Safety & Conduct

Privacy Policy
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Alterra Community Guidelines
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Resort Fee Info
A 3.5% resort fee applies to all season pass and lift ticket transactions. It is subject to Idaho’s sales tax.
The resort fee helps Schweitzer provide:
- Free Mountain Express shuttle service provided by SPOT, for all guests. With an average of 62,000 riders per season, this reduces the number of vehicles driving the road, and cuts emissions.
- Free WiFi available in the Village area (specific connection areas).
- Supports our sustainability efforts, including: recycling and Green Tags through wind energy and solar credits.
- Supports the solar initiative of our power company by purchasing solar panels.

Ticket Policy
Schweitzer Ticket Policy: Tickets are a non-refundable purchase. If you purchase a ticket online, at the mountain, or redeem a voucher for a pre-purchased ticket at the ticket windows, you receive our Snow Guarantee.

Any tickets through Schweitzer, affiliates, or schweitzer.com are only valid the season during which you purchase them and expire at the close of the season.

All tickets are non-refundable. Schweitzer and its management are not responsible for lost or stolen tickets or vouchers. You must present your print-at-home e-ticket vouchers and all other vouchers at the ticket window to receive a ticket. Schweitzer can revoke tickets without refund at any time for misconduct or nuisance caused by the holder.

NO REFUNDS- NON-TRANSFERABLE- NOT VALID IF RESOLD OR BARTERED EXCEPTIONS APPLY

Snow Guarantee
We do all we can to ensure you enjoy your day at Schweitzer. If snow conditions do not meet your expectations, and you have purchased a full-price ticket, after taking one trial run, simply return your ticket within one hour for a snow check of comparable value entitling you to a return visit anytime within the next 12 months.

Web Accessibility Policy
At Schweitzer, we commit the accessibility and usability of our digital properties for people with disabilities. We are currently implementing the relevant portions of the World Wide Web Consortium’s Web Content Accessibility Guidelines 2.0 Level AA (WCAG 2.0 AA) as our web accessibility standard. We will test our websites on a periodic basis with assistive technology such as screen readers and magnifiers and users who have disabilities.

Transparency in Coverage Rule (TIC)
In compliance with Transparency in Coverage (TiC) Final Rules and the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2021 (CAA), Schweitzer provides the following link to required Machine-readable files (MRFs): Click HERE for more details.

Service Animals:
Trained service animals are welcome in most locations throughout Schweitzer property. Guests who use service animals must retain control of their animals at all times and should keep them on a leash or harness while visiting. Schweitzer Employees are not permitted to take control of service animals.
Service animals are restricted from the following locations:
- All chairlifts
- All ski slopes (including Terrain Parks)
- Tubing hill
- Zip line
- Climbing wall

** Please note that all dogs are required to be on a leash at all times and are not permitted beyond the clock tower during the winter season. **

Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV), commonly referred to as drones, are not permitted without prior authorization from the Mountain Operations and Marketing Directors. You will also need 36-hour notice, prior permission, a drone license, proof of insurance, signed waiver, and staff escort.

Motor vehicles (including ATVs & motorcycles) are not permitted on Schweitzer property other than on established public roadways and parking areas. Limited access may be granted with prior authorization.
Powered Mobility-Assist devices such as powered wheelchairs are permitted in Schweitzer Village and facilities. Please contact Schweitzer 1 (208) 265-0257 or 1 (800) 487-4643 with any questions about disabled access.

Camping: Tent camping is not permitted on Schweitzer property.

RV Parking: Fully self-contained RV parking is permitted free of charge at the Fire Station Roundabout only. Please visit RV section on our FAQ page for full details and policies.

For the safety and comfort of our guests, we prohibit the carrying of firearms on our property, except for active on-duty law enforcement officers. Please respect this private property policy.

Cutting of any trees, brush, flowers, or logs for any reason, including firewood gathering, is prohibited on Schweitzer property without prior permission from the Mountain Operations Director.

Hunting is not permitted on Schweitzer’s land/premises.

Horses or other pack animals are not permitted on Schweitzer property, including the village and trail system. A horseback riding concessionaire has exclusive access to designated trails on our trail network. Other private access via horse or pack animal is prohibited.

Aircraft: Landing private aircraft on Schweitzer’s property is prohibited without prior authorization from the Mountain Operations Director.
Hang Gliding / Paragliding: Hang Gliding, paragliding, or similar activities (launching or landing) are not permitted on Schweitzer’s premises.

You can enjoy snow sports in many ways. You may see people using alpine, snowboard, telemark, Nordic, and other specialized ski equipment, such as that used by disabled or other skiers. Regardless of how you decide to enjoy the slopes, always show courtesy to others. Be aware of the inherent risks in snow sports and use common sense and personal awareness to help reduce them. Observe the code listed below and share the responsibility to create an exceptional skiing experience.

Know the code:
1. Always stay in control. You must be able to stop or avoid people or objects.
2.People ahead or downhill of you have the right-of-way. You must avoid them.
3. Stop only where you are visible from above and do not restrict traffic.
4. Look uphill and avoid others before starting downhill or entering a trail.
5. You must prevent runaway equipment.
6. Read and obey all signs, warnings, and hazard markings.
7. Keep off closed trails and out of closed areas.
8. You must know how and be able to load, ride and unload lifts safely. If you need assistance, ask the lift attendant.
9. Do not use lifts or terrain when impaired by alcohol or drugs.
10. If you are involved in a collision or incident, share your contact information with each other and a ski area employee.

Winter sports involve risk of serious injury or death. Your knowledge, decisions and actions contribute to your safety and that of others. If you need help understanding the Code, please ask any ski area employee.

Published by the National Ski Areas Association.

- If you are injured, an unharmed bystander should direct other skiers and snowboarders away from the scene by sticking their skies, poles, or snowboard in the snow, preferably in a cross formation above you. This makes it easier for the ski patrol to find you and prevents others from running into you.
- Send someone to the nearest lift operator and give them the exact location of the accident, the general description of who's injured, noting the trail name, tower number, and whether the skiers are on the right or left of the run. Or call Ski Patrol (208) 603-2173.
- If there was a collision, please try to keep the involved parties at the location including witnesses.

Slow zones = all beginner areas and congested areas.
Please move slowly through these areas and report violators to the ski patrol with clothing descriptions if possible. Violators will lose their ticket or pass.

Your lift privileges may be revoked for reckless skiing and snowboarding defined as:
- Jumping into runs
- Jumping blind. Jumping blind means you can't see the landing. Have a spotter and make sure the area is clear before you jump.
- Skiing/snowboarding faster than the flow of traffic in congested or high traffic areas
- Skiing/snowboarding fast in Slow Zones
- Skiing/snowboarding out of control. If someone suddenly appeared 20 feet below you would you be able to stop or avoid them? If not, you are out of control. Give others enough room to avoid collisions. Call out on your left or on your right when passing near someone.
- Swinging, bouncing, or jumping from chairs. (RCW 79A.45.030) Chairs aren't designed for bouncing, swinging or abrupt weight loss out of the chair. It may damage the lift and/or cause it to derail injuring others.
- Disorderly conduct, loud or abusive language, drunkenness, use of illegal drugs, throwing trash or other objects from the lift.
- Removing signs or hill markings. If you take away marking someone may be unaware of hazards and get hurt.
- Ducking a rope or traversing into closed terrain.

Riding the ski lift can be one of the best parts of the day. The views are beautiful, your legs get a rest, and you get to catch up with friends and family. You can make a new friend! But it's important (and your responsibility) to know how to load, ride and unload lifts safely. Not sure what to do at a lift? Ask an attendant or ski patroller for help. Learning how to ride the lift is also one of the features of a ski or snowboard lesson, and another reason it's worth discovering snow with a professional. Our qualified lift staff will assist loading small children and guests of any age onto the lift. Don't hesitate to ask for assistance, if needed.
- Understand the type of lift you are riding. Ask for help if needed.
- Before loading, remove your backpack and secure any loose items. Remove the pole straps from your wrists, and hold your poles in one hand.
- Look over your shoulder to watch the chair approach.
- Sit all the way in the chair, with your back pressed against the seat rest.
- If the lift has a restraint bar, wait until everyone is seated and secure, reach up and slowly lower the bar. Do not attempt to lower the bar if you cannot reach it. Adults should always help kids lower the bar.
- Know your surroundings while riding the lift. If you drop something, let it fall! You can always ask ski patrol for help retrieving the lost item.
- As you approach the top terminal, prepare to raise the bar. Look for signs advising you to do so to help with your timing.
- Once at the unload ramp, stand, and unload safely.
- Clear the ramp area quickly to alleviate congestion around the unload ramp.

Special considerations for children:
- A small child (defined as a child shorter than 51" to the top of their helmet) may be assisted by the lift operator unless instructed differently by their parent or guardian.
- Children should sit on the outside next to the arm rest for added security.
- Remind children to sit against the backrest.


The Idaho Code § 6-1105(6) states, "Every passenger shall have the duty not to: Use any aerial passenger tramway without engaging such safety or restraining devices as may be provided."

Learn more about Lift Safety on the National Ski Areas Association website.

Skiing and snowboarding off groomed trails and in deep powder is one of the most exciting and appealing parts of our sport. However, if you decide to leave groomed trails, you voluntarily accept the risk of a potential avalanche and/or a deep snow immersion accident. A deep snow or tree well immersion accident occurs when a skier or rider falls into an area of deep unconsolidated snow and becomes immobilized and suffocates. Stay safe, always use the buddy system and keep an eye on each other. Learn more about what to do if you or your ski partner find themselves in a tree well at DeepSnowSafety.org.

Terrain parks offer a set of challenges and risks that may not be present on other parts of the mountain. Terrain parks are designated with an orange oval and features differ between resorts. They may contain jumps, take offs, ramps, banks, fun boxes, jibs, rails, half pipes, quarter-pipes, snowcross, bump terrain, and other constructed or natural terrain features. Prior to using terrain parks, familiarize yourself with the terrain, obey all instructions, warnings, and signs.

Be Park SMART:
START SMALL - Work your way up. Build your skills.
MAKE A PLAN - Every feature. Every time.
ALWAYS LOOK - Before you drop.
RESPECT - The features and other users.
TAKE IT EASY - Know your limits. Land on your feet.

Learn more about Park SMART by visiting the National Ski Area's Association.

Uphill travel is prohibited (except on Nordic trails with Nordic equipment only) for your safety and to avoid disruption in our ability to safely open and operate the mountain. Hazards include: avalanches and explosives work, on-snow equipment, winch cats*, and unmarked obstacles.

*Winch Cats are used to groom our steeper runs and build features in our terrain park. When the winch cats are headed down the ski runs, the cable connected to the top of the run keeps the machine from sliding. At the bottom of the run, the cable rotates to the front of the cab and helps the machine back up the hill to avoid spinning the tracks. The cable is very powerful and dangerous for anyone in its vicinity. The cable is difficult to see, even during daylight hours, and would be virtually invisible at night. The cable can violently jump out of the snow when it’s pulled by the machine. This could be deadly should a skier or hiker encounter the cable.

Schweitzer is private property. To enter, you must have a valid lift ticket or pass. Violators may be prosecuted and/or banned for up to one year.

Access to out-of-bounds areas is through designated gates only. These gates are identified on the trail map. Do not cross the boundary area without a partner and the necessary equipment to navigate the backcountry safely.Schweitzer has no obligation to anyone who proceed beyond the area boundary. If you choose to cross the area boundary, you do so at your own risk and assume the burden of responsibility for your actions.

Avalanche danger and other hazards exist. You are responsible for your safety and welfare and all rescue costs. Mountain maps display all boundaries and they are marked with signs or ropes. DO NOT CROSS ROPED AREAS AT ANY LOCATION ON THE MOUNTAIN AT ANY TIME. Refer to the Idaho Panhandle Avalanche Center for current avalanche conditions.

For a free transceiver tutorial with Schweitzer's Ski Patrol, meet at the clock tower at 10:00 am Sunday mornings with your transceiver. Then head to a beacon park for hands-on practice. Schweitzer has two beacon parks located at Upper Sam’s Alley and on the skiers right of Prime Time. You can practice search techniques at these locations.
You must have a valid lift ticket or season pass to access the beacon park. See the Schweitzer Events Calendar for specific dates.

Sledding is NOT permitted on Resort Property at any time of the day or night.

-Tubing is RESTRICTED to a designated operating location and is PROHIBITED anywhere else on Resort Property at any time of the day or night.

- Resort terrain is not suitable for sledding, tubing, or anything of the like and may increase the risk of loss of control, collision with objects, natural or man-made, causing serious injury or death.

- Maintenance of the Resort is a 24-hour operation. Snowmaking, grooming, and chairlift maintenance occur during and outside of operational hours. During these operations, unauthorized persons are exposing themselves to extreme hazards. In addition to the dangers posed by the highly pressurized snowmaking equipment, our snowcats and snowmobiles continually traverse the slopes during grooming activities.

- Any mountain access outside of our operating hours is considered a trespass.

Helmets are strongly recommended while skiing or riding as they may make a difference in reducing and/or preventing some types of head injuries.

Walking in the resort presents hazards that pose a potential for serious risk. Surfaces including roadways, walkways, parking lots, decks, and stairs can become icy and slippery throughout the day and night making slips and falls a potential risk. Schweitzer staff do their best to keep all surfaces as safe as possible however, guests should take extra precautions when walking throughout the resort. Ski boots do not offer proper traction and guests are encouraged to wear traction devices or footwear designed for walking in a winter environment. Guests are also encouraged to use the proper routes while traveling to and from their cars. Please always use extra caution while walking in and around the resort.

Schweitzer does not allow snow bikes, sno-go, trikes or any other bicycle/scooter type sliding device on our chairlifts or downhill runs. Snow Bikes are allowed on the cross country / Nordic trail system when conditions are firm and when Snow Bike Status is marked as "Green". Visit the snow report page or stop by the Ski & Ride Center for status updates. Trail pass required.

Schweitzer has many activities to enjoy during summer months. Please be aware of the following while enjoying them.

- Weather changes quickly in the mountains. Be prepared. Wear proper footwear and clothing for the activity, stay hydrated, and check the weather forecast before you head out. Carry extra layers if necessary.
- In the event of a lift evacuation, you may be required to walk in a variety of rough terrain. Dress appropriately and wear proper footwear.
- Hike or otherwise recreate with a buddy, carry a cell phone and know who to call in an emergency. Schweitzer Bike Patrol can be reached at (208) 603-2173 during normal operating hours. Outside of operating hours, call 911.
- A variety of maintenance and construction activities take place on the mountain at any given time. There may be vehicles and equipment operating at any time. Keep adequate distance from vehicles and equipment for your own safety.
- Ponds are off limits. They are for snowmaking purposes only not for recreational use.
- You may encounter a wide variety of wildlife while at Schweitzer. Do not approach or feed them. We recommended bear spray and making noise may also help in avoiding wildlife confrontations.
- Obey all posted signs and warnings.
- Schweitzer is at high risk for wildfires. Take care with fire and any equipment that produces sparks. Cigarette smoking is prohibited while riding chairlifts. Report any fire or smoke immediately to Bike Patrol or call 911.
- If you see or hear lightning seek shelter and avoid close contact with others. Spread out at least 50 feet apart in order to minimize the chance of everyone in a group being struck, get away from water, and avoid low spots that might accumulate rain run-off. With no other options, take shelter under a group of shorter trees among larger trees. A thick forest is better than a lone tree or a small group of trees. If you’re out in the open avoid solitary trees (one of the most dangerous places to be during a storm). Also, avoid any objects higher than the rest of the surrounding terrain. Move quickly to find the lowest point near you. Adopt the lightning position as a last resort: Crouch down on the balls of your feet and keep them as close together as possible. Cover your ears, and don’t allow other body parts to touch the ground. By reducing the surface area of your body that is in contact with the ground, you reduce the threat of electricity transferring from the ground into your body. Only use this position as a last resort.

Understand how to use the lift safely before you ride.

- Ask the lift attendant for help if you need assistance.
- Do not use phones, listen to music, or play games while loading or unloading. Check for loose clothing and equipment so it does not get caught on the chair. Remove your backpack before loading. Once seated, place it on your lap or next to you.
- Don't rush if you are not ready to walk out to the chair when it is your turn. Simply wait for the next chair.
- When loading, follow the chair in front of you to the green line next to the "load here" sign. Watch for the approaching chair. Then sit down and slide all the way to the back of the chair.
- If you drop something don't panic. Let it fall. You can pick it up later and attendants will send the item up the chair or hold it at the station.
- We have a no horseplay policy for all of our lifts.
- You are not allowed smoke on the lifts. Wildfires threaten Schweitzer and our area, so be responsible.

Getting on:
- If you are unsure how to safely load the chair, wait for instructions from the attendant.
- Stop at the “Wait Here” sign. Once the chair passes quickly follow behind it to the green line and “Load Here” sign.
- Line up shoulder to shoulder with other passengers.
- When the chair comes behind you, sit on the seat, and slide back as far as you can while keeping your bottom in a stable position on the chair. Lift your feet.
- Once everyone is seated check with other passengers before lowering the restraint bar. Reach up and slowly lower the bar. Do not attempt to lower the bar if you cannot reach it! Adults should always help kids to lower the bar.

Riding the lift:
- Sit back, hold on and sit still to keep from falling from the chair.
- As you approach the top terminal, prepare to raise the bar. Look for signs advising you to do so to help with your timing.
- Lift your feet as you approach the unload area.
- Please notify the attendant if you need to slow or stop the lift to properly unload.

Getting off:
- Unload at the green line and “Unload Here” sign.
- Stand up and walk forward toward the exit on your left.
- Move out of the way quickly, so others can unload too.

If you have any questions, ask the lift attendant. They will provide an answer and instruct you on the proper way to load, ride, and unload the lift. If you have any special needs, let us know.

Mountain Biking is a fun sport the entire family can enjoy. By taking safety precautions, you can reduce the risk of injury. We offer a progression of trails to suit various ability levels. More challenging terrain features should not be attempted without the appropriate experience, skills, and equipment. Our lift-accessed downhill trails are a different experience than cross country trails. Downhill biking requires constant physical and mental effort to maintain control. There are no green “easy” runs from the top of the mountain.

Brake Policy: All bikes must have functioning brakes on each wheel. Coaster brakes/beach cruisers are not allowed on chairlifts. Disk brakes are recommended for adequate stopping power.

Shock Recommendation: Full-suspension is recommended on lift-accessed trails. Make sure your suspension is tuned properly for your weight and ability. Full suspension mountain bikes are designed for downhill trails due to the rocky/bumpy nature of the trails.

Helmets: Helmets are required on all trails. We recommend full-face helmets for downhill trails. Helmet rentals are available at the Ski and Ride Center in the Village.

Equipment and Clothing: Protective clothing and equipment is the best protection from injury. Full face helmets, body armor and pads, full finger gloves, closed-toe/closed-heel shoes and long sleeves/pants are also recommended. Helmet and armor rentals are available at the Ski and Ride Center in the Village. Riders should use a properly-sized bike that allows them to stand over the seat with their feet flat on the ground. If you are not sure, please visit the Ski and Ride Center in the Village.

Lifts: Bikes are permitted on the Great Escape Quad. Riders should load their own bikes, but lift operators are available for assistance. A Summer Bike Ticket is required for lift-accessed trails and can be purchased at the Ski and Ride Center, Guest Services in the Village and on Schweitzer’s website.

Signage: All trails are marked with signs stating the trail difficulty level. Similar to skiing, green trails are the easiest, blue are intermediate and black trails are expert-only. See the trail map for trail descriptions. Signs also mark road and hiking trail intersections. Be aware of road crossings and yield to all vehicles on the road. Stay on designated trails.

Stay in Control:You are responsible for avoiding people, objects, debris and wildlife. Yield to slower riders and the rider below you. Walk your bike through the Lift Plaza and base area including common areas and pedestrian walkways.
Know your limits: Ride within your ability. Start small and work your way up.
Protect Yourself: Helmets are required on Schweitzer property and appropriate safety protective gear is recommended. Use an appropriate bike.
Inspect and Maintain Equipment: Know the components and their operation prior to riding.
Be Lift Smart: Know how to load, ride and unload lifts safely. Ask if you need help.
Inspect Trails and Features:Inspect the trails and features before use. Trail features vary in size and difficulty and change due to weather, maintenance, usage, modifications and the time of day.
Obey Signs and Warnings: Stay on marked trails only. Keep off closed trails and features, and ride in the indicated direction.
Be Visible:Only stop where you are visible and do not obstruct trails or features.
Look and Yield:Look both ways and yield when entering or crossing a road or trail. When overtaking, use caution and yield to those ahead.
Cooperate:If you are involved in or witness an incident, report immediately to patrol (208) 263-9555, identify yourself, and stay on location until patrol arrives.
Wildlife: Do not feed, provoke or approach wildlife. Leave no trace. Pack out more than you pack in.

E-bikes (Class I ONLY) are allowed on Schweitzer trails. This includes lift-serviced trails (provided the e-bike fits in our loading trays). E-bikes must yield to all other traffic on the trails.

Schweitzer does not allow shotgun-style seats or front mounted kids bike seats. This includes lift-serviced trails and XC trails.

Do not approach wild animals no matter how calm they appear to be. Remain at least 100 yards (91 m) away from bears and moose and at least 25 yards (23 m) away from all other animals including deer and elk. Never leave small children near wild animals.

Never feed wildlife or leave food/garbage unattended. Animals that become habituated to human food may display aggression toward people.

Stay alert, make noise, hike or bike in groups, and do not run from wild animals. Carry bear spray and know how to use it. When viewing bears along roads, use pullouts and stay in your car. Never pursue a bear to take a picture or block traffic.

If a bear has noticed you, use additional strategies to prevent the situation from escalating.
- If you encounter a bear, identify yourself as a human by talking calmly, remain still, stand you ground, and slowly wave your arms. The bear may come closer or stand on hind legs to investigate. Standing bears are usually curious, not threatening.
- Stay calm and remember that bears do not want to attack you; they usually just want to be left alone. Bears may react defensively by woofing, yawning, salivating, growling, snapping their jaws or pulling their ears back. Screams or sudden movements may trigger an attack. Never imitate bear sounds or make a high-pitched squeal.
- Pick up small children immediately.
- Hike and travel in groups. Groups of people are usually noisier and smellier than a single person. Therefore, bears often become aware of groups of people at greater distances. Because of their size, groups are also more intimidating to bears.
- Make yourself look as large as possible. For example, move to higher ground.
- Do not drop your pack, it can provide protection for our back and prevent a bear from accessing your food.
- If the bear is stationary, move away slowly and sideways; and keep an eye on the bear. Moving sideways is non-threatening.
- Do not run. If a bear follows you, stop and hold your ground.
- Do not climb a tree. Both grizzlies and black bears can climb trees.
- Always leave the bear an escape route.
- Be especially cautious if you see a female with bear cubs. Never place yourself between a mother and her cubs and never attempt to approach them.


Black Bear and Grizzly Bear Interactions
Bear attacks are rare; most bears are only interested in protecting food, cubs or their space. However, being mentally prepared can help you have the most effective reaction. Every situation is different, but below are the guidelines on how brown bear attacks can differ from black bears. Help protect others by reporting all bear incidents to a Schweitzer employee immediately. Above all, keep your distance from bears!

Black Bears
If you are attacked by a black bear, don't play dead. Try to escape to a secure place such as a car or building. If escape is not possible, try to fight back using an available object. Concentrate your kicks and blows on the bear's face and muzzle.

Brown/Grizzly Bears (extremely rare to see in the area but they do exist)
If you are attacked by a brown/grizzly bear, leave your pack on and play dead. Lay flat on your stomach with your hands clasped behind your neck. Spread your legs to make it harder for the bear to turn you over. Remain still until the bear leaves the area. Fighting back usually increase the intensity of such attacks. However, if the attack persists, fight back vigorously. Use whatever you have at hand to hit the bear in the face.

We welcome huckleberry picking on Schweitzer property, but the use of commercial pickers, rakes, etc, is prohibited. Huckleberry picking on Schweitzer property is for personal use only, not to be resold. If you are caught using rakes, damaging bushes, etc, you will be asked to leave the property and potentially be banned for the future.