Idaho Ski Resorts Expand Their Appeal with Summer Activities

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The Gem State has numerous communities with charming small-town vibes. And that atmosphere extends to many ski areas, too. 

“Uniquely in Idaho, there’s still demand for a slower-moving, community ski hill,” says David Alden general manager at Soldier Mountain, a resort in the Sawtooth Range, 80 miles north of Twin Falls. “Many small family ski areas have faded away in other states, but Idaho’s ski industry feels very protective of keeping the sport affordable and accessible.” 

Soldier Mountain’s daily lift ticket is $59, and Alden says the resort is resistant to a pass that exceeds $70 or $80. 

In rural Southern Idaho, it’s especially important that people have access to nature, forests and mountain recreation, Alden says. So, to increase the use of their facilities year-round, many ski areas welcome visitors in the warmer months, and bikers and brides are reaping the benefits. 

“Summer has become a very important part of running a ski area, and mountain biking and weddings are at the heart of what we do,” he says. 

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Ski Slopes Make Excellent Mountain Biking Trails 

A few years ago, Soldier Mountain capitalized on the surging popularity of mountain biking by building its own new trail system. 

“Our terrain is very conducive to excellent mountain biking,” Alden says. “We’re one of the most popular stops on the NICA race series. It’s a big deal in Idaho. We host about 800 youth competitors.” 

Bikers take a chairlift to the trails, which many visitors ride just for the panoramic views. Soldier Mountain also features hiking through Sawtooth National Forest and a nine-hole disc golf course. 

“Unlike a lot of ski areas, we allow year-round RV camping in and adjacent to our parking lot,” says Alden, noting the resort also offers community bingo, movie nights and stargazing. 

Another ski resort, Pomerelle Mountain Resort, is leveraging its seasonal appeal just 65 miles southeast of Twin Falls. Nestled in the Albion Mountains, Pomerelle offers chairlift rides with sweeping views of the Magic Valley, along with mountain biking, hiking, disc golf and summer concerts. It’s also a stunning venue for weddings. 

Brides Drawn to Beauty, Affordability of Idaho Ski Resorts 

Summer activities aren’t necessarily new at these resorts. They’re just becoming more important. From local community meetings, youth group camps and corporate retreats to family reunions and weddings, the events have gotten more diverse. And as prices have risen, Alden says Soldier Mountain has adjusted to the market. 

“Weddings, in particular, are very expensive, so we fill that niche perfectly as an affordable venue,” he says. “As a small business, we have the flexibility to create whatever the bride and groom want.” 

And with a commercial kitchen, bar and trained events staff, Soldier Mountain can cater. 

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Soldier Mountain has a long and colorful history. The ski area was founded in 1947, and the first chairlift came along in 1971. It’s had a couple of different owners, including actor Bruce Willis. Today, an investment group of skiers, snowboarders and backcountry enthusiasts calls the shots. While the bosses have changed, the spectacular location still remains the same. 

“The Sawtooth Range is high elevation classic Rocky Mountain beauty,” Alden says. “It’s largely untouched wilderness. It’s a very special place to operate a ski area.” 

Though there are plans to make upgrades, Soldier Mountain has no intention of mimicking more upscale resorts. 

“The character hasn’t been changed by condo or retail developments. While we do aspire to have overnight lodging and newer amenities, we’re approaching that very carefully. We’re looking to stay relevant in a modern ski industry, but we still take great pride in being accessible to everyone,” Alden says. “We’ve gotten very good at hosting people on the mountain, keeping the cultural fabric together and building lifetime experiences in both summer and winter.”