This is another Montana ski resort that falls somewhere in the middle of the pack if you make a list ranking them for nearly any category. The 67 runs on 2,400 patrolled acres here are nicely spread among beginner, intermediate, and expert runs. Three miles of groomed trails will satisfy the Nordic skier, a terrain park offers thrills for snowboarders, or you can blaze your own trail through untracked snow.

While the scenery equals or exceeds that of other areas in the state, the real plus here is the proximity to Fairmont Hot Springs Resort, a four-season facility where soaking and swimming are year-round favorites. Ski rentals and instruction are available (private lessons are $40 per hour) as well as cafeteria-style food. There are no hotels at the ski area; the nearest accommodations are at Fairmont Hot Springs or in Butte and Anaconda.