By Colin Dole Contributing writer WSU skiers and snowboarders looking for a place to hit the slopes should look no further than Silver Mountain Resort. Resting above Kellogg, Idaho, Silver Mountain is only accessible by gondola. In fact, the Silver Mountain Gondola is the longest single-stage people carrier in the world, according to the Silver Mountain Web site. Although the drive from Pullman takes about two hours, chains and snow tires can be left at home. Just seconds off I-90, the gondola whisks skiers and snowboarders up to the slopes in about 15 minutes. Saving time and stress, the ride also offers some excellent views. “Unfortunately, it’s common for the mountain to be closed due to wind because of the gondola” said Jeff Zundel, a season-pass holder.

After unloading at the Mountain Haus ski lodge, skiers and snowboarders have an impressive set of runs to choose from, although the intermediate skier or rider is better catered for than experts. For example, Silver guarantees the grooming of 21 runs everyday, including Lower Steep and Deep, which isn’t all that deep due to all that grooming. While it is hard to find any terrain that will really scare an experienced rider, what Silver lacks in steepness it makes up for in natural features and excellent tree skiing. A great mountain to learn on, Silver offers – like Schweitzer Mountain – an EZ 123 package that includes ticket, gear and instruction for $129. Bottom Line Silver’s college student day pass is an absolute steal at $27 with a student ID. While expert skiers and snowboarders may find expert terrain to be scarce, Silver offers terrain that is perfect for a day of fun on the mountain with friends of all abilities. Lift lines are short, and the resort’s proximity to Pullman and its easy access can’t be beat.

How to Ski/Board the Mountain Silver’s six chairlifts (seven including the gondola) are all easily reached from the Mountain Haus ski lodge — the gondola unloading zone and resort epicenter. This is also the only location of on-hill services, including food consisting of cafeteria-style dining, so avoid it during the lunch hour. This can be done by eating later in the day or packing a sack lunch and eating it at the top of Wardner Peak, which is a quick hike from Chair 4. This gives your legs a nice break from the hike, great views and powder for dessert. On a Powder Day Ride Chair 2 and take a lap or so on Heaven or Tall Paul while you wait for Chair 4 to open, as it is usually the last to do so after a big storm. Then make your way to Chair 4 via The North Face Glades, a wide open tree run that allows you to hit the throttle. After you ride Chair 4, you’ve really found the goods. Wardner Peak is not lift accessed, but this means a quick traverse gets you plenty of powder. For those willing to put in some extra effort, the summit of Wardner Peak can be hiked to (it’s in-bounds), adding precious vertical to this zone. “That side loads in really nicely with wind-blown snow so it’s usually the deepest,” said Collin Cascadden, a Silver ski patroller. “There is a ski area boundary up there, but as long as you stay to the east, you’ll be fine.” Terrain Park Silver’s terrain park has jumps of several different sizes, making it a fairly forgiving park. The park was the site of the Idaho Winter Games Feb. 25-26, with boardercross, halfpipe and slopestyle competitions.

Après Ski Terrible Edith’s Bar & Grill in the Gondola Village is nice, especially if you enjoy microbrews. If you really want to get your party on, Silver is close enough that you can be back in Pullman hours before last call.

Getting There From Spokane, simply take I-90 east to Kellogg, Idaho.