“Outside” magazine is renowned for their savvy reporting and articles on everything outdoorsy, and each year we look forward to seeing their list of the top 20 ski resorts in the west. It’s little surprise that Whitefish Mountain Resort, affectionately known as Big Mountain (or The Big) by locals, made the list at number 9, with high marks for local flavor and value. Readers chimed in that it has everything you want, and nothing you don’t, and I fully agree!
With runs for everyone from tame green hills to adrenalin-pumping double-black diamonds, this ski mountain is really a gem. I spent a few years regularly riding Vail, Breck and Steamboat, yet even while I was sliding down these historical favorites, I couldn’t wait to get back home to ride the Big. It’s just a chill, friendly pile of snow where locals and outsiders come together to shed differences and enjoy crisp air, snow ghosts, and loads of laughter. By the way, Big Mountain beat out those iconic ski resorts I just mentioned, so this tells you its small-town demeanor has won over many who want to return to simpler times. You won’t find dozens of high speed lifts and long lines. Instead, you’ll sway to the top on the old double and triple chairs that creak along at a meandering pace, allowing the flow of conversation, and the pleasure of really taking in the beauty of a bluebird day.
If you’d like to see who else made the list, click the link below and satisfy your curiosity, and I’ll see you on the slopes!
Carmen Hobson
Broker/Owner
Whitefish, Montana