How to Go Skiing in Snowhaven, Idaho

Snowhaven Ski Area is less than 10 miles south of the city of Grangeville in northern Idaho. This unique area doesn't offer Idaho's biggest snow thrills--the vertical drop is mere 400 feet--but Snowhaven does offer charm and a fun atmosphere, making it a worthwhile snow getaway.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Computer with Internet connection

Book Accommodations Near Snowhaven

1. Search for ski trip accommodations on the Idaho Division of Tourism Development Web site (see Resources below). You can also call the department at [phone] to speak to someone directly about finding lodging near Grangeville.
2. Stay in one of the many hotels, inns and lodges strung along Main Street in Grangeville. For a distinctive experience, you can also opt to stay in a guest ranch.
3. Book a room in Grangeville for a speedy ascent to the Snowhaven Ski Area. Most of the lodgings are not recognizable names but do offer local charm and convenience. Prices are inexpensive for the most part.

Organize Transportation for a Ski Trip to Snowhaven

4. Drive the seven miles from nearby Grangeville south to Snowhaven. The ski area can be reached either by taking I-95, which drops you off on W. Main St., or by taking the ID-13 going west, which becomes Harpster Grade Rd. and then E. Main St.
5. Head due north from Boise for around 200 miles, most of the trip along US 95. The drive should take somewhere around four hours. The County Road Department in Grangeville keeps the road to Snowhaven plowed and covered with plenty of gravel for a safe journey.

Know Your Destination

6. The Snowhaven Ski Area is owned by the city of Grangeville and offers affordable skiing, snowboarding and snow tubing. If you are an avid cross-country skier, you should definitely visit Snowhaven.
7. Spend the day at Snowhaven Ski Area traversing the seven runs that are reached via T-bar and rope tow. The trails span over 40 acres and have a vertical drop of about 400 feet. Those who want to try out the snow tubing can hop on a tube and ride two runs stretching almost 800 feet long.
8. Purchase lift tickets for an entire day or for a half day. Prices are very inexpensive. If you want to tackle the snow tubing hill, expect to pay by the hour. An affordable Marathon Pass is available for those who wish to ski and snow tube for the entire day.
9. Snowhaven Ski Area is only open on Saturday and Sunday. Show up before 10:00 a.m. to get ahead of the crowds. The day hours are until 4:00 p.m. and the night ski goes until 9:00 p.m.
10. Call Snowhaven Ski Area at [phone] to find out the current conditions. An online snow report is not available at this time.

Tips & Warnings

• Children under 4 years old are not allowed to ride the tubing hill.
• Lock in cheap rates by booking online and searching for accommodations in off-peak times, such as after Christmas and New Year's Eve.