Nordic Skiing and Snowshoeing in Idaho

Idaho is blessed with a long snow season and high elevations which translates into hundreds of miles of skate skiing, traditional skiing and snowshoeing opportunities. In addition to 300 miles of groomed ski trails you will find a few hundred more miles of marked trails that provide solitude and untouched powder. If you are a backcountry telemark skier and like to earn your turns, Idaho is a goldmine. Most of the high passes in the state have plowed parking lots, giving you access to scenic terrain and untracked snow. Idaho has more public land than any state other than Alaska. The US Forest Service is the primary land manager for winter recreation but you will find numerous other world class Nordic centers in State Parks and on private lands. Click here to be mailed a copy of our brochure Cross-Country Skiing and Snowshoeing in Idaho

Park N’ Ski Program

The Idaho Park N’ Ski program highlights 18 Nordic areas across Idaho. Over 180 miles of groomed and ungroomed trails are marked in some of the most scenic areas in Idaho. The purchase of a permit allows use in any of the Park N’ Ski areas. Revenues for the sales of these permits go toward trail improvements, plowing parking lots and grooming trails. To enhance your experience many of the areas have cozy and affordable yurts and cabins, which create an inviting atmosphere at the trails door step. For detailed information about the Program, click here: Park N’ Ski program.

Park N’ Ski Permits required from November 15th to April 30th.

The annual and three day parking permits are a cornerstone of the Nordic program. Revenues from the sale of permits go toward trail improvements, plowing parking lots and grooming trails. When skiers and snowshoers purchase a permit, they have a choice of which park the fee will be designated to. This gives the permit purchaser an opportunity to support and help make improvements to the area of their choice.

Now you can purchase your Annual or Temporary permits on-line. You can purchase an Annual Permit for $25, and the windshield sticker will come to you in the mail. Or the purchase of a 1-3 day Temporary Permit is $7.50 and allows you to print out your Permit/Receipt which is then placed on the dashboard of your vehicle.

PURCHASE PERMIT On-Line

Permits can also be purchased from the vendors on this list. It's always a good idea to call the vendor to make sure they have permits on hand. 
Temporary (3-day) vendors       Annual permit vendor locations


Remember that your annual permit is good at Park N' Ski areas in Oregon and Washington as well, due to a reciprocity agreement with those states. You must purchase and then display your Park N' Ski permit in the proper location on your vehicle to avoid citations or fines. Proceeds from the sale of permits go toward trail improvements, plowing parking lots and grooming trails.

Nordic and Snowshoe Opportunities within Idaho State Parks (learn more)

Idaho State Parks is another place to experience unique adventures. Exploring the parks on skis and snowshoes is one of the best ways to enjoy the peaceful scenery and fresh clean air in the winter.  ...Learn more...

Additional Nordic Opportunities in Idaho

Idaho is fortunate enough to have numerous other public and private Nordic centers and trails. The Sun Valley and McCall area are internationally known for their extensive and high quality trail networks.