Powder Paradise: Skiing at Lost Trail Powder Mountain

Hidden in the rugged landscape between the Bitterroot Valley and the Salmon River, Lost Trail Powder Mountain stands as a bucket-list destination for avid skiers and snowboarders. Just over a two-hour drive from Missoula, this mountain boasts an impressive 1,800 acres of skiable terrain and an average of 400 inches of powder annually, thanks to its strategic location on the continental divide. With a focus on family-friendly skiing alongside heart-pounding slopes, Lost Trail appeals to everyone, from beginners to seasoned pros.

Visitors can expect a laid-back vibe; the resort has maintained its charm despite modern upgrades, with cozy lodges that invite skiers to relax by the fire after a day on the slopes. The mountain features diverse runs that cater to all skill levels, from gentle, rolling hills to challenging tree runs, making it perfect for mixed-ability groups. As sunset approaches, the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys become a breathtaking experience. Whether you’re carving fresh lines or enjoying the serene winter landscape, Lost Trail is an unforgettable ski destination.

Adventure Guide to Skiing at Lost Trail Powder Mountain

Key Facts and Details:

Location: Lost Trail Powder Mountain is located near the Montana-Idaho border, approximately 90 miles south of Missoula.
Vertical Drop: The mountain features a vertical drop of 1,600 feet.
Terrain Parks: The resort includes several terrain parks for snowboarders and freestyle skiers.

Recommended Suggestions:

Plan a weekend visit to fully enjoy the skiing and snowboarding opportunities.
Don’t miss out on the scenic chairlift rides that provide incredible vistas of the Bitterroot and Salmon River Mountains.

Interesting Facts:

The area was originally popularized for its snowshoeing in the 1930s before becoming a ski resort in the 1960s.
Lost Trail is unique among Montana ski resorts due to its focus on a family-oriented atmosphere.

History of the Activity and Area: The ski area opened in 1961, with early lifts installed to accommodate a growing interest in winter sports. Since then, Lost Trail has steadily gained popularity, becoming a valued local treasure known for its low crowds and palpable sense of community. Throughout the years, it has successfully integrated modern amenities while carefully preserving its traditional ski culture.

Adventure Map

Missoula Info

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Reviews

phillip nicholson9 months ago

Great place to ski. Excellent glades and challenging bowl. Lift ticket prices are more than reasonable. Only complaint would be how old and slow the lifts are, but the lines remained reasonable and they add to the old school charm. Staff was all very friendly and seemed happy to be there. Don't tell your friends so that it stays mostly "lost".

Linda Meuret10 months ago

I had never skied at Lost Trail Ski area before. But my son and grandchildren were going and I wanted to go with them. I was recovering from a left knee replacement. And my doctor gave me the go ahead to go skiing. Imagine my surprise when we arrived to a full parking lot to a ski area that was an hour and a half south of missoula. I don't know where all the people came from but it was full!! It turned out that day the snow conditions were wonderful. It was snowing, some rain and wind, But it mattered not to us. Another unexpected surprise was going into the lodge for lunch. It was very crowded in there but there was good humor everywhere. The best part was how wonderful the food was!! It was good and yummy. The workers there were very pleasant and friendly. I had expected to only have skied a half a day, But I found I skied all day there. It was a Delightful day with Family and the great outdoors.

Andrew Wilburn2 weeks ago

A real gem! Lost Trails has that classic mom & pop ski area vibe complete with rustic chair lifts and lifte shacks that reek of incense. Lots of good vibes here to complement the sheer amount of terrain: runs vary from aspen glades to rocky chutes to wide open groomers, so there is something for everyone.

Ian Argall11 months ago

Lost trail is pretty sweet. Everyone I met was was there for a good time. Good vibes and no drama. A very family friendly mountain that I'll recommend endlessly. Went up New Years eve and it was busy but not crowded. Plenty of terrain open to fill the day. Lot's of space for every kind of skiier/boarder to play in. This year has been pretty slow on snow but we've got plenty of winter left in Montana! Pray for snow

Jack Wiley4 months ago

I love Lost Trail and even living down in Missoula it's still worth it for me to buy a season pass there! Thursday on a storm week is a great time to go for Powder days. There's also great long groomers off of Chair4 and Chair2. The food in the lodge is really good and reasonably priced for a ski area, but it can be a little slow at times so I don't recommend if it's super busy in there. There's also an area at mid level where you can bring your own lunch. The Yurt at Chair3 is also a good spot to stop at and warm up!

Powder Paradise: Skiing at Lost Trail Powder Mountain