Blizzard Mountain Ski Lodge (formerly Darlington Schoolhouse)
Blizzard Mountain Ski Area, Butte County
- Grant: 2023 – Shoring up foundation
Location: 1631 Blizzard Mountain Road, Butte County, Idaho – 18 miles west of Arco
The Darlington Schoolhouse was built in 1920 to serve the Lost River community. It is unclear when the single-room wooden structure ceased to be used for its original intent, but it was purchased and moved to its current location around 1965 and has been providing welcome shelter from the elements to skiers for many decades since.
The Blizzard Mountain ski area was first used for this purpose by three local friends in 1963. The private operation of the ski hill lasted for about a decade until insurance concerns and a few too many dry seasons caused its financial downfall. Its demise was not for lack of community interest, however, as its short duration saw the opening of a ski shop in Arco and a skiing school operated by the local chapter of the Lions Club. The hill, buildings, equipment, and lift lay idle until 1993 when the then owner passed away, willing Blizzard Mountain to the Lions.
By the next ski season, Lions members had refurbished the machinery, cleaned up the property, and engaged a ski patrol, allowing them to open the hill back up to avid and casual skiers alike. Due to the low elevation, the hill is not always operational. The Lions have recently obtained a snow machine, however, which increases the window of usability significantly. Up until 2019, a lift ticket would run you a grand total of $10, though it has since been decided to open the hill up for use by donation.
When the schoolhouse was moved and converted into a lodge, the new foundation was never leveled quite right. This has led to window damage, sloping floors, and other structural issues. With funding and guidance from IHT, The Lions plan properly install a foundation beneath the wooden building, allowing for its continued use.
