Beartooth Basin Summer Ski Area, a rare gem for ski enthusiasts, is set to reopen this season after a three-year hiatus. Nestled along the Montana-Wyoming border, it is North America’s only ski resort that operates exclusively during the summer months.
Unlike traditional resorts that offer year-round or winter-centric operations, Beartooth Basin opens only when Beartooth Highway is cleared of snow—typically around Memorial Day—and remains open for a brief window depending on snow conditions. In years with low snowfall, the resort sometimes doesn’t open at all, as was the case for the past two years.
This summer, however, skiers can once again return to the slopes, at least for a few weeks. Operations are expected to continue into early July, conditions permitting. The resort is also currently for sale, with management stating they will continue to run it until a suitable group of investors is found.
Josh Spinney and Kalyn Beasley, residents of Cody, Wyoming, are among the die-hard fans eager to return. Both have long appreciated the unique experience Beartooth Basin offers.
“It’s summertime skiing, so you’re not getting powder,” Spinney told Cowboy State Daily. “Sometimes the conditions are more marginal, but it’s an awesome place to get some laps in and jump off a few cliffs.”
Beasley echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the rare and special nature of the resort. “There really aren’t many summer ski resorts in the world, and we’ve got one right in our backyard,” he said.
The resort has developed a loyal following, drawing tailgaters and skiers from across the country. The atmosphere is more relaxed than at typical winter resorts, with an emphasis on community and the sheer joy of skiing under the summer sun.
“The spirit of skiing is truly alive up there,” said Spinney. “It feels almost like a day at the beach—with skis.”
While sunny days are part of the appeal, the elevation—over 10,000 feet—means conditions can shift rapidly. Visitors often experience multiple seasons in a single day.
“It can start out sunny and bluebird, then suddenly a storm rolls in with lightning,” Spinney explained. “You’ve got to hustle back to your vehicle. It can get western pretty quick.”
Beasley added that the rustic lifts and ski patrol give Beartooth Basin a backcountry feel, while still offering the safety and infrastructure of a resort.
“You get to ski terrain on warm, sunny days, and the vibe is just fantastic,” he said. “People are thrilled to have another day on the mountain.”
For those who love skiing and want a truly one-of-a-kind experience, Beartooth Basin’s return this summer is a welcome opportunity—and a reminder that, sometimes, the best turns come when the snow is melting and the sun is shining.