SkiSaver's 5 Best Affordable Ski Trips

When it comes to skiing, the term “best” can mean different things to different people. For us at SkiSaver, the word "best" means value—getting the most out of your dollar without sacrificing great terrain and experiences. These trips combine affordable lift tickets, convenient accommodations, and exceptional skiing, making them the perfect choice for an unforgettable and budget-friendly ski getaway. Here's our guide to the 5 best affordable ski trips that offer fantastic value:

ProTip: To learn more about each destination, including lift ticket details, accommodations, and tips for booking, simply click on the subheading.

5. Silver Mountain & Schweitzer Mountain Combo Trip

Why it’s a great value: The combination of Silver Mountain and Schweitzer Mountain offers an impressive amount of diverse terrain—Schweitzer provides amazing bowl skiing, while Silver has long, fast runs and is home to the world’s longest gondola!

Lift Tickets: Both resorts offer affordable lift tickets, Schweitzer’s day passes typically priced around $115 and Silver’s at only $75. However, multi-day discounts can bring those prices down, making this trip a steal.

Access & Accommodations: While both resorts are accessed via Spokane International Airport (GEG), the one drawback of this combo is the location of accommodations. You’ll need to stay in Coeur d’Alene (under an hour to both resorts) or split your stay between Schweitzer’s Sandpoint and Silver’s Kellogg. That said, the variety of terrain makes it well worth the slight inconvenience.

4. Tamarack & Brundage Combo Trip

Why it’s a great value: If you love variety, this combo is for you! Tamarack offers the largest vertical of all our Hidden Gems, with long scenic runs, while Brundage is known for its above-the-tree-line skiing and incredible powder bowls. Together, these resorts provide the perfect mix of challenging terrain and picturesque runs.

Lift Tickets: Lift tickets are $95 per day at both resorts, and you can find multi-day discounts like $168 for 2 days at Tamarack. Great deals for such high-quality terrain.

Access & Accommodations: The my resort town of McCall is an excellent base for both resorts, just 30 minutes from either one. McCall offers affordable accommodations, and with these resorts only a short drive away, you’ll enjoy a convenient and affordable ski vacation.

3. Arapahoe Basin & Loveland Ski Resort Combo Trip

Why it’s a great value: Arapahoe Basin and Loveland Ski Resort combine for an exceptional ski experience that’s both affordable and convenient. Arapahoe Basin is famous for its legendary terrain and extended season, often skiing past Memorial Day, while Loveland offers a more relaxed vibe with excellent intermediate runs and family-friendly options. Together, these resorts offer a well-rounded experience for skiers of all abilities.

Lift Tickets: Both Arapahoe Basin and Loveland have $115/day lift tickets. However, with multi-day passes, the price can drop closer to $99/day, offering even more value for those looking to extend their stay.

Access & Accommodations: Denver is an affordable and easily accessible flight hub from most major cities. Both resorts are less than 2 hours from the city, making travel hassle-free. Plus, Georgetown offers a wide variety of budget-friendly lodging options, providing more flexibility and savings for your trip.

2. Whitefish Mountain Resort, Montana

Why it’s a great value: Whitefish Mountain Resort offers the best of all worlds: big vertical, incredible bowls, and a wide range of terrain for beginners to experts. Its 2,350 feet of vertical and 3,000 acres of terrain make it one of the largest resorts in the Hidden Gems category, and its affordable lift ticket prices make it the perfect mix of value and quality.

Lift Tickets: Lift tickets are less than $100 per day, with multi-day passes offering greater savings. Given the expansive terrain and reliable snow conditions, Whitefish is one of the best affordable ski destinations around.

Access & Accommodations: You can fly into Kalispell Airport (FCA) and be on the slopes in about 30 minutes. Whitefish has an abundance of affordable lodging options, from cozy condos to budget-friendly hotels, making it a perfect destination for a well-rounded ski trip.

1. Bogus Basin, Idaho

Why it’s a great value: Bogus Basin is SkiSaver’s #1 pick for the best overall value. With 2,600 acres of terrain and a legendary ski-in/ski-out experience, this resort offers great skiing at a fraction of the cost of bigger resorts. The affordable lift tickets and easy access from Boise make it an unbeatable value.

Lift Tickets: Lift tickets are priced at $89 per day, and multi-day passes can be even cheaper, making it one of the most budget-friendly resorts in the country.

Access & Accommodations: Just a 45-minute drive from Boise Airport, Bogus Basin is incredibly convenient and easy to get to. With a variety of affordable ski-in/ski-out accommodations and plenty of lodging options in Boise, you’ll save big on travel and accommodations.