Best Ski Resorts near Missoula - MT

The Montana Snowbowl is essentially one big bowl spread across two peaks just eight miles from Missoula. It has a 2,600-foot vertical drop and 2,200 acres of skiable terrain, 500 acres of which is designated for glade skiing. The breakdown for terrain is 20 percent beginner, 40 percent intermediate, and 40 percent for advanced and expert skiers. While there is a variety of terrain for all skill levels, the vast majority of the marked trails are steep with lots of bumps and extensive glades. On average the Snowbowl gets 300 inches of snowfall a year.

Lost Trail Ski Area is a family-owned resort located on the Montana-Idaho border in the Bitterroot Range of the northern Rockies. Lost Trail boasts 60 trails on 1,800 acres of skiable terrain spread over two mountains, and a vertical drop of 1,800 feet. Approximately 20 percent of the marked trails are designed for beginners, 60 percent for intermediate-level skiers, and 20 percent for experts. Powder hounds can access the runs from five double chairs and three rope tows. There are also terrain parks for snowboarders and freestyle skiers. They get an average snowfall of 325 inches a year.

Discovery Ski Area has 2,200 skiable acres with a 2,388-foot vertical drop, and the annual snowfall here is 215 inches. Discovery encompasses three mountain faces, with dedicated areas for all skill levels. The front face has gentle runs and advanced cruisers; off to the side there are steeper runs and mogul skiing; and on the backside, you’ll find the steepest skiable terrain in Montana. Discovery Ski Area boasts 67 trails that include tree skiing, powder bowls, groomed trails, and mogul runs. Discovery also has a terrain park for your freestyling skills.