Montana’s Ski Resorts Prepare for a Brilliant Snow Season
As La Niña conditions settle over the Northwest this winter, the beautiful state of Montana is gearing up for an abundant snow season, bringing joy to ski enthusiasts across the region. With
15 ski areas located throughout the central and western parts of the state, visitors are in for a treat as they embrace unique experiences and a welcoming mountain culture.
From the picturesque Showdown Montana, nestled in the Little Belt Mountains, to the scenic tree-lined runs at Turner Mountain and Blacktail Mountain, ski areas in Montana promise a vibrant winter adventure. Mitch Staley, Chief Marketing Officer at the Montana Department of Commerce, highlights that “Montana's ski areas are approachable, affordable, and perfect for family-friendly adventures.”
Notable Improvements for a Memorable Experience
This year, ski resorts are introducing exciting enhancements to improve visitor experiences. The
Big Sky Resort has unveiled a new Explorer Gondola that replaces the old chairlift, allowing guests faster and smoother access to the mountain. Similarly,
Lost Trail Ski Area has adopted new RFID technology for quicker lift access, ensuring more time for skiing and less time waiting.
Bridger Bowl offers skiers an extraordinary journey, featuring runs that start in Montana and end in Idaho, allowing adventurers to traverse two states in one run. Meanwhile,
Blacktail Mountain Ski Area, perched near Flathead Lake, is known for its unique lodge at the mountain’s peak—an aspect locals affectionately describe as “the first run is free.”
Another unique gem,
Bear Paw Ski Bowl, is located on tribal land and is managed by dedicated volunteers who contribute to the ski area's operations. The weekends here feature affordable lift ticket prices, making it an appealing choice for families and budget-conscious adventurers alike.
Embrace the Thrill of Skijoring
Skiing is not the only adrenaline-pumping sport that flourishes during Montana winters.
Skijoring, an exhilarating activity where a skier is pulled by a horse, has deep roots in numerous small communities throughout the state. Events like
Big Hole Valley Skijoring in Wisdom and the
National Finals for Skijoring Races in Red Lodge are a testament to the popularity of this engaging sport. Coming in early 2026, the
Gallatin Skijor Invitational in Bozeman will mark the inaugural professional skijoring series in North America—a thrilling event for winter sports lovers.
For those less inclined towards downhill skiing,
cross-country skiing is highly accessible throughout Montana. Popular starting points such as
LOGE Glacier in Essex,
Chief Joseph Pass in Jackson, and the
Red Lodge Nordic Center offer groomed trails ensuring that every corner of the state has something to delight winter enthusiasts.
Plan Your Montana Adventure
Curious about the many ski areas available or want to learn more about
skijoring, cross-country skiing, or even
snowmobiling? Head over to
visitmt.com for comprehensive information on everything Montana has to offer this winter. This stunning state is not only famous for its beautiful vistas but also for its vibrant mountain culture and welcoming communities.
Get ready for a winter season like never before and experience the thrill and adventure that awaits in Montana’s snow-covered hills. Whether you’re an avid skier, a family looking for fun activities, or someone wanting to explore new sports, there’s something for everyone in The Last Best Ski Hills.