Not a Skier? This Idaho Snow Tubing Spot Is Just as Much Fun

As a young girl, I learned to ski here in Idaho. I have pictures of my five-year-old self, tackling the bunny hill at a southern Idaho ski resort with ease. However, after many years of not strapping on a pair of skis, I have found myself a little too scared of the larger slopes, and I’ve put my days of skiing far behind me. Fortunately, I’ve found that snow tubing is the perfect way to spend a winter day with the entire family. Even better, Snowhaven Ski and Tubing Area in Grangeville is a place we can all enjoy together.

Idaho doesn't receive enough attention for its gorgeous winters and its long list of incredible cold-weather activities like snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and cross-country skiing. And while I have several recommendations for places to enjoy these winter activities, if you are after the best snow tubing hill in Idaho, Snowhaven Ski and Tubing Area is at the top of my list.

Snowhaven is a bit unique as this is a city-owned ski and tubing area, and it’s not as large as other ski resorts in the state. However, despite its smaller size, it still has plenty to offer, especially for some family time soaring down the snow tubing hill. Children as young as four years old (or at least 42 inches tall) can ride down the snowy hill, and no experience is needed for this winter activity. However, you may need a little dose of courage as this tubing hill features a 150-foot vertical drop, and the runs are approximately 1,100 feet long.

My favorite part? After you have raced down this epic tubing hill, you don’t have to call it a day. Rather, the 600-foot lift will take you back to the top, and you can soar down over and over again. Here, you can save your energy for the ride down, not the climb back up.

If bringing young children on this snow tubing adventure, keep in mind the age and height restrictions. All children under the age of six must be accompanied by an adult at all times, and only one person is allowed to ride in each tube. Depending on the conditions of the tubing hill, tubes may be allowed to link together and form a train, which is one of my favorite ways to soar down the hill. Also, do not bring your own tubes or sleds—you must use Snowhaven’s custom tubes. All tubes are included in the ticket price. Helmets are allowed but not required. No hard ski or snow boots can be worn, however.

Keep in mind that Snowhaven does not require reservations nor limit the number of tubing sessions sold in a certain time period. This means that during peak times and days, you may wait in line for your turn down the hill. Large groups should also call ahead for a smoother arrival.

Snowhaven Ski and Tubing Area is open on weekends and federal holidays. Visit the Grangeville City website for dates, times, and ticket prices. I also recommend following the Snowhaven Ski and Tubing Area Facebook page for the most recent news and updates.

What are some of your favorite winter activities in Idaho? How do you embrace the chill of this time of year in the Gem State? Let me know by filling out this nomination form. I’d love to hear from you. And if you are ready to plan your own winter adventure in Idaho, try Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.