Discovery Ski Area Tours

Photo provided by Athena Lonsdale
Photo provided by Eric Mullen
Photo provided by Athena Lonsdale
Photo provided by Athena Lonsdale
Photo provided by Athena Lonsdale


With three different faces offering diverse and exciting ski terrain for all abilities, this ski area will live up to its name every time you visit.

Carve up fresh powder or make tracks on beautifully groomed slopes at Discovery Ski Area, Philipsburg’s ski and snowboard destination perched high on Rumsey and Jubilee mountains. Discovery Ski Area may be a family resort, but its three mountain faces ensure that there is plenty of challenging terrain for experts and seasoned powder hounds. Spend the day hunting fresh snow and weaving through tree trails while you take in magnificent views of the Flint Creek Valley and the distant Mission Mountains.

Whatever your skill level, Discovery Ski Area has a slope for you. Visit the front face to enjoy gentle slopes, groomed cruiser runs and the magic-carpet ski lift. Head up Granite Chair to reach the steeper groomed runs and moguls or ride up the Jubilee Lift to the resort’s terrain park. At this fun-filled freestyle park, practice on the rollers, tabletops, rails and boxes. If you’re ready for a challenge, make your way up the Limelight Lift to the north face. Strictly for experts only, this area is the gateway to some of Montana’s steepest skiable terrain.

Enroll into ski lessons and get a local’s insight into the best runs for your skill level. Group lessons are available for children and adults, ensuring you’ll be cruising down groomed slopes and zigzagging down mogul runs in no time. Try out cross-country skiing around Echo Lake to see more of the mountain’s stunning scenery.

Get fitted out with equipment from the resort’s rental center, located next to the Discovery Day Lodge. Head to the café or the restaurant to grab a meal and a hot drink or enjoy a cold beer at the resort’s local tap house. Accommodation is available in nearby Philipsburg, Anaconda and Georgetown Lake. Purchase your day pass from the resort’s store or buy a combination season pass if you plan to visit other Montana ski areas between November and April.

Discovery Ski Area is 15-minutes’ drive from Philipsburg. The pretty mountain town is an easy drive from Missoula and Butte, where there are domestic airports. Catch the bus from Butte on weekends and holidays or drive the Pintler Scenic Route.

Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near Discovery Ski Area

Philipsburg Log Cabin - Direct Bike Park Access!

Philipsburg Log Cabin - Direct Bike Park Access!

3 out of 5
Philipsburg
Philipsburg Log Cabin - Direct Bike Park Access!
Luxury, Peaceful Family Getaway! Ski, Hike, Fish

Luxury, Peaceful Family Getaway! Ski, Hike, Fish

Philipsburg
Luxury, Peaceful Family Getaway! Ski, Hike, Fish
Romantic Private Cabin for Couples! Ski, Hike, Relax, Hot Tub!

Romantic Private Cabin for Couples! Ski, Hike, Relax, Hot Tub!

Philipsburg
Romantic Private Cabin for Couples! Ski, Hike, Relax, Hot Tub!
Large mountain home with stunning views of Georgetown Lake and Pintler Range

Large mountain home with stunning views of Georgetown Lake and Pintler Range

Anaconda
Large mountain home with stunning views of Georgetown Lake and Pintler Range
Cozy new mountain guesthouse with epic view of Georgetown Lake and Pintler Range

Cozy new mountain guesthouse with epic view of Georgetown Lake and Pintler Range

Anaconda
Cozy new mountain guesthouse with epic view of Georgetown Lake and Pintler Range
Georgetown Lake, Discovery and the Pintlers

Georgetown Lake, Discovery and the Pintlers

Anaconda
Georgetown Lake, Discovery and the Pintlers
Spacious Lake Georgetown Log Home

Spacious Lake Georgetown Log Home

Anaconda
Spacious Lake Georgetown Log Home
the end of the road yurt

the end of the road yurt

Anaconda
the end of the road yurt
Philipsburg Pines Lodge

Philipsburg Pines Lodge

2 out of 5
Philipsburg
Philipsburg Pines Lodge
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Discovery Ski Area

At Discovery Ski Area in Philipsburg, Montana, visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, including skiing, fishing, and hiking. The area offers ski rentals for all skill levels, making it ideal for family skiing and outdoor exploration. Whether you’re seeking thrilling adventures on the slopes or tranquil moments by the water, Discovery Ski Area provides a perfect setting for your Montana getaway.

Shopping

For unique gifts and souvenirs, visit Sapphire Gallery and Sweet Palace, both located 6 miles from Discovery Ski Area. Sapphire Gallery offers beautiful local art, while Sweet Palace is famous for its delectable treats, perfect for family vibes and memorable keepsakes.

Recreation

Experience relaxation at Old Works Golf Course, 17 miles from Discovery Ski Area, where you can enjoy a round of golf amidst stunning landscapes. Fairmont Golf, located 25 miles away, offers a serene outdoor atmosphere perfect for unwinding after a day on the slopes.

Adventure

Experience thrills at Montana Zipline Adventures, a zipline ropes course located 14 miles from Discovery Ski Area, where you can soar through the treetops. Explore the scenic USFS Trail 8133, 12 miles away, or hike the stunning Lost Creek Falls Trailhead, also 12 miles from the ski area.

Nightlife

Experience the charm of the Washoe Theatre, located 16 miles away, offering a mix of culture and family-friendly entertainment. Closer to Discovery, the Opera House Theatre, just 6 miles away, promises romantic evenings filled with captivating performances for all ages.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Discovery Ski Area

At Discovery Ski Area in Philipsburg, Montana, visitors can enjoy a variety of attractions, including beautiful lakes, historic villages, and scenic parks. This destination is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, culture seekers, and families looking for memorable experiences. Whether you're hitting the slopes at this top-rated ski resort or exploring the surrounding natural beauty, there's something for everyone to enjoy during your vacation.

  • Granite Ghost Town State Park: Step back in time at this historic village, located just 4 miles from Discovery Ski Area. Explore the remnants of a once-thriving mining town, which offers a glimpse into Montana's rich history and culture.
  • Georgetown Lake: A picturesque lake located 5 miles away, Georgetown Lake is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Enjoy stunning scenery, sandy beaches, and romantic spots for picnics or sunset views, making it an ideal getaway for couples and families alike.
  • Philipsburg Town Park: Situated 5 miles from the ski area, this eco-friendly park offers lush green spaces, walking trails, and playgrounds. It's a family-friendly destination where visitors can relax and enjoy the great outdoors.

Best time to go to Discovery Ski Area

The best time to visit Discovery Ski Area can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Discovery Ski Area falls in July, when visitor numbers are moderately high and weather is sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Discovery Ski Area falls in December, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January18.9°F (-7.3°C)No RainMostly CloudyModerately LowSlightly Low
February18.1°F (-7.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately LowAverage
March25.3°F (-3.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
April31.1°F (-0.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately LowSlightly Low
May41.0°F (5.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June51.1°F (10.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
July61.0°F (16.1°C)Light RainSunnyModerately HighSlightly High
August59.7°F (15.4°C)Light RainSunnyModerately HighSlightly High
September51.3°F (10.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighAverage
October36.7°F (2.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
November24.6°F (-4.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
December17.2°F (-8.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Discovery Ski Area

To save money on your trip to Discovery Ski Area, consider visiting in January, April, or October for lower accommodation rates, and aim to book your stay on a Tuesday for the best prices. Utilize Expedia's search tool to find budget-friendly hotels, including eco-certified options, and consider package deals that combine flights and activities for additional savings. Joining the One Key membership program can provide exclusive discounts and rewards for future stays. Lastly, take advantage of free outdoor activities and explore the scenic beauty of the area to maximize your experience without overspending.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Discovery Ski Area are January, April and October, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Discovery Ski Area is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Discovery Ski Area is Friday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia's search tool to customize your travel options based on your budget, preferred location, and desired hotel type. For instance, by selecting the Eco-certified filter, you can easily find sustainable and environmentally-friendly accommodations that are currently available. To uncover the best prices and deals, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at Discovery Ski Area with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.

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Explore a world of travel with Expedia