Montana, with its sweeping mountain ranges, abundant wilderness, and deep snowfalls, is a winter lover’s dream come true. If you’re anything like me and the mention of fresh powder and wide-open trails gets your adrenaline pumping, you’ll want to keep reading.
The 2024/25 season is just around the corner, and Montana’s ski resorts are ramping up to offer some of the best skiing experiences in the country.
I’ve put together a list of my top Montana resorts for the upcoming season. Each offers its own flavor of adventure, whether you’re a seasoned pro looking for gnarly runs or planning a relaxed, family-friendly winter escape. Grab your skis (or snowboard), and let’s explore the best Montana has to offer!
7. Great Divide Ski Area
Great Divide is one of Montana’s best-kept secrets. Located near Helena, it’s smaller than the big-name resorts but has a friendly, welcoming vibe that makes it perfect for families or beginners.
With just over 1,500 acres of skiable terrain, you won’t be overwhelmed by the options, and the grooming is top-notch.
I recommend Great Divide if you’re looking for an affordable, no-fuss ski day with fun terrain parks and excellent snowboarding options. It’s like skiing with your extended family—the atmosphere is that welcoming.
What’s New for 2024/25
Great Divide is adding new freestyle features to its terrain parks, along with improved snowmaking to keep the season going strong.
Highlights
- Affordable lift tickets with a friendly atmosphere.
- Great for beginners and families.
- Known for excellent grooming and fun terrain parks.
6. Discovery Ski Area
Discovery Ski Area, lovingly known as “Disco,” is another hidden gem on this list. With a variety of terrain that caters to all levels, it’s a smaller, more remote destination compared to the likes of Big Sky or Whitefish.
That remoteness is what I love about it—you get a more intimate skiing experience with fewer people and more powder to yourself.
The front side of the mountain is perfect for families and those just getting started, while the backside has some of the steepest, most challenging runs in the state. Plus, it’s super affordable, which is always a plus in my book.
What’s New for 2024/25
Discovery has expanded its snowmaking capabilities and upgraded the base lodge, making it an even better experience for visitors.
Highlights
- Diverse terrain for all skill levels, with a focus on steep runs for experts.
- Affordable lift tickets.
- A laid-back, local atmosphere perfect for those wanting to avoid the crowds.
5. Red Lodge Mountain
If you’re after an affordable, family-friendly ski destination with charm to spare, Red Lodge Mountain is your answer. Tucked into the Beartooth Mountains, Red Lodge feels like stepping back in time with its historic, old-west town.
The ski terrain is diverse enough to keep everyone happy, with over 1,600 acres to explore. It’s particularly great for beginners and intermediates, which makes it a perfect spot for families.
One of my favorite parts of Red Lodge is the vibe in the town itself—after a day on the slopes, head to town for a cozy meal in one of the quaint restaurants, and it feels like you’ve discovered a hidden gem.
What’s New for 2024/25
The resort is focusing on improving the experience for beginners, expanding the learner’s area, and making lift access more efficient. Perfect for newbies and families looking to get the hang of things.
Highlights
- Affordable pricing that won’t break the bank.
- Perfect for families and beginners.
- A historic town that’s full of character and fun après-ski options.
4. Bridger Bowl
Bridger Bowl is a must-visit for powder hounds. Just 20 minutes from Bozeman, this local favorite offers consistently good snow, and if you’re anything like me, the fresh powder is reason enough to visit.
The Ridge is legendary—an expert-only area that requires avalanche gear—but don’t let that scare you if you’re not quite there yet. There are plenty of beginner and intermediate runs that make Bridger accessible to everyone.
Despite its world-class skiing, Bridger feels unpretentious and down-to-earth. It’s the kind of place where you can focus on the snow rather than all the frills (but let’s be honest, the snow is the best part, right?).
What’s New for 2024/25
Bridger has upgraded several of its chairlifts, which means shorter waits and more laps. Plus, the terrain parks have gotten some love for those looking to catch some air.
Highlights
- Close to Bozeman, making it easy to combine with a city stay.
- Known for its powder days and expert terrain.
- A low-key, unpretentious atmosphere that keeps the focus on skiing.
3. Montana Snowbowl
If you’re all about laid-back, local vibes with some seriously challenging terrain, Montana Snowbowl is your spot. It’s smaller and less commercial than other resorts, but what it lacks in size, it makes up for in heart.
The steep, winding runs through the Lolo National Forest offer a unique, old-school skiing experience that’ll challenge even the most seasoned pros.
Snowbowl is also just a short drive from Missoula, meaning you can hit the slopes during the day and enjoy the city’s vibrant university town in the evening. Two words: adventure, meet culture.
What’s New for 2024/25
The resort has upgraded its snowmaking and grooming capabilities, so you can expect well-maintained slopes throughout the season.
Highlights
- Steep and challenging runs for advanced skiers.
- Relaxed, local vibe with an authentic skiing feel.
- Close proximity to Missoula’s nightlife and restaurants.
2. Whitefish Mountain Resort
I have a soft spot for Whitefish Mountain Resort, and if you’ve ever been there, you’ll understand why. Located near Glacier National Park, the views are absolutely jaw-dropping.
On top of that, with 3,000 acres of skiable terrain, Whitefish offers something for everyone. It’s quieter compared to some other big resorts, so if you’re someone who enjoys wide-open runs without crowds, this is the place to be.
Whitefish is known for its legendary tree skiing. I’ve spent many days weaving through its beautiful forests—there’s just something magical about it. And the powder? Deep and fluffy, just how we like it!
What’s New for 2024/25
Whitefish continues to evolve, expanding ski runs and upping its snow-making game. The improvements promise excellent snow conditions throughout the season, no matter what Mother Nature throws our way.
Highlights
- Uncrowded slopes with plenty of room to roam.
- Amazing views of Glacier National Park.
- Known for its exhilarating tree skiing.
1. Big Sky Resort
Big Sky Resort stands as the titan of Montana skiing. With 5,850 acres of skiable terrain, it’s not only the largest in the state but one of the biggest in the U.S.
That vast space means you’ll find a little bit of everything here—groomed trails for beginners, tree-lined slopes for intermediate skiers, and advanced terrain up on Lone Peak for the thrill-seekers.
Personally, I love the mix of easy-to-access beginner runs and those “wow, that’s steep!” moments that Big Sky delivers.
The resort has modern amenities, high-speed lifts, and a layout designed to keep lift lines at a minimum, which I really appreciate. Who wants to spend half the day waiting to get on the mountain?
What’s New for 2024/25
Big Sky continues to impress with its dedication to enhancing the skier’s experience. This season, the Madison 8 lift debuts, offering a faster, smoother ride to some of the best terrain.
The investment in new lift technology means more time skiing and less time waiting—a huge win.
Highlights
- Diverse terrain for all skill levels, from easy-going to expert.
- State-of-the-art lifts including the new Madison 8.
- Plenty of on-mountain accommodations and après-ski options for relaxation after a long day.
Wrapping It Up
Montana truly offers something special when it comes to skiing. From the expansive runs of Big Sky to the cozy, hidden gems like Great Divide, there’s a resort here for everyone.
As the 2024/25 season approaches, it’s the perfect time to plan your ski trip and experience the breathtaking beauty of Montana’s mountains.
I’m Noel Massey, your not-so-typical trailblazer who’s been into hiking for years while herding two mini adventurers, a.k.a. my sons. We’ve tackled trails that would make your GPS do a double-take. Join me as I share tales from the great outdoors, and share some handy tips you could use in the future.
