The Best Ski Resorts for Off-Piste in Montana

Montana's off-piste terrain offers some of America's most thrilling backcountry adventures. Our unbiased rankings showcase the best spots for powder hunters, based entirely on feedback from the Snomad community – genuine assessments from actual skiers and boarders who've carved these slopes. Resorts only appear if they've gathered sufficient reviews, ensuring you get reliable insights about where to find the freshest stashes and most exhilarating lines. Skied or boarded Montana's backcountry? Share your experience and help fellow snow-lovers find their perfect powder day.

Looking for more Montana ski intel? Check out our rankings for Tree Skiing, Powder Zones, and Advanced terrain across the state.

Best Ski Resort for Off-Piste in Montana: Big Sky - Off-Piste Rating 4.67

Big Sky's off-piste terrain is consistently praised by our users as exceptional. As one Snomad community member put it, the mountain offers "endless terrain for every level of skier." The off-piste areas feel like the kind you'd normally "have to hike to get to," according to Jacob, an expert snowboarder. Tree runs hold powder days after fresh snowfall, and the challenging backcountry terrain is a standout feature for advanced riders. David, an expert snowboarder, describes it as "immense off-piste terrain" for "people who really want to push themselves or ski some of the steepest inbound runs in the world."

#2 Whitefish Mountain Resort (MT) - Off-Piste Rating 4.58

Whitefish Mountain Resort offers exceptional off-piste terrain that our community raves about. The tree skiing is consistently described as "unmatched anywhere" by expert skiers like Christopher, while Gordon, an advanced skier, recalls "fresh powder tree runs where absolutely every turn was spectacular." The back side is particularly praised, with Jack advising that it's "the place to be." With 3000 acres of accessible terrain, you'll find plenty of backcountry options. As Aimee, an expert snowboarder who calls Whitefish her home mountain, puts it: "It's super fun and playful" with "insane powder tree runs" and opportunities to ride above the clouds during inversions.

#3 Bridger Bowl - Off-Piste Rating 4.42

Bridger Bowl's off-piste terrain is legendary among our community. According to Shane, an advanced skier, once you venture up the ridge, you unlock so much more skiable acreage that completely transforms your perspective on the resort. The Schlasmans lift, which requires an avalanche beacon to ride, is praised by Ike as "the best lift I've ever skied." Many users highlight the exceptional powder conditions, with tree runs and challenging terrain catering primarily to advanced and expert skiers. For those willing to put in the boot pack hike, Bridger rewards with what Madi calls "a locals mountain" full of untouched lines and proper big mountain skiing.