Ski Resorts with the Best Ski Lifts in Montana
When the lifts run smoothly, your time on the mountain is maximised. Our lift efficiency rankings showcase the resorts where queues are minimal and the uphill journey is as stress-free as possible. These findings come straight from our community of skiers and boarders who've experienced these lifts firsthand. No marketing fluff – just genuine insights from people who've spent their hard-earned holiday time in these resorts. Think your experience could help others? Submit your own review and join our growing community.
Looking for other ways to compare Montana's ski areas? Check out our rankings for Tree Skiing, Powder Zones, or Value for Money to find your perfect mountain match.
Best Ski Resort for Efficient Ski Lifts in Montana: Big Sky - Lift Efficiency Rating
Big Sky's lift system receives glowing praise from our Snomad community. With high-speed chairs featuring heated seats and bubbles, plus the new tram providing spectacular views, skiers move efficiently around the massive terrain. As Dylan, an expert skier notes, "the lifts are super fast and get you to some of the best runs in the country." The modern infrastructure ensures minimal wait times even during busy periods. One snowboarder mentions how the resort's "luxurious" lifts contribute to the overall experience, while another user points out that though some non-bubble chairs are slower, they still provide good access to the terrain.
#2 Whitefish Mountain Resort (MT) - Lift Efficiency Rating
Whitefish Mountain Resort generally gets high marks for lift efficiency, with most users enjoying quick access to the mountain's varied terrain. The addition of a second high-speed chairlift has significantly improved summit access, as Christopher points out. One Snomad community member mentions that lift lines are rarely more than a minute or two long, especially during weekdays. However, not all experiences are perfect - Sam notes that during the 2023-2024 season, mechanical issues with the new quad meant longer waits of around an hour at times. Some recent visitors have also flagged broken lifts as an ongoing concern at the resort.
#3 Bridger Bowl - Lift Efficiency Rating
The lift efficiency at Bridger Bowl gets mixed reviews from our users. Some Snomad community members praise the mountain for having virtually no lift lines most days, with one advanced skier mentioning they're "plenty good enough" despite not being the newest or fastest. Others point out limitations, particularly with Schlasmans, which an expert skier describes as "the best lift I've ever skiied" but notes it's "a slow two-person" requiring an avalanche beacon. During weekends and powder days, the limited number of lifts can create crowding issues. Free parking shuttles help manage the flow, though early arrival is recommended during busy periods.
