For those who love the thrill of skiing or snowboarding down a mountain, feeling the cold wind on their face, and admiring incredible views, there may be no place in the U.S. better than the Mountain West. This area features many of America’s biggest peaks, most popular ski resorts, and best terrain. Its climate and geography are ideal for skiing and snowboarding, and the Mountain West has gained international acclaim for its abundant options. Let’s look at some of the cities in this area convenient to top-notch ski resorts.
Wyoming
Wyoming is a mountainous state famed for its incredible natural attractions, including Yellowstone National Park. This big, open, sparsely populated state has long been an appealing hotspot for skiers and snowboarders seeking to avoid some of the most crowded areas but still wanting to enjoy world-class skiing.
Many areas in Wyoming are havens for ski lovers. Jackson might be the most sought-after ski destination in the state, with multiple ski areas surrounding the city, including the ever-popular Jackson Hole Mountain Resort. Wilson is a small town known for its proximity not just to Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, but it is also close to Snow King Mountain Resort, with 500 skiable acres and a new gondola. Casper, the second-largest city in Wyoming, is in the mountains and located near Hogadon Basin Ski Area, with excellent skiing and gorgeous views.
Idaho
Idaho is stunning with its incredible natural settings ranging from rushing rivers to lush forests, but the mountains make this state a haven for adventure lovers. Idaho’s ski options are numerous and thrilling.
Sun Valley houses the Sun Valley Resort, which includes Bald Mountain and Dollar Mountain. This locale offers courses with breathtaking panoramas and caters to all experience levels. Just a short drive from the Sun Valley Resort, Ketchum is a scenic resort town with hot springs and an interesting Gold Rush history. Sandpoint is named for its sandy beaches in the summer, but in the winter, visitors flock to Schweitzer Mountain Resort, which has superb slopes and a terrain park.
Kellogg is not only known for its industrial and mining history but also has the status as a hub for recreation due to the nearby Silver Mountain Resort. Idaho Falls is a natural wonderland based along the Snake River, just 30 minutes from the picturesque Kelly Canyon Ski Resort.
Montana
Montana is a state that has always been an attractive option for nature lovers. This scenic state has everything from the Rocky Mountains to Glacier National Park. The mountainous terrain makes it one of the premier ski epicenters in the country.
Somers is set on the north shore of Flathead Lake, making it a popular summer destination. But it truly comes alive during winter, when visitors flock to Blacktail Mountain Ski Area in the neighboring peaks. Bigfork, in the Rocky Mountains, is also just a short drive away from the Blacktail Mountain Ski Area. Red Lodge is commonly used as a gateway to Yellowstone National Park. It is set near Red Lodge Mountain, an uncrowded, enchanting destination. Kalispell is near the world-famous Glacier National Park and just a short drive from Whitefish Mountain Resort.
Big Sky is a famous community in the Montana Rockies and the site of the world-renowned Big Sky Resort. Dillon is a picturesque city that is known for its all-season fun. In the winter, Maverick Mountain Ski Area is popular for hitting the slopes.
Utah
Utah is a state with world-renowned skiing, having hosted the 2002 Winter Olympics. It is an absolute must for ski lovers.
Eden has world-class ski resorts that are as exciting as it gets. Powder Mountain is one of the premier options in Utah and is easily accessed from here. Provo is a major Utah city set near several skiing locations, including the Deer Valley and Brighton resorts, two high-quality choices. Also near Deer Valley Resort is Park City, one of the most popular ski destinations in the state due to its Wasatch Range setting. Park City Mountain Resort is one of the largest ski resorts in the country and has incredible conditions.
Duck Creek Village and Cedar City are communities in Southern Utah near Brian Head Ski Resort, a less-crowded, appealing attraction. Clearfield is a small town centrally-located, so accessing several resorts, such as Snowbasin and Powder Mountain, is a breeze. Ogden is a big city with a Gold Rush past and a perfect location for easy access to Powder Mountain resort.
Alpine is a charming suburb of Salt Lake City. It is very close to famous Utah resorts, including Sundance, Alta, and Snowbird. Orem is a mountain town near Provo, also just a drive away from many of Utah’s famed skiing sites.
