Lookout Pass

After seeing a record number of visitors riding the Route of the Hiawatha over the summer, Lookout Pass enjoyed a record-breaking winter, welcoming more riders than ever to their mountain.

According to Lookout Pass President and CEO Phil Edholm, between June and September, 37,502 mountain bikers frequented Hiawatha Trails, while there were 64,291 ski visits between November and April — both records.

Edholm said this was the first time Lookout Pass has exceeded 100,000 visits in a 12-month period.

“Our growth can be attributed to a small group of hard working managers, a great, guest-friendly staff, the best snow quality in the region, a 'world class' mountain bike adventure, and value for your money,” he said. “These elements have led to repeat visitation and increased awareness of Lookout Pass Ski Area and the Route of the Hiawatha.”

Lookout Pass was bolstered by both regional traffic and by visitors coming in from various countries to ride the Hiawatha Trails over the summer. The new records are improvements over a year ago, when there were 59,772 skier visits and 34,249 bikers on the Route of the Hiawatha.  During the winter, season pass holders grew by more than 12 percent, and some came in from as far as Hood River, Ore. and Butte, Mont. to ride Lookout's trails.

With the summer rapidly approaching, Edholm said that mountain biking enthusiasts from all over the world will be making their way to Lookout.

“The Route of the Hiawatha has seen bike riders from around the world as the word has spread about this unique trail with its nine tunnels and seven trestles,” he said. “A big thank you to the Idaho Tourism Department for their efforts in promoting the Route of the Hiawatha as one of the premier recreation adventures in the state.”

By ZAK FAILLA

Staff writer