Ski resort delays opening due to current conditions: Mother Nature has other plans

Schweitzer Mountain Resort, the biggest ski destination in northern Idaho's panhandle, has postponed the start of its 2025 ski season. The resort was originally scheduled to welcome skiers on November 21, but unusually warm and wet conditions forced a reschedule.

"Mother Nature has different plans for us," said Schweitzer CEO Tom Chasse. "Given the current conditions, we've decided to move Opening Day to November 28."

Chasse explained that while the resort experienced light snowfall in October, Novembers weather failed to provide the necessary conditions for skiing. Instead of freezing temperatures and dry air, the area saw significant rainfall, with nighttime lows rarely dipping below 40F.

Although a one-week delay may appear minor, it reflects a broader trend affecting ski destinations worldwide. Human activity has released millions of tons of heat-trapping emissions, contributing to global warming. The past decade has been the warmest on record, with 2024 marking the hottest year ever, and scientists expect these trends to continue.

Rising temperatures make ski season openings increasingly uncertain, while also heightening the risk of extreme weather events, including heavy rainfall that can severely impact resorts.

For Idaho skiers, hope is not lost. Forecasters predict a better than 50% chance that La Nia conditions will dominate through February 2026, which usually bring colder temperatures and abundant snowfall ideal for skiing.

"If the jet stream shifts even slightly, we could see several feet of snow," Chasse noted.

This delay also underscores the importance of reducing carbon footprints to combat climate change. Large actions, like installing solar panels or driving electric vehicles, can help, but small everyday choices, such as using reusable bags or eco-friendly sunscreen, also make a meaningful impact.

Author: Sophia Brooks