Early snow on the mountain tops of the Inland Northwest is giving local ski areas a hopeful start to the winter season. Operators at Lookout Pass, 49 Degrees North in Chewelah and Mt. Spokane reported fresh snowfall over the weekend and are targeting Thanksgiving weekend openings, with the possibility of opening even earlier if conditions improve.
Lookout Pass prepares for an early start
Lookout Pass reported close to five inches of natural snow on its summit this past weekend. “We are 100% snow sent from heaven,” said Matt Sawyer, the resort’s spokesperson. “We typically aim to open around Thanksgiving weekend, but if we can get open a couple weeks before that, it would be great.” Sawyer noted that the resort usually receives about 450 inches of snow in an average season and logged 374 inches last year.
Despite the optimism, Sawyer acknowledged that season‑pass sales are down, a trend he said is being felt at ski areas nationwide. “Season passes and other products are currently down, and they are, as far as I know, at every ski area across the country,” he added.
49 Degrees North adds snowmaking capacity
At 49 Degrees North in Chewelah, the resort announced the addition of new artificial snowmaking machines. The upgrades are intended to preserve natural snowpack and provide supplemental snow when needed, helping to lengthen the ski season for local families and visitors.
The resort also plans to open around Thanksgiving, depending on weather conditions. The new equipment should give the mountain more flexibility to maintain quality runs even if natural snowfall fluctuates.
Mt. Spokane looks toward a December opening
Mt. Spokane shared a similar outlook, expecting to open on December 5 or earlier if weather permits. The mountain is also gearing up for its long‑standing Ski Swap, a 62‑year tradition that will feature more than 24,000 new and used ski items offered at discount prices.
The Ski Swap, scheduled for October 31 and November 1 at the Spokane County Fair and Expo Center, charges a $5 entry fee and begins at 9 a.m. each day. It provides a family‑friendly opportunity for locals to gear up for the season while supporting a community event.
What this means for families
For families in Spokane, Pend Oreille, Stevens and surrounding counties, the early snow and proactive resort planning signal a promising winter recreation season. The combination of natural snowfall and expanded snowmaking capacity should help keep slopes open longer, offering more weekend outings and holiday trips without the need for long travel distances.
Local businesses that depend on ski tourism—restaurants, lodging, equipment rentals—stand to benefit from an earlier start. While the dip in season‑pass sales reflects broader market pressures, the resorts’ focus on delivering reliable snow conditions aims to attract both seasoned skiers and newcomers looking for a safe, family‑oriented winter experience.
Looking ahead
Resort operators will continue to monitor weather patterns and adjust opening dates as needed. As the region watches the snow accumulate, the hope is that a solid start this season will set the tone for a vibrant winter that supports families, local economies and the cherished outdoor traditions of the Inland Northwest.
Original reporting: KHQ Spokane (news) — read the source article.
