Mount Spokane Ski and Snowboard Park

This lovely ski resort in Washington state is only a 45 minute drive from Spokane, so it means you can find accommodations in the city and enjoy city life and nightlife while still being able to also enjoy a ski vacation.

Mount Spokane ski area has a 2,000 vertical drop with a generous 45 runs spread over 1,425 skiable acres. Although it has mostly intermediate trails, expert skiers will be smiling when they discover quite a few steep trails with moguls galore. Five double chair lifts work the hill taking skiers up to the top to an elevation of 5,889 feet. When you get to there you are rewarded with stunning views of the surrounding snow capped hills.

A huge boon to cross country skiers, you can ski Mount Spokane for free over their 25 miles of groomed trails with warming huts along the way. For kids, there is the Children's Choice Tubing Hill with a rope tow to get them back to the beginning. You don't have to bring your own tube as they provide them on site. And snowboarders have Mount Spokane's Terrain Park to careen around. It offers a full mile of jumps and kickers. There's also good groomed well-lit night skiing with 16 runs.

For all, the lift tickets and ski rentals are inexpensive in comparison to other resorts, which makes it ideal for families. Mount Spokane employs over 100 ski instructors so taking lessons is a big part of the activity on the mountain. Free shuttle bus service transports skiers around the grounds and to and from the parking lot.

There are two base lodges at Mount Spokane. The older and smaller lodge, historic Lodge 1, is only open weekends serving food and warmth. Lodge 2 is the everyday lodge. It is large and is where you get your tickets, ski rentals, find the ski school, food, and bar called the Foggy Bottom Lounge.

The adorable snow covered Vintage House is at the top of Chair 1, a handy stop for warming up and snacking on hot chili, soups and beverages. It is only open on the weekends.

Stay in Spokane for the convenience of having a wide range of accommodations to choose from. The Davenport Hotel & Tower is a gorgeous luxury hotel filled with marble and antiques. The big secret is that you can stay at this over the top historic hotel for incredibly affordable rates. For another totally over the top experience of a different kind, try the Roberts Mansion. It is a B&B where your rooms are opulently decorated and the welcome is warm with a huge breakfast and billiards room.

Finding some place good for dinner is a breeze. Take a look at Sante Restaurant & Charcuterie. It has simply amazing food that focuses on artisanal sausages and cured meats---with a French accent. It's also an excellent choice for Brunch. Wild Sage American Bistro serves sophistication with an American French vibe. And Churchill's Steakhouse will satisfy any steak lover.

Visit the Northwest Museum of Arts & Culture, the very cool Carr's One of a Kind in the World Museum; the Mobius Kids play area; Latah Creek Wine Cellars for a wine tasting; and browse through the restaurant, art gallery and shops at Steam Plant Square. For culture, you can't miss a performance at the lovely Spokane Symphony or at the Opera House. For shows, look at the lineup at the Spokane Civic Center.