Ski Resorts Near Boise: Day Trips and Weekend Getaways Worth the Drive
Ski Resorts Near Boise: Day Trips and Weekend Getaways Worth the Drive
When winter hits Idaho, Boise locals don’t have to go far to find fresh snow. One of the best parts of living in the Treasure Valley is how close you are to some of the state’s top ski destinations — from quick day trips to full weekend escapes.
Below are four local favorites that make Boise an ideal home base for winter adventure.
Bogus Basin – Boise’s Backyard Mountain
Just 16 miles north of downtown Boise, Bogus Basin is the go-to mountain for locals. It’s close enough for a spontaneous afternoon run yet big enough to feel like a full resort escape.
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Terrain: roughly 2,600 acres with about 90 runs for all skill levels
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Vertical Drop: about 1,790 feet (summit 7,582 ft / base 5,790 ft)
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Night Skiing: open until 10 p.m. on multiple runs
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Best For: day trips or quick weekend mornings — ski, grab dinner in the city, and be home by dark
While Bogus doesn’t have large-scale lodging, that’s part of its charm. Locals stay in Boise, enjoy a good night’s sleep, and head back up for round two the next day.
Brundage Mountain Resort – McCall’s Hidden Gem
Located in McCall, Idaho, about 115 miles north of Boise, Brundage is known for wide-open terrain and reliable snow. It’s far enough to feel like an escape yet close enough for a smooth weekend drive.
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Terrain: about 1,500 acres with 46 trails
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Vertical Drop: approximately 1,800 feet (summit 7,640 ft / base 5,840 ft)
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Town: McCall offers a cozy downtown, lakeside dining, and plenty of hotels and Airbnb options
Brundage is ideal for a weekend getaway. Spend the day on the slopes, relax in McCall’s restaurants, and unwind by the fire before heading home to Boise.
Tamarack Resort – A Modern Mountain Getaway
About 90 miles north of Boise near Donnelly, Idaho, Tamarack blends modern amenities with classic Idaho scenery. With upscale lodging, dining, and lake views, it’s perfect for those wanting a full resort experience.
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Terrain: roughly 1,100 acres and 50 runs
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Vertical Drop: about 2,760 feet (summit 7,660 ft / base 4,900 ft)
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Lodging: stay right on the mountain with resort condos, townhomes, or nearby vacation rentals
Tamarack is your spot for a relaxed weekend trip — ski during the day, then stay for dinner and hot cocoa by the fire.
Sun Valley Resort – America’s Original Ski Destination
Roughly 155 miles east of Boise near Ketchum, Idaho, Sun Valley holds a special place in ski history. Opened in 1936, it was the first destination ski resort in the United States and home to the world’s first chairlift.
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Terrain: about 2,400 acres across Bald and Dollar Mountains
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Vertical Drop: roughly 3,400 feet (summit 9,150 ft / base 5,750 ft)
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Experience: luxury lodging, fine dining, spas, and one of the most polished resort towns in the West
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Best For: long weekends or special winter trips
Sun Valley perfectly combines world-class skiing with small-town Idaho charm — elegant, timeless, and absolutely worth the drive.
Why Boise Is the Perfect Winter Basecamp
Whether you’re spending a Saturday at Bogus Basin or heading to McCall, Donnelly, or Sun Valley for the weekend, Boise keeps it all within reach. The city’s central location means you can enjoy mountain adventure and cozy city life without ever booking a flight. It’s one of the many reasons people fall in love with living here year-round.
About McCloud Realty Group
We’re McCloud Realty Group — your local team of Idaho Realtors® serving Boise, Meridian, Nampa, Caldwell, Star, Middleton, Kuna, and beyond. Whether you’re buying your first home, moving up to your forever home, or building an investment portfolio, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Along the way, we’ll show you everything there is to love about life in the Treasure Valley.
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