Plan Your Idaho Ski Adventure: Top Dining & Lodging Spots for All 19 Ski Areas

Get ready to hit Idaho’s most stunning slopes and uncover the best spots to eat, stay and explore along the way! Whether you’re a seasoned skier or a family road-tripping through the Gem State, this guide covers everything you need to make your Idaho ski adventure unforgettable.

Northern Idaho

Schweitzer, Idaho’s largest ski resort, spans over 2,900 acres and provides a diverse playground of open bowls, tree skiing and night skiing, all overlooking stunning Lake Pend Oreille. It’s perfect for families and powder enthusiasts alike. After a day of adventure, recharge at Chimney Rock Grill for classic après-ski fare, or enjoy live music and hearty comfort food at Eichardt’s Pub & Grill in downtown Sandpoint. For a unique stay, Humbird Hotel provides slopeside luxury, while The Lodge at Sandpoint offers a tranquil lakeside retreat.

Silver Mountain Resort in Kellogg combines family-friendly skiing with a tubing hill and an indoor waterpark, making it a hit for all ages and interests. After hitting the slopes, Radio Brewing Company serves up craft beers alongside casual pub fare, or chow down on a Miner Burger (with its signature coal bun) at Uphill Grill. For accommodations, you’ll find the Morning Star Lodge right on the mountain, or escape to the relaxing Silverton Mountain Manor nearby.

Straddling the Idaho-Montana border, Lookout Pass Ski & Recreation Area offers affordable lift tickets, deep powder and well-maintained cross-country trails. The welcoming atmosphere makes it perfect for skiers looking for a relaxed experience. After a day playing in the powder, head to The Fainting Goat in Wallace for an eclectic menu and extensive wine list, or try Blackboard Café for Italian-inspired cuisine. When it’s time to unwind, The Wallace Inn provides family-friendly lodging, while the Ryan Hotel delivers a charming boutique experience.

North Central Idaho

Cottonwood Butte Ski Area offers a mellow, beginner-friendly atmosphere ideal for those just starting out. The mountain also has tubing and snowmobiling options for added fun. Grab a juicy burger at The Hang Out or classic American dishes at Rodonna’s Country Haus Restaurant. Attached to Rodonna’s, the Village Motel provides a convenient lodging option, while the Inn at St. Gertrude offers a unique B&B stay within a Benedictine monastery.

Snowhaven Ski & Tubing Area in Grangeville provides skiing and two 1,100-foot, lift-serviced tubing lanes that put a snowy smile on any guest. After a day on the slopes, grab a meal at Season’s Restaurant and enjoy a cozy evening in a remodeled 1920s bungalow or settle into a charming house on the scenic Camas Prairie.

The small, community-run Bald Mountain Ski Area near Pierce is known for its welcoming atmosphere and affordable rates, perfect for families and newcomers. Refuel after a day in the snow with a savory meal at Pierce Gold Rush Saloon or grab an inventive slice at Chubby’s Pizza. When you’re ready to rest, the cozy cabins of The Outback provide a quiet retreat.

Southwestern Idaho

Just 18 miles from Boise, Bogus Basin Mountain Recreation Area provides a quick escape from the city with skiing (day and night!), tubing and an exhilarating mountain coaster. After carving down the slopes, head to Bittercreek Alehouse in downtown Boise for farm-to-table dishes and an a range of Idaho craft beers, or try Basque-inspired pub fare at Bar Gernika. For a restful night, The Grove Hotel and Hyatt Place Boise/Downtown offer comfortable, centrally located accommodations.

Tamarack Resort, nestled near Donnelly, is known for its array of winter activities and charming alpine village. Savor fine-casual fare at The Reserve or hearty Italian dishes at Regazza Di Bufalo, just a short drive away. For a convenient stay, choose from a variety of ski-in, ski-out options, including condos, chalets or estate homes.

Brundage Mountain Resort in McCall is famous for its deep powder and cat-skiing tours. After a thrilling day on the slopes, warm up with a po’boy and chowder at Frenchie’s, or enjoy seasonal flavors at Rupert’s. Relax in the historic setting of Hotel McCall, or book a luxurious Hearthstone vacation rental home.

McCall’s Little Ski Hill is a welcoming spot for families and beginners, providing a relaxed introduction to skiing and snowboarding in a low-pressure environment. Wind down with an elegant meal at The Narrows Steakhouse or go for a more casual option at Lardo Grill & Saloon. For lodging, seek rustic relaxation at Bear Creek Lodge, or splurge on lakeside accommodations at the lovely Shore Lodge along Payette Lake.

South Central Idaho

Pomerelle Mountain Resort, located in Albion, is beloved by families for its friendly atmosphere and night skiing. After a day outdoors, head to Tank Hill Pizza Cafe for a satisfying bite, followed by homemade ice cream across the street at Albion Mercantile Co. For a unique stay, cozy up at Marsh Creek Inn or try the quirky flower pot-shaped home with a hot tub in nearby Burley.

Magic Mountain Ski Resort in Hansen offers uncrowded slopes and a fun-for-all-ages tubing hill. Start your day with a hearty breakfast at The T-and-T Café. Then, after your day of snowy fun, enjoy pub classics at Scooter’s or savor authentic Mexican flavors at Antojos Eatery & Cafe. Rest easy at Hampton Inn Twin Falls or Hilton Garden Inn Twin Falls.

Southeast Idaho

Pebble Creek Ski Area, just outside of Inkom, is a great destination for advanced skiers with steep runs and backcountry opportunities for the more daring. After an action-packed day, refuel with the eclectic menu at Brick 243 Gastropub or enjoy savory Mexican dishes at Cielito Lindo Cocina Mexicana. For accommodations, Holiday Inn Express & Suites Pocatello and TownePlace Suites by Marriott Pocatello offer comfortable stays.

Eastern Idaho

Grand Targhee Resort, located in Alta, offers legendary powder for skiing and snowboarding fun, along with fat biking, snowshoeing, dogsled and backcountry tours. When you’re done playing for the day, get your après-ski on at The Trap Bar & Grill, or cruise into nearby Driggs for delightful options like Teton Thai or Forage Bistro and Lounge. Call it a night at the selection of slopeside lodging options, or choose to stay at Teton Valley Cabins or a vacation rental home near the mountain.

Kelly Canyon Ski Resort, in Ririe, offers a family-friendly atmosphere with terrain for both beginners and advanced skiers—along with night skiing and cross-country trails. Refuel with the diverse menu options at Park Avenue Grill or Altavista in Idaho Falls. For lodging, stay at Hampton Inn Idaho Falls/Airport or enjoy the themed rooms at Destinations Inn.

Central Idaho

Straddling the Idaho-Montana border, Lost Trail Ski Area is ideal for powder lovers with its deep snow across two terrain parks. Uncrowded slopes and a laid-back atmosphere greet visitors at this gem atop the Continental Divide. After playing in the snow, head about an hour south to Salmon for dinner at The Dusty Mule Bar & Grill or Last Chance Pizza & Pasta. Settle in for relaxing accommodations at the Salmon River Inn or book a historic brick home near the Salmon River.

Sun Valley Resort is Idaho’s most famous ski destination, offering other outdoor pursuits like heli-skiing, fat biking and ice skating. Ski your heart out and then indulge in gourmet dining at Michel’s Christiania or enjoy the rustic charm of Pioneer Saloon, both in Ketchum. Plan to stay at the iconic Sun Valley Lodge or opt for the comfy accommodations at Hotel Ketchum.

Rotarun Ski Area, just outside Hailey, is the perfect place to learn how to ski, offering affordable lift tickets and an approachable vibe, along with night skiing. Afterward, head into Hailey for mouthwatering flavors at Dang Thai Cuisine & Sushi Bar or creative pies at 2 Talls Pizzeria. When you’re ready to call it a night, put your head to pillow at Fairfield Inn & Suites Hailey Sun Valley or Wood River Inn & Suites.

Soldier Mountain is known for its vast backcountry and cat-skiing tours, leading you to steep tree runs, challenging chutes and open powder fields. With its reasonable prices and twilight deals, Soldier is great for those looking for an affordable and thrilling ski day. Once you’ve had your fill of powder, grab a bite on the mountain at The Lodge or The Fox Den Pub or head into nearby Fairfield for dinner at The Cliff Bar & Grille, known for its hearty fare. If you’re planning to stay in the area, book a cozy room at The Prairie Inn or consider one of the area’s unique vacation rentals.

Ready to experience an Idaho ski trip? Start planning your winter vacation now.