Blacktail Mountain Ski Area: A Guide for Families and Small Groups

Blacktail Mountain Ski Area is a ski area in Lakeside, Montana that overlooks Flathead Lake. What makes it different is that its lodge and parking are at the top of the mountain. In Blacktail's words, "even beginners get to experience the best snow and spectacular views" (Blacktail). The Tamarack is a six-bedroom home in Lakeside for up to 10 overnight guests.

Where is Blacktail Mountain?

Blacktail Mountain Ski Area "is located in Lakeside, Montana, and overlooks Flathead Lake with easy access from Highway 93 South." Blacktail's directions say to follow Blacktail Road 14 miles to the mountaintop (blacktailmountain.com). Mountain roads change fast in winter, so check conditions and carry a winter-driving plan.

Why is Blacktail's lodge at the top?

At most ski areas you park at the base and ride up. At Blacktail the lodge and parking sit at the summit, so you click in and ski down, then ride the lifts back up to the lodge (Blacktail). Beginners get the views and the best snow without first riding a chair.

How big is Blacktail Mountain?

Blacktail lists 1,440 feet of vertical, over 1,000 acres of National Forest terrain, an average of 250 inches of snowfall a year, and 100% natural snow. Terrain splits 15% easier, 65% more difficult and 20% most difficult (Blacktail, The Mountain). Blacktail opened in December 1998 (blacktailmountain.com).

What lifts does Blacktail have?

Four: the Thunderhead double, the Olympic triple, the Crystal double, and a Magic Carpet surface conveyor for beginners. Blacktail lists lift capacity at 3,900 people per hour (Blacktail).

When does Blacktail open for 2026-27?

Blacktail has not published a 2026-27 opening date. Its site says "Opening is weather and conditions dependent," and season passes for the 26/27 season are on sale (blacktailmountain.com). Check Blacktail's official site for opening day. If your trip is locked to specific dates, pair Blacktail with Whitefish Mountain Resort, whose season is scheduled for Dec. 4, 2026 to April 4, 2027, conditions permitting (skiwhitefish.com).

Is Blacktail good for beginners and kids?

Yes. There's a Magic Carpet, 15% of the terrain is rated easier, and the lodge is on top, so beginners never ride a chair just to reach the good snow. Blacktail runs a ski school and rental services (Blacktail). Check its site for lesson options and booking.

Blacktail or Whitefish Mountain Resort?

Pick Blacktail for a smaller hill in your own town, and Whitefish for bigger terrain and a ski-town scene. Many Flathead Valley ski trips do both: a Blacktail day close to the house, then a Whitefish day. Our sister home, The Evergreen, has a full Whitefish Mountain Resort ski trip guide.

Where should a ski family stay near Blacktail?

In Lakeside. The Tamarack has 6 bedrooms and 9 beds, with flexible sleeping arrangements. Permitted overnight occupancy is limited to 10. Park in the garage and driveway (no street parking), which also gives you room for skis and boards. After skiing there's a private hot tub and private sauna, a fire pit with seating, a vaulted great room, a chef-style kitchen, and a game room with arcade and pool table, shuffleboard and poker.

What are the house rules?

No parties, and neighborhood quiet hours apply. Overnight occupancy is limited to 10. Garage and driveway parking only, with no street parking. Check-in is 4 p.m. and checkout is 10 a.m. The house is dog-friendly and a pet fee applies; fees and policies can change, so confirm before you book (The Tamarack). See rates and availability on the direct booking page.

Source for all rows: blacktailmountain.com and The Mountain, accessed Sept 30, 2026.

Ski-day checklist: tickets or passes bought ahead; winter-driving plan for Blacktail Road; gear stored in the garage; layers (you start at the summit); hot tub and sauna for après.

FAQ

Where is Blacktail Mountain Ski Area? In Lakeside, Montana. It overlooks Flathead Lake, with access from Highway 93 South.

Why is Blacktail's lodge at the top? Blacktail puts its lodge and parking at the summit, so you ski down first and ride the lifts back up.

How much vertical does Blacktail have? 1,440 feet.

How many lifts does Blacktail have? Four: three chairlifts and a Magic Carpet surface conveyor.

When does Blacktail open for 2026-27? Blacktail hasn't published a date. Opening depends on weather and conditions. Check Blacktail's official site for opening day.

Where can a family stay near Blacktail? The Tamarack in Lakeside allows up to 10 overnight guests and has a private hot tub, sauna and game room.