The Best Ski Resorts for Tree Skiing in Montana

Weaving through forests with snow-laden branches overhead creates some of the most exhilarating skiing experiences out there. Tree skiing offers a perfect blend of challenge, protection from the elements, and pure mountain joy. Our tree skiing rankings showcase where you'll find the best gladed terrain according to real skiers and snowboarders in the Snomad community. These unbiased insights come directly from people who've actually carved these lines – no marketing spin, just authentic experiences. Fancy adding your voice? Leave your own review and help fellow powder hunters find their perfect forest playground.

Looking for more ways to plan your perfect Montana ski trip? Check out our rankings for Off-Piste, Powder Zones, and Advanced terrain to round out your mountain adventure.

Best Ski Resort for Tree Runs in Montana: Whitefish Mountain Resort (MT) - Tree Skiing Rating 4.62

Whitefish Mountain Resort is renowned for its exceptional tree skiing. Our reviewers consistently praise the quality of tree runs throughout the mountain. One Snomad community member who's been skiing there for 15 years describes falling in love with Whitefish despite many runs facing south. A user who is an advanced snowboarder said, "You can easily access some backcountry riding, take insane powder tree runs and have incredible views." Another skier mentioned that "the tree skiing is unmatched anywhere." The back side seems particularly popular, with one visitor noting it's "the place to be" with great powder conditions among the trees.

#2 Big Sky - Tree Skiing Rating 4.33

Looking for epic tree skiing? Big Sky delivers in spades. The resort's extensive tree runs earn consistent praise from our Snomad community. "You could ski here for a season and never see it all," mentions Jeffrey, an expert skier. The mountain's vast terrain offers countless hidden spots among the trees, with one advanced snowboarder saying the "backcountry terrain and tree runs on powder days" are particularly brilliant. Even days after snowfall, you can "still find fresh powder tucked in tree runs," according to Shane. For those willing to explore, the reward is discovering those secret spots that make Big Sky's tree skiing truly special.

#3 Bridger Bowl - Tree Skiing Rating 4.00

Tree skiing at Bridger Bowl is a highlight for many of our users. One Snomad community member liked the "endless terrain to hit," while advanced skiers particularly praise the tree runs off Schlasmans lift, which requires an avalanche beacon to ride. The off-piste opportunities expand significantly for those willing to venture up the ridge, with Shane noting this "unlocks so much more skiable acreage." The glades range from "low grade" to "steep and deep" according to expert skier Tony. While the in-bounds terrain might be "mediocre" for some, the tree skiing options clearly elevate Bridger to a favourite among powder-seeking locals.