Whitefish Mountain Resort has taken a beating over the last two months. In the wake of its name change (from Big Mountain), the subsequent backlash has included vandalized and stolen signs and accusations of arrogance and indifference. The resort can be called many things – but not greedy. It may just be the best deal in Montana.
Through Sept. 30 a season pass to the mountain costs $499. A chunk of change, but paltry when compared to the early season pass rates at other Montana mountains. I moved to the Flathead Valley from Bozeman where dropping $70 on a day pass (this year it’s $75) at Big Sky Resort was common. Bridger Bowl was considerably cheaper, but its early season pass rates are still more expensive this year than at the former Big Mountain.
Here’s a rundown of early season prices:
• Big Sky: TBA (but a nine-day pass costs $615)
• Redlodge: $590
• Bridger Bowl: $520
• Whitefish Mountain Resort: $499
• Snowbowl: $482
• Moonlight: $450
• Blacktail: $395
• Lost Trail: $350
Many would argue that Whitefish Resort is on par with the best resorts in the state. With rumors swirling about its future, take comfort in the fact that it’s still relatively affordable to ski there. And no, I’m not getting a kickback on a season’s pass to write this – just looking forward to winter and happy for a decent deal.