Sun Valley is America’s original destination ski resort with a rich Olympic heritage, luxurious amenities and iconic chairlift innovations.

• Opening Date: 23 Nov 2024* (Estimated open date based on historical data)
• Closing Date: 20 Apr 2025* (Estimated open date based on historical data)

Friedman Memorial Airport (SUN) - 15 miles (30 minutes)

Boise Airport (BOI) - 152 miles (2 hours 45 minutes)

Sun Valley made its debut in 1936, during an era when surface tow lifts were the norm at ski resorts worldwide. Just a year later, it revolutionized the industry by introducing the world’s first chairlift, cementing its place in skiing history. Today, Sun Valley remains a must-visit destination for skiers of all levels. Bald Mountain offers incredible bowl skiing and beautifully groomed cruisers perfect for carving, while Dollar Mountain provides treeless, gentle slopes ideal for beginners, along with eight dynamic terrain parks for freestyle enthusiasts. To truly immerse yourself in the Sun Valley experience, stay at the iconic Sun Valley Lodge, where the walls tell stories through black-and-white photos of the many famous faces who’ve visited over the years.

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Expect uncrowded slopes and fast lifts at Tamarack Resort, a winter sports mountain.

• Opening Date: 8 Nov 2024* (Estimated open date based on historical data)
• Closing Date: 6 Apr 2025* (Estimated open date based on historical data)

Boise Airport (BOI) - 100 miles (2 hours 15 minutes)

Spokane International Airport (GEG) - 284 miles (5 hours)

From Idaho’s oldest ski resort to its newest gem, Tamarack Resort is poised to become the state’s next premier skiing destination. Two high-speed express chairlifts effortlessly transport you to the 7,700-foot summit in under 12 minutes combined, where breathtaking views of the snow-covered landscape await. The next treat? Carving your way down the often blissfully uncrowded slopes. Start with a seamless, non-stop descent on the Showtime blue trail, just one of 50 diverse runs to discover. For powder enthusiasts, the resort offers thrilling glades and backcountry bowls within its boundaries.

When it comes to accommodations, Tamarack leaves no stone unturned. Choose from sleek modern family homes, charming wooden mountain chalets and cozy slope-side cottages, or opt for hotel rooms, studios and fully equipped condos—all designed to make your stay as comfortable as your adventure is exhilarating.

Bogus Basin is a non-profit community ski area with over 80 groomed trails, night skiing and a variety of fun winter activities for all ages.

• Opening Date: 23 Nov 2024* (Estimated open date based on historical data)
• Closing Date: 22 Apr 2025* (Estimated open date based on historical data)

Boise Airport (BOI) - 20 miles (45 minutes)

Located less than an hour’s drive from Idaho’s capital, Bogus Basin is one of the most accessible ski resorts on our list. Covering an impressive 2,600 acres of varied terrain, including 175 acres illuminated for night skiing, it offers something for every level of skier. Advanced skiers can tackle the challenging drops off Shafer Butte, while intermediates will find plenty to explore on the gentler runs from Deer Point. 

But the fun doesn’t stop at skiing. Bogus Basin boasts a snow tubing hill, scenic snowshoeing trails, and the thrilling Glade Runner mountain coaster, which winds 4,330 feet through the alpine forest. For ski-in ski-out convenience, the Pioneer Condominiums are an excellent choice, while Boise offers a range of lodging options to suit all budgets.

Schweitzer Mountain Resort has expert terrain with bowls, chutes, and glades, combined with upscale amenities at a comprehensive ski resort.

• Opening Date: 22 Nov 2024* (Estimated open date based on historical data)
• Closing Date: 13 Apr 2025* (Estimated open date based on historical data)

Spokane International Airport (GEG) - 90 miles (1 hour 45 minutes)

Schweitzer Mountain Resort is a haven for seasoned skiers who appreciate a touch of luxury alongside their powder fix. Perched at the northernmost tip of Idaho's panhandle, this resort boasts breathtaking vistas of Montana’s Cabinet Mountains, Canada’s Selkirk Mountains and the sprawling Lake Pend Oreille below. With 92 impeccably groomed trails, half of which cater to advanced and expert skiers, it’s a playground for thrill-seekers. For an even more exhilarating experience, guided heli-skiing tours provide access to untouched, steep terrain. 

After a day on the slopes, indulge in full-service dining at Sky House, a contemporary summit lodge featuring The Nest restaurant. Back in the charming ski village, unwind with a movie at the complimentary theatre or rejuvenate at the Solstice Spa. Accommodations range from cozy hotel rooms to luxurious ski homes outfitted with hot tubs and inviting fireplaces, ensuring every guest finds their perfect retreat.

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Expect beginner-friendly slopes and terrain parks in a picturesque national forest setting at Lookout Pass.

• Opening Date: 8 Nov 2024* (Estimated open date based on historical data)
• Closing Date: 20 Apr 2025* (Estimated open date based on historical data)

Spokane International Airport (GEG) - 90 miles (1 hour 45 minutes)

New to skiing? Lookout Pass is the perfect place to practice and build your confidence. This ski area boasts three unique mountainsides, each served by its own dedicated chairlift, all converging at the 5,650 ft. summit. The intuitive layout makes it easy to navigate, so you can focus on mastering your technique instead of worrying about finding your way. 

While Idaho’s larger resorts often steal the spotlight, Lookout Pass offers a quieter, more relaxed skiing experience. Expert instructors at the on-site ski school are ready to help beginners progress, while novice freestylers can explore the terrain parks. Huckleberry Jam features beginner-friendly obstacles, and Rolling Thunder offers a natural quarter pipe for those ready to take the next step. For affordable accommodations, head to the charming town of Wallace, just a 20-minute drive away, where you'll find a variety of budget-friendly hotels, inns and motels.

Brundage Mountain is a family-owned ski resort with a kid-friendly atmosphere and one of the best cat skiing operators in Idaho.

• Opening Date: 29 Nov 2024* (Estimated close date based on historical data)
• Closing Date: Apr 09 2025* (Estimated close date based on historical data)

Boise Airport (BOI) - 128 miles (3 hours 30 minutes)

Brundage Mountain excels in two key areas. First, there’s the charming Beartopia ski zone, an ideal spot for kids and parents to ease into skiing together. On the other end of the spectrum, thrill-seekers can dive straight into untouched backcountry terrain, accessible directly from the lifts. Adding to its appeal, Brundage benefits from frequent winter storms and consistently cold temperatures, ensuring excellent snow conditions throughout the season. Thrill seekers can take full advantage of the fresh powder with an expansive cat skiing area near Goose Lake. For accommodations, the resort offers cozy cabins and condos, while the nearby town of McCall provides additional lodging options, along with three craft breweries perfect for lively après-ski gatherings.

Silver Mountain accounts for top-notch tree skiing, long-lasting powder and unique family amenities at an underrated Idaho ski destination.

• Opening Date: 23 Nov 2024* (Estimated open date based on historical data)
• Closing Date: 20 Apr 2025* (Estimated open date based on historical data)

Spokane International Airport (GEG) - 75 miles (1 hour)

Your adventure to the slopes of Silver Mountain begins with a scenic 3-mile gondola ride, ascending 3,400 feet. Use the journey to study the trail map and plan an unforgettable day on the mountain! This snow-packed ski area, averaging an impressive 340 inches of snowfall annually, is a paradise for intermediate and advanced skiers. For experts, the North Face Glades offer a thrilling tree run, while gentler trails wind through majestic ponderosa pines, perfect for carving fresh tracks.

After a day on the slopes, unwind at the Morning Star Lodge, conveniently located at the gondola base. Choose from a range of accommodations, including suites, studios, and condos. Guests also enjoy complimentary access to the massive Silver Rapids Indoor Waterpark, featuring a FlowRider surf machine, water slides and a lazy river. Silver Mountain truly offers the ultimate ski getaway!