Mt. Spokane's New Chairlift

Mt. Spokane Ski and Snowboard Park is a popular recreational destination serving a growing population of recreational skiers and snowboarders, young and old alike. With guest visits nearly doubling over the past 10 years, it is recognized as the most affordable, accessible day-use area in the region, for serving diverse populations and introducing future generations to a lifetime of alpine recreation.

 Mt. Spokane Ski & Snowboard Park is managed by MS2000, a local non-profit 501(c) 3 led by community volunteers. After more than a decade of planning and community engagement, Mt. Spokane has gained approval of its long anticipated expansion plan, adding 279 acres of scenic new terrain. The keystone in the plan -- a 4,874-foot new, technologically advanced triple chairlift on the mountain’s Northwest side.

 NEED: Steadily increasing demand has created the need for new facilities and terrain at Mt. Spokane, outpacing MS2000’s ability to fund mission-critical, large capital projects.  Funds from operations are prioritized toward the maintenance and improvement of its existing, aging facilities, which are often overstressed during peak season. In order to keep pace with the recreational and lifestyle needs of the region’s growing population, MS 2000 must increase its skiable terrain and uphill lift capacity.  The expansion will better serve our community’s:

·         YOUTH: Over 4,500 youth lessons are taught each season at Mt. Spokane, serving more than 100 youth-oriented groups, clubs, schools and organizations. Among them: Homeschool Ski, the Spokane Ski Racing Association, Mount Saint Michaels, Loon Lake Elementary, Lewis and Clark High School, and more.

·         DISADVANTAGED: Over 200 volunteers spend an estimated 20,000 hours each year serving with innovative and inclusive programs designed to provide persons with disabilities, the underserved, and disadvantaged with opportunities to pursue skiing and riding. Dozens of non-profits, social and community services and clubs utilize Mt. Spokane to serve their constituents, ranging from Special Olympics and the Boys and Girls Club of Spokane County to Snowboard Outreach Society, and Hutton Settlement and Tamarack Behavioral Health.

·         VULNERABLE: Our state faces significant health challenges associated with alarming increases in obesity and decreases in physical activity in our next generation. Mt Spokane is a tremendous resource for year- long and life-long outdoor activities.

 BENEFIT: As a community-owned asset, Mt. Spokane Ski and Snowboard Park, will remain a legacy for generations to come. Managing this legacy must balance the needs of recreation with environmental stewardship. We need to manage growth, accommodate year-round use, and enhance outdoor instructional programs and community partnerships. The new triple chairlift will serve as a game changer for Mt. Spokane and our community. As it carries out its mission, MS2000 will remain steadfast in its vision, and in turn, positively impact the health and vitality of our community.