Kick off your snowy winter weekend in Bozeman, Montana, recognized by National Geographic Traveler magazine as one of the “world's top 25 ski towns.” Enjoy a hearty breakfast at one of the local favorites, like Cateye Cafe, The Nova Cafe, or the Western Cafe, before making the 20-minute drive to Bridger Bowl, the beloved local ski hill that boasts more than 2,000 acres and 2,600 vertical feet. Here, you'll find 75 trails that range from beginner to expert and a friendly, casual vibe.
If cross-country skiing is more your speed, head to nearby Hyalite Canyon and its network of groomed and ungroomed trails. As you glide through the snow, be sure to look up — you just may spot ice climbers scaling the canyon's frozen waterfalls.
When you're done with snow-fueled fun for the day, spend your evening exploring Bozeman's charming downtown shops and galleries and its enticing restaurants, breweries and distilleries. You can't go wrong with a meal at Izakaya Three Fish, Bourbon, Fielding's or Pizza Campania, and drinks at Bridger Brewing, Last Best Place Brewery or Bozeman Spirits Distillery are a fun — and delicious — way to experience Bozeman's craft beverage scene. Get a great night's rest at The Lark, Kimpton Armory Hotel Bozeman or RSVP Bozeman so you're ready for your second day of winter adventures.
Grab coffee and a quick bite at Treeline Coffee at The Lark or Aurore French Bakery before heading south to Big Sky. The 45-mile drive winds through the rugged Gallatin Canyon, delivering seriously scenic views — priming you for the vistas of three states, two national parks and numerous mountain ranges you'll enjoy from the slopes of Big Sky Resort.
Once in Big Sky, take your pick of ways to spend time in the snow. Downhill ski and snowboard at Big Sky Resort — its 5,800 skiable acres and 4,350 feet of vertical served by more than 30 lifts, challenging chutes, runs up to 6 miles long, and a 2,000-vertical-foot, powder-filled bowl beneath Lone Mountain mean you can explore new terrain all day. For Nordic skiing and snowshoeing, try the Spruce Cone Trail, Little Willow Way, Crail Ranch Trail or Lone Mountain Ranch.
And speaking of Lone Mountain Ranch, it makes an ideal place to wind down when your powder-filled adventures are done. Relax and recharge with a sleigh ride, dinner, and a stay in a comfy cabin.