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This author is a paid content writer for Idaho Tourism.

The secret is out. Idaho has unbelievable skiing! Every year I attempt to rank my top 10 ski runs in Idaho, and every year it becomes more challenging. So grab your twin tips; here are  10 Idaho skis runs you have to hit in 2018.

10. Upper Paradise at Bogus Basin Mountain Recreation Area

Skiers headed down a run filled with powder.
Bogus Basin. Photo Credit: Boise CVB.

Turn and burn down a local black diamond favorite just to the right of the Pine Creek Express lift. Upper Paradise sets the standard that every powder-filled run at Bogus Basin gets measured against.
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9. Mayday Bowl at Bald Mountain Ski Area in Sun Valley

man skiing
Breathtaking views await at Bald Mountain. Photo Credit: Idaho Tourism

Every ski resort, no matter the size, has a signature run. Mayday Bowl is definitely in the running every year as it becomes less and less of a local secret and more of a signature track that ski legends test their grit on.
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8. Hotshot at Brundage Mountain Resort

10 Idaho Ski Runs You Have to Hit in 2018
Skiing at Brundage Mountain Resort. Photo Credit: Ski Idaho

The Hotshot run at Brundage Mountain Resort made last year’s list, and I couldn’t bring myself to take it off of this year’s edition. Like American Ninja Warrior, this run dishes out equal parts glory and embarrassment. It’s a powder-packed gut check that you’ll want to wax your skis for.
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7. Tango at Tamarack Resort

A skier headed down a ski run.
Hitting the slopes at Tamarack. Photo courtesy of Tamarack Resort.

While there are larger resorts in the Gem State, there may not be a prettier one. Tamarack Resort boasts over 1,000 breathtaking, skiable acres next to Lake Cascade and features a black diamond called “Tango.” Make sure you bring your dancing shoes.
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6. Dollar Mountain in Sun Valley

Skiing at Dollar Mountain in Sun Valley.
Skiing at Dollar Mountain in Sun Valley. Photo Credit: Idaho Tourism

I typically make these lists for the avid skiers and snowboarders, but any experienced rider knows that you have to start somewhere. I’ve never been to a more family-friendly mountain than Dollar, so I’m including the entire mountain at number six on the list. If you have a little one looking to learn the ropes this winter, hands down, this is the place to go.
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5. Kohli’s Big Timber at Schweitzer Mountain Resort

When you first see Schweitzer Mountain Resort, you’ll find it hard to believe that there’s an even bigger area of the mountain hiding just over the ridge. That’s where you’ll find Kohli’s Big Timber; a double black diamond that requires a distinct set of skills and unwavering bravery.
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4. Southbound to South Bowl at Pebble Creek Ski Area

Skiing at Pebble Creek Ski Area. Photo Credit: Ski Idaho
Skiing at Pebble Creek Ski Area. Photo Credit: Ski Idaho

Pebble Creek’s claim to fame is, “If you can ski Pebble Creek. You can ski anywhere.” For those of you who have skied Southbound to South Bowl, you know this to be true. This run is a rite of passage for Idahoans, and if you’re coming from out of state, it’s an earn-your-stripes-type adventure.
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3. Quicksilver at Silver Mountain Resort

If you have a flair for showmanship and showing off in front of your friends, Quicksilver is the run for you. On fresh powder days, Quicksilver is a more difficult proving ground for the “Experts” and “Wannabes” looking to claim the mountain throne.
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2. Idaho & Montana Face at Lookout Pass Ski & Recreation Area

It’s a little-known fact that Lookout Pass straddles the border of Idaho and Montana. I’m originally from Bozeman, Montana but I now call Boise, Idaho home. So when I was deciding on my favorite run at Lookout Pass it was hard to choose a side; so I picked both. The Idaho and Montana Face’s are two black diamonds that run parallel to each other on the Idaho side of the mountain. But I’m not going to tell you which run to pick; I’ll let the terrain speak for itself.
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1. Main Street at Brundage Mountain Resort

Skiing, Brundage Mountain Resort, Near McCall
Skiing, Brundage Mountain Resort, Near McCall. Photo Credit: Idaho Tourism

Brundage cracked the top three last year, and this year their Main Street run takes top honors. Main Street carves down the Frontside of the mountain underneath the Bluebird Express that stems from the lodge. While this run isn’t the most challenging on the mountain, it’s known as a signature run that takes center stage with lift-riders acting as passing judges. Put your skills to the test as you chase snow in front of locals and tourists alike.
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There you have it, 2018’s top 10 ski runs in Idaho! Do you have a favorite ski run that didn’t make the list? Tag us using the #VisitIdaho or DM us for a chance to have your photos featured on our Instagram.

Tyler Schnur


Published on January 16, 2018