Idaho Ski Resorts

Why our Mountain Travel Experts love it: Schweitzer Mountain, tucked away in the rugged Selkirk Mountains of Idaho, is a hidden gem that offers an exceptional ski experience with a touch of Pacific Northwest charm. Just 90 miles from Spokane, Washington, Schweitzer boasts 2,900 acres of diverse terrain, making it the largest mountain resort in Idaho. Whether you're carving down high-angle groomers, navigating the renowned tree skiing, or exploring the two massive bowls, Schweitzer delivers a ski experience that rivals the best in the region.

Schweitzer's allure extends far beyond its vast slopes. Nestled 2,000 feet above the scenic town of Sandpoint and the shores of Lake Pend Oreille, the resort boasts an inviting mountain village atmosphere. Here, visitors can enjoy a warm, family-friendly environment complete with a variety of activities, dining options, spa services, and convenient slopeside accommodations. From the summit, you’ll be treated to stunning 360-degree views that stretch across neighboring mountain ranges in Montana, Washington, and even Canada, adding an awe-inspiring backdrop to your ski days.

Highlights: 2,900 acres of diverse terrain, an intimate mountain village with family-friendly activities and slopeside lodging, and breathtaking 360-degree views from the summit.

Closest airport: Spokane International Airport - 90 miles (2 hours)

Why our Mountain Travel Experts love it:  Sun Valley, Idaho offers an unparalleled skiing experience, combining its rich heritage, and a laid-back atmosphere with plenty of uncrowded slopes to explore. Known for its flawlessly groomed runs, Sun Valley is an intermediate skier’s dream, offering long, perfectly pitched slopes that make every turn a pleasure. With an efficient lift system, you’ll spend less time waiting and more time enjoying the slopes. What truly sets Sun Valley apart is its charming, refined atmosphere—day lodges here feel more like luxurious retreats than bustling ski hubs, offering top-tier amenities without the typical crowds.

Sun Valley’s history runs deep, adding a unique layer to its charm. This is the birthplace of the world’s first chairlift and the final resting place of Ernest Hemingway, who was so captivated by the beauty of the Wood River Valley that he made it his home. Sun Valley and the adjacent town of Ketchum extend beyond the slopes, presenting a diverse array of activities. These range from adventures suitable for the whole family to the exhilarating experience of heli-skiing, catering to those in pursuit of the ultimate powder experience. Plus, being part of the Central Idaho Dark Sky Reserve, one of only 12 in the world, gives stargazers the rare opportunity to marvel at the Milky Way in all its splendor.

Highlights: Immaculately groomed runs, rich history including Hemingway’s legacy, and the rare opportunity to stargaze in a Dark Sky Reserve.

Closest airport: Friedman Memorial Airport - 14 miles (25 minutes)