REAL ESTATE ROUNDUP: THE SKI-IN, SKI-OUT LIFE
The Allure of Slopeside Properties in Montana and Idaho: A Winter Paradise.
Posted: January 27, 2025 by PureWest Real Estate
At PureWest, we understand the allure of owning a ski-in, ski-out property. Montana and Idaho are home to some of the most stunning mountain landscapes in the U.S., and when winter rolls around, these regions truly shine. For those who love the thrill of skiing or snowboarding, there's no better way to experience these pristine slopes than by staying in a mountain-side property. These homes offer the ultimate in convenience, luxury, and access to world-class ski resorts. Let’s dive into why these properties are so desirable, especially in popular ski destinations like Whitefish, Big Sky, Bozeman, Red Lodge, and Sandpoint.
1148 Glades Drive | Whitefish, Montana | 5 Bedrooms, 5 Bathrooms | 3,709 Sq Ft
MLS# 30036915 | $5,495,000
Whitefish Lake Team | Sean Averill 406.253.3010 | sean@purewestmt.com
Cjay Clark | 970.209.1050 | cjay@purewestmt.com
Ski-In, Ski-Out: The Ultimate Convenience
For avid skiers and snowboarders, few things compare to the ease of stepping out your door and straight onto the slopes. Properties of this nature provide unparalleled alpine access, meaning you don’t have to deal with the hassle of driving to the resort, finding parking, or hauling your gear around. These homes are ideally located at the base or side of the mountain, allowing you to seamlessly glide into action the moment the snow starts falling.
Whitefish, Montana, for example, boasts Whitefish Mountain Resort, which offers both challenging terrain for experts and gentle slopes for beginners. Imagine waking up, stepping outside, and immediately hitting the mountain. The accessibility of these homes makes it easy to enjoy more time on the mountain and less time planning logistics.
1013 Whispering Pines Lane | Whitefish, Montana | 3 Bedrooms, 5 Bathrooms | 4,708 Sq Ft
MLS# 30039030 | $4,250,000
Whitefish Lake Team | Sean Averill 406.253.3010 | sean@purewestmt.com
William MacDonald | 406.871.7787 | will@purewestmt.com
A Cozy Mountain Retreat with Luxury Living
Alpine-access properties are often a blend of rustic mountain charm and modern luxury. After a long day on the slopes, there's nothing better than retreating to the warmth and comfort of a beautifully appointed home. These properties offer more than just ski access—they are designed for relaxation, with spacious living areas, large windows framing breathtaking mountain views, and high-end finishes that create a welcoming and indulgent environment.
Big Sky, Montana, offers Big Sky Resort--one of the largest ski resorts in the country with over 5,800 acres of skiable terrain. With its vast terrain offerings for skiers and snowboarders of all levels, Big Sky is also known for its luxurious slopeside homes. These homes often feature open floor plans, fireplaces, and hot tubs—perfect for unwinding after an exciting day of skiing or snowboarding. Whether you’re looking to enjoy the mountain's serenity or host friends and family for après-ski gatherings, these homes provide a level of comfort that complements the adventure outside.
44 Ridgeview Loop | Big Sky, Montana | 3 Bedrooms, 4 Bathrooms | 4,872 Sq Ft
MLS# 396577 | $8,100,000
Mary Wheeler | 406.539.1745 | mwheelerbigsky@gmail.com
A Year-Round Destination
Mountain-access properties are not just winter retreats—they are year-round destinations. In addition to skiing and snowboarding, these areas offer a wide variety of outdoor activities that make them desirable at any time of year.
In Red Lodge, Montana, Red Lodge Mountain is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and relaxed vibe. Beyond the slopes, visitors can enjoy snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and ice climbing in the winter, while summer brings hiking, mountain biking, and rock climbing. Red Lodge is a place where residents can take advantage of both winter and summer adventures.
Schweitzer Mountain Resort in Sandpoint, Idaho, is another example of a destination that shines in both the winter and summer months. Known for its powdery snow and extensive terrain, Schweitzer is a favorite among powder hounds. But once the snow melts, the region transforms into a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities like hiking, mountain biking, and scenic chairlift rides. This dual-season appeal means that alpine properties in this area provide exceptional value, offering a truly versatile lifestyle.
124 Village Lane #418 | Sandpoint, Idaho | 3 Bedrooms, 3 Bathrooms | 1,313 Sq Ft
MLS# 20242698 | $2,195,000
Paul Reizen | 208.610.1486 | paul@purewestid.com
The Sense of Community
One of the hidden benefits of mountain living is the sense of community. These properties attract people who share a love for the outdoors and adventure. Whether you're enjoying a morning coffee on your deck or taking a walk along the ski trails, there's a camaraderie that comes with living in a place where everyone shares a passion for skiing, snowboarding, and the mountain lifestyle.
Big Sky, for example, is known for its vibrant community of skiers and outdoor lovers. The small-town charm, combined with world-class amenities, makes it a perfect destination for families, couples, and solo adventurers alike. Similarly, Whitefish, Bozeman, Sandpoint, and Red Lodge are places where locals and visitors gather around the slopes in winter and enjoy a relaxed atmosphere that’s all about good times and great skiing.
60 Big Sky Resort Road 10413 | Big Sky, Montana | 2 Bedrooms, 3 Bathrooms | 1,317 Sq Ft
MLS# 398236 | $1,350,000
Jackie Miller | 406.539.5003 | jackie@purewestmt.com
Investment Potential
While the appeal of mountain-side properties is undeniable for those who love skiing, these homes also represent a solid investment. With the increasing popularity of ski resorts in Montana and Idaho, demand for these properties is consistently high. Additionally, the ability to enjoy these homes year-round, thanks to the wide array of summer activities, only increases their appeal and value.
These are some of the top ski destinations in the region, attracting tourists, vacationers, and residents who are seeking the convenience of being close to the slopes. These areas are continually growing in popularity, which makes these properties not only a dream for winter sports enthusiasts but also a savvy investment for those looking to capitalize on the growing demand for mountain living.
75 Slopeside Drive | Whitefish, Montana | 4 Bedrooms, 5 Bathrooms | 3,635 Sq Ft
MLS# 30019084 | $2,500,000
Rhonda Kohl | 406.250.5849 | rhonda@purewestmt.com
Whether you’re looking for a winter getaway, a year-round retreat, or a smart investment, a ski-in, ski-out property in one of these iconic mountain towns could be the perfect fit. It’s more than just a home; it’s the lifestyle you’ve always dreamed of.