Known as the “Last Best Place to Ski,” the best ski resorts in Montana have emerged as formidable competitors to ski resorts in Utah and Colorado. Nestled deep in the heart of the Rockies, Montana boasts expansive runs with pristine powder, state-of-the-art ski lifts, and luxurious slope-side resorts that even the most discerning travelers would drool over.
While Montana does have a vast array of ski resorts to choose from, we’ve selected only the most sought-after venues for your ski vacations. Yes, that was plural because we know once you see what Montana has to offer, you’ll want to go back for more.
Here is our list of the best ski resorts in Montana.
Best Ski Resorts in Montana
1. Big Sky Resort
Reaching the summit of our list is Big Sky Resort, highly regarded as one of the best ski resorts in Montana, with the most extensive and untapped skiing in the country. Take your pick from one of the 150 trails sprinkled across an astounding 5,850 acres making it one of the largest ski resorts in the United States. Although home to a natural half-pipe and park for freestyle skiers and snowboarders, Big Sky offers ample trails for those less experienced riders who prefer not to test their gravitational limits. For exceptional views and more of the best skiing in the country, take a trip to Lone Peak’s summit which comes in at a breathtaking 11,166 ft.
2. Bridger Bowl Ski Area
For thrill-seeking skiers, Bridger Bowl offers 2,000 acres of skiable terrain with 75 marked runs for an extreme, quality skiing experience at an affordable rate. Known for its abundant “cold smoke”, the powder at Bridger Bowl transforms a normal mountain slope into a winter wonderland. Plus, this gem delivers both a small-town vibe and the big-mountain ski experience thanks to its full spectrum of Rocky Mountain terrain options.
However, if you aren’t ready for steep chutes and double black diamonds yet, they offer both private and group lessons for adults and children. And, if waiting in line for a lift isn’t your thing, then we recommend sneaking away to Bridger Bowl during the week when crowds are almost nonexistent.
3. Blacktail Mountain Ski Area
Perched just above the small town of Lakeside and running alongside the west coast of Flathead Lake, lies this friendly mountain that’s perfect for a family ski getaway. Blacktail Mountain offers spectacular north-facing slopes covered in light dry snow that would make even a novice skier’s jaw drop. Blacktail Mountain’s longest run is 1.75 miles and 100% of the mountain’s powder is natural snowfall. With an abundance of moderate to difficult slopes, Blacktail Mountain is home to the Snow Sports School which offers group, children, and adult lessons at unbeatable prices. This is one of the best ski resorts in Montana that you will certainly want to visit.
4. Maverick Mountain
Grab your board or skis and get ready to hit the slopes of White Thunder at Maverick Mountain. This mom-and-pop ski mountain is one of the best ski resorts in Montana. It offers welcoming terrain that accommodates all types of snowboarders and skiers. From novices to experts, the carefree atmosphere can be sensed the moment you step foot on the grounds.
Famous for its wide open runs and lack of crowded lifts, Maverick Mountain is the ideal destination for a quiet getaway filled with easy-going skiing and unparalleled views. This ski resort is great for friends and family who want to ride the lift together and take their own adventure downhill since the mountain has one two-seat chairlift with 24 runs.
5. Discovery Ski Area
If you’re looking for big thrills in a charming ‘local hangout’, then Discovery Ski Area is the destination for you. We’re certain it will remind you what skiing in Montana is really about. The Limelight lift offers some of the steepest lift-served terrain for those wanting to carve up some serious powder. However, they haven’t left out the novice or intermediate skier, offering up plenty of tough but fair runs. With 67 runs evenly split between all alpine levels, 19.6 miles of cross-country trails, and 2.5 acres of rails, boxes, and jumps – any skier can experience all that Discovery has to offer and your first visit will most definitely not be your last.
6. Whitefish Mountain Resort
Since 1947, Whitefish Mountain Resort has been one of America’s favorite winter destinations for fun times, good people, and great snow. And, it’s one of the best ski resorts in Montana. Overlooking the historic railroad town of Whitefish, this exceptional skiing resort has remained highly touted for all it has to offer.
Praised for its laid-back vibe, world-class skiing, and pleasant lack of lines, Whitefish is consistently ranked atop SKI Magazine ratings. A little-known secret about Whitefish is their wildly fun nighttime skiing sessions. The sun goes down but the skiing presses on as the slopes are lit up from top to bottom and skiers enjoy an alternative and refreshing approach to hitting the slopes. Booking that return trip home just got a lot harder.
Montana stands tall among the premier destinations for winter sports with some of the best ski resorts in the country. Its rugged landscape with abundant snowfall offers a winter paradise for skiers and snowboarders. With 14 ski resorts scattered across one of the largest states in the country, we’ve only scratched the surface of Montana’s skiing and boarding options this winter. From the immense terrain of Big Sky Resort to the breathtaking views at Whitefish Mountain Resort – Montana’s ski destinations cater to different preferences and skill levels.
Remember if you are traveling to the best ski resorts in Montana and are looking for the ultimate travel convenience, Ship Skis makes it easier than ever to travel with your gear. We hope to see you in Montana this season!