First Timer’s Guide to Schweitzer Mountain Resort

Welcome to summer at Schweitzer

Schweitzer Difference

Our staff is here to help you excel! If you need assistance, have questions, or forgot something, we will do our best to help and are always down for a celebratory fist bump.

Whether you're visiting to explore our downhill mountain biking trails, take a leisurely hike to picnic point, enjoy the numerous activities we have in the Village, or just coming for a bite to eat - our Schweitzer employees will be there to help create an incredible experience for you! Summer is a truly magical time of year up on the mountain.

The Schweitzer Village

Arrive in the Lakeview Parking Lot and in just a few moments you will be in the heart of the Village. Here, you're only footsteps away from all that Schweitzer has to offer including lodging, several dining options, Cambium Spa, and a mountain full of activities. Make your first stop of the day at the Summer Activity Center, located in the Sky & Ride Center near the Clock Tower. From there, our employees can answer any questions you may have and get you set up for a day of relaxation or adventure (or both!).

Tip 1: Hike, Bike, Pick

Hike

Schweitzer has multiple hiking trails to accommodate both leisure hikers and those looking for more of an adventure, but the three main options are the Nature Trail, Colburn Lake Loop, and the hike to Picnic Point. For our beginner or family hikers, we recommend Picnic Point. This family friendly hike will still provide you with a great workout while enjoying the towering trees, rolling hills, and a breathtaking view all in a 3 mile roundtrip journey. Just remember to yield to horses and mountain bikers also using the trail! For those looking for more of a challenge, the Nature Trail will get your blood pumping! This 2.5 mile hike (5 miles roundtrip) takes you up through trees, open ski runs, and huckleberry patches, all while enjoying the view of Lake Pend Oreille. Arrive at the summit to take in the panoramic views and treat yourself to lunch at Sky House. Once you're refreshed and ready to head back down, hop on the Great Escape Quad for a free ride back down or leisurely head back down the trail. Or, if you're feeling like a swim, head down the Nature Trail toward the Rowdy Grouse to make your way to Colburn Lake. Take a dip in the chilly lake before heading back down to the Village to end the day. Remember, stick to the trails for your safety and to product the mountain!

Bike

Schweitzer is home to 16 downhill mountain biking trails along with numerous other multi-use trails. Schweitzer's downhill biking may be a little extreme for beginners, so for those just starting out we recommend the cross country trails! For a full comprehensive list and detailed map, check out our Summer Trail Map.

Huckleberry Picking

Huckleberry picking at Schweitzer is normally from late July through August. While you are out adventuring and picking, we ask that no one uses rakes as they damage the bushes. Don't worry, there are plenty of berries to be found and enjoyed!

Tip 2: Activities

Zip, Climb, Jump, Sluice, Disc Golf, and more!

Whether you're a family of thrill seekers or looking for a laid back adventure, there is an activity for everyone! For those seeking a pump of adrenaline, check out the Zip Line where you'll zoom towards Lake Pend Oreille, the Bungee Trampoline to test out your backflip abilities, or climb one of the four routes on our Rock Climbing Wall! If you're interested in more mellow options, check out some of our many lawn games, the Sluice Box where you can uncover and take home treasures, or try your hand at Disc Golf. Interested in trying it all? The Ultimate Fun Pass is the option for you! Not only do you get access to all of these activities, but you also are able to take unlimited scenic lift rides on The Great Escape.

Insider Tips

For a day filled with fun, we recommend an Ultimate Fun Pass for the kiddos and scenic lift ride tickets for the adults. Check out the sluice box, climb the rock wall, jump on the trampoline, and once you've worked up an appetite head up to the Sky House for lunch! Not only do you get to enjoy a beautiful chairlift ride, but you get to eat with a panoramic view of the surrounding mountains.

Once lunch is finished, take a stroll on Stewart's Loop or Summit View Loop to soak in more of the view! Afterwards, either head back down to the Village via the Great Escape or Nature Trail, or you can add some more adventure to the day by hiking down to Colburn Lake to take a quick dip under the summer sun. Don't forget. it's a bit of a hike back up to the trail so come prepared!

Tip 3: Dine, Shop, Spa

Dine

In the summer, Schweitzer is home to 4 different eateries across the mountain. If you're here in the morning, kick off the day with a coffee, Lotus, or Matcha latte paired with a delicious pastry or savory breakfast sandwich from Mojo Coyote Cafe. After a few hours of activities, biking, or hiking, load the Great Escape Quad to visit the iconic Sky House for a meal and unbelievable view. End the day on a delicious note by dining at Crow's Bench for a delectable dinner along with craft cocktails and mocktails. Looking for something more casual? Swing by Pucci's for a beer and tater tot nachos! No matter the palette, there's something for every palate.

Shop

The Market: Stocked with candy, hand scooped ice cream, and even state priced liquor, The Market has a little bit of everything! Grab some snacks and refreshing beverages for the day along with some essential items you may have forgotten like bug spray and sunscreen.
The Source: Now that you've visited Schweitzer, it's time to officially rep some Schweitzer merch! Swing by The Source for Schweitzer swag or check out other brands like Patagonia, Volcom, Dakine, and more!

Spa

Relax, reboot, and unwind at Cambium Spa. Located in the Selkirk Lodge, Cambium Spa has quick treatments like an express chair massage or sound lounge session, or make it a whole day with numerous different treatments like massages, facials, and sauna treatments. Cambium also hosts yoga classes on Friday and Saturday.

Tip 4: Dress for success

Footwear

Come prepared for adventure! While summer is the time for sandals, up at the mountain we highly recommend wearing or packing closed toe shoes. Remember, many of our activities require close toed shoes! It's also helpful on the chairlift as flip flops and sandals can easily fall off.

Sunscreen

While it feels cooler up on the mountain, it's still incredibly important to pack sunscreen! The Source and The Market both carry sunscreen you can purchase in case you leave your SPF at home.

Water

Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate! Even if you're only planning on going for a short walk, it's always smart to bring water with you. The Source has reusable water bottles for purchase and there are water refill stations across the Village.

Backpacks & Jackets

Up in the mountains, the weather can change quickly so it's always best to be prepared! Pack your backpack and be prepared with a windbreaker or rain jacket. Just remember when loading the chairlift to bring your backpack to your front so you can properly and safely sit on the chair.

Tip 5: Learn more about safety

Handy Links

While we always want our guests to have fun, it's also important to remember safety first! We encourage all of our guests to read posted signage, come prepared, educate yourself on chairlift safety, and listen to instruction from employees! For more information, please visit our Safety & Conduct page. In addition, here are important numbers that are helpful to have saved to your phone:
* (Emergencies and injuries) Schweitzer Ski Patrol: (208) 603-2173
* (General Inquiries) Schweitzer Reservations: (833) 854-7669 or (208) 603-5542

Handy Links:
Mountain Bikers Responsibility Code
Schweitzer Policies

Wildlife

While we love spending time outside and enjoying the mountain, it's important to remember that we are surrounded by wildlife. This is their home, we're just visiting! At Schweitzer you could potentially see deer, moose, bears, and many other critters. Please respect all wildlife (yes, even the squirrels and bees!) and be bear aware. If possible, please stay in groups and carry bear spray if you have it. If you have any questions, please ask Guest Services or Patrol!