SKI SEASON IS HERE
Enjoy living slopeside, or at least within a short trip of some of the West's best ski hills
Posted: November 10, 2024 By Erin Duval
Montana and Northern Idaho are top destinations for skiing enthusiasts, with numerous resorts offering exceptional terrain, breathtaking views, and seasonal events that make these areas appealing for both locals and visitors. As winter approaches, ski resorts are gearing up to open their slopes for the 2024/2025 season, with opening days planned as early as November.
In Montana, Big Sky Resort, one of the largest ski resorts in the U.S., is set to open on November 27th. Known for its extensive terrain and iconic Lone Peak Tram, Big Sky offers everything from gentle beginner slopes to expert-level chutes, making it a favorite among skiers of all abilities. For skiers closer to the Bozeman area, Bridger Bowl will be opening its slopes on December 13th, offering more rugged terrain ideal for adventurous skiers.
In South Central Montana, Red Lodge is the place to strap on your skis. Known for its friendly atmosphere and rustic charm, Red Lodge Mountain is less commercialized than larger resorts, offering a more authentic Montana skiing experience. The resort plans to open for the season on November 29th and is celebrated for its varied terrain that caters to skiers of all levels. Red Lodge’s slopes offer stunning views of the Beartooth Mountains, and the resort is particularly appealing for families and those seeking a quieter, laid-back ski day.
Whitefish Mountain Resort, located near Glacier National Park, is projected to open on December 5th. Whitefish is beloved for its powdery snow, stunning scenery, and laid-back atmosphere. The small but stellar Blacktail Mountain Resort is just south of Whitefish, with views of Flathead Lake. This is one of the few ski hills in Montana that is part of the Indy Pass, making it possible to ski dozens of independently owned slopes around the country. Blacktail will tentatively open on December 10th.
Two ski hills straddle the Idaho-Montana border — Lost Trail Powder Mountain and Lookout Pass Ski Area — each offering unique experiences and incredible snow conditions. Lookout Pass Ski Area, located on the I-90 corridor, is well-known for its family-friendly atmosphere and accessible terrain. It held its opening days this past weekend and will remain open on weekends depending on snow conditions. The hill receives an average of over 400 inches of snow annually. With terrain suitable for all skill levels, it’s a popular choice for locals and travelers alike. Lookout Pass is also the starting point for the Route of the Hiawatha, a scenic bike trail that’s a favorite in the summer but transforms into an idyllic snow-covered landscape in winter.
Lost Trail Powder Mountain, on the other hand, sits along the border near the Bitterroot Valley and has been family-owned for over 80 years. Known for its relaxed atmosphere and deep powder, Lost Trail receives an impressive average of 300 inches of snow each season. The resort offers a variety of runs for different abilities and has the added benefit of fewer crowds, making it a hidden gem for skiers looking to escape busier resorts. Lost Trail usually opens in early December and has a passionate local following, thanks to its rustic vibe and exceptional snowfall.
Across the border in Northern Idaho, resorts are also preparing for an exciting season. Schweitzer Mountain Resort, near Sandpoint, is one of the state’s largest resorts and is scheduled to open on November 22nd. Known for its beautiful lake views and family-friendly atmosphere, Schweitzer offers varied terrain and excellent amenities, making it a popular choice. Plus, the lake effect from nearby Lake Pend Oreille brings in some huge powder storms.
With ample opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, and winter activities, Montana and Northern Idaho are perfect regions to visit for winter sports enthusiasts. From expansive resorts to smaller, community-driven slopes, the season is shaping up to be an excellent one for ski lovers across the region.
