtesy of Bri Loveall

Here’s how I learned to ski: when I was 10, I took a weeklong ski class. Five years later, I told my best friend I was good enough to ski with her family. I wasn’t. I spent the next few years trailing (and falling) behind my friend, trying to match her fluid movements as she expertly planted around moguls and glided in between trees. I learned to ski by doing, and 20 years later, think of myself as an advanced rider; I can easily navigate black diamond runs, and, if the conditions are right (read: extra soft and fluffy), can manage double black diamonds.  

In my mind, lessons and clinics were for people who had never skied or needed a refresher. So last winter when I had the opportunity to participate in the Mt. Spokane ladies ski clinic, aside from a glorious day of skiing without my children, I wasn’t sure what to expect.   

Any lingering doubts I had dissipated the moment I stepped into the Mt. Spokane “garage.” Women arrived by the dozens, stomping boots and chatting excitedly, stopping by heavily loaded tables to grab coffee, pastries and fruit. The energy was infectious. Sunlight shone through the large windows and the day promised to be warm and bright.  

After quick introductory remarks were made, everyone clambered outside for a brief warm-up stretch, which mostly consisted of laughter and accidentally bumping into one’s neighbor.  

I had assigned myself to the advanced group, and my instructor—the former Mt. Spokane Ski School director—was an older woman named Maxine. She was a force, the type of woman whose voice carried down the hill. Our small group of women, about eight in all, rode to the top of chair three and awaited her instructions. After a brief conversation about what we hoped to work on (most of us said “form”), Maxine asked each of us in the group to ski one at a time so she could assess and give us feedback.  

“It is not enough to make it to the bottom of the hill if you can’t do it safely,” she said after watching the whole group. I hadn’t considered that before. Just because I could navigate harder runs didn’t automatically make me a good skier. What I really wanted was the ability to keep skiing well into an older age; something that couldn’t happen if I didn’t spend the energy practicing better (and safer) form.   

When Maxine asked us what our ski poles were for, we all looked around at each other. I actually had no idea. I knew they were supposed to involve planting and turning, but I honestly held onto them like they were emotional support sticks. It was one more thing I hadn’t realized I was hungry to know. We spent the morning following Maxine like a line of baby ducklings following their mother, while she shouted at us to bend our knees and rotate our torsos so we faced downhill.  

At lunch, the entire clinic met back at the garage for pasta and sandwiches. Raffles were held and guests won snowboards, helmets, skis, lift tickets and other sweet prizes. The women at my table, all total strangers to me, gushed as several of us won prizes. We found a camaraderie together simply for our love of skiing, something I hadn’t realized I was missing.  

As the day moved on, I heard many women speaking of their families. “This is the first time I’ve skied without my kids this season,” I overheard one woman say to another. It seemed to be true for a lot of women. I heard statements like, “I feel like a new person,” and “I’ve never felt like a part of a team until today.” 

It wasn’t that this type of environment couldn’t happen in a regular coed lesson. But there is something unique about the way that women relate to other women. All day I watched as participants shared their struggles with one another: from navigating a complicated run or slushy snow to navigating relationships with children, parents, friends and spouses.  

Who has not heard the phrase “You cannot pour from an empty cup”? But women especially know this is not true; you can and will continue to give even when you’re running on empty. Women’s clinics are about more than just a daylong ski lesson. They are about finding a place in the ski community to build a confidence that spills over from the mountain slopes to our everyday lives.  

Find more information and sign up for this awesome event here.

Bri Loveall lives in the Inland Northwest with her family, a growing pile of mismatched ski gloves, and a deep appreciation for well-timed snacks. 

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Full disclosure, my friends. I am a proud member of Gen X. For the younger folks out there, you might know us as the “latch-key kids” or the “forgotten” generation. We grew up on a healthy diet of sugar cereals and sarcasm, a complete lack of parental supervision, and we didn’t have iPhones to take with us to the bathroom. We had to walk to school no matter the weather and were forced to spend time outside on the weekends, armed with only a bike, a baseball bat and our imagination. The 1970s and 1980s were much simpler times, and man, do I miss those days. But it was during the winter months when we were taught the most valuable lessons in toughness. Now, before you decide to tangle with a Gen Xer on the hill this season, keep the following in mind. 

Getting to the Hill 
I can’t even count the number of times I have seen the younger generations rolling to the mountain in all-wheel-drive SUVs that are loaded with so many amenities that I question whether they are really vehicles or just plush living rooms on wheels. And if you park close enough to them, you can smell the Starbucks soy latte and gluten-free breakfast sandwich made with free-range eggs that they enjoyed on their leisurely drive. Back in our day, we were jammed into some gas-guzzling, rear-wheel-drive land yacht with no seat belts that struggled to make it uphill in August, let alone in a blizzard in February. If you were lucky, you might have had a Pop-Tart composed of 90% sugar to snack on, though most of it crumbled apart the second you opened the package and vanished into the ice-cold vinyl seats that most cars were equipped with back then. Oh well, those were useless calories anyway … 

Old-School Ski Gear 
There is no doubt that today’s equipment technology equates to a more comfortable day on the mountain, especially when it comes to clothing. And nothing gets my juices going like a full-blown storm day, with single-digit temps and snow blowing sideways. But I always chuckle and give the side-eye when my younger chairlift partner inquires through chattering teeth if I am also cold. Bruh, four decades ago we were forced to go hard from opening to last chair with two pairs of cotton socks, stretch pants that had the texture of sandpaper and an oversized sweatshirt adorned with the logo of our favorite football team. And you always had to bring an extra pair of gloves because the first pair would be soaked after four runs, rendering your fingers useless. My dad said this built character. 
 
Chairlift Air Fresheners 
As a weekend warrior, I have grown accustomed to dealing with the sheer volume of people that head to the mountain after the workweek comes to a close. What amazes me, though, are some of the habits they bring with them. On more than a few occasions, I have caught aromatic whiffs of cotton candy or rainbow sherbet originating from a billowing cloud of vape smoke from the chair in front of me. And to be honest, they smell delicious. Back in the 1980s, we had to endure the acrid smell of Marlboro Reds, Tiparillo cigars, or some nasty, sub-par Devil’s Lettuce (if you know, you know). God forbid if your chairlift partner was the one firing these up, as you would be right in the line of fire. As a side note, rainbow sherbet vape flavor is known as Unicorn Vomit … Thanks ChatGPT. 
 
Brad Northrup is a former ski racer, coach and ski industry professional. He still snacks on Pop-Tarts on the way to the hill and occasionally rocks a Seattle Seahawks sweatshirt. 

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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 

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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.

Each radio features IP67 waterproofing, a shatter-resistant screen, and a thermoplastic shell engineered to perform in subzero temperatures down to -20°F. The lithium-ion battery lasts four to six days, and simple, one-button controls make operation easy with gloves on. Standard functions include privacy codes, scan and lock modes, NOAA weather alerts, repeater compatibility and dual-channel watch. You can also add the Waterproof Hand Mic ($65), featuring a built-in speaker, mic and push-to-talk controls without unholstering the radio. Fully waterproof and snowproof, it clips securely to clothing and stays clear and audible in wind, snow or whitewater. MSRP: $180. Rockytalkie.com

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Long before lifts start spinning, fall fills up with gear swaps, film nights, parties and other gatherings that bring skiers, riders and those who dream of endless winter together to prepare for the season ahead. 

Ski, Snowboard and Winter Sports Swaps 

The region’s annual gear swaps are the place to score sweet deals on previously used and sometimes new gear. Shop for everything from alpine ski and snowboard equipment, backcountry gear, snowshoes and Nordic skis to technical outerwear and accessories such as goggles, helmets, hats and gloves.  

Oct. 18: 49° North Ski Swap (Colville) 

Kicking off the region’s ski swap schedule, head to Colville, Wash., for your first shot of the season to pick up new-for-you ski and snowboard gear. This low-key swap offers deals without the crowds. 49’s swap runs from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Colville Fairgrounds.  

Oct. 25-26: The Mt. Spokane Ski Patrol Ski Swap (Spokane) 
This swap staple has been on repeat for decades and remains one of the region’s largest pre-season swaps with over 25,000 new and used items. This year, the region’s largest swap lands at the Spokane Fair & Expo Center, with racks of skis, snowboards, boots and outerwear ready for a new home. There’s also typically a great selection of discounted new gear available. Most of the region’s resorts are usually at the swap for season pass purchase and pick up. 

Nov. 6: University of Idaho Outdoor Equipment Sale & Ski Swap (Moscow) 

Celebrating its 50^th year, the University of Idaho’s annual swap is one of the longest-running in the region, outfitting students, families and the wider outdoor community for the season ahead. The Thursday night event from 6–8 p.m. at the Student Rec Center in Moscow, Idaho, always draws a big turnout. With a wide range of outdoor gear in addition to ski and snowboard equipment and outerwear, it’s well worth the drive from Spokane or Coeur d’Alene. Admission is $5 per person from 6–6:30 p.m., $1 from 6:30–7 p.m., and free after 7 p.m. Full-time U of I students and kids under 12 get in free anytime. Those looking to sell gear can grab a spot for $10, with setup beginning at 5 p.m. Hosted in partnership with the U of I Vandal Ski Team, all proceeds from admission support the team. Shoppers can expect to find a wide range of outdoor equipment—everything from skis, snowboards, and snowshoes to tents, rafts, bikes and climbing gear.  

Nov. 8: The SARS Annual Ski Swap (Sandpoint)  
Sandpoint’s 2025 swap, put on as a fundraiser for the Schweitzer Alpine Racing School (SARS), is set for the Bonner County Fairgrounds from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. This mountain-town swap packs a punch with some great deals on high-quality gear. Mark your calendar even if you live in Spokane in case you miss or don’t find what you were looking for at the Mt. Spokane swap. 

Nov. 15: Coeur d’Alene Ski Swap (Coeur d’Alene)  

The Lake City’s swap at the Kootenai County Fairgrounds runs from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., with public check-in for selling equipment the night before. Admission is free for those looking to buy gear. Follow the swap’s Facebook page for updates and more information. 

Preseason Events and Parties 

One of the best ways to rally your stoke for the snow to start falling is to commune with other skiers and riders. Here are a few options planned around the region this fall, with more sure to pop up as the leaves begin to turn. 

Oct. 4–5: Rocktoberfest Weekend at 49 Degrees North 

49 Degrees North hosts its 2^nd annual Rocktoberfest Weekend with live music, a brewfest, a 5k trail run on Sunday, games and the chance to grab season passes early. Live music includes the Johnny Rosado Experience, Denver Rhiannon and Northwest Breeze with DJ Evergreen mixing it up between sets.  

Nov. 7: Solnix Parking Lot Party with Ski & Snowboard Movies  

This second-year event takes over the Solnix ski and board shop parking lot on Division Street in Spokane. Enjoy an evening with your skiing and riding buddies with beer from local breweries, food from Hapa Hawaiian Grill food truck, and a selection of ski and snowboard films on a massive screen. Solnix will also be raffling off some killer gear, with all proceeds benefiting the Idaho Panhandle Avalanche Center’s avalanche forecasting work. The season’s latest gear will be available in the shop, along with 30% off last year’s skis and snowboards while they last. 

Nov. 21: 10th Annual Pray for Snow Party at Spokane’s Perry Street Brewing  

This annual bash pays homage to the ski gods in hopes of bringing on an epic season. The Friday-night celebration of ski and snowboard culture includes ski films, festive retro attire, beer specials, raffle drawings and music that brings a lively community together before the lifts start spinning. All funds raised support the South Perry Neighborhood’s T.E.A.M. Grant program. 

Ski and Snowboard Films 

Film nights, another fall ritual, bring fresh stoke to the screen and the local ski and snowboard scene. Many of our ski film screenings sell out, so get your tickets while you can. 

Sept. 11: Mountainfilm on Tour Spokane  

The Jess Roskelley Foundation is bringing this powerful lineup of adventure and activism films back to Spokane, headlined by the film “Trango,” which documents the first ski descent off Pakistan’s 20,623-foot Great Trango Tower. Canadian ski mountaineer Christina Lustenberger, whose team of three made the climb and descent in 2024, will be at the screening in person at Gonzaga University’s Myrtle Woldson Performing Arts Center. The evening includes a Q&A with Lustenberger and legendary Spokane climber John Roskelley, who was part of the team that first climbed the same peak in 1977. The film brings to life one of the most difficult ski-mountaineering feats ever attempted, with stunning drone footage and raw storytelling. The event starts with a silent auction at 5:30 p.m. followed by the films at 6:30. 

Oct. 15 & 16: Teton Gravity Research’s New Film “Pressure Drop” 
The latest film from Teton Gravity Research (TGR), “Pressure Drop,” is part of TGR’s 2025 ski and snowboard film tour, which is making stops in Sandpoint at the Panida Theater, Oct. 15, and Spokane’s Bing Crosby Theater on Oct. 16. The film features top athletes like Kai Jones, Jeremy Jones, Maggie Voisin and others. “Pressure Drop” doesn’t just showcase athletes pushing limits; it digs into the camaraderie, humor and grit that bind the community together. Viewers can expect TGR’s signature mix of high-octane freeride action, big-mountain lines and creative backcountry segments shot around the globe. With a soundtrack built to match the energy of the riding, the film promises a theater experience that channels the stoke of winter’s return. 
 

Nov. 8, 12, & 13: Warren Miller’s New Film “SNO-CIETY” 

Warren Miller’s new release, “SNO-CIETY,” tours through the region with multiple stops, kicking off at Sandpoint’s Panida Theater Nov. 8. A Nov. 12 showing follows at North Idaho College’s Schuler Performing Arts Center in Coeur d’Alene, with your last chance to catch the film on Nov. 13 at the Bing Crosby Theater in downtown Spokane. Expect an amped-up crowd, giveaways and plenty of hype for snow. 

Matchstick Productions’ “After the Snowfall”  

Matchstick Productions’ new film “After the Snowfall” blends awe-inspiring ski footage with a deeper look at the culture and community that define life on snow. Shot in places like Norway’s Lyngen Alps, British Columbia, Japan, and North America’s extreme-mountain terrain, the film follows world-class athletes and highlights everyday skiers and mountain-town locals, weaving themes of risk, camaraderie and joy. Last year, Saint George’s School’s outdoor club sponsored a Spokane screening, but stay tuned for details on this year’s Inland Northwest tour stop. 

Backcountry Film Festival  
The 21st Annual Backcountry Film Festival is a celebration of backcountry skiing, splitboarding and other human-powered winter sports and the culture that make them thrive. Produced by Winter Wildlands Alliance, film nights featuring this year’s films are in the works for Spokane, Sandpoint, Moscow, and Chewelah between this fall and spring 2026. Spokane Mountaineers typically host the Spokane show, with Selkirk Outdoor Leadership & Education bringing the tour to Sandpoint in past years. Keep an eye out for dates and details. (OTO) 

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Cover photo courtesy of Wheel Sport

There’s a new way to ride the slopes this season. SNO-GO ski bikes, also known as ski bikes or snow bikes, mimic the motions of advanced skiers but are easy as riding a bike. SNO-GO ski bikes allow riders of all ages and abilities to experience the euphoria of effortlessly gliding down a snow-covered slope. Whether you’re an advanced skier or snowboarder looking for a new sport or a non-skier looking to embrace winter, discover the fastest-growing snow sport this season at Silver Mountain Resort or 49 Degrees North Resort with a rental SNO-GO ski bike from Spokane’s Wheel Sport Bikes. 

If you’ve ridden a bike, you can ride a snow bike. SNO GO ski bikes handle just like a bicycle. And less time learning the basics means more time having a blast. The low center of gravity and three-ski platform make ski bikes safe and stable in any ski terrain. And unlike skis and snowboards, a SNO GO rider’s feet are not strapped in. It’s easy to get on and off, and easy to bail out if needed. Ski bikes provide an exciting, easily accessible way to explore the outdoors. 

Where to Hit the Slopes with a Ski Bike 

Currently, only Silver Mountain Resort and 49 Degrees North Mountain Resort allow the use of ski bikes on their chairlifts (rented from Wheel Sport or owned by you as no rentals are available on-mountain), but other ski areas may soon accommodate this growing sport. The SNO-GO ski bike rentals available at Wheel Sport have been designed to be lift-friendly and are as easy to load as skis and snowboards. Simply approach the lift with your ski bike like you would with skis or a snowboard, let the chair slide underneath the lift bar on the bike while you hold the handlebars and put the bike in between your legs. When first visiting a resort, Wheel Sport recommends checking with the lift operators for any unique lift protocols they may have for ski bikes. The lift operator can assist you with positioning the bike on the chairlift too.  

Gearing Up for a Day of Ski Biking 

Similar to any outdoor activity, ski biking carries inherent risk, but it is not necessarily more dangerous than skiing or snowboarding. In fact, the seated position and lower center of gravity can provide more stability and control, potentially reducing the risk of certain types of falls or injuries. However, as with any sport, proper instruction, adherence to safety guidelines, and the right equipment will make all of the difference. When gearing up for a day of snow biking, dress for a day outside in the winter like you would for skiing or snowboarding, with gloves, a helmet, weather-appropriate layers, and wind and water-resistant jacket and pants. It’s also widely recommended to wear snowboard boots, although sturdy winter boots can work as well. Ski boots are not advised!  

Trying a SNO-GO Ski Bike Made Easy 

Ready to give it a try? Stop by or call one of the Wheel Sport Bikes shops (Spokane Valley and South Hill) to reserve your rental. A full-day rental of a SNO-GO SHIFT is $100, or you can rent one for a week for $375. Wheel Sport also rents helmets. Each person 18 years and older planning to ride the snow bike will need to fill out a waiver as well (parents can sign for their kids under 18). More info and a link to the waiver you can print out in advance is at Wheelsportbikes.com. Once you’re ready to go, the SNO-GO Shift bike separates into three sections for easy transport up to Silver Mountain or 49 Degrees North. The SNO-Go can put some wow in your winter as you experience the euphoria of gliding down a snowy mountain on a bike with skis. Learn more at Wheelsportbikes.com.

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Cover photo courtesy of Whitefish Mountain Resort

By Bri Loveall 

The thought of spring skiing brings certain images to mind: the infamous pond skim, wild costume-themed parties, competitions resplendent with outdoor music and entertainment, and the thrill of hitting the slopes without a balaclava and heated gloves.  

Expectations of a powder day may not be the first thing you think of when planning a vitamin D-infused spring ski outing, yet March tends to provide some of the best snowpack during the season as well as some surprising powder dumps. With warmer (and better) weather, fewer crowds, and more events at the resorts, March just might be the best month to hit the slopes.  

Competitions for All (even your dog!) 

Whether you’re new to skiing or snowboarding or a seasoned veteran, spring is the perfect time to push outside your comfort zone and sign up for a competition (or two). Some favorite local competitions are the banked slalom races offered at Silver Mountain (March 1), Mt. Spokane (March 8) and the Snow Ghost Banked Slalom at Schweitzer (March 29-30). A short drive farther north will get you up to RED Mountain for two days of what’s promised as some of the “jankiest banked slalom racing you’ve ever seen” at the Rattlecat Cup March 8-9. 

Banked slalom is a manually-shaped, twisting course that got its start in 1985 with a group of snowboarders at Mt. Baker. In the decades since, it has grown exponentially, providing an opportunity for all levels of ski and snowboard riders to try out a different aspect of a familiar sport while keeping things fun.   

If you’re looking for a different kind of challenge, you can register for the Chewelah Peak Challenge Fat Tire Bike Race at 49 Degrees North on March 9.  This 7k race on the lower trail system includes access to demo bikes from the North Division Cycle shop. Even your dog can get in on the comp action at the Wiener Takes All Dog Race at Red Mountain March 15. Dogs race in a fully-fenced corral with different heats determined by age, weight, and breed. Hot dogs and beer will be served up all day on the RED Deck. And volleyball aficionados won’t want to miss the two-day Spring Spike-Off snow-volleyball tournament at Schweitzer March 22 and 29.   

Parties, Tunes, Snow-Sliding Shenanigans & All Things Food & Drink 

There is a certain amount of whimsy that imbues spring at ski resorts. Perhaps it’s the longer days and vitamin D, but spring brings about a sense of optimism and playfulness we continue to find even on the snow-covered mountains. With spring’s balmier temps, it’s possible to shed some layers and spend less time in the lodge and more of the day out on the snow celebrating spring!  

Helping us maintain this spirit of cheer are all of the costume and themed parties our local mountains are dishing up. With Mardi Gras and St. Patrick’s Day both happening in March, there are several different (and delicious) opportunities to get into the spring skiing spirit.  

Head up to 49 Degrees North on March 8 for a Mardi Gras-inspired seafood boil. Registration for this event is highly recommended and includes a smorgasbord of southern goodies like shrimp, Dungeness crab, little neck clams, crawfish, corn on the cob, andouille sausage, and red potatoes, served alongside hush puppies and homemade beignets (a French doughnut worthy of being its own food group). Live music will accompany this awesome event.  

On March 15, guests can score beads at the base of the Gondola at Silver Mountain to help get you in the party mood. Costumes are highly encouraged (think feather boas and tinsel) and will definitely help set the atmosphere of some good ole New Orleans fun. Moguls will be serving up a Mardi Gras-inspired menu with options like gumbo, hush puppies, po’boys, and more, as well as live music from 1-4 p.m.  

Then, just two days later on March 17, head on over to Lookout Pass for the resort’s St. Patrick’s Day celebration. Wear your green and plan to get your fill of corned beef with cabbage on rye bread. While you may not find a four-leaf clover, we’re sure you’ll find some fun.  

Whitefish Mountain Resort’s Brewfest is a celebration of regional craft brews that’s going down March 29. Enjoy brews from around the region while supporting the public S.N.O.W. Bus that provides free public transportation in town and up to the mountain.  

On April 5 and 6, 49 Degrees North will throw it’s Out Like a Lion Music Festival. This outdoor festival offers two jam-packed days of live music and awesome dining experiences. Expect great tunes and delicious Hawaiian-inspired eats like Kahlua pork, garlic chicken, and sticky rice, as well as sweet treats like Haupia (a gluten free coconut pudding) and malasadas.  

Once again Schweitzer plans to close out the season with the resort’s Schpring Finale April 12 and 13. Come prepared for creative contests and good times and vibes that in past years have included a cardboard box derby, yellow snow eating contest for kids, live music, and plenty of revelry and other shenanigans. 

Family Fun Events 

While March is the official start to spring skiing, we especially love the family friendly events happening in April as the season wraps up. The unofficial bonus of spring skiing, of course, is wrestling your kids into one or two less layers than normal. With the change in weather, it’s even easier to get kids excited about being outdoors.  

Spend the week of spring break saving up your cardboard boxes for the Lookout Pass Cardboard Box Derby and Luau on April 13. Participants will bring their own boxcars made entirely from cardboard boxes and duct tape (boxcars can be decorated with paint and markers) to slide down the mountain in. Prizes will be given for most unique and best themed boxcars. Guests can also expect live music, Hawaiian-themed lunch options, as well as flower leis and party beads.  

On April 20, end the last day of the season at Lookout Pass with an Easter Egg Hunt. Several hundred eggs are filled with candies and different prizes and placed in spots that vary in terrain and difficulty level. Eggs are replenished throughout the day so that everyone (adults included) gets the chance to score a basketful of goodies.  

The Infamous Pond Skim 

If there is one final iconic cultural happening in the world of spring skiing, let it be the pond skim. The pond skim has purportedly been around since the 1920s, when resorts used it as a way to extend the ski season. The event culminates all of our favorite spring skiing events into one, with costumes, outdoor music, and the thrill of competition.  

This year, join the fun at 49 Degrees North for their annual Hawaiian Daze Slush Cup Pond Skim on March 22. After a short downhill section, participants skim across a shallow pond (if you can make it that far) to reach the snow on the other side. This event includes snow golf, a silent auction, poker run, scavenger hunt, costume contest, live music, and 49’s famous Hawaiian burgers. Proceeds from the day go directly toward the 49 Degrees North Ski Patrol. Don’t miss the final pond skims of the season at Whitefish Mountain Resort as part of the resort’s closing weekend festivities and the Slush Cup at RED Mountain in Rossland, B.C., both happening April 5. 

With the promise of more powder days, warmer temps, and fun events like these, we can confidently say spring is the best time to get out there and enjoy the snow.   

Bri Loveall previously wrote about her children attending Club Shred for ski lessons and is happy to report that they have successfully managed to get off the bunny hill.  

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Cover photo courtesy of Eric Deady

Winter has landed upon us, and it is time once again to dust off the fat bike. For those of us who enjoy the idea of traveling through the landscape during winter on a bike, or for those who may be considering fat biking for the first time, there are a few things to consider before heading out.  

Where fat-biking in winter differs from other kinds of cycling is in the consequence of failing to get it right. Forgetting critical pieces of the puzzle can leave you in a dangerous situation very quickly, or can just ruin a good time. Getting all the right pieces put together to keep yourself safe and frostbite-free, is, for me, part of the allure of fat biking. I have to be a lot more vigilant in my preparation to avoid serious outcomes. So, here are a few things to consider.  

Be Self-Reliant 

Fat biking is best in remote areas, and we ride during a time of year when there are fewer trail users overall. Self-reliance means safety. Be sure to have a bail-out plan if things go wrong, a good GPS that will work in cold temps, and the correct maps loaded onto it. Be sure to have whatever tools you need on-hand to fix a mechanical problem and the knowledge to use them. Sitting in the snow is never a good time to try and learn how to use that new chain-breaker you got from Santa. Being self-reliant means that you can get yourself to safety and have the gear necessary to keep safe if you get lost or injured.  

Bring the Right Gear 

Fat biking in winter requires more gear, and there’s really no way around it. Outfit your bike with a frame bag, seat bag, or some other way to carry your gear that keeps it off your body and on the bike. This will make swapping layers easier and less time consuming. I prefer a rear rack and dry bags to carry bulky items, and a frame bag for the denser things. Have a small stash spot available to keep your immediate-need items like layers, snacks, and water so you don’t need to dig through your entire kit during a blizzard just to find that Scooby-snack. Outfit your handlebars with a set of Pogies to keep the wind off your fingers and your hands warm and less bulky. Bringing a simple folding stove and a fuel canister, even on short rides, will ensure that you can keep yourself warm and hydrated in an emergency and is also just a great way to have a mid-ride break with a warm cup of your favorite drink or soup. My go-to is a packet of Lipton chicken noodle.  

Stay Warm . . . And Cool 

This third thing may be the most important for your general comfort and overall safety. Layer, layer, layer! “Wetting out” your clothing can spell disaster, and can often lead to hypothermia. The best way to avoid this is through a well-planned layering strategy and by regulating your effort to avoid sweating. Start with thin, next-to-skin layers that wick moisture. Merino wool is a good choice here. Above your base layer, the idea is to allow any moisture wicked away to escape before it can penetrate your clothing and potentially freeze. That’s why you will likely be adding or shedding layers as your body heats up or cools down. Keep spares of safety-critical items like gloves, and know where they are when you need them. Always choose clothing that is easy to get on and off and fits well.  

Keeping those three things in mind before heading out will help you stay organized and hopefully keep you safe should conditions deteriorate or a mechanical problem occurs. 

Eric Deady has been bikepacking and touring around the world for more than 30 years and now shares that love of the outdoors with his children.  

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Wilderness first aid is a term that applies to any injury that happens more than an hour from advanced medical care, so even a short outing from a local trailhead could result in an injury that falls under this definition. A small first aid kit can be a crucial piece of gear for any trip, from protecting minor scrapes to stabilizing a broken bone until evacuation is possible.  

If you already stock a home kit that covers the basics (alcohol towelettes, antibiotic ointment, different sized bandages, sterile dressings for cuts) it can work to take a few of each and put them in a waterproof bag to add to your pack. If you don’t already have a home supply, there are many pre-built kits available for sale, and it might be the most cost-effective choice to start with one of these and add activity-specific supplies. 

For hikers and trail runners, a package of Second Skin can address small blisters, and a roll of athletic tape can stabilize a sprained ankle. For mountain bikers and trail workers, add Quick Clot gauze to stop bleeding. A roll of vet wrap is useful for pet owners and works just as well on people. Consider adding a SAM splint and triangle bandage to help stabilize a broken wrist or arm. For longer trips, a mylar blanket can help keep an injured person warm until evacuated or prevent hypothermia on an unplanned overnight. A package of emergency water treatment tablets is a great backup to filters. Add a couple pairs of latex gloves for treating others’ injuries, and you’ll have a kit that can help save yourself or a friend in case of emergency. 

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