Silver Mountain Resort is in Kellogg, Idaho. This resort is open year around, offering skiing activities and an indoor water park. Kellogg is formerly the site of Idaho's biggest mining operation. The first ski operation opened in the late 1960s and continues to thrive.
Downhill Skiing and Snowboarding
Downhill skiers and snowboarders find ample choices between the Resort's two mountains. There are 73 trails and 1,600 acres of terrain. The highest peak is 2,200 feet. In addition to runs down the mountains, there is a ski park where skiers that are more adventurous can practice tricks on rails and boxes. The Resort also hosts a ski team for children from 5 to 18 that culminates in a yearly race.
Nordic and Cat Skiing
You also have the option to hire special guides who will take you off the beaten path in Cat vehicles, to experience fresh, untouched snow. Cross-country (Nordic) skiers have the option of using the Coeur d'Arlene's pass, a paved 10-foot-wide trail. A three-mile snowshoe trail also is available, as are rental snowshoes.
Ski School
The Resort has winter sports school taught by certified instructors for ages 4 and up. You can take semi-private lessons anytime at $60 per hour, or $120 for three hours of instruction, as of 2010. There are group lessons and packages for skiers ages 14 and up. There are weekend skier and snowboarder classes for children, grouped based on age and availability. Full day programs include lunch.
Equipment Rental
You can rent equipment at the "Rental Haus" at the top of the gondola. Experienced outfitters will assure you get the best fit possible. The house opens daily from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. There is a variety of popular, well-known brand names from which to choose. Snowboard equipment is by Rossignol. There is also a repair and wax shop to service your ski equipment. Rental prices are by the day and depend on age, the piece of equipment. The price range is $5 to $34, as of 2010.
Lift Tickets and Passes
If you plan to visit Silver Mountain often, you will save money buying a season pass giving you access to skiing, snowboarding and the indoor water park. Prices, based on age, range from $25 to $599. The pass gives you 10 percent off at Morning Star Lodge, the resort's on-premises hotel. Payment plans for season passes let you split the cost into four equal payments.
Lift tickets at the resort are by the day or half day, and prices change for holidays. Prices for ski and snowboarding passes vary by age. There is no charge for children under 6, and lift ticket discounts go to students, members of the military, EMTs and firefighters. Prices range from $29 to $49, as of 2010.
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