Montana ski resorts are seeing varied snowfall, with notable increases at specific locations. Big Sky Resort, near sensors at Lone Mountain and Carrot Basin, reports a 5-day forecast of light snowfall (1-2 inches) and snowpack depths around 40-51 inches. Whitefish Mountain Resort, close to Noisy Basin and Moss Peak, shows a stronger snowpack, with depths exceeding 70 inches and a forecast of up to 5 inches in the coming days. Areas near Bridger Bowl, such as Brackett Creek and Sacajawea, maintain snowpack levels near 38-39 inches, coupled with a modest 2-inch snowfall forecast.
For the highest snowfall in the coming days, look to locations like North Fork Jocko and Kraft Creek, reporting up to 5 inches, and Burnt Mountain and Cole Creek, with a 4-inch forecast. These areas align with smaller resorts and backcountry opportunities rather than major ski hubs. Southern Montana, near Yellowstone (e.g., Beartooth Pass and Fisher Creek), offers consistent snowpack at higher elevations (up to 53 inches), though new snowfall remains minimal. Overall, Whitefish and the surrounding Glacier National Park area see the most promising conditions for snow enthusiasts, with significant snowpack and steady snowfall in the forecast.
Ski Area | Air Temp (F) | Snowfall | Snowpack | vs Avg | SWE | 24hr Forecast | 72hr Forecast | 120hr Forecast |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
34 | -1 | 32 | +114% | 7 | 0 | 1 | 1 | |
20 | -1 | 40 | +15% | 10 | 0 | 1 | 1 | |
20 | -1 | 40 | +15% | 10 | 0 | 1 | 1 | |
20 | -1 | 40 | +15% | 10 | 0 | 1 | 1 | |
20 | -1 | 40 | +15% | 10 | 0 | 1 | 1 | |
32 | -1 | 29 | +13% | 7 | 0 | 1 | 2 | |
23 | -2 | 45 | +3% | 11 | 0 | 1 | 2 | |
20 | -1 | 56 | -2% | 16 | 0 | 3 | 3 | |
23 | -1 | 54 | -8% | 17 | 0 | 1 | 1 | |
30 | 0 | 15 | -18% | 3 | 0 | 1 | 2 | |
30 | -1 | 29 | -18% | 7 | 0 | 2 | 2 | |
0 | 65 | -25% | 20 | 0 | 0 | 0 | ||
29 | -1 | 18 | -30% | 4 | 0 | 3 | 4 | |
26 | 1 | 33 | -32% | 7 | 0 | 1 | 1 | |
25 | -2 | 23 | -52% | 6 | 0 | 1 | 1 |
Montana is a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts, with its stunning mountain ranges and world-class resorts. Here are some of the top ski resorts in Montana, along with their average snowfall per season, snowpacks, and the best time to visit:
1. Big Sky Resort: Located in the southwest region of Montana, Big Sky Resort is the largest ski resort in the state, with over 5,800 acres of skiable terrain. The resort has an average snowfall of 400 inches per year, with a snowpack average of 70 inches. The best time to visit Big Sky is from December to February, when the snow is at its best.
2. Whitefish Mountain Resort: Located in northwestern Montana, Whitefish Mountain Resort is known for its stunning views of Glacier National Park. The resort has an average snowfall of 300 inches per year, with a snowpack average of 50 inches. The best time to visit Whitefish is from December to March, when the snow is at its best.
3. Bridger Bowl: Located near Bozeman in southwestern Montana, Bridger Bowl is a local favorite with great terrain for all skill levels. The resort has an average snowfall of 350 inches per year, with a snowpack average of 80 inches. The best time to visit Bridger Bowl is from January to March, when the snow is at its best.
4. Red Lodge Mountain: Located in southern Montana, Red Lodge Mountain is a smaller resort with a laid-back vibe. The resort has an average snowfall of 250 inches per year, with a snowpack average of 50 inches. The best time to visit Red Lodge Mountain is from January to March, when the snow is at its best.