Tamarack Resort, the Idaho ski destination located 90 miles north of Boise, has cracked the top 25 in SKI Magazine's 2027 Resort Guide, debuting at No. 25 among Western North American resorts. The ranking, based on a reader survey of the continent's leading ski destinations, highlights the resort's value proposition, family-friendly vibe, and overall guest satisfaction.
The survey evaluated resorts across 18 categories, including snow quality, grooming, terrain, lifts, guest service, and overall experience. Tamarack stood out for its welcoming staff, well-maintained runs, and uncrowded slopes. SKI Magazine described it as a relaxed, accessible mountain destination that prioritizes guest experience over crowds and complexity. One reader called it a “hidden gem.”
Scott Turlington, President of Tamarack Resort, welcomed the recognition. “Being named among the top 25 ski resorts in the West is a tremendous honour. It's especially meaningful because this recognition comes directly from skiers and snowboarders who have experienced Tamarack firsthand,” he said.
On-mountain and village offerings
Tamarack offers 2,800 vertical feet of skiing across 2,000 mountain acres, with 59 named runs and three terrain parks. The pedestrian-friendly alpine village features accommodation, dining, and après-ski options, catering to both day visitors and overnight guests.
The resort's inclusion in the Ikon Pass as a Bonus Mountain for the 2026/27 season is a significant draw for passholders, who will receive two complimentary ski days. Tamarack is also upgrading its rental fleet and expanding its seasonal programming, moves aimed at enhancing the guest experience and attracting a broader audience.
This latest accolade follows two other industry honors in 2026. Travel + Leisure named Tamarack the No. 1 Resort in the US West in its World's Best Awards, and it ranked 21st among US ski resorts in Condé Nast Traveller's Readers' Choice Awards. These recognitions underscore the resort's growing reputation among both consumers and industry peers.
For travel professionals, Tamarack's rise is notable in the context of the broader ski resort market. As destinations compete for skier visits, the emphasis on value and uncrowded experiences resonates with families and millennials alike. The Ikon Pass partnership, in particular, positions Tamarack as a viable alternative to more congested resorts in Colorado and Utah, offering a more relaxed mountain experience.
For agents and tour operators, Tamarack's improved profile could translate into increased booking inquiries, especially for those specializing in Western US ski vacations. The resort's proximity to Boise (about a two-hour drive) makes it an accessible option for fly-in guests, and its village amenities support multi-day stays.
As the ski industry continues to evolve, with consolidation among pass providers and a focus on experience over sheer size, Tamarack's debut in the top 25 is a testament to its strategic positioning. The resort's leadership has emphasized guest satisfaction, and the SKI Magazine ranking validates that approach.
Looking ahead, Tamarack's expansion of its seasonal program and rental fleet signals confidence in sustained demand. For travel advisors, this means more reasons to recommend the resort to clients seeking a high-quality, family-friendly ski holiday without the crowds.
For more on ski resort alternatives, see our piece on budget-friendly ski resort alternatives. And for the latest in resort openings, check out Six Senses' UAE debut or JW Marriott's Fiji conversion.
