Snowshoe Tours & Ski Lessons: Ease into Winter Sports Around Spokane Valley

Winter doesn’t require daredevil descents or double–black–diamond bravado. Around Spokane Valley, snow lovers of every speed can settle into soft-paced snowshoe treks and ski lessons that turn cautious beginners into confident cruisers. Without crowded corridors or costly chaos. With Spokane Valley as your winter home base, you’re perfectly positioned for accessible alpine experiences across the region’s most inviting mountains. Here, winter welcomes every ability level with wide-open terrain, wallet-friendly pricing, and the warmest hospitality west of the Rockies.

MT. SPOKANE SKI & SNOWBOARD PARK

Just 28 miles from Spokane Valley, Mt. Spokane Ski & Snowboard Park balances community character with comprehensive terrain. Spanning 1,700 acres across six chairlifts and 52 runs, its varied slopes support beginners building confidence and intermediates refining their finesse.

Families flock to the resort’s renowned ski school, where learners ages 7 and up start with a $129 beginner package including rentals and access to the Beginner’s Luck Chair. Weekend group lessons ($149) help skiers sharpen turns with two-hour guided sessions, while tiny trailblazers ages 4–6 enjoy an age-specific $99 program fit for first-time fun. For season-long growth, the three-lesson EZ Ski 1-2-3 package ($299) creates a smart, steady progression path. Private lessons begin at $129 for personalized on-mountain coaching.

For travelers seeking a slower snow day, guided snowshoe tours with Spokane Parks & Recreation follow forested routes across rolling ridgelines. Tours are offered on select dates throughout the winter season, including themed outings like Moonlight Treks and Snowshoes & Brews for adults.

SILVER MOUNTAIN RESORT

Sixty miles east, Silver Mountain Resort elevates your escape with a 16,350-foot gondola floating families above snow-covered valleys during a 16-minute ascent to the upper mountain. With 73 trails over 1,600 acres, skiers can shuttle between two peaks packed with wide groomers and beginner-friendly bowls.

Kids ages 7–12 can join $65 group lessons, while adults have tailored instruction at the same times. The Never Ever package ($219) includes rentals, lift ticket, and a confidence-building class to help hesitant skiers ease onto gentle greens.

After descending the mountain, Silver Rapids Indoor Waterpark offers an 84-degree retreat exclusive to resort guests—ideal for après-ski soaking or keeping kids entertained. Value-minded visitors can tap into bundle deals starting at $107 per person, pairing two days at the indoor waterpark with one day of lift tickets—a smart, seamless way to enjoy multiple activities in a single stay.

49 DEGREES NORTH

Tucked 65 miles north in the Colville National Forest, 49 Degrees North combines spacious slopes with small-mountain charm. Its 2,325 skiable acres, seven chairlifts, and more than 80 trails welcome everyone from first-timers to tree-skiing devotees.

Beginners ages 6 and up can join the Learn 2 package ($109) for a two-hour lesson, rental gear, and a beginner lift ticket. The EZ 1-2-3 program ($229) bundles three lessons, three rentals, and three lift tickets—ideal for families aiming to grow together across the season. And with lift lines averaging under 30 seconds and more than 300 inches of annual snowfall, skiers spend their day gliding—not waiting.

Snowshoe lessons at the Nordic Center include 1.5-hour group sessions for ages 12 and up at $39, along with additional private lesson options offered in both one- and two-hour formats—each providing guided techniques and a scenic trek through frosted forests.

Other great options near Spokane Valley

If you have additional time for some downhill fun, check out these other options within a two-hour travel radius:

• Schweitzer Mountain Ski Resort near SandPoint, Idaho (1 hour, 30 minutes) offers excellent skiing and a wide range of winter activities. With 300 inches of annual snowfall, the mountain’s two bowls provide a skier’s playground worth exploring. The views are incredible, and the resort’s quaint village is family-friendly with nearby tubing and cross-country options.
• Lookout Pass Ski and Recreational Area, east of Mullan, Idaho (1 hour, 20 minutes), is a hidden gem in the region. The mountain, located on the Idaho-Montana state line, offers experiences for skiers of all levels. This ski hill is known for great powder, reasonable prices and short lines. It’s definitely worth the trip!

FROM SLOPES TO SPOKANE VALLEY SLUMBER

Mountain memories only deepen when you return to the Valley’s calm, cozy conveniences. After days spent skiing, snowshoeing, or savoring scenic drives, Spokane Valley offers wide-open spaces, welcoming trails, and easy exploration without downtown congestion. Couples can slip into local restaurants or venture into Spokane for arts, culture, and craft cocktails. Families can stretch evenings with river walks, playground stops, or indoor entertainment options minutes from their hotel.

From trusted chains to charming boutiques, the Valley offers a variety of accommodations. Plus, free parking citywide and immediate I-90 access simplify every outing.

Book your stay today and discover why Spokane Valley is the region’s most welcoming winter retreat.