Ski Resorts in Montana

Whether you’re looking for fresh snow, cat skiing opportunities, or simply want to visit some of the best ski resorts in the nation, look no further than Montana. Boasting lengthy runs, multiple terrain parks, and incredible views, you’re sure to have an amazing time no matter where you go. And with over a dozen ski resorts in the state, there’s no chance you’ll get bored.

Montana Ski Areas by City

Close to Montana’s biggest cities, there are plenty of ski resorts to choose from. While some locations are closer than others, if you’re up for a bit of driving, you’re sure to have an amazing MT winter vacation. For those looking for skiable acres, Big Sky Resort is the largest in the state, followed by Whitefish.

Other Featured Resorts in MT

Guide to Montana’s Ski Resorts

Not many ski areas offer the same experience as Montana. Deep power, consistent snow, and cold temperatures combined with fewer visitors is the perfect recipe for a true Montana ski experience. The ski season in the state is lengthy. Many resorts open in mid-November and don’t close until mid-April.

While the weather always dictates how great or poor the snow will be, most resorts in Montana receive enough snow that they don’t rely on manmade options. Montana’s resorts receive an average of 273 inches of snow annually, but the lack of snowmaking can still impact the opening of resorts or cause certain runs to be cut early in the season.

All of Montana’s 14 public ski areas are located in its western half, with most in the Rocky Mountains. The state also has a handful of resorts that are part of private communities and an area dedicated to cat skiing.

The Big Ski Resorts

When many people think of Montana skiing, they think of Big Sky Resort. Its 5,850 skiable acres are massive and make it second in size among ski resorts in the U.S. Lift tickets are expensive but provide access to 300 named runs and 6 terrain parks. Many trails are lengthy, with the longest extending 6 miles. The resort has its share of beginner slopes but caters more to intermediate and advanced skiers.

There are many sides to Whitefish Mountain Resort. Most of the 111 trails are on the front side of the mountain, but there’s plenty of skiing located on the back and to the west with additional basins. Only 12 percent are beginner slopes, with 7 percent labeled double black diamond.

The resort is located near the Canadian border and receives 320 inches of snow each year. Adventurous skiers can enjoy tree skiing and 4 terrain parks within Whitefish’s 3,000 skiable areas.

Fly In and Ski

Located just 30 minutes from the Helena Regional Airport, Great Divide Ski Area is best known for its 5 terrain parks and a variety of events throughout the season. Great Divide is noted as one of the top small ski areas on the continent, covering 1,600 skiable acres.

The resort stretches wide across the mountain face and only has 6 lifts servicing its 110 trails, but on the way down skiers can experience glades and basins on runs that are almost exclusively blue or black. It’s also one of the most inexpensive resorts around.

Bridger Bowl, located in Bozeman, is one of the best skiing deals in the state, plus the non-profit ski area packs a punch in size. Bridger Bowl has 2,000 skiable acres and receives 350 inches of snow annually. Skiers benefit from a combined experience of 75 named trails, rock cliffs, chutes, and 2 terrain parks.

Montana’s Other Ski Areas

There are plenty of other affordable options on a smaller scale throughout Montana. Some are cash-only and some have no ski rentals available, but all receive a multitude of snow to make any skier happy. Located by some of Montana’s best ski towns, you’ll have plenty of fun both on and off the slopes.

• Red Lodge Mountain Resort
• Lost Trail Powder Mountain
• Discovery Ski Area
• Montana Snowbowl
• Maverick Mountain
• Showdown Montana
• Blacktail Mountain Ski Area
• Teton Pass Ski Resort
• Bear Paw Ski Bowl
• Turner Mountain Ski Area

With the state nickname “Big Sky Country,” the beautiful views here stretch as far as the eye can see. Make the most of your ski holiday by visiting one of Montana’s favorite winter resorts.

What else is Montana famous for?

Neighboring States with Ski Resorts