By Tucker Harris
As the snow flies, the first thing on all Big Sky locals’ and visitors’ minds is carving out fresh powder laps on Lone Mountain. As much as our little town’s tourism and die-hard skiers would hate for me to say it, there is more to Big Sky than tram laps, Swifty runs and park days.
On this thread, we’d like to present alternative options for what to do on those cold winter days when the air chills your cheeks pink and you’re looking beyond resort skiing.
Lone Mountain Ranch Cross Country Ski Day + Sleigh Ride Dinner
With 85 kilometers of carefully maintained woodland trails, it’s no wonder Lone Mountain Ranch has been voted Cross Country Skier magazine’s No. 1 Nordic ski destination in North America. LMR has professional ski instructors who can teach all experience levels, provide guided tours as well as rental gear. After a full day on the trails enjoy a Big Sky winter tradition and book a classic sleigh ride dinner. Meander through the woods under a starlit sky to the historic North Fork Cabin for an unforgettable cowboy dinner.
Visit lonemountainranch.com for more information.
Ice Skating in Town Center
The Big Sky Skating and Hockey Association is a local nonprofit dedicated to bringing ice sports to the big sky community. From hockey and ice skating, to curling and broomball, the newly named Marty Pavelich Ice Rink is right in the heart of the Big Sky Town Center in Len Hill Park. Rent skates from Grizzly Outfitters or East Slope Outdoors.
Visit bssha.org/rink-schedule/ for the rink schedule and more information.
Something unique: Dogsledding
Let an experienced husky dog team pull you through a winter wonderland. These furry, yet well-trained athletes will take you through a once-in-a-lifetime experience of Big Sky country that you will never forget. Cozy up and enjoy the view.
Visit huskypower.com/ or yellowstonedogsledadventures.com/ to book and for more information.
Snowshoeing adventure
Explore on your own or travel with a guide to learn more about winter wildlife around Big Sky in a tranquil environment. Snowshoe rentals and trail information are available at many local outdoor retailers. You can forge your own trail or stick to Lone Mountain Ranch’s robust trail system—either experience will offer solitude in the winter backcountry.
Keep warm and entertained at a WMPAC Show
Embrace your passion for the arts at the Warren Miller Performing Arts Center. WMPAC hosts a wide collection of performances from musicals, to local theater shows and acclaimed award-winning acts.
Find the season’s full schedule and purchase tickets at warrenmillerpac.org.
Snowmobiling through the mountains
Head out into the canyon and take in the spectacular views as you cruise through miles of open powder fields or groomed trails on a snowmobile. Buck Creek Ridge provides views of the Spanish Peaks, the Taylor Hilgards, Lone and Sphinx Mountains as you take in the thrill of snowmobiling.
Visit snowmobilemontana.com/ for more information.
Yellowstone National Park Snowcoach Tours
Adventure to West Yellowstone to travel to places closed to vehicle traffic for the majority of the winter—it’s a solitude you won’t forget with just you, open spaces and wildlife. Spot bison, wolves and bobcats, and take in the magic of Yellowstone National Park with a variety of local outfitters.
Visit adventuretoursofyellowstone.com or yellowstonevacations.com/guided-tours/two-top-snowmobile-tours for more information.
Catch a movie at the local theater
Take a break from the cold and catch a movie at the local theater The Independent. They host new Hollywood films in their large 90-seat theater and, depending on the night, you can enjoy live music, trivia, an array of independent films and special events. Be sure to enjoy a healthy Mediterranean meal from Perch paired with an unique cocktail—available to eat anywhere in the theater.
Visit theindependentmt.com/ for the full event schedule and Perch menu.
