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Activities

Winter Wonderland

by the editors

A guide to a winter paradise. 

Skiing might be the classic winter activity around here, but there are plenty of other things to do when the temperature plunges. Whether your legs are sore from hitting the slopes, or you’re just looking to try something new, here are a couple of our second-string favorites.

Sledding
Who said tearing down a hill on a sled is just for kids? Some folks say it only gets better with age. The bottom line is that it’s fun for anyone with a pulse. As affordable as it is accessible, sledding is a Montana pastime, and Bozeman has a number of popular spots worth checking out: Snowfill Recreation Area, Peets Hill, the Regional Park, and Langohr Campground up Hyalite are just a few. Really, any public land with a rising slope will do—just make sure the hill has a decent run-out.

Snowshoeing
If you can walk, chances are you can snowshoe—and have fun doing it. To get started, pick a trailhead. While packed snow offers easy walking, your best bet is to veer off-trail and make your own path. One of the major joys of snowshoeing is finding solitude and serenity in the winter woods. A beginner setup (shoes & poles) runs about $200 brand-new; if you’re on a budget, pick up a pair of hand-me-downs and use your ski poles.

Snowmobiling
With the power of a snowmobile, there’s a lot you can see. Whether flying around the mountains of West Yellowstone, Big Sky, Cooke City, or Island Park, a high-speed adrenaline rush is hard to beat. There are many guide and rental services scattered throughout southwest Montana, and most places that rent snowmobiles supply snowsuits, helmets, and other accessories.

Skating
Every winter, three outdoor ice rinks pop up at Bozeman parks: Bogert, Southside, and Beall. Once the ice sets up for the season—normally in late December—the rinks stay open until 10pm every day. Southside and Bogert have warming huts for cozy cups of hot chocolate and a comfortable abode to put on and take off skates. Additional skating is offered at the Haynes Pavilion, home of the local hockey league; they rent skates for $5, plus a $5 entry fee.

Ice Fishing
Don’t knock it ’til you try it—ice fishing is a classic winter activity out West. Bring an ice auger, a fishing rod, warm clothes, and a sixer to stay true to the deep-seated roots of this activity. Hyalite Reservoir is a good option for trout, but the Bozeman Pond next to the mall is a little closer to home and has a plethora of bass and panfish. Just remember to check the ice thickness before venturing out too far. It takes four inches to support the weight of an adult human.

Events
The great thing about Bozeman is that no matter your taste, there’s always something going on. Here are a few noteworthy events for you non-skiers out there.

Ongoing
Learn to Skate – Bozeman. Get tips from the pros on how to slide smoothly on ice. Classes offered for ages four and up, from beginner to advanced. gallatinice.org

October
Hocktober Scramble – Bozeman. This fun hockey series gives players of all levels a chance to test their skills—and have a blast doing it—in competitive pickup games. bozemanhockey.org

January
SNöFLINGA – Butte. There’s something for everyone here. We’re talking snowshoe tours, fatbike races, avalanche-awareness classes… the list goes on. snoflinga.org

January
Wild West Winterfest – Island Park. Join cheery folk for a winter celebration complete with a parade of snowmobiles, sleigh rides, and a kids’ carnival. islandparkchamber.org

February
Skijoring – Big Sky. If you don’t already know what skijoring is, you’re in for a treat. Head to Big Sky for an old-time wild-west showdown. bigskyskijoring.com

Editor’s note: dates are subject to change. For the most updated information, visit outsidebozeman.com/events.

Activities

Charging the Slopes

by Adam Brown

Downhill skiing around Bozeman.

Winter in Bozeman is magical. Town turns into a winter wonderland adorned with lights and sparkling snow in every direction. And the most celebrated way to enjoy the season is on skis or a snowboard. Whether you’re looking to descend wild steeps, or just keep to the greens, there’s something here for you.

Where to Go
This corner of the Rockies is sprinkled with ski areas big and small, giving you a variety of options. To start, Bridger Bowl is Bozeman’s home mountain. It’s where most of us point our cars when the snow starts to fly. There’s plenty of mountain to go around, from the iconic Ridge to bunny hills and progression areas. It’s truly a fun spot for folks of all ability levels.

If you’ve got a lush bank account, splurge on skiing at Big Sky Resort. The terrain is epic, but ticket prices are cost-prohibitive for most folks.

But beyond Bridger and Big Sky, there are plenty more places to ski. These small-town ski areas offer a charming feel, low costs, and all-around good vibes.

 

Mountain                     Distance from Bozeman (miles)  Nearest Town
Showdown                                 110                                                  White Sulfur Springs, MT

Great Divide                              120                                                 Helena, MT

Discovery                                     130                                                Philipsburg, MT

Red Lodge                                    150                                                Red Lodge, MT

Maverick                                       160                                                Dillon, MT

Lost Trail                                        190                                                Sula, MT

Grand Targhee                           190                                                Driggs, ID.

 

Backcountry
Once you’ve got your chairlift fix, it’s time to set off on some human-powered outings. There are backcountry ski options in every direction.

Hyalite Canyon is a gold mine of opportunity. Lick Creek and History Rock are great options to get your footing in the area. Once you have those in the bag, you’ll find plenty more to discover up there.

The Mount Ellis area is another popular close-by touring area. The gentle slopes of Little Ellis can be accessed via a short skin from a trailhead not 20 minutes from downtown Bozeman, while the Ellis Burn offers a longer descent that catches plenty of east-blowing snow.

For route descriptions and other inspiration, visit outsidebozeman.com/ski-tours.

Gearing Up
On paper, skiing and snowboarding gear is pretty simple. But when the metal meets the snow, things can get more complicated. It’s easy to get lost in the fine details like sidecut radius, effective edge, chamber height, blah-blah-blah. If you’re new to everything, no need to drive yourself crazy with all that. Just worry about length and waist width.

Aim for skis that are about the same height as you are. If you’re a beginner, go a bit shorter; advanced, go a bit longer. 100mm is a good, versatile waist width around these parts. Narrower is better for groomers; wider is better for powder.

Snowboards should be somewhere between your chin and nose in height, and your boot’s toes and heels should barely hang over the edge when centered on the board. If they hang too far, look for a “wide” model board.

Boots are the most crucial part for a positive experience on snow, but are oftentimes overlooked. Get something that fits snuggly, comfortably, and strikes the right balance between supportiveness and flexibility.

When it’s time to hit the backcountry, you’ll need a ski-touring setup. You’ll want boots with a walk mode, and lightweight AT bindings to make the uphill more enjoyable—after all, that’s where you’ll spend about 95% of your time. Snowboarders will need a splitboard with special bindings, but can typically use regular boots for this endeavor. Don’t forget poles for the way up, too. Finally, grab some skins and you’re just about there.

Avalanche safety gear is the last (but certainly not least) component. For baseline knowledge on snow safety, Staying Alive in Avalanche Terrain is the backcountry enthusiast’s bible. But if you’re going to be out in the backcountry often, take an avalanche-safety course. There are many organizations that offer field classes in the area, and our local avalanche center schedules free seminars throughout the season. Visit mtavalanche.com for a rundown. Lastly, pick up a beacon, probe, and shovel to round out your backcountry kit.

Etiquette
When out on the slopes, there are many official rules, and just as many unofficial ones. After all, everyone’s a critic. But at the end of the day, we’re all just trying to have fun at our own pace. We sometimes get ahead of ourselves or forget what we should be doing. Just try to be patient with people and help them out when you can. However, there are some important guidelines to ensure the safety of yourself and others on the mountain (a.k.a., the Responsibility Code). In fact, these duties are actually written into our state law, so it’s best everyone knows them well. Look ’em up online or review the posters at local ski areas.

When venturing out of the ski areas and into the backcountry, there is a different set of rules to follow, some more dire than others. To start, consider that most people head into the woods for solitude, so try to keep your volume to a minimum. Everyone has a right to experience the quietude of nature. Therefore, group size can be an issue—and is a matter of both impact and safety, because managing larger groups is difficult. Two to four people is a common sweet spot. Plus, it’ll put less strain on already limited parking areas. Furthermore, if another group has beaten you to a particular ski line, let them have it. It can be dangerous to pack too many people in a small area. Finally, skintracks are sacred, so don’t trash them with boot prints and postholes. Make sure to keep your pup’s waste off the track, too. And if you don’t like the pre-existing skintrack—or you’ve got a pack of dogs pockmarking a popular one—set your own, off to the side.

Events
Bozeman loves skiing. Here are some popular events to prove it.

November
Ski Swap – Bozeman. Out with the old, in with the new(ish). Don’t miss this one. Bridger Ski Foundation’s annual swap at the Gallatin County Fairgrounds offers huge discounts on quality gear. Drop your old gear off the day before. bridgerskifoundation.org

November
Opening Day – Big Sky. 36 lifts, 4,350 feet of elevation, and 5,800 acres to play on. Have at it—if you can afford to. bigskyresort.com

December
Projected Opening Day – Bridger Bowl. Weather permitting, chairs will start spinning for another season of winter fun at Bridger Bowl. Whether you’re first in line or last to leave, opening day is always a party. bridgerbowl.com

January
Community GS Racing – Bridger Bowl. See how you stack up against the rest of the local crowd in this series of two-run GS races. Categories for ski, snowboard, and telemark. bridgerbowl.com

February
King & Queen of the Ridge – Bridger Bowl. Think you have what it takes to hike the Ridge more times than anyone else? Give it your best shot at this annual fundraiser for the Avalanche Center. bridgerbowl.com

Editor’s note: dates are subject to change. For the most updated information, visit outsidebozeman.com/events.

Activities

Winter’s Delight

by Corey Hockett

Some of the greatest moments of winter outings come as anticipation before and ravishment after. Indeed, fueling up and winding down is a big part of what makes these excursions so attractive. What beats raising a glass with your buddies at the end of an epic powder day? How good does that first sip of coffee taste before a weekend road trip? These periods of transition provide your getaway with wholesomeness. And in Bozeman, where there is no lack of adventures to choose from, après (and avant) is no different.

Fueling Up
In winter, it’s hard to leave the coziness of the comforter and strike out into the cold. Get started with hot drinks and warm sandwiches from one of our standout coffee shops and delis. If you’re headed up Bridger Canyon to the ski hill, Crosscut, or Brackett Creek, hit Ghost Town for smooth-sipping coffee and a hefty breakfast burrito. If you’re eastbound on the interstate toward Paradise Valley, pick up a warm cup o’ tea at Townshend’s. Going west, you say? Fill up at Wheat Montana at the junction of Hwy. 287 and score a serious bang for your buck with a Belt burritos. The classic rendezvous locale south of town is Slider’s Deli at the mouth of Big Sky. Grab a coffee on your way through, or, if you’re ending the day early, stop in for a sandwich or burger before your trip home. Last but certainly not least: if you’re planning a half-day at Bridger, pick up a giant Pickle Barrel sandwich and chow down on your way to the hill.

Winding Down
Ski hills are the quintessential locales for après. If you’re wrapping up a day at Bridger Bowl, you’ve got options. It’s always worth having one (just one, if you’re driving) on the hill, and for this I recommend the Grizzly Ridge Station (aka, the Griz). We’re talkin’ $3 pints here. Of Olympia, that is; but let’s face it, you’re looking for something light anyway. Face Shots in the Jim Bridger Lodge is also tried and true. Got a designated driver with you? Have one at each.

If Big Sky is your choice of exploit, you have plenty of choices as well—just be prepared to loosen the purse strings. Scissor Bills is a local favorite. Amongst the mass of infrastructure, this homey saloon overlooks the base area and has plenty of room to spread out. Have a round by the window where an upper-level perspective grants great views of the base area.

Beers are fine and dandy, but if you’re itching for something with a little more zip—something that burns the throat and warms the belly—Bozeman has an exceptional spread of distilleries. Check out Wildrye in the Cannery District and Bozeman Spirits downtown. On the way back from Bridger, stop into Valhalla Meadery for a unique, historic libation to warm your frozen insides. If you happen to be passing through Ennis, don’t miss Willie’s on the main drag—their Bighorn Bourbon rivals any whiskey in the West.

Speaking of small-town spots, some of the most pleasant après experiences are away from the Bozeman bustle—wood-door saloons, old-time taxidermy bars, and venues with no dress code whatsoever. On your next trip to Yellowstone, stop in at the Antler Pub & Grill for a western Montana meal at its finest. Heading north? Hit Canyon Ferry Brewing in Townsend after ice fishing the reservoir. In Ennis, you’ll find great beer and delicious food at Burnt Tree Brewing, across the street from Willie’s.

These are just a few of our favorite places—there are plenty more. But don’t take our word for it, get out and try for yourself. The more places you try, the better notion you’ll have of all the options to suit your winter’s day. Bozeman is a mountain town, and its après reflects that. Experience it wearing your ski pants, laughing with friends, and repping a goggle tan—the rest of us will be out there doing the same.

Uncategorized

Springs Break

Some like it hot.

by Corey Hockett

Soaking in hot springs, aka “hot-potting,” is a universal and timeless pleasure. Nothing beats the sensation of slipping into slightly stinging water, only to feel comfy and tranquil seconds later. Whether you’ve had a great day on the slopes, been in the library too long, or just have an afternoon off, these are the spots in which to soak your bones.

Lap of Luxury
For those into a well-developed, plush backdrop, check out these commercial pools for a luxurious soak.

Bozeman Hot Springs
Status: Developed
Access: Open to the public
Admission: $8.50
Location: 8 miles west of Bozeman

Courtesy_Boz-hot-springs2This massive facility recently underwent renovation and now has nine pools, both inside and out. It has wet and dry saunas, a fitness center, and campground. If you’re coming back from Big Sky or don’t want to travel far, this is your place.

 

Chico Hot Springs
Status: Developed
Access: Open to the public as well as to registered guests
Admission: $7.50 for adults; less for kids. Guests soak free
Location: 22 miles south of Livingston

KenDineen_chico_contest

Located in Paradise Valley, just south of Livingston, Chico provides two refreshing pools and an assortment of accommodation options for overnighters. Check it out if your family is in town or you’re looking for a romantic weekend getaway.

Norris Hot Springs
Status: Developed
Access: Open to the public
Admission: $7 for adults; reduced for kids and seniors
Location: 35 miles west of Bozeman

CourtesyNorris

This 30’ x 40’ pool is a collection of geothermal springs located near the Madison River. Dubbed “Water of the Gods” by the current owner, Norris has live music every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Added bonus: be the DD and get in for free.

 

Simple Soaking
If you’re the less-is-more type, or prefer nature to civilization, these are your hot spots.

Boiling River
Status: Primitive
Access: Unrestricted (Yellowstone Park pass required)
Admission: Park pass is $35 for single vehicle
Location: 2 miles south of Gardiner

KimTashjian-BoilingRiver

Just inside the Gardiner entrance to Yellowstone National Park, scalding channels mingle with the cold river water to form the perfect temperature for soaking—and this set of pools is only a half-mile walk from the parking lot. This gem is a must, but expect crowds.

Potosi Hot Springs
Status: Primitive
Access: Open to the public
Admission: Free
Location: 8 miles west of Pony
Head to Pony and travel southwest on Potosi Rd. / South Willow Creek Rd. Follow the signs to the campground and then venture the mile-long trail back down the creek to the spring. It’s not the warmest pool around, but it’s sized nicely for a group of 6-8.

Renova Hot Springs
Status: Primitive
Access: Open to the public
Admission: Free
Location: 10 miles south of Whitehall
Head south of Whitehall on Hwy. 55, taking the Waterloo turnoff. The road deposits you a quarter-mile from the spring, where you can bathe in rock-lined pools along a side-channel of the Jefferson River. The river mixes with warmer thermal water in two separate hot-water seeps, creating a variety of soaking temperatures. Check the river flow beforehand; at high water, the pools can get washed out.