The crisp chill of winter is just around the corner, with ski season following closely behind. From the steepest slopes in North America to family-friendly beginner runs, Montana is well known for its unique outdoor experiences and, during the winter, ski resorts. Its vast and varied resorts with alternating terrains offer tons of outdoor recreation opportunities for alpine skiers and prove to have some of the most picturesque views and some of the best slopes in all of the United States.

Whether solo or traveling with family and friends, a trip to the beautiful state of Montana should include an exploration of the rolling hills of the state and, of course, a once-in-a-lifetime ski experience. Grab the ski gear and start planning the trip of a lifetime at one of Montana's breathtaking ski resorts.

10 Big Sky Resort

Featuring some of the steepest ski terrains in North America, Big Sky Resort is an adventure seeker’s paradise. With over 5,800 acres to explore, it offers ski runs for all skill levels — from beginner-friendly slopes to extreme ski lines. Family and friends and solo travelers alike will find all they need at the Big Sky Resort.

9 Whitefish Mountain Resort

Whitefish Mountain Resort is located just outside of the charming ski town of Whitefish. This resort offers ski and ride options for everyone in the family, with plenty of beginner and intermediate ski runs, plus some more advanced terrain parks. There are nearly 70 ski and snowboard runs with plenty of steeps, moguls, tree skiing, backcountry options, and even ski touring.

8 Bridger Bowl

Bridger Bowl is an iconic ski area near Bozeman that features steep slopes perfect for adventurous skiers and snowboarders who want to ski some unique terrain. It boasts nearly 2,000 acres of ski terrain, ranging from beginner to expert slopes. There are over 49 ski runs and plenty of off-piste skiing, with some challenging chutes and gladed tree lines.

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7 Red Lodge Mountain Resort

Located near Red Lodge, Montana, the ski resort at Red Lodge is widely popular for its ski-in/ski-out lodging options, as well as its ski school and varied terrain. The ski area offers over 1,600 acres of ski terrain, and there are plenty of groomed runs, glades, and even a half-pipe for those looking to show off their tricks.

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6 Turner Mountain Ski Area

This ski area, located near Libby, Montana, offers some of the best ski terrains in the state. With its steep slopes and deep powder bowls, it’s a favorite among skiers and boarders alike. Featuring over 300 acres of ski terrain, ranging from beginner to expert, it has plenty of groomed runs and glades for those looking for a challenge, as well as ski instruction programs tailored to all ages.

5 Showdown Montana

Nestled at the base of the Little Belt Mountains in Neihart, MT, Showdown Montana is a ski area known for its immaculate views and slopes. It features over 500 acres of ski runs, ranging from beginner to expert. There are plenty of steeps, moguls, and tree skiing opportunities available, as well as cozy cabins and hotel rooms to keep warm. The Tenderfoot Cabins & Motel, for instance, is highly popular among visitors. Located at 301 W Main St, White Sulphur Springs, MT, 59645, the lodging offer furnished individual cabins that are clean, quant, and relaxing.

4 Discovery Ski Area

The Discovery Ski Resort is a great spot for families to ski and snowboard together. With ski lessons available for all ages, the ski area is perfect for beginners as well as more advanced skiers. Lodging is available near the ski area, along with ski and snowboard rentals, ski school programs, ski instruction, and ski tours. Discovery ski resort boasts over 700 acres of ski terrain, ranging from beginner to expert ski runs.

3 Great Divide Ski Area

Seated near Helena, Montana, the ski area at Great Divide offers ski and ride options for all. With its modern ski lifts and varied terrain, it’s perfect for a ski trip with family or friends. Visitors can catch ski tours to ski some of Montana’s powdery backcountry.

2 Montana Snowbowl

Montana Snowbowl is a great location for skiers and boarders who are looking to take their skiing to the next level. This ski school is one of the resort's most anticipated amenities, as all skill levels are able to train based on their level of experience.

1 Lost Trail Powder Mountain

Located near Hamilton, Montana, the Lost Trail Powder Mountain resort offers ski terrain for all ski and ride levels. With its ski lodge, ski school, and ski shop, as well as great ski conditions, make it perfect for a ski adventure with family or friends.