Idaho’s slopes are catching national attention once again. USA TODAY’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards has nominated Idaho destinations in all ten “Hit the Slopes” categories for 2025 — a rare statewide sweep that showcases everything from world-class resorts to hometown ski hills.
The Gem State continues to carve its place on the national stage, with nods that span from beloved local hangouts to legendary mountain escapes.
Grand Targhee Resort — accessible only via Driggs, Idaho — is a contender for Best Ski Resort this year, while Ketchumand McCall are up for Best Ski Town honors.
In après-ski style, Grumpy’s in Ketchum and Taps Bar at Schweitzer are both nominated for Best Après-Ski Bar. For cross-country adventure, Galena Lodge north of Sun Valley earned a nod for Best Cross-Country Ski Resort.
Families can find thrills at Bogus Basin, recognized for Best Place for Snow Tubing, while snowboarders are watching Bald Mountain near Pierce and Grand Targhee — both competing for Best Place for Snowboarding.
For slope-side stays, Humbird at Schweitzer and Sun Valley Lodge are up for Best Ski Hotel. Dining standouts include The Reserve at Tamarack Resort, The Roundhouse at Sun Valley, and The Powder Cache at Grand Targhee — all vying for Best Ski Restaurant.
On the retail and learning front, Greenwood’s Ski Haus in Boise and Sturtevants in Ketchum are finalists for Best Ski Shop, while Brundage Mountain Sports School, Grand Targhee Mountain Sports School, and Sun Valley Snowsports School compete for Best Ski School.
“These nominations celebrate the mountains, communities, and small businesses that make Idaho such an authentic and welcoming place to ski and snowboard,” said Jeff Colburn, president of Ski Idaho.
Winners will be announced in December at 10best.usatoday.com/awards — but win or not, Idaho’s mountains have already proven themselves on the national stage. Whether you ski, ride, or simply cheer from the lodge, Idaho’s mountain spirit is one to watch this season.