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To no local powder-hound’s surprise, Whitefish Mountain Resort has been named the top resort in the West for “overall satisfaction” by SKI Magazine.

The title comes in the magazine’s debut “Resort of the Year” issue, which features reader picks based on a survey and editor’s choice awards for different resorts across the country, according to the resort.

WMR CEO Dan Graves said it’s an honor to be named in the magazine.

“We are grateful that our guests continue to express their high-praise for their experience at our resort,” Graves said. “This award truly puts into perspective how our commitment to providing a high level of service combined with unmatched value continues to resonate with our customers and is part of what keeps them coming back year after year.”

The new “Resort of the Year” issue replaces the magazine’s older “Resort Guide” issue, which ranked the top 30 resorts in the west and top 20 in the east. SKI Magazine has been publishing reader-based rankings of resorts for the last three decades.

The categories in this year’s issue include: Local Flavor, Value, Service, Charm, Snow, Lodging, Grooming, Family Friendly, Dining, On-Mountain Food, Accessibility, Scenery, Après, Nightlife, Down Day Activities, Travel Ease, Lifts, Terrain Variety, Challenge and Overall Satisfaction. The October 2018 Resorts of the Year issue was available as of Tuesday, Sept. 25.

Graves said the honor also reflects on the strong community focus at the resort.

“Additionally it speaks to the depth of character found throughout our community and its natural, easy atmosphere in a laid-back small-town setting,” Graves said. “Our resort and the community of Whitefish is a unique experience that offers our guests the freedom and comfort to be who they are, have fun and connect with friends and family and have access to quality products and services without paying a premium for it.”

The resort’s previous top SKI magazine rankings were No. 10 in 2017, No. 11 in 2016-2017 and 2012-2013.

Season passes are still available at the early season rate of $660 until Sept. 30. This season’s daily walk-up ticket price is $81, or $74 per day for two or more days, and Ski & Stay lodging and lift ticket packages start at $95 per person, per night. The resort’s Learn to Ski/Ride package which includes two days of beginner lifts, equipment rentals and two half day lessons is $82 and a full day of daycare at the Kids Center is $80.

Whitefish Mountain Resort is scheduled to open for the 2018-19 season on Dec. 6.

For more information on Whitefish Mountain Resort, visit www.skiwhitefish.com.