Powder Hounds Flock To These Affordable Wyoming Ski Resorts
by Roger Sands · ForbesAs the last bastion of the West, Wyoming offers a blend of outdoor adventures that transition seamlessly from fall to winter. This natural playground caters to thrill-seekers and nature lovers, regardless of season. Two popular activities include mountain biking until mid-October and affordable skiing at lesser-known locales, which begins in early December.
When most skiers think of Wyoming, Jackson Hole Mountain Resort comes to mind. The iconic ski resort is well known for its deep powder and challenging terrain. The scenic Jackson Hole Aerial Tram provides unrivaled 360 views in the Tetons of the Jackson Hole valley and surrounding mountain ranges.
However, skiers can find more affordable options at smaller, lesser-known resorts that are scattered throughout the state. These local resorts offer plenty of downhill excitement for all levels of skiers who don’t have to max out their credit cards in order to enjoy a fun-filled day on the slopes.
Affordable Ski Havens (Opening December)
As the seasons change, Wyoming transforms into a winter wonderland, offering incredible skiing without breaking the bank.
Snowy Range Ski Area (Centennial, WY, Opens December 6)
- Nestled in the Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest
- Family-friendly & minimal crowds
- Adult season passes from $449, children four and under & adults 70+ ski-free
- 27 diverse trails for all skill levels
- On-site microbrewery and dining options
- Annual snowfall of 250 inches and a summit elevation of 9,663 feet
Skilled instructors are available at Snowy Range to provide you with one-on-one instruction giving you personalized tips and recommendations so that you can advance faster on the slopes. Depending upon your ability level and experience, your lesson will be tailored to your exact needs.
Antelope Butte Mountain Recreation Area (Shell, WY, Expected to open mid-December)
- Located in the Bighorn Mountains of northern Wyoming
- Adult season passes start at $399, and youth 18 and under ski free
- 28 trails for snowboarding and downhill skiing
- Nordic skiing, fat biking, and snowshoeing
- Heated yurts to warm up after a chilly run
- Annual snowfall of 250 inches and sites at a base elevation of 8,400 feet
Antelope offers an array of group lessons which are a great way to try out skiing, snowboarding or telemarking. In two hours, instructors can generally have you and up to six other people feeling comfortable with your equipment, the lift and sliding on snow. In no time at all, you’ll be on your own.
Hogadon Basin Ski Area (Casper, WY, Opens December 2)
- It’s only a few minutes from downtown Casper. Across from the Rockies, there are only a few places where you can polish off brunch downtown and be on the slopes less than 20 minutes later.
- Versatile terrain: 20% beginner, 40% intermediate, 40% expert
- Adult season passes start at $425
Individual and group lessons are available for youngsters from 3 to 16 years old including four-week programs from January thru March. Young skiers who want to learn the basics can sign up for Miners, Explorers or Free-Ride groups for age-based learning.
White Pine Ski Area (Pinedale, WY, Opens the first weekend of December)
- From Fortification Mountain’s 9,600-foot elevation, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the Continental Divide, Wind River Mountains, and Fremont Lake.
- Adult season passes start at $440
- 29 downhill runs and 35km of Nordic trails
- Features two lifts for groomed runs, a terrain park with jumps, and a lift to a tubing hill
- Ladies Ski Club for social skiing
White Pine Ski Area has 29 runs for downhill skiing and snowboarding and is adjacent to 35 kilometers of looping Nordic ski trails for all skill levels. Two lifts service groomed downhill runs and the small terrain park offers jumps and slides. A third lift services a fun tubing hill. Fortification Mountain rises to an elevation of 9,600 feet and offers spectacular views of the Continental Divide. Overnight skiers can choose such accommodations as a mountainside cabin with walking distance to the winter chairlifts.