North Dakota ski resorts might be smaller in size than world-famous ski resorts like Vail and Whitefish, yet they appeal to a large number of beginner and intermediate skiers looking for a relaxed place to either learn new skills or brush up on their existing abilities. Skiing in North Dakota also means access to a host of other activities, and if you’re not a die-hard skier or snowboarder, chances are off-hill activities will be enticing. North Dakota is home to several beautiful state parks that afford a wealth of wintertime fun. Snowshoeing, cross country skiing, snowmobiling, and winter camping are among the top things to do.

Frost Fire Ski Resort is a choice destination for hitting ski runs in North Dakota. Close to both the Canadian border and Grand Forks, Frost Fire Ski Resort in the northeast slices through thickly treed Pembina Gorge where scenic views are as abundant as great runs. Frost Fire hits 1,350 feet in elevation, not much lower than popular ski destinations such as Wachusett Mountain in Massachusetts. With a decent vertical drop of 350 feet, intermediate skiers and snowboarders can get adventurous rather than try out death-defying feats. The 25 acres of skiing is a small size perfectly suited to anyone seeking easy going skiing in North Dakota. A terrain park and half-pipe are favorite features of freestyle riders, especially locals looking for a place to work on tricks and jumps. There are two excellent beginner slopes, four intermediate ski runs, and four advanced runs.

Almost 1,200 feet at peak elevations and offering 30 acres of skiing with five lifts, Bears Den Mountain is another of the choice North Dakota ski resorts worth checking out for some winter fun. More than 2,400 skier and snowboarders are transported each hour while heading to the slopes between December and the middle of March. Bears Den is also a great place for night skiing in North Dakota, giving it a leg up over the Frost Fire Ski resort. With an annual snowfall of 35 inches and complete snowmaking services covering 100 percent of the resort, conditions are generally good each year. The surrounding prairies and lack of crowds make this one of the best family ski resorts in the state.

North Dakota Map

Bottineau Winter Park also provides 100 percent snowmaking ability, 40 acres of terrain to ski, and five lifts to tackle the sport. The summit peaks at over 2,000 feet with a base elevation of over 1,800 feet. Ski trails are broken down into 40 percent beginner, 40 percent intermediate, and 20 percent advanced, creating an ideal resort for everyone. With a higher peak than other North Dakota ski resorts, Bottineau’s season begins slightly early in later November and usually ends around the last two weeks of March. Ski lessons, ski equipment and snowboard gear, and night skiing are all available. With comparatively low prices, Bottineau is ideal for cheap ski vacations.

Huff Hill ski area offers 80 terrific skiable acres and two double chair lifts. 40 percent beginner, 50 percent intermediate, and 10 percent advanced means average level skiers find the area greatly accommodating to their abilities. Smaller crowds, cheap lift tickets, scenic surroundings, and 100 percent snowmaking makes for a peasant experience while skiing in North Dakota. A welcoming lodge offers casual dining choices and great mountain views.