Powder Alliance Resorts: A Buying Guide to Benefits (+ Map)

The Powder Alliance is a group of ski resorts in Canada, New Zealand, and the United States. The United States resorts are broken into four regions: the Pacific Northwest, the West, the Rockies, and the Southern Rockies. The resorts are all National Ski Areas Association members and offer various terrain for all skiers and snowboarders.

We’ve created a simple, shareable map for Powder Alliance ski resorts, as we couldn’t find one online. Hopefully, this can help some who chart their winter ski adventures and decide on the ever-growing list of partner-pass options to commit to. Happy shredding!

This Powder Alliance resorts map makes it easy to see all participating resorts for this upcoming winter. With so many options, there’s sure to be a resort that’s perfect for your next ski trip.

Powder Alliance Map

United States: West

Mountain High, CA, USA

Address: 24510 CA-2, Wrightwood, CA 92397

The Mountain High (MH) resort is located in Southern California and offers a variety of terrain for all levels of skiers and snowboarders. The resort is open year-round, with an on-site daycare facility, ski school, and other first-rate amenities. Originally opened as Big Pines Park in 1924, the ski resort became known for its world-class ski jump by 1929.

MH is only 90 minutes outside Los Angeles, making it feel like a world away from the big city. In addition to boarding and skiing, you can enjoy the scenic lift system and snow tubing. There’s a lot you can explore in this winter wonderland.

See Related: Best Mountains in Germany to Visit

China Peak, CA, USA

Address: 59265 CA-168, Lakeshore, CA 93634

Over in Central California, China Peak is named for its nearby mountain, the Chinese Peak. Opened in 1958, this spot was originally named Sierra Summit. This ski resort by Fresno includes over 1200 skiable acres, with almost half of it covered by resort snowmaking.

Before this spot opened, skiers had to drive out to Lake Tahoe or Badger Pass, as there were no other ski resorts Southwest of the Sierras. When the site’s first chairlift was installed in 1958, it was the longest chairlift in the country. Given the height of the mountains, climbing and mountaineering are also popular activities for visitors.

See Related: Best Places to Visit in Montana & Things to Do

Sierra-at-Tahoe, CA, USA

Address: 1111 Sierra-At-Tahoe Rd, Twin Bridges, CA 95735

Sierra-at-Tahoe is part of the Eldorado National Forest, not far from the border between California and Nevada. Usually shortened to Sierra, this is considered a more family-friendly resort with a high annual snowfall each winter. The terrain here can be divided into 25% beginner, 50% intermediate, and 25% advanced courses.

Sierra began as Sierra Ski Ranch in 1946 by two brothers, Ray and Flord Barrett. Though it’s changed hands and names through the years, it remains a community staple.

High school skiing and snowboarding teams even practice here. In addition to winter sports, pass holders and visitors can go tubing and take tours of the surrounding mountainous range.

See Related: Best Places to Visit in Switzerland & Things to Do

Dodge Ridge Mountain Resort, CA, USA

Address: 1 Dodge Ridge Rd, Pinecrest, CA 95364

Yet another of the incredible Californian participating resorts, Dodge Ridge Mountain Resort Is home to 1600 vertical feet of adventure. Even if you aren’t up for winter sports (or visiting in the summer), you can even purchase lift tickets just to access the summit to explore or go disc golfing.

Dodge Ridge has been an area favorite since 1950 with nearly 180 winter season days you won’t want to miss. There is a snowsports school here with terrain for all ability levels. The terrain is roughly 20% beginner, with the remaining 80% split between intermediate and advanced.

See Related: Best Places to Visit in Austria & Things to Do

Mt Shasta Ski Park, CA, USA

Address: 4500 Ski Park Hwy, McCloud, CA 96057

Despite being the second ski area built on Mount Shasta, the Mt. Shasta Ski Park is the only one left. This park opened in 1985. The ski park covers a few volcanic buttes, the highest Grey Butte at 7500 feet. Mt. Shasta has over 630 skiable acres, 38 trails, and 1435 at its highest vertical feet.

Each winter sports season runs roughly from December to April, with many other activities available throughout the year. Trails at Mt. Shasta run difficult, with 35% advanced, 45% intermediate, and 20% beginner. Not to mention, this spot has nearby lodging at LOGE Mt. Shasta, making for a relaxing stay for optimal wintertime enjoyment.

See Related: Best Unique & Unknown Places to Visit in the US

United States: Rockies

Silver Mountain Resort, ID, USA

Address: 610 Bunker Ave, Kellogg, ID 83837

When winter comes, visiting sports enthusiasts can enjoy snow tubing, snowshoeing, snowboarding, and even a good ski in the same season. This terrain is also excellent for mountain biking, with a 72-mile-long bike path on the premises.

Plus, if you want a cute story in a wintertime spot, you’ve got it here. This place was initially named the Jackass Ski Bowl after Bill the burro, who accidentally led local prospector Noah Kellogg to ore deposits in 1885.

Not to mention, a stay with Silver Mountain Lodging includes valid admission to Silver Rapids Waterpark. This waterpark is the largest indoor waterpark in the state and offers fine respite after a long day out in the powder.

See Related: Most Beautiful & Best Vacations in the US

Bogus Basin, ID, USA

Bogus Basin offers great skiing and snowboarding for all levels, and it’s a great place to spend a day or two on your trip. It got its name because of area con artists who would make and sell fake gold, hence the bogus affiliation.

There are a few things that make the Basin unique. The Basin is located in the Boise National Forest, so you can enjoy some unparalleled scenery on the slopes. The resort also offers other activities, such as tubing and cross-country skiing. It is also one of the closest to a major city (Boise) in the United States, making it a convenient option for a quick ski trip.

See Related: Cheap Places to Travel

Loveland Ski Area, CO, USA

Loveland Ski Area in Colorado is one of the best hidden-gem ski areas in Colorado. It’s close to Denver along I-70 and isn’t one of the mega-pass resorts. Our managing editor, Kim Magaraci, ranks it as one of her favorite ski areas. Her tip? Spend all morning off the Ptarmigan chair before moving on to Chair 9 when the sun comes out.

Loveland offers a smaller beginner’s area (with free shuttles between the main mountain and the learning area), which makes it ideal for skiers trying to build confidence or younger skiers who are working on their turns. The on-site daycare facility is a huge plus, and their ski school is top-notch. Winter sports season is open for skiers and snowboarders from November to April, with various terrain for all levels.

Idaho Springs and historic Georgetown are great places to stay nearby, and if you get an early start, you can avoid I-70 traffic. If you have time, take a scenic drive towards Vail – though, I’d do this on a weekday if you don’t wait to wait in traffic.

See Related: Best Places to Visit in the Midwest

Blacktail Mountain Ski Area, MT, USA

Address: 13990 Blacktail Rd, Lakeside, MT 59922

Covering over 1000 acres of Flathead National Forest in Montana, Blacktail Mountain Ski Area has an annual snowfall of over 250 inches. Each wintery season brings with it an array of trails for winter sports though trails at Blacktail favor intermediate folks since over half of the trails are indicated at that middle difficulty.

Blacktail is also home to a three-story lodge where visitors can enjoy myriad benefits. Pass holder or not, you can enjoy the shops, coffee shop, and two eateries: Blacktail Cafeteria and Muley’s Bar & Grill. You can even purchase your own gear if you need it.

See Related: Reasons Why Traveling Is Important

Lost Trail Ski Area, MT, USA

Address: 9485 US Hwy-93 South, Sula, MT 59871

Found along the border of Montana and Idaho, Lost Trail Ski Area, founded in 1938, has some of the best availability for all the accompanying pass holders. There are no holiday blackout dates for conquering the over 60 trails dotting the landscape.

The Snow Sports School teaches adults and children to become a steezer. Without holiday restrictions, even school holidays are a terrific time to bring the whole family to the Lost Trail. Did we mention that this spot has free midweek, non-holiday access? You’re welcome!

See Related: Best Places to Visit in Colorado in the Winter

Snow King Mountain, WY, USA

Set in gorgeous Jackson, Wyoming, Snow King is a destination to be rivaled, While nearly everyone goes to Jackson to ski the legendary Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, don’t overlook the Town Hill! Jackson is one of the world’s foremost winter sports and vacation destinations. Snow King is the original spot to ski here – the mountain opened in 1936.

The ski season here runs from December until early spring, depending on snow and conditions. Not that Jackson lacks any stunning accommodations, but Snow King Resort has some of the ultimate sports enthusiast benefits. The lifts and brand-new gondola are mere steps the door from this hotel. There are even spa services and a ski shuttle to make your visit even more divine.

Snow King is a great pick for a mixed group of skiers. Experienced shredders will enjoy the bumps and steeps, and beginners can learn at the summit, so they get an amazing view, too. The newly-opened Sunnyside is also a good spot to work on your turns. Even though it’s a blue, it’s a big wide bowl, and there’s a cat track down if you get a little stuck.

Visit Snow King on the weekend days of your trip, and hit up JHMR on the weekdays if you want to avoid crowds, but head over to the Village for the best apres ski in Jackson. The Village (JHMR) is always crowded, but you can ski Snow King all day and not see a soul. Look at the photo above – corduroy under the gondola on a Saturday afternoon!

See Related: Incredible Bucket List Ideas of a Lifetime

Ski Cooper, CO, USA

Address: 232 Co Rd 29, Leadville, CO 80461

You’ll find Cooper right in the heart of the Rocky Mountains. While you won’t be skiing down them, you can get breathtaking views of Mt. Massive and Mt. Elbert–Colorado’s highest peaks. It’s only a short drive from Leadville, one of Colorado’s most fascinating mining towns.

At Cooper, there are 64 trails where winter sports reign supreme from winter into spring. Hundreds of inches of snowfall are here each year, making it an excellent and casual spot to enjoy the powder to your heart’s content. Not only that, but Cooper’s high elevation means the snow stays dry and perfect.

Editor’s Note: The vibes at Ski Cooper are impeccable. This is a truly low-key ski area, with affordable food and staff that makes you feel like family. The lifts are slow and the back side with trees, steeps, and bumps is only served by a T-Bar, but we still loved it.

See Related: Best Road Trips in the USA

United States: Southern Rockies

Angel Fire, NM, USA

Angel Fire (AF) is a ski locale in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains of New Mexico. This spot is known for its extensive beginner and intermediate terrain. It is open for snow sports from November to April and offers a variety of terrain for all levels.

AF is home to one of the best snow sports schools in the state, with over 550 acres of terrain. There are more than 80 ski trails. One of the benefits of visiting AF is that it also features the only night skiing in the state of New Mexico.

See Related: Best Vacations for a Group of Friends

United States: Pacific Northwest

White Pass Ski Area, WA, USA

Address: 48935 US-12, Naches, WA 98937

While White Pass Ski Area is beginner-friendly, 80% of the trails here are ranked with more difficulty. This spot is among the Powder Alliance pass affiliates that stay open the longest for winter sports, often closing in late April. White Pass even has on-site lodging that a skier will love for its access to the slopes.

A stay at White Pass Village Inn even has midweek deals for pass holders to take advantage of. You’ll love the heated pool after a long, snowy adventure. These midweek deals also apply to White Pass Sister Resort Passholders, Powder Alliance, and Indy Pass holders.

See Related: What to Bring on a Camping Trip with Friends

Mission Ridge Ski & Board, WA, USA

Address: 7500 Mission Ridge Rd, Wenatchee, WA 98801

Built into the eastern side of the Cascade Mountains, Mission Ridge is sunnier than any other mountainous area in the region. So not only are you surrounded by white beauty, but you also have a lot of incredible days to look forward to. At Mission Ridge, three dozen runs over 2,000 acres of trails and chutes await you.

More than half of the trails here are considered intermediate. However, there are beginner and advanced trails here to enjoy as well. Whether you have a valid season pass for Mission Ridge or not, the SkiLink shuttle is free for all visitors, while lift tickets are a free perk for pass wielders.

See Related: Best Girls Trip Destinations Around the World

Mt. Hood Skibowl, OR, USA

Address: 87000 US-26, Government Camp, OR 97028

Welcome to Mt. Hood Skibowl, the closest ski venue to Portland. While the 969 acres of skiable land may not be an impressive number compared to some other partners on this list, it is special because it is the country’s largest night ski area. In fact, two-thirds of the acreage is lit for nighttime action nightly until 9 pm.

All told, there are 65 runs at Mt. Hood Skibowl. Just 20% is ranked for beginners, though the other 80% is evenly divided between intermediate and advanced delegations.

See Related: ViaTravelers Staff Picks: Best Places For Travel

Timberline, OR, USA

The only ski area in the country that is open 10 months out of the year, Timberline Ski Area Is a marvel. It is located near the top of Mt. Hood, the tallest of Oregon’s mountains. The 11,245-foot volcano provides the perfect spot for the country’s longest ski season from November until May.

If you want a place to stay that’s not too far from the slopes, be sure to check out Timberline Lodge. This lovely, chateau-esque spot will keep you cozy with a restaurant and bar on-site to keep you refreshed.

See Related: Best Travel Tips And Hacks From Our Readers

Eaglecrest Ski Area, AK, USA

Address: 3000 Fish Creek Rd, Juneau, AK 99801

Eaglecrest is not necessarily a place for the least adventurous. Although Juneau is the capital of Alaska, there aren’t roads into the city, so you’ll need to follow directions via plane or ferry to get to Eaglecrest. But once you’re here, you’re free from the burdens of life off the slope.

Should you decide to leave here, 640 acres of powder paradise await you. At Eaglecrest, 36 marked trails excite a range of ability levels, from beginners to powder pros.

Remember that this is a backcountry area of Alaska, so be aware of your surroundings and stay on the marked path. It’s also a good idea to grab some travel insurance before you venture out.

See Related: Proven Ways to Save Money for Travel

New Zealand

Tūroa Ski Area, New Zealand

With an opposite season on the other side of the world, Tūroa’s winters hit during American summers. This skifield is along the southwestern side of Mount Ruapehu, the tallest mountain in the North Island of New Zealand. This particular area also resides within Tongariro National Park.

Next to the Whakapapa skifield, the two areas offer combined tickets for their lifts and access to the different slopes. Tūroa has 34 named trails with restricted options that allow beginners to learn freely. By spending time in these beginner areas, Newbie sports enthusiasts can learn without worrying about showoffs or intimidating folks.

See Related: Where Should I Travel for My Birthday?

Whakapapa Ski Area, New Zealand

Sister to Tūaroa, the Whakapapa Ski area also resides along Mt. Ruapehu. Whakapapa is one of the largest ski areas in New Zealand and boasts one of the best beginner facilities in the country as well. Beginners have restricted options when they visit Happy Valley to practice and learn without other folks hitting the slopes.

Not to worry, though; there are plenty of intermediate and advanced trails at Whakapapa too. This volcanic terrain is also terrific for kicking the activity up a notch. This rugged terrain features chutes, bumps, and drops that more traditional sports areas might not have.

See Related: What’s the Average Cost of Travel Insurance? Everything You Need to Know

Canada

Marmot Basin, AB Canada

Address: 1 Marmot Rd, Jasper, AB T0E 1E0, Canada

Nestled in Jasper National Park, a whopping 91 named runs across four different mountains await you at Marmot Basin. Only a short drive from the nearby town of Jasper, this ski area has powder from roughly mid-November until the top of May each year.

There aren’t any overnight accommodations on the mountain, though Marmot Basin offers three different day lodges for visitors to enjoy. At the base of the slopes is Caribou Chalet, and both Eagle and Paradise Chalets are mid-way up the mountain. Don’t forget to drop into any of these spots for a refreshing break and, of course, a hot cocoa.

See Related: What is Travel Insurance?

Castle Mountain Resort, AB Canada

Nestled in the Canadian Rockies and just a few hours from Calgary, Castle Mountain Resort (CM) is one of the hidden gem ski resorts of the Powder Alliance. CM is in the Canadian Rockies of Alberta, known for its challenging terrain and expansive backcountry.

The ski resort is open for skiers and snowboarding from November to April and offers a variety of terrain for all levels of sports fans. CM is also home to a number of summer activities, such as hiking, biking, and climbing.

See Related: Important Pros and Cons of Travel Insurance

How Does The Powder Alliance Work

To become a member of the renowned Powder Alliance, all you need to do is follow a straightforward and cost-free process. Make the wise decision to purchase a season pass at any esteemed ski spot in the Alliance.

In doing so, you will not only gain unlimited access to the resort of your choice but also unlock the incredible benefit of receiving three complimentary days at every one of the remaining ski resorts within the Powder Alliance network. Imagine the sheer delight of exploring a staggering array of ski resorts, all for a single-season pass.

This ingenious concept allows passionate skiers and snowboarders to revel in the thrill of winter sports without breaking the bank, as it proves to be a much more economical alternative than the exorbitant prices of individual resort passes or expensive membership fees.

FAQs

Related Resources

• Ways to Prepare Your Child for a Hike
• Totally Award Solo Travel Situations & How to Cope
• Most Breathtaking Hiking Trails in the World You Must Visit