Traveling has changed since the pandemic. People are
shunning cities for the outdoors. However, with winter upon us and Carnival
parades cancelled, there are only so many options. But if you're considering
skiing this season, head to the vast open space and responsible setup at Big Sky Resort, Montana.
Big Sky
Resort is located in the Rocky Mountains near Yellowstone National Park. About
an hour drive from the closest airport in Bozeman, Big Sky Resort is known as
the "biggest skiing in America." While Bozeman cannot be reached by direct
flight from New Orleans, an easy connection through Dallas or Houston makes
Bozeman an easy place to get to.
Bozeman is
a charming city of roughly 50,000 people and is filled with shopping, museums,
and brew pubs. Before or after your flight, stop for a meal at Ted's Montana Grill. Now a chain
with over 40 locations, Ted's Montana Grill has its original location in
Bozeman. Founded by Ted Turner, the restaurant is known for its delicious bison
and burgers.
The 2020
season at Big Sky Resort opened on Thanksgiving. The resort is taking
precautions during the pandemic, with increased physical distancing, mandatory
masking, and easy access to hand sanitizer. Advance reservations for lift
tickets are recommended, though not required, to help with contact tracing.
In addition, chairlifts will be
monitored to prevent maximum capacity and to allow groups traveling together to
not have to ride with strangers. The Mountain Sports School is
also making special preparations to practice social distancing and responsible
instruction. Furthermore, the food and beverage facilities have been spaced out
to allow for ample space in between tables.
Big Sky Resort features 5,850 skiable acres, which is
more acreage than even Vail. The resort has 38 lifts and an elevation of 11,166
feet at the summit of Lone Peak. With 26 chair lifts and an average annual
snowfall of 400+ inches, there is more than enough skiing to meet the demand of
any skier—from expert to beginner.
While the
resort itself offers some housing options, the best alternative is a ski-in, ski-out
house, condo, or cabin from Moonlight Rentals and Saddle Ridge Rentals.
Moonlight
Rentals and Saddle Ridge Rentals offer turn-key rental properties that include
such amenities as breathtaking views, a private outdoor hot tub, and
fireplaces. Full kitchens at each location make it easy for breakfasts before
hitting the slopes. The ski-in/out access is first class and features
convenient entry to numerous chair lifts.
Most importantly, the staff of
Moonlight Rentals and Saddle Ridge Rentals will work with you personally to
find the perfect accommodations. They will assist you in everything from
purchasing lift tickets and making restaurant reservations to airport transfers
and booking a massage after a hard day of skiing.
The community of Big Sky lies about
15 minutes down the mountain from the resort. This is where the Big Sky Medical
Center is found, as well as the area's best supermarket: Roxy's Market. There
are also a number of restaurants in the area, including surprisingly delicious
Thai food found at Lotus Pad Thai.
The best spot for rentals and
equipment is Grizzly Outfitters
in the town of Big Sky. The staff at Grizzly will help you find the proper
equipment and clothing needed for a successful trip. Grizzly Outfitters is also
taking the pandemic seriously, with enhanced cleaning, minimal contact, and
masks and distancing.
For that
special meal out, head to Horn and
Cantle for dinner. Located at the magnificent Lone Mountain Ranch, the newly
renovated restaurant and saloon serves an authentic Montana culinary experience.
Smoked elk meatballs, bison meatloaf, and Montana trout are just some of the
menu highlights.
Do not
leave Big Sky without snowmobiling with Canyon
Adventures. Featuring miles of groomed trails, a trip with Canyon
Adventures provides views that few people get to see. The Spanish Peaks, Lone
Peak, and the Sphinx Mountains are just some of the breathtaking sights that
you will experience.
After a
day of snowmobiling, the beautiful scenery continues over a meal at Riverhouse
BBQ. The down-home restaurant features delicious smoked BBQ meats, burgers, and
ice-cold beers, which can be enjoyed with a view of the beautiful Gallatin
River.
