Free Ski/Winter Access Day
Note: Formally known as Free Ski Day, now being rebranded to Free Winter Access Day. This does not apply to downhill ski areas, only to the Idaho Park N Ski locations and various state parks.
**There is one exception in 2024: Free Winter Access Day will not apply to the Palouse Divide Park N Ski area. They will be hosting their Free Winter Access Day on January 13, 2024.
- No permits needed at the Idaho Park N’ Ski locations across the state, with the exception of the Palouse Divide area.
- Priest Lake State Park. Coolin, Idaho. Free cross-country ski lessons as well as a guided snowshoe hike and more! Skiing, snowshoeing, getting a massage, adopting a dog, drinking coffee, making smores, just a regular day at the park! 10 am – 2 pm at the Indian Creek Unit. For more information call 208-443-2200.
- Ponderosa State Park: McCall, Idaho. Entrance is free to the public and winter access fees are waived on Free Ski Day- Saturday, January 6, 2024. Pre-registration is required to participate in the free lesson and rental package portion of the event. Lessons and rental packages are offered in cross-country skiing and snowshoeing at the following times. Rentals are returned at the end of the lesson. Please register for the rental and lesson packages through our Eventbrite link here. The link can also be found on our Facebook and Website. All lessons and tours start at the Activity Center! Registration for lessons closes on Jan 5th at 3 PM.
- Harriman State Park. Island Park, Idaho. Free Winter Access Day: Sat. Jan 6th 10 am to 3pm. The Park will be waiving vehicle entrance fees and winter access fees for the whole day. Additional free activities available! See Facebook page for additional information.
- Castle Rocks State Park. Almo, Idaho. Free winter access day at Castle Rocks State Park on January 6th from 10am-12pm. We’ll have a guided hike or Snowshoe hike (dependent on snow) on the Backyard Boulders trail with a hot beverage after. Meet at the Visitor Center at 9:30am. Bring your own snowshoes or rent from the Visitor Center)