Blacktail Mountain Ski Area sets opening for Christmas Eve
TAYLOR INMAN | Hagadone News Network | UPDATED 2 months, 3 weeks AGO
The sun sets behind a chair lift at Blacktail Ski Area near Lakeside.(photo provided)
REPORTER AND PODCAST HOST Taylor Inman covers Bigfork and the north shore of Flathead Lake for the Bigfork Eagle and the Daily Inter Lake. Her reporting focuses on local government, community issues and the people who shape life in Northwest Montana. Inman began her journalism career at Murray State University’s public radio newsroom and later reported for WKMS, where her work aired on National Public Radio. In addition to reporting, she hosts and contributes to Daily Inter Lake podcasts including News Now. Her work connects listeners and readers with the stories shaping communities across the Flathead Valley. IMPACT: Taylor’s work expands local journalism through both traditional reporting and digital storytelling. | December 23, 2025 9:00 AM
Skiers looking to hit the slopes at Blacktail Mountain Ski Area will get their Christmas wish.
Opening day for the ski area will be Dec. 24. Lifts will spin from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the first day of the 2025-26 season.
Christmas Eve will mark the start of seven-day-a-week operations, which will continue through Jan. 4, according to a release from the ski area.
New this season at Blacktail Mountain, the ski area will close early on Christmas Eve and open late on Christmas Day, with lifts spinning from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. On all other operating days during this period, lifts will spin from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The Olympic Chair and Thunderhead Chair are scheduled for operation. The Magic Carpet, Crystal Chair and additional terrain will open as conditions permit.
The ski area reminds guests that early season conditions exist. Skiers should be aware of their surroundings, proceed cautiously and respect all rope lines and trail closures.
“It's always an exciting moment when we get to announce opening day, but this season that excitement comes with a deep appreciation for the hard work behind the scenes,” General Manager Jessi Wood said in the release. “Last week's massive windstorm brought some real challenges and delayed our timeline, and we're incredibly grateful to finally have power restored today. Thanks to the dedication of our team and service professionals in the community, the mountain is ready, and we're looking forward to welcoming skiers and riders back to the slopes.”
Snow is expected throughout the holiday week. Current forecasts for Wednesday call for mostly cloudy skies, 60% chance of snow, and a high near 32 degrees.
Season passes and daily lift tickets are available to purchase online at blacktailmountain.com/season-passes/.
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