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Articles by Jen Forsyth
Jen Forsyth: Please don't drink and drive
As the holidays approach, Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Eve, you will hear reminders for shopping deals, reminders about holiday food, reminders about family and yes, reminders not to drink and drive. It may feel a little early for that last one. I certainly thought it was two years ago when I answered a call at my daughter’s cheer competition in Louisville, Ky. It was from my oldest son, and it was the worst call of my life. “Mom, there was an accident.
From skis to race cars, T.J. Sneva stays in the fast lane
Many people are familiar with the name — as a ski manufacturer, race car driver, born and raised Spokane local. The man behind the name is T.J. Sneva. Born in Spokane 41 years ago, he started skiing at age 3 at 49 Degrees North with his family, and it was over from there. As Sneva explains, "I went with my uncle and cousin and immediately fell in love with skiing." Over the years, he skied mainly at 49 but did venture over to Schweitzer on occasion.
There's Still Time to Enjoy Snow-Covered Mountains
For skiing and snowboarding, this really can be the best time of the season. The base is typically great and with every passing storm the coverage just gets better and better. For those who don't want to deal with the elements down low in the valleys, the snowline has remained primarily above town elevation, leaving a much simpler way of living day-to-day life.
Bluebird days and goggle tans: Enjoy winter while it lasts
This time of the ski season is bittersweet. Coverage is just getting to the point where you can let the skis or snowboard let loose without worry about what might be underneath, but then the sporadic warm and sunny day rears its beautiful head and has us dreaming of flips flops, shorts and carefree lake days.
Three little words that make us swoon every time | Snowlander | The Pacific Northwest Inlander | News, Politics, Music, Calendar, Events in Spokane, Coeur d'Alene and the Inland Northwest
Throughout life we are programmed to look forward to hearing those "three little words" that can make a person melt. The first time they are heard, you may not be sure of what they are really supposed to mean. The feeling of butterflies dancing in your stomach and the feeling of pure bliss are usually two of the common responses to hearing those words.
Full Speed Ahead | Snowlander | The Pacific Northwest Inlander | News, Politics, Music, Calendar, Events in Spokane, Coeur d'Alene and the Inland Northwest
Well, winter and ski season had us hanging on the edge of our seats there for a little bit, up until mid-December. Resorts and Inland Northwest skiers and boarders sat anxiously watching weather channels and apps to see if the storm that blanketed the region just days prior to the much-anticipated winter break would actually come through as forecasted. It did and turned ski season from marginal to epic within hours.
Gifts for Mountain People | Snowlander | The Pacific Northwest Inlander | News, Politics, Music, Calendar, Events in Spokane, Coeur d'Alene and the Inland Northwest
'Tis the season for giving gifts to those you love. Not sure what to get your adventure-seeking loved one this season? Head to your local ski and outdoor shop; they are stocked up and ready to help with that perfect gift for everyone on your list. The Hestra Power Heater gloves will come in handy to those chronic cold-hand skiers and snowboarders.
Before the Rush | Snowlander | The Pacific Northwest Inlander | News, Politics, Music, Calendar, Events in Spokane, Coeur d'Alene and the Inland Northwest
There is nothing merry about working in the ski industry for ski bums during the month of December. The transition from early December to the holidays and the influx of the masses to the mountains means something different to each sector, and realistically very few things are merry as a result of it. Typically, the transition goes from slow operations to "full on" within minutes.
It's Just the Beginning | Snowlander | The Pacific Northwest Inlander | News, Politics, Music, Calendar, Events in Spokane, Coeur d'Alene and the Inland Northwest
We're in a high-pressure reset. I can't remember the last time that all five ski resorts in the Inland Northwest opened prior to Thanksgiving. Individually, some have been luckier than others to hit that feat. But this year, they were all able to open the week or weeks prior to the holiday with reports of some of the most phenomenal opening conditions in history. At the Inlander's Winter Party last month, we found a lot of really stoked skiers, preparing for their weekend adventures on the mountain.
Resorts of the Northwest | Snowlander | The Pacific Northwest Inlander | News, Politics, Music, Calendar, Events in Spokane, Coeur d'Alene and the Inland Northwest
While it doesn't feel like one of the largest ski areas in Washington, with its quaint village feeling and family friendly vibes, 49 Degrees North is just that, with 2,325 skiable acres. The terrain is spread out with a perfect mix of challenging glades, immaculate groomers and two mountain peaks — Chewelah Peak and Angel Peak — to challenge any level of skier or snowboarder. Additionally, there are 10 miles of Nordic trails available to get the heart rate elevated.
Ready? Your first run is within sight! | Snowlander | The Pacific Northwest Inlander | News, Politics, Music, Calendar, Events in Spokane, Coeur d'Alene and the Inland Northwest
November's always an exciting and busy month for Inland Northwest skiers and snowboarders, as Opening Day announcements are within sight. Some Canadian resorts like to beat us to the punch with Opening Days, as they begin snowmaking earlier, benefiting from early-season low temperatures and precipitation. In particular, there's a lot of buzz locally this November, after last year's great winter season, and with snow falling in the mountains and in the valleys so early.
A Guide to Après-Ski | Snowlander | The Pacific Northwest Inlander | News, Politics, Music, Calendar, Events in Spokane, Coeur d'Alene and the Inland Northwest
commonly known just as "après" at ski bars all around the world. It's a gathering of skiers and snowboarders from all walks of life. The gathering doesn't define anyone by what they do, how much they make, the car they drive or the house they live in, but by the day they all just shared together on the mountain. It goes further than this, though. Après-ski is where actions that would not normally fly in any other bar setting are socially acceptable.
49 Degrees North | Snowlander | The Pacific Northwest Inlander | News, Politics, Music, Calendar, Events in Spokane, Coeur d'Alene and the Inland Northwest
Located up scenic Flowery Trail from the northeastern Washington town of Chewelah, 49 Degrees North is made up of three basins, two peaks, seven chairlifts and 2,325 skiable acres with a vertical drop of 1,851 feet. The terrain offers a little something for everyone with pristine groomers and some of the best tree skiing in the Inland Northwest. In addition to its alpine terrain, 10 miles of Nordic skiing is also available through the resort.
Schweitzer Mountain Resort | Snowlander | The Pacific Northwest Inlander | News, Politics, Music, Calendar, Events in Spokane, Coeur d'Alene and the Inland Northwest
The largest ski area in the Inland Northwest with 2,900 acres of skiable terrain, Schweitzer Mountain Resort also boasts world-class amenities, ranking among the nation's top destination resorts, with plenty of accommodations, food and beverage options and the most amazing and expansive views of the surrounding mountains in the Cabinet and Selkirk ranges. And it's all a quick 90 minutes from Spokane.
Lookout Pass | Snowlander | The Pacific Northwest Inlander | News, Politics, Music, Calendar, Events in Spokane, Coeur d'Alene and the Inland Northwest
Lookout Pass, located on the Idaho/Montana state line on Interstate 90, offers one of the most family-friendly skiing and snowboarding experiences in the region. Lookout Pass, known for its epic snowfall — an average of 400 inches per year — typically wins the "First to open for the season" award for the region. Currently, the ski area offers 540 acres of skiable terrain, though with its new, in-progress expansion, it will almost double in size next season, adding 500 acres of terrain.
Silver Mountain | Snowlander | The Pacific Northwest Inlander | News, Politics, Music, Calendar, Events in Spokane, Coeur d'Alene and the Inland Northwest
Silver Mountain Resort, celebrating 50 years of operation this season, is conveniently located off of Interstate 90 in Kellogg, Idaho. Upon arrival, skiers and snowboarders will find easy parking and a fully equipped village with lodging, an indoor waterpark — Silver Rapids, Idaho's largest — and plenty of eateries and watering holes. The adventure begins with an easy gondola ride, taking you to the mountaintop village.
October's Mixed Bag | Snowlander | The Pacific Northwest Inlander | News, Politics, Music, Calendar, Events in Spokane, Coeur d'Alene and the Inland Northwest
October brings a bag of mixed emotions for many people in the Inland Northwest. For those with the "endless summer" mindset, it's the sudden realization that the temperature has dropped and the summer is over; it'll be another eight months before the boats go back in the water, shorts and flip-flops are the regular attire and summer nights go well into the late hours of the evening.
The Opening Day countdown | Snowlander | The Pacific Northwest Inlander | News, Politics, Music, Calendar, Events in Spokane, Coeur d'Alene and the Inland Northwest
It's that time of year again, where we transition from flip-flops to socks and shoes, lawn mowers to snow blowers, baseball to football. The checking of weather apps goes from hopes for high temperatures to the anticipation of snow in the forecast, and there's a last big push by area mountains to generate season pass sales.
Mt. Spokane | Snowlander | The Pacific Northwest Inlander | News, Politics, Music, Calendar, Events in Spokane, Coeur d'Alene and the Inland Northwest
The most conveniently located ski area to Spokane, Mt. Spokane Ski & Snowboard Park, offers 1,425 acres of skiable terrain with a vertical drop of 2,071 feet, as well as the greatest amount of night skiing in the region — four nights per week, Wednesday through Saturday, with 16 lighted runs. The terrain offers an array of options, from wide-open groomers to trees and great bump runs.
The 5 gnarliest inbounds runs in the Northwest | Outdoors & Recreation | The Pacific Northwest Inlander | News, Politics, Music, Calendar, Events in Spokane, Coeur d'Alene and the Inland Northwest
The reality of a heart-pumping, badass ski run is in the eye of the beholder. It could be the first time venturing off-piste on a big powder day, taking an "experts-only chairlift" ride or stepping off a helicopter deep in the backcountry. In the Pacific and Inland Northwest, there are gems located within the boundary lines that can get any expert's blood rushing.
Keeping it in the Family | Snowlander | The Pacific Northwest Inlander | News, Politics, Music, Calendar, Events in Spokane, Coeur d'Alene and the Inland Northwest
"It's really cool to be out in the mountains with my dad, and I'm really lucky I get to do it a lot. I watched him growing up, being a professional skier, and admiring what he did. Now, I get to go out and do it with him." That's professional freeskier Amie Engerbretson, talking about her closeness and working relationship with her father, photographer and videographer Jeff Engerbretson.
Life Behind the Lens | Snowlander | The Pacific Northwest Inlander | News, Politics, Music, Calendar, Events in Spokane, Coeur d'Alene and the Inland Northwest
Doug Marshall has been shooting photographs for almost as long as he's been alive. At the age 5, he received his first camera, an Eastman Kodak Brownie. "It didn't last very long," he says, laughing. "I was running up the stairs, fell and it broke." These were his first years shooting photographs, which continued through his early life.
This Epic Season Is Only Half Over | Snowlander | The Pacific Northwest Inlander | News, Politics, Music, Calendar, Events in Spokane, Coeur d'Alene and the Inland Northwest
The concept of living epically is unique to all of us, whether it's enjoying a 100-day ski season, skiing a deep powder day or skinning up your first backcountry experience. That's the beautiful thing about winter; there are endless options to experience it the way you want to. I've seen such diverse postings this season, from friends out fat-tire biking, snowshoeing, skiing, snowboarding and cross country skiing.
Good for All Occasions | Snowlander | The Pacific Northwest Inlander | News, Politics, Music, Calendar, Events in Spokane, Coeur d'Alene and the Inland Northwest
When the temperatures start to do some funky things, it takes the most seasoned professional to perfect the art of dressing for the current conditions. This comes after years of having too many layers, not enough layers, the wrong goggle lens or the wrong skis for the day's conditions. Sunny, clear and freezing cold, usually with a wind chill These are the days that easily confuse those newer to the sport of snow skiing.
Asked and Answered | Snowlander | The Pacific Northwest Inlander | News, Politics, Music, Calendar, Events in Spokane, Coeur d'Alene and the Inland Northwest
Well, we prayed for winter and we sure got it. Multiple cold snaps and plenty of early season powder days. Area resorts saw full parking lots and busy lodges. The beautiful aspect of this time of year is the ski season has just started, with almost three more months of sliding on the slopes. January is Learn to Ski and Snowboard Month and area resorts are all offering lesson packages to fit all budgets, most of them including lift tickets, lessons and rentals for a deeply discounted price.
Learning to Adapt | Snowlander | The Pacific Northwest Inlander | News, Politics, Music, Calendar, Events in Spokane, Coeur d'Alene and the Inland Northwest
I fell to the ground clutching the back of my leg. There was a freakish void. My Achilles had snapped, and as I hobbled off the soccer field I thought of the Streak. I had cobbled together 34 consecutive monthly trips to ski, which I've chronicled in the Inlander over the past two years. Come hell or high water, I was getting out there each month to find a pitch steep enough to link 10 or more turns together. In the aftermath of the injury, it was clear. No one can ski with a ruptured Achilles.
Getting High | Snowlander | The Pacific Northwest Inlander | News, Politics, Music, Calendar, Events in Spokane, Coeur d'Alene and the Inland Northwest
Summiting many mountains in the Pacific Northwest means a hellish slog, followed by a quick look around and a rapid descent to beat any nasty weather rolling in. It doesn't have to be that way. On Friday, Schweitzer Mountain Resort opens its highly anticipated Sky House, a new 9,000-square-foot lodge at the mountain's summit where skiers can enjoy a meal or just relax and take in the incredible views — no hiking required.
Buyer Beware | Snowlander | The Pacific Northwest Inlander | News, Politics, Music, Calendar, Events in Spokane, Coeur d'Alene and the Inland Northwest
It all began, recently, with a Craigslist post that a friend of mine shared on social media to a snowboard binding for sale in Minnesota. I bit. I read it and realized how creative and crazy some of these items for sale can be. This one, in particular was for one binding. You got it. One right binding only. It was a brand new binding that the gentleman selling explained, was for someone just like him. Only right footed.
GEAR AND GIFTS | Snowlander | The Pacific Northwest Inlander | News, Politics, Music, Calendar, Events in Spokane, Coeur d'Alene and the Inland Northwest
Slowly but surely, the one-piece (aka the onesie) is making a comeback. The Strafe Sickbird Suit is an uber-technical piece of outerwear meant for the stormiest of powder days. It's built tough, with waterproof and breathable fabric. Not ready to commit to the entire suit? Strafe has a full lineup of jacket and pants options with the same technical excellence. MyPakage is designed for the athletic male, but is suitable for any man looking for the most comfortable undergarment on the market.
Worth the Money | Snowlander | The Pacific Northwest Inlander | News, Politics, Music, Calendar, Events in Spokane, Coeur d'Alene and the Inland Northwest
Don't stress, skiers and snowboarders. If you bought a season lift pass to a local resort, you shouldn't have any trouble using it this winter. Snow levels in the mountains are already much higher than at the same time last year, according to National Weather Service meteorologist Andrew Kalin. Even before the recent snow that hit the lowlands of the Inland Northwest last weekend, the base amount at Mount Spokane and Silver Mountain ski resorts were six inches higher than this time last year.
Ready for a Winter to Remember? | Snowlander | The Pacific Northwest Inlander | News, Politics, Music, Calendar, Events in Spokane, Coeur d'Alene and the Inland Northwest
Welcome back winter! We've missed you. This season comes with as much anticipation and excitement as any other I can remember in the past decade. Ski season has arrived, and with a vengeance. It's already shaping up to be an epic winter, with all of the Inland Northwest mountains open and reporting stellar early-season conditions. As every storm passes through, more and more acreage will be opening.
New Kid on the Block | Snowlander | The Pacific Northwest Inlander | News, Politics, Music, Calendar, Events in Spokane, Coeur d'Alene and the Inland Northwest
If you're going to dream, dream big. That's exactly what Canadian ski guide Jeff Gostlin did not long ago. With a vision that's been rolling around in his head, finding the right partners and some negotiating, Gostlin Keefer Lake Lodge Catskiing was born. I had the opportunity to visit Jeff and his newly formed catskiing operation last January, when his lodge was in mid-construction and roads were being cut and terrain prepared for this season's operation.
Waiting Game | Snowlander | The Pacific Northwest Inlander | News, Politics, Music, Calendar, Events in Spokane, Coeur d'Alene and the Inland Northwest
Rain, rain, go away. Come back in the spring, please. This is the toughest part of the ski season — the waiting (and wading through water) game. There's a direct correlation between a low snow line and a high stoke level.
Resorts Of The Northwest | Snowlander | The Pacific Northwest Inlander | News, Politics, Music, Calendar, Events in Spokane, Coeur d'Alene and the Inland Northwest
49 Degrees North, one of Washington state's largest ski areas, has a lot to be excited about coming into this season, with the transformation of the Sunrise Basin in full swing. Always regarded as one of the Northwest's favorite family-friendly resorts, terrain challenges and excitement are waiting for the entire family, with groomers, glades, two base areas, the lively Boomtown Bar and two peaks that tower over 2,325 skiable acres.
Join the Alliance: Getting more bang for your skiing bucks | Bloglander
Three years since its inception to local skiers and boarders, the Powder Alliance is constantly growing. Currently, there are 15 resorts over nine states and three countries. Regionally, Schweitzer Mountain and Whitewater in British Columbia are among the elite list.The basis of this "add-on" season-pass benefit is that you get three days* of skiing at partnering resorts with your unlimited pass if your home resort is in the program.
Lookout Pass | Snowlander | The Pacific Northwest Inlander | News, Politics, Music, Calendar, Events in Spokane, Coeur d'Alene and the Inland Northwest
The most noticeable improvements that came to Lookout Pass Ski Area over the summer will be found on the Montana/Idaho face. "We removed the Boarderline Terrain Park on the Montana Face," says Lookout sales and marketing director Jason Bergman.
Mt. Spokane Ski & Snowboard Park | Snowlander | The Pacific Northwest Inlander | News, Politics, Music, Calendar, Events in Spokane, Coeur d'Alene and the Inland Northwest
The folks up at Mt. Spokane Ski & Snowboard Park have been busy this summer! "We are pleased to announce the accomplishment of multiple improvements to the ski area this summer," says marketing manager Brenda McQuarrie. "Thanks to a grant from the Washington State Legislature, continuation of the remodeling projects were completed at Lodge 2, including new windows, siding, slope-side entries and beautiful hand-hewn finish work inside.
49 Degrees North | Snowlander | The Pacific Northwest Inlander | News, Politics, Music, Calendar, Events in Spokane, Coeur d'Alene and the Inland Northwest
The upgrades continue at 49 Degrees North. The most noticeable will be this season's transformation of the Sunrise Basin. "The entire base of Chair 5, Sunrise Quad, is transformed," says 49 Degrees marketing director Kenleigh Hobby. "We have finalized the majority of the infrastructure, including a private, high-speed fiber optic network, wastewater collection systems, 130,000-gallon water storage tank and pump house.
Even Average is Epic | Snowlander | The Pacific Northwest Inlander | News, Politics, Music, Calendar, Events in Spokane, Coeur d'Alene and the Inland Northwest
Over the past decade and a half I've lived here, I can't remember when there was so much excitement for the upcoming winter season. Predictions started early about the 2016-17 season being a La Niña year.
Silver Mountain Resort | Snowlander | The Pacific Northwest Inlander | News, Politics, Music, Calendar, Events in Spokane, Coeur d'Alene and the Inland Northwest
"We are bringing back our popular Flexible 5 Pak this year," says Neal Scholey, Silver Mountain's director of sales and marketing. This sale ends on Jan. 14, 2017, so don't wait too long to commit. The program is geared for ages 7 and up, and includes five lessons with an instructor, equipment rentals and lift tickets. Graduates receive a season pass for the remainder of the 2016-17 season and 50 percent off a pass for the following season.
Schweitzer Mountain Resort | Snowlander | The Pacific Northwest Inlander | News, Politics, Music, Calendar, Events in Spokane, Coeur d'Alene and the Inland Northwest
In a project two years in the making, Schweitzer Mountain Resort is looking forward to the completion of the new lodge at the summit of the mountain. "Construction began in July 2015, and the structure will offer unforgettable views of Lake Pend Oreille, three states and Canada," says Schweitzer marketing manager Dig Chrismer.
Dreams Become Reality | Snowlander | The Pacific Northwest Inlander | News, Politics, Music, Calendar, Events in Spokane, Coeur d'Alene and the Inland Northwest
For many kids, dreaming about becoming a professional skier is just a dream. Not for Essex Prescott, who's turned his dream into a reality and is taking the skiing world by storm. Growing up in Coeur d'Alene, Essex spent every waking minute thinking about skiing. By age 10, Essex's parents Todd and Maryann, also avid ski enthusiasts, enrolled Essex in the Silver Mountain Ski Race program.
News, Politics, Music, Calendar, Events in Spokane, Coeur d'Alene and the Inland Northwest
It was the fall of 2011 and I was tending bar at Trinity at City Beach in Sandpoint, where my daily view consisted of sailboats and powerboats entering and leaving the marina with the vastness of Lake Pend Oreille and the Cabinet Mountains in the background.
News, Politics, Music, Calendar, Events in Spokane, Coeur d'Alene and the Inland Northwest
Every mountain has one — the person you love to hate, who awakens you every morning during the ski season with the news you don't want to hear, or the person you secretly love, whose voice you can't wait to hear first thing in the morning. The snow reporter is their own special breed among the skiing and snowboarding population. They speak their own language (what the heck is "mixed precip" anyway?) and often do the job in exchange for a season pass.
News, Politics, Music, Calendar, Events in Spokane, Coeur d'Alene and the Inland Northwest
There are a couple of new faces at the South Hill's Alpine Haus: Rachel Link and Drew Harding, and their 7-year-old Australian Shepherd, Payley. While they might be new to the shop, they are anything but new to the area. Drew was born and raised in Spokane, attended Mead High School for a couple of years and then finished up at North Central. He started skiing at age 5, but took a hiatus due to his involvement in high school sports.
Skiing Valhalla | Snowlander | The Pacific Northwest Inlander | News, Politics, Music, Calendar, Events in Spokane, Coeur d'Alene and the Inland Northwest
Waking up in a foreign country, with 12 inches of fresh snow and the day's upcoming adventure weighing on my mind, I thought I was still sleeping and in the middle of a dream. Fortunately for me, I was awake and the dream was just beginning. Typically, I'm not a morning person, although it was easy to jump out of bed, even with a slight twinge in my head, possibly from a little too much Canadian whiskey the night before.
Single-Chairlift Throwback
Maverick Mountain, located in the Pioneer Mountains of southwestern Montana, is one of the many legendary "must visit" mom-and-pop ski areas that make the Montana ski experience so special. When it comes to bucket lists, a visit to Maverick definitely should be a priority. Maverick is not a widely known ski area, as its location is remote. The entire experience is an adventure; getting there is as memorable as the skiing.
There's No Better Time
It's so much easier to write about ski season and be excited when the snow is falling outside and the weather forecast is calling for 9 inches of accumulation overnight. Many skiers and snowboarders agree that this is the best time of year; spring storms typically roll through on a consistent basis, and there are plenty of late winter and spring events almost every weekend throughout the rest of the season.
News, Politics, Music, Calendar, Events in Spokane, Coeur d'Alene and the Inland Northwest
At a very young age, Benjamin Powell had a connection with photography and the outdoors, but it wasn't until four years ago that he put the two together for what is now his lifestyle. Born in Denver but raised in Missoula, Powell grew up fly fishing, hunting and snowboarding. As he was starting to get interested in photography, coincidentally his sister was as well.
Lift Line Rules | Snowlander | The Pacific Northwest Inlander | News, Politics, Music, Calendar, Events in Spokane, Coeur d'Alene and the Inland Northwest
So many factors come into play when getting familiarized with all of the different aspects of skiing and snowboarding. One part that experienced skiers take for granted is etiquette and knowledge when it comes to the chairlift lines and being a "single" rider. Recently during the holidays, I was loading a chairlift mainly meant for beginners. The line was long so I had time — really, what felt like an eternity — to take in vacationing visitors' conversations.
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