OFFICIALLY SPRING

Spring comes with birds chirping, flowers blooming and daylight saving time. Perhaps one of the most notable reminders of a change in seasons in Sanders County is the official opening of Thompson Pass. The pass, which divides Idaho and Montana, is closed during the winter, when it is used by snowmobilers and other winter sports enthusiasts. As spring rolls around, residents in both states anxiously await the official opening of the pass. Highway crews in both states worked to clear tons of snow from Highway 471 this month, with Idaho crews clearing the last of the ice on their roadway this week. Monday, the road closed signs came down and the pass was opened for 2023 to vehicles. Several feet of snow still welcome visitors to the parking lot at the top of the pass (right).