The 8 Best Reasons Idaho Is the Greatest Place to Ski in the U.S.

Idaho isn’t the first place that pops into your mind when a skiing holiday is on the cards, but Idaho is home to epic snowy scenery and incredible undisturbed backcountry. With at least 28,000 vertical feet to descend, here are the 8 best reasons Idaho is the greatest place to ski in the U.S.

1. Perfect Ski Weather

Idaho is the greatest place to ski in the United States for many reasons, but its weather has to be one of the top reasons to pack up and go. Ski-perfect snow falls reliably from late November through to early May. During the time snow lies on the ground, temperatures remain steadily low, despite bright, cheerful sunlight and chiefly uncloudy days.

In 2018-2019 150 inches of snow fell on Idaho State, but in the mountainous areas, even more snow settled. On average, 7,800 feet tall Brundage Mountain receives 211 inches each year over 55 days. Grand Targhee’s West Tetons receives an epic 500 inches, as does Pomerelle’s Sawtooth Mountains.

That’s a lot of snow!

2. A Long Five Month Season

Snow falls early in the mountainous regions, so Idaho’s skiing season usually begins in late November and finishes in early May. That’s at least five months of the year, and plenty of time to arrange annual leave around the busiest times.

3. Comparatively Lower Cost

Compared to famous ski resorts like Colorado, Idaho isn’t so well known. This means its prices are generally lower, and fewer snow-mad folks vacation there.

If you book early, or last minute, it’s possible to pick up a staggering bargain in one of Idhao’s ski resorts.

4. There Are Lots of Resorts

Idaho has over 18 ski resorts ranging from the biggest, Brundage Mountain in Central Idaho with six ski lifts and 60 slopes, to Sun Valley, the United States’ first true ski resort which opened in 1937.

Small, but perfectly formed, Little Ski Hill just two miles south of McCall was originally built for forest worker entertainment, but today its 405 vertical foot slope attracts families and easy-going skiers.

5. Amazing Scenery and Views

Idaho’s mountain views stretch for miles and offer some of the best scenery the United States can offer.

Take Sun Valley Resort. It’s located between two picturesque mountains – Bald Mountain and Dollar Mountain. From their peaks, you can enjoy snowy landscapes stretching into the distance, and on the lower slopes, towering snowy mountains surround you with epic wintery landscapes.

A small section of Yellowstone National Park lies in Idaho’s west. In winter, snow enthusiasts may spot caribou, hawks, coyotes, bears, bighorn sheep, and snowshoe hares there.

6. Easy Travels

Idaho’s ski resorts lie scattered across the whole state and they’re easily accessible on clear highways.

Idaho’s Boise airport connects skiers to epic ski resorts such as Soldier Mountain Resort, which is just under two hour’s drive, and Bogus Basin that’s only 40 minutes away by car. Brundage Mountain, Christmas Mountain, and Tamarack also lie within half a day’s drive from Boise Airport. Dedicated taxi services run skiers to and from the airport.

7. Variety Of Snow Sports On Offer

Idaho offers a variety of different ski sports.

Skiers enjoy beginner slopes and experienced black slopes served by towering lifts. Snowboarders thrive in the relaxed atmosphere there, and there’s so much backcountry in Idaho that cross-country skiing is one of the most popular activities. For the adventurous, a night-skiing trip under the stars is one of the most memorable experiences you’ll have skiing in Idaho.

Snowmobiles and bus tours offer a more relaxed day out for family and friends who don’t want to ski, plus hard-working ski enthusiasts who need a rest day! Snowmobile tours through the backcountry take in some of Idhao’s most spectacular scenery. Join one, or plan your own excursions.

8. Caters For All Levels

Idaho is a family-friendly resort that offers beginner lessons and after-school programs to newbie skiers, plus towering, almost vertical slopes, and challenging off-piste cross-country routes for experienced snow sports enthusiasts.

It’s a great place to ski if your group has a range of abilities. Many Idaho ski resorts offer disabled ski facilities, and of course, plenty of apres-ski meals and entertainment.

January is Ski Idaho’s Learn to Ski and Snowboard month. Packages are considerably cheaper for beginners in this quieter period.

Recap: Why Idaho Is The Best Place To Ski in the U.S.

Idaho is one of the greatest places to ski in the U.S. for so many reasons!

Its reliable snowfall sets up resorts for an early season start and late finish. You can ski in Idaho from November to April. A wide variety of snow sports take advantage of Idaho’s reliable snowfall, from skiing to snowboarding, snowmobiling, and cross-country skiing. Professional tutors offer lessons to all stage skiers and guided tours for off-piste sports.

Idaho is easy to travel to, its scenery is epic, and there are over 18 mountain resorts to choose from. Family-run resorts offer great value, while the larger resorts offer more luxury, but they’re still good value compared to better-known U.S. ski resorts.

Perhaps the best reason to visit Idaho’s ski slopes is its laid-back sense of fun and adventure. Folks don’t take it so seriously here, there’s room for all levels to enjoy a ski vacation and excellent apres-ski to keep your spirits up.

The photo featured at the top of this post is © christiannafzger/ via Getty Images