Fresh January snow revives North Idaho ski hills and economy

A series of storms that moved through northern Idaho earlier this week delivered fresh accumulations at regional ski areas, reversing a slow start to the winter season and opening up more terrain and lifts for skiers and snowboarders. Silver Mountain, Lookout Pass and Schweitzer all reported new snow and expanded access, with mountain statements noting recent inches of accumulation and lists of runs that are now open or operating with limitations.

The turnaround matters for Kootenai County because many residents travel to these resorts for day trips and weekend stays. Expanded lift operations increase uphill capacity and reduce congestion on the runs that were open through the early season. For local outfitters, rental shops, restaurants and lodging operators that felt the pinch of a later-than-usual winter, improved conditions signal stronger weekend business and a steadier flow of visitors from Coeur d'Alene, Post Falls and surrounding communities.

Resort communications over the weekend detailed which trails have been added back into service and which remain limited by wind or base depth. Ski-area staff reported that additional lifts have been put into operation as crews assessed snow coverage and safety. While pockets of the mountain terrain remain restricted in places where early-season base depth was thin, the broader message from operations teams was clear: conditions have meaningfully improved from the opening weeks of the season.

For the local economy, the practical effects are straightforward. More open runs and running lifts translate into higher lift ticket sales and greater demand for ancillary spending on rentals, lessons and food-and-beverage purchases. That spending circulates through lodging providers, shuttle services and downtown businesses in communities that serve resort-goers. The boost is particularly important this time of year when winter-recreation revenue helps smooth out slower retail months.

Travelers should note that mountain conditions can still vary rapidly. Lift and trail availability can change with additional snowfall, wind or warming trends, so checking a resort’s current conditions before heading out will save time and frustration. Roads into the hills can also be impacted by winter driving conditions; local shuttles and county road crews are likely to be busier as visitor volumes pick up.

Our two cents? Enjoy the fresh turns while planning smart: monitor real-time conditions, expect some limited runs as crews finish assessments, and be ready to support the local businesses that benefit when a true winter finally arrives.