The western United States is home to some of the most celebrated ski destinations in the country, boasting a mix of powder-rich slopes, scenic trails, and world-class amenities. Whether you’re looking to carve through the legendary powder of Oregon, explore the high-altitude terrain of Utah, or enjoy a mix of mountain landscapes in Idaho, there’s a destination for every type of skier. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the best resorts in the West—Hoodoo and Mt. Bachelor in Oregon; Brian Head Resort in Utah; and Bogus Basin and Tamarack in Idaho. We’ll also dive into the available ski pass options that make hitting these slopes easier and more affordable.
Oregon: Hoodoo Ski Area and Mt. Bachelor
Hoodoo Ski Area
Nestled in the Central Oregon Cascades just outside of Sisters, Hoodoo Ski Area is a favorite for its welcoming atmosphere and budget-friendly options. Hoodoo offers 800 acres of skiable terrain with a balanced mix of beginner, intermediate, and advanced runs. The resort also boasts night skiing on 23 trails, creating a unique, star-lit experience for skiers and snowboarders alike.
In addition to its traditional ski slopes, Hoodoo is famous for its Autobahn Tubing Park, which features a variety of lanes for an adrenaline-filled tubing experience. This family-friendly activity adds to the resort’s charm, making Hoodoo a popular destination for groups and families looking for a mix of activities.
Hoodoo offers its own season pass, which gives skiers unlimited access throughout the season. The resort is also part of the Indy Pass network, which allows pass holders to ski up to two days at each participating resort across the U.S., making it an economical choice for those who plan to explore multiple locations.
Mt. Bachelor
About an hour’s drive from Sisters, Mt. Bachelor is one of the Pacific Northwest’s premier ski destinations. Known for its high elevation, diverse terrain, and long ski season, Mt. Bachelor offers 4,300 acres of skiable terrain with over 100 runs for all skill levels. The mountain’s volcanic peak provides stunning panoramic views, and its range of options—from gentle beginner slopes to advanced glades and tree runs—offers something for everyone.
Mt. Bachelor also has a variety of other winter activities, including Nordic skiing, snowshoeing, and dog sledding, making it a versatile destination. For families, the Woodward Mountain Park offers terrain zones and progression-based activities to help riders of all ages and abilities build their skills.
Mt. Bachelor’s Full Season Pass provides unlimited access to the mountain, while the 4-Day Pass is a great choice for shorter trips. The resort also participates in the Ikon Pass network, which gives pass holders access to more than 50 resorts worldwide, including major Western U.S. destinations.
And whether you decide to ski Hoodoo, Bach, or both we’ve got some amazing accommodations that will be perfect for your crew. From small quaint cabins to homes large enough for everyone, check out all of our Central Oregon properties by clicking HERE.
Utah: Brian Head Resort
Heading south to Utah, Brian Head Resort combines excellent skiing with breathtaking red rock scenery, making it a unique destination for winter sports. Located near Cedar Breaks National Monument, Brian Head is Utah’s highest resort at 9,600 feet, offering consistently great snow and panoramic views. With 650 acres of skiable terrain spread across two connected mountains, the resort has 71 runs, with a strong balance of beginner, intermediate, and advanced trails.
Brian Head’s Terrain Park offers thrilling options for freestyle skiers and snowboarders, featuring jumps, rails, and a mix of features for all skill levels. The resort’s location makes it an ideal winter destination for those seeking a mix of winter sports and sightseeing in nearby national parks.
Brian Head offers its own season pass as well as Power Pass options that provide access to other resorts across the Western U.S., including Purgatory in Colorado and Arizona Snowbowl. Additionally, Brian Head participates in the Indy Pass network, offering a more affordable way to ski multiple resorts throughout the season.
And Family Time has over 60 properties to choose from for your ski getaway to Brian Head. If you’re looking for a couple’s getaway or just a few friends, we have condos and properties located next to the lifts and in great locations, including many that are ski-in/ski-out. Or for larger groups or families, we have some amazing homes that are perfectly located to take advantage of all that Brian Head has to offer. Check out some of these stunning retreats such as Ice Castle, Aspen Lodge Retreat, Pinehurst Retreat, or Ridge Top Lodge.
Idaho: Bogus Basin and Tamarack Resort
Bogus Basin
Just a short drive from Boise, Bogus Basin is a beloved local spot that combines the convenience of being close to the city with a wide range of winter activities. With over 2,600 acres of terrain and 10 lifts, Bogus Basin offers a variety of runs and access points suitable for all levels, from beginner-friendly groomers to more challenging backcountry-like terrain. The resort is also known for its night skiing, which is available on over 165 acres.
In addition to skiing and snowboarding, Bogus Basin offers tubing, Nordic skiing, fat-tire biking, and even an alpine coaster, providing a range of activities for those looking to experience winter fun beyond the slopes.
Bogus Basin has many pass options for unlimited access and offers affordable yearly, weekday and night passes. The resort is also a participant in the Powder Alliance, which grants pass holders three free days at each participating resort, making it an excellent choice for travelers exploring other regional mountains.
Tamarack Resort
Located about two hours north of Boise, Tamarack Resort is a hidden gem in Idaho’s Cascade Mountains, known for its high-quality snow, uncrowded slopes, and scenic lake views. Tamarack offers 1,100 acres of skiable terrain with a variety of runs, from beginner trails to advanced tree skiing and powder-filled glades. The resort’s terrain parks also attract freestylers of all levels.
One of the resort’s standout features is its backcountry-style terrain, which offers an off-piste experience for advanced skiers without the need for backcountry equipment. Tamarack also has an extensive network of Nordic skiing trails, fat biking paths, and snowshoe routes for those who want to experience the serene winter landscape in a more relaxed way.
Tamarack’s Season Pass provides unlimited access to the mountain, with no blackout dates throughout the season. The resort also participates in the Indy Pass, allowing pass holders two days at Tamarack along with access to over 120 other resorts across the country. And Family Time has several Boise area properties that are perfect for your ski getaway.
Ready to Hit the Slopes?
Whether you’re looking for a laid-back day on the slopes or an action-packed mountain adventure, the western U.S. has something for every winter sports enthusiast. From Hoodoo’s night skiing and Mt. Bachelor’s diverse terrain to the high-altitude thrills at Brian Head and the hidden gems of Idaho, each of these destinations promises an unforgettable experience. So grab your skis, pack your bags, and get ready to discover your own powder paradise across the West. And just take a quick visit to Family Time Vacation Rentals and book the perfect cozy escape to settle into after a day of hitting the slopes.