Jeff's Corner - Lookout Pass, Idaho

Lookout Pass is a non-profit ski area located atop Lookout Pass on the Idaho side of the Idaho Montana border. The ski area is just yards from Interstate 90, and roughly 90 minutes from both Spokane, Wash. (to the west) and Missoula, Mont. (to the east).

For decades, the ski area operated with one double chair and one rope tow. Two years ago, however, the area nearly doubled in size with the addition of a new chair and new terrain, and next year will add a third chair and another half-dozen runs -- all expert. The new terrain will add much needed expert terrain to what is mostl a beginner and intermediate mountain.

I skied Lookout Pass in February for one day. It was a Saturday and the parking lot filled up quickly, with lines occasionally about 10 minutes long. The area is open only Thursday through Sunday. At the time I was there they were advertising an 8-foot base, with 11 feet on the summit.

Skiing at Lookout is very pleasant, though not exactly exciting. The runs are wide and well groomed, and the snow is excellent. The runs off the front were all beginner and intermediate with the exception of two expert runs under the chair.

The skiing off the back side is similar, though not as crowded. I did also ski the terrain slated to be served by the third chair. It is steep fall line skiing.

Skiing here is cheap -- weekend tickets are less than $30. Single ride passes are available for $5. XC ski trails lead from the summit and around the mountain, and it is possible to engage in long mountaineering trips from the summit, as well.

Facilities at the ski area include a simple shop, homey cafeteria, refurbished bathrooms, a locker and changing area, and a bar. There are also rentals.

The vibe here is nice and low key, and while the area attracts plenty of beginners there are also a good number of very capable skiers.

Jeff Schmerker
Waynesville, NC

The front side of Lookout, with I-90 visible at the base