Guide to Idaho's Ski Resorts

Nestled in the Rocky Mountains, Idaho boasts world-class skiing that beckons both seasoned snow enthusiasts and eager beginners. With fresh powder, steep slopes, and majestic peaks, Idaho is a hidden gem in the ski and snowboarding world. Whether you are seeking a challenging black diamond run or looking for a family retreat on the slopes, there is something for everyone in Idaho. Check out this list of Idaho's top ski resorts!

Sun Valley Mountain Resort

Located in the town of Ketchum, a three hour drive from Boise, sits the expansive Sun Valley Mountain Resort. Known for its top notch skiing and as a training ground for Olympians, Bald Mountain is ideal for intermediate to advanced skiers and snowboarders with steep pitches and long runs. There is also a second hill, Dollar Mountain, which is the perfect place for beginner skiers and snowboarders to hit the slopes. Sun Valley Resort Village sits only minutes from the hill, and is surrounded by multiple restaurants, shops, a movie theater, and a bowling alley. Downtown Ketchum offers a western ski town feel, with high end restaurants (try the Pioneer Saloon for a delicious steak) and classy boutiques and stores. To be at the heart of the action, stay at Sun Valley lodge or a wide variety of other options offered by the resort, or one of the many hotels in downtown Ketchum. 

Bogus Basin

A beloved local hill to Boiseans, Bogus Basin sits only 16 miles out of Boise. Bogus has 10 lifts that serve 88 runs across 2,600 acres of terrain. With night skiing offered as well, many Boiseans make the trip up on a friday night to enjoy some skiing and food at one of the multiple lodges. Bogus offers lodging at the Pioneer Condos, a ski-in-ski-out experience that cannot be beat. Also consider staying in Boise and making the short drive up for the day! 

Brundage Mountain Ski Resort

Located a two hour drive from Boise to McCall, Brundage is a classic Idaho ski resort with amazing terrain and a friendly vibe. Brundage is known for having the “best snow in Idaho”. Its elevation and location create the perfect storm for snow (and powder!), with an average of 320 base area inches of snow per year. Brundage Mountain also offers guided SnowCat skiing trips for experienced skiers searching for untracked powder on 18,000 acres of backcountry terrain. McCall offers a range of lodging options in the charming mountain town, with top choices including Shore Lodge and Hotel McCall.  

Tamarack Mountain

With fresh powder and 2,400 thousand vertical feet of terrain, Tamarack Mountain in Donnelly is a skier's delight. Tamarack receives an average of 300 base inches of snow per year, and has a range of groomed corduroy, wide-open bowls, and tree runs. Tamarack offers a variety of lodging options next to the hill, with estate homes, Tamarack Village condos, and cabins for rent. The Village at Tamarack also has a variety of options for dinner, breakfast, and a drink just steps from the hill. It is a mini version of larger resorts like Telluride or Aspen, giving it a sophisticated, yet approachable appeal.

Schweitzer Ski Resort

In the rugged Selkirk mountains sits Sandpoint, a northern Idaho town that is home to Schweitzer ski resort. With 2,900 acres of skiable terrain and a variety of high angle groomers, tree runs, and bowl skiing, this resort has something for every skier. The mountain village surrounding this hill offers family-friendly activities, dining, spa, and slopeside lodging. This hill is about an 8 hour drive from Boise.

Pomerelle Mountain Resort

Located in southeast Idaho outside of the small town of Albion, Pomerelle is one of the oldest ski areas in the western United States. Sitting 8,762 feet above sea level, the resort receives an average annual snowfall of 500 inches, making it one of the snowiest resorts in the state. It has a small town feel with less of the tourist crowds, making this a hometown hero of resorts for those in the eastern side of the state.

Soldier Mountain

If you’re really looking to escape the crowded lift lines and experience a more laid back Idaho ski day, check out Soldier Mountain outside of Fairfield. This charming family-friendly resort packs a big punch in terms of terrain, with 7,177 vertical feet of mountain doused in fresh powder. It is the most affordable option and ideal for beginners and tiny skiers with a designated magic carpet area. A fun fact: Bruce Willis owned Soldier Mountain for a bit before donating the mountain to a non-profit. It is now owned by an investment group of skiers and riders.