My husband Jerry carving through deep powder

This was the season that ski and snowboard enthusiasts had been waiting for. It was certainly the VERY best in the 10 years that I've been visiting Inland Northwest resorts with my snowboard. La Nina, the cooling of the sea-surface temperatures in the equatorial Pacific, can take the credit for the plentiful snow, and the below average temperatures that helped produce sparkling champagne powder day after glorious day. At 49° North, it was the most successful season in the resort's history, with the most snow ever experienced at Chewelah Peak, and the greatest number of visitors. At Schweitzer, it was the second best year ever in terms of skier visits. Lookout Pass reported 507" total snowfall for the season!

I'm very sad to say, it's almost over. Silver Mountain, thank goodness, will be open for "Silver Saturdays" through the end of April. Mt. Spokane, Schweitzer Mountain, Lookout Pass and 49° North all closed for the season on Sunday. It isn't for lack of snow that the lifts are now idle. The snow report on closing day at Schweitzer sounded more like mid-February: 4" of fresh powder and more than 100" at the base." However, as the crocus bloom, and the golf courses open, Inland Northwesterners forget about their skis and are ready for Spring. All of that beautiful snow will melt away, recharging our rivers and lakes for the big fun that awaits us this summer.