Leavenworth lands Amtrak stop

By Carolyn Price
    After years of planning, Leavenworth is finally an Amtrak Empire Builder stop.
The inaugural Leavenworth stop at Icicle Station east and west bound was on Sept. 25.

    Depending on the reservation date, the estimated roundtrip cost to and from Seattle is $40 –100 per person. Seattle departures are at 4:50 p.m. daily, arriving in Leavenworth at 8:10 p.m. A trip back to Seattle would depart Leavenworth at 6:15 a.m. and arrive in Seattle at 10:20 a.m.

    Snow sports enthusiasts could theoretically travel by rail to Leavenworth and enjoy the mountain sports at both Stevens Pass and Mission Ridge. They could then re-board the train and travel east to Spokane, Idaho, Whitefish, Mont. and even further to Izaak Walton Inn for the best in cross-country skiing and lodging.

    Although plans were still being finalized at press time, it was thought that the City of Leavenworth would provide a shuttle into town from the platform one mile away. Stevens Pass, Amtrak and Leavenworth are also planning a Ride-Stay-Ski promotional program.

    For more information, logo onto www.iciclestation.com.

NW Ski Fever shows set
    Snow enthusiasts will trade in their hiking boots for ski and snowboard boots with the launch of the Northwest’s two SkiFever Shows this fall.

    Portland’s 30th annual SkiFever and Snowboard Show is scheduled Nov. 6 – 8 at the Portland Expo Center. The show’s hours are Friday 1–10 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m.–10 p.m., and Sunday 10 a.m.– 6 p.m. Adult admission is $11, Juniors 6 –12 are $3 and under 6 are free.

    The 42nd annual Seattle Ski Fever Show is not only moved back a month from its regular late October date but moves to a new location as well. Plan on visiting the Washington State Convention Center Nov. 20 –22 for what is being billed as Seattle biggest winter snow sports sale ever. Show hours are similar to Portland.

    Both shows, sponsored by Subaru, will display exhibits from the region’s top ski and snowboard shops that are selling gear for up to 70 percent off, a swap meet, entertainment, vacation resorts and manufacturers representatives displaying the season’s newest gear. Showgoers can also expect to pick up a two-for-one lift ticket at a local ski hill.

    For information on both shows and to download a $2 off admission coupon, log onto www.portlandskifever.com.