WIN TER
DAY TRIPPER
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YOUR GUIDE T O FA L L & WIN T ER AC TI V ITIE S IN SOU T H W E S T MON TA N A
A S P E CI A L P UB L IC AT ION OF T HE B O Z E M A N D A ILY CHRONICL E
2 0 16 W I N T E R D A Y T R I P P E R
YOUR WINTER GUIDE
The last golden leaves are drifting down from the aspens, and there’s snow on the Spanish Peaks. The signs are unmistakable: the all-tooshort Montana summer is receding into the past. But the end of one season is the dawn of another. And as winter casts its icy spell, you can hibernate, head south — or embrace all that winter in the northern Rockies has to offer. Maybe this is the year you try skiing for the first time. Or conquer that trail you’ve never dreamed of trying before. Maybe you’ll park the car and stop in that antique store
you’ve been cruising past for the last six months. Perhaps you’ll bowl 300 for the first time. Or satisfy your curiosity and finally learn what curling is all about. Like the blue Montana sky, the possibilities are endless. So get out, breathe in the crisp mountain air, and experience life in Southwest Montana this winter. Your winter adventure starts here.
HIGH ALTITUDE ADVENTURE ZIPLINE & SNOWSHOE TOURS
Activities for every age and ability at Basecamp, in the Mountain Village Plaza at Big Sky Resort. 406-995-5769 | bigskyresort.com/basecamp
A M O N TA N A
THE BRIDAL EVENT
SAVE THE DATE FEBRUARY 18, 2017 The Commons at Baxter & Love Lane
www.montanaweddingevent.com
If you have any questions, please contact Leslie McCleary at
406.582.2699
lmccleary@dailychronicle.com Photo courtesy of Sarah Notarius Photography, www.notarius.photography
TABLE OF CONTENTS PLACES TO GO
SPORTS
See Yellowstone in winter......................................6 Get away to a cabin in the woods.........................7 Spend a weekend in West......................................8 Get up to Glacier...................................................10 Take in Kalispell & Whitefish...............................12 Hot springs.............................................................13 Montana Ballet Co. presents ‘Nutcracker’..........14 Holiday Candlelight Tours of Lewis & Clark Caverns.........................................15 Dillon Festival of Trees..........................................16 Splendid Feasts in Virginia City..........................16 Christmas Strolls....................................................17
Hockey....................................................................31 Get active with Parks & Rec................................32 Curling....................................................................32 Learn to ice skate..................................................32 Indoor rock climbing.............................................34 Go bowling.............................................................34 MSU volleyball & basketball games.....................35
OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES Snowmobiling........................................................19 Ice fishing...............................................................20 Brush up on avalanche awareness......................20 Hitch a ride on a dog sled.....................................21 Rodeo Run Sled Dog Races..................................21 Hunting..................................................................22
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WESTERN FUN Sleigh rides............................................................36 Ski-Joring National Finals....................................37 Montana Winter Fair.............................................37
INDOOR ACTIVITIES Go antiquing..........................................................38 Try a local brew......................................................39 Eagle Mount Crystal Ball......................................40 Have a Heart Art Auction.....................................40 Take a cooking class.............................................40
SKIING
ENTERTAINMENT
Bridger Ski Foundation Ski Swap........................23 Big Sky Resort........................................................24 Bridger Bowl..........................................................26 Maverick Mountain...............................................27 Showdown Ski Area..............................................27 Discovery Ski Area................................................28 Red Lodge Mountain............................................28 Cross-country skiing.............................................29 Yellowstone Ski Festival.......................................30
Winter Art Walk & Crazy Days.............................41 Take in the Children’s Museum...........................42 Browse the Winter Farmers Market.....................42 Go dancing.............................................................43 Big Sky Big Grass Festiva.....................................44 Movies & Arts........................................................44
WINTER DAYTRIPPER 2016 BIG SKY PUBLISHING
All photos by Bozeman Daily Chronicle staff unless otherwise noted: Sam Belanger, Mike Greener, Matt Green, Erik Petersen, Ian Nemec Adrian Sanchez-Gonzalez, and Sean Sperry.
PLACES TO GO
SEE YELLOWSTONE IN WINTER
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INTER IS THE WONDER SEASON IN Yellowstone, a white and serene time when visitation drops to less than 1,500 people a day. Yup, it’s cold. But it’s not always frigid. The weather can be sunny, misty or snow-blowy. And check out that human visitation number again: less than 1,500 people a day, and barely 1,000 daily in November. Sign us up. Visitors can reach Mammoth Hot Springs and the Lamar Valley, via Gardiner, by car all winter, which is also “most likely to see wolves” season. The steamy wonders of Mammoth Hot Springs and the scenery of Lamar are open to all. Hiking and snowshoeing are possible from the road, and an array of Nordic ski trails open up, especially beyond Tower Junction. So bundle up, grab the snowshoes and Nordic skis, pack extra food and water and take off. Snowcoach and/or snowmobile transport and tours are available from West Yellowstone, Flagg Ranch, and Cody, Wyo. Snowmobiles tours are also available around Cooke City. Catch wildlife bus tours in Gardiner. The Yellowstone Association offers three guided Lodging and Learning explorations of Yellowstone on multiple dates December through February, including one focused on cross-
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country skiing. Stretch your visit with a four-day Winter Wolf Exploration based in Gardiner. Or take any of an assortment of YA Institute seminars, with lodging at Lamar Buffalo Ranch. Choices include Snow Tracking, Wolf Week, The Artistic Journal in Winter, In the Bear’s Den and Wilderness First Aid. (Note: At press time, the Yellowstone Association, which has merged with the Yellowstone Park Foundation, announced their new name is Yellowstone Forever.) Yellowstone lodging operator Xanterra will offer winter Adventure and Nordic Heaven packages. AND NOTE: Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel is closed this winter and next for renovations. Old Faithful Snow Lodge is the only park lodging open this winter, so book it early. Helping to fill the lodging gap is the new, 51-room Big Rock Inn, 902 Scott St., in Gardiner, a sister property to the Absaroka Lodge. It opened in May to good reviews. (www. yellowstonebigrockinn.com).
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More information is available at www.nps.gov/yell/planyourvisit/visiting-yellowstonein-winter.htm, www.yellowstoneassociation.org and www.yellowstonenationalparklodges.com.
GET AWAY TO A CABIN IN THE WOODS
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HE CUSTER GALLATIN NATIONAL Forest has an several cabins tucked into out-ofthe-way places in Gallatin and Park counties that are ideal for making family fun or romantic memories. Some have electricity; all have either wood or electric stoves for cooking and heating. None have indoor plumbing. All can be rented in winter for $20 to $45 a night, and several are located within 35 miles of Bozeman. They were built in the 1920s and ’30s for use by forest rangers. Most accommodate four people, but one or two take groups as large as 11. In winter, some are accessible by car, some by snowmobile or skiing. A few are handicapped accessible. Some have horse corrals.
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Visit fs.usda.gov/activity/custergallatin/recreation/ camping-cabins, and check out the possibilities in the Bozeman, Hebgen Lake and Yellowstone districts.
EA V A H E COM
OPEN
ALL YEAR!
BALL!
Billings, MT
406.652.8100 zoomontana.org BIG SKY PUBLISHING WINTER DAYTRIPPER 2016
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SPEND A WEEKEND IN WEST
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AMED ONE OF AMERICA’S 10 COOLEST Places by Budget Travel, West Yellowstone is colder than much of the area most winter days. It has snow sooner, and that snow sticks around. That promise of a dream winter day outdoors, crisp air and sparkling snow and all manner of wintry ways to enjoy it, draws visitors and keeps them around. The average winter traveler stays in West three nights or more, compared to the summer tourist’s one night. Fully 30 percent of winter visitors come from abroad for a traditional Western winter experience, and they often stay for a week. They find something different to do each day too. West Yellowstone has long been known as a snowmobile capital of the Rockies, and sampling the different motorized oversnow vehicle options can easily occupy a few days. There’s the snowmobile, of course. Town visitors can rent a model for leisurely family outings or, for the adrenaline/powder junkie, the latest power sled. It’s possible to drive a different brand
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and model every day. With 400 miles of groomed trails, West is Sled Heaven. March 10-12, 2017, it’s also home to one of the West’s big snowmobile shows, featuring new and vintage machines, exhibits, races, concerts and more. If you’re looking to tour Yellowstone National Park – the West entrance is open to over-snow vehicles only Dec. 15-March 15 – you have options too, starting with guided snowmobile tours for the self-drive set. If you want indoor warmth, easy camaraderie with your friends and an interpretive guide who knows the scenery and wildlife, options include track and ski snowcoaches and 46-inch “Big Foot” tire vehicles. History lovers can still see the park the old-fashioned way: in an antique Bombardier snowcoach. SeeYellowstone Tours and Alpen Guides operate a fleet of the classic vehicles, each with its own history. Animal sightings include bison, wolves, elk and big horn sheep. Continued on page 9....
WINTER IN WEST EVENTS CALENDAR NOVEMBER 12: WYSEF Ski Swap Quieter outdoor pursuits include miles and miles of crosscountry ski trails. Boundary, Riverside and Rendezvous trails are favorites. West has at least one Nordic ski event or competition, including biathlon, each month. And don’t forget snowshoeing, sledding, ice skating and building a snowman with the kids. You can rent snowshoes and skis at many shops. The grocery sells plastic sleds, and the hardware store rents skates. At the town park at the corner of Highways 20 and 191, the skating rink has just been upgraded. You can fly fish or ice fish too. Most of the town’s streets are snow-packed not plowed, which means you can cross-country ski or snowmobile from your lodging and all around the town, and outside town too. Lodging options range from cabins to motels (some with indoor pools) and home rentals, and many of the town’s most popular restaurants, bars and shops are open.
FOR THE KIDS One weekend a month, West Yellowstone celebrates Kids’N’Snow, a chance for everyone in the family to try new winter activities from skating and hockey to ice fishing in a safe, fun environment, at little to no cost. Locals are as likely as visitors to take part. Some families hold winter reunions on Kids’N’Snow weekends. Three more family options: The Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center, home to bears and wolves that can no longer live in the wild, is open each day. The grizzlies, unlike their wild cousins, are likely to be active too. Open at night is the Yellowstone Giant Screen, showing IMAX films and current movies. And enroll your kids in the Junior Ranger Snow Program. You can pick up the info, and borrow a magnifying glass to study snowflakes, at the Visitors Center.
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For more information, check out www. DestinationYellowstone.com, www.kidsnsnow.org and
22-26: Yellowstone Ski Festival
DECEMBER 10: Spam Cup #1 (Nordic Ski) 10: Annual Christmas Stroll
11: Biathlon Cup #1 Sprint (Nordic Ski) 15: West Entrance to Yellowstone Opens 17 & 18: Sled Dog Races Rodeo Run
17 & 18: Kids’N’Snow Weekend
JANUARY 2017 7: Spam Cup #2 (Nordic Ski)
8: Biathlon Cup #2 (Nordic Ski) 8: Free Ski & Try Biathlon Day
13-15: NAIFC Ice Fishing Tournament
14-15: Kids’N’Snow Weekend
FEBRUARY 2017 4-5: Kids’N’Snow Weekend
25: Taste of the Trails (Nordic Ski & Snowshoe)
26: Biathlon Cup #3 Mass Start (Nordic Ski)
MARCH 2017 4: Yellowstone Rendezvous Race (Nordic Ski) 5: Kids’N’Snow Youth Ski Festival (Nordic Ski) 4 & 5: Kids’N’Snow Weekend
10-12: Annual Yellowstone Snowmobile Fest, with expo, races, concerts, new models & more 15: West Entrance to Yellowstone Closes
17-18: Tour de Spam, Montana’s only Cross Country Ski stage & night race
BIG SKY PUBLISHING WINTER DAYTRIPPER 2016
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GET UP TO GLACIER
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LACIER NATIONAL PARK IS OPEN 365 DAYS a year, though some roads and facilities are not. In winter, popular activities include Nordic skiing, snowshoeing and auto camping. On the west side of the park, the road to Apgar Visitor Center and 11 miles of Going-to-the-Sun Road are plowed in winter. On the east side, just a mile and a half of roadway is open. Auto camping is available at Apgar Picnic Area and St. Mary Campground; there is no fee. A free permit is needed to camp in the backcountry. Get it by phone up to seven days in advance or in person at the Headquarters Building Monday through Friday and at the Apgar Visitor Center on weekends.
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Before you go, check current road conditions at home.nps.gov/ applications/glac/roadstatus/roadstatus.cfm.
Guided, two-hour snowshoe walks are offered on Saturdays and Sundays Jan. 9 to March 20, at 10:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. Rental equipment is available at the Apgar Visitor Center, which is the starting point, or in neighboring communities. Pack your own snacks. The hikes are not recommended for children under age 6.
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For more information on the hikes, call 406-888-7800.
WINTER DAYTRIPPER 2016 BIG SKY PUBLISHING
CELEBRATING 10 YEARS... SAFE, ECONOMICAL, EFFICIENT & ECO-CONSCIOUS DID WE MENTION FARE FREE? Check Out the Live Bus Tracker Keep track of the bus and where it’s going to stop conveniently on our website at StreamlineBus.com
DOWNLOAD The RouteShout App Availible on iPhone and Android
YEARS
STREAMLINEBUS.COM BIG SKY PUBLISHING WINTER DAYTRIPPER 2016
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TAKE IN KALISPELL & WHITEFISH
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alispell, a city of 22,000 and hub for visitors to Glacier National Park in summer, has plenty to do in winter too: ice fishing, cross-country skiing, dog sledding and snowmobiling to start. It’s just 25 minutes north of Flathead Lake and 30 minutes west of Glacier National Park. Head indoors to taste the brew of Kalispell Brewing Company, owned by professional skiers Cole Schneider and Maggie Doherty. Or visit Glacier Distilling Company, in nearby Coram, to sample the small-batch whiskeys. Special winter events include Christmas Tours at the Conrad Mansion, the 13,000-square-foot home of town founder Charles Conrad, Nov. 25-Dec. 23; the Artists & Craftsmen of the Flathead Holiday Show, with more than 60 booths, Nov. 25-27; and the Downtown Kalispell Art Walk, 5-9 p.m. Dec. 2. Whitefish, which is 16 miles north of Kalispell and 25 miles
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from Glacier, is a mountain town full of abundant snow, plenty to do each weekend and residents who like to play outdoors in any weather. In winter, that means snowmobiling and skiing. Rising above town is Whitefish Mountain Resort, 3,000 acres, 105 ski trails and 300 inches of snow fun. The summit is 6,817 feet, the base is at 4,464 feet, and the longest run is 3.3-mile Hellfire. When it’s time to go indoors, head to WAVE Aquatic and Fitness Center, a world-class facility welcoming all ages. Seasonal events include the Christmas Stroll downtown, 5:30-9 p.m., Dec. 9, with recitals, fire dancers, Santa and a tree lighting ceremony; and the annual Winter Carnival, with a parade, ski joring and much, much more.
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Visit www.explorewhitefish.com and www. discoverkalispell.com for more ideas.
HOT SPRINGS What better way to warm up on a cold day than by visiting one of Montana’s hot springs? NORRIS HOT SPRINGS
ELKHORN HOT SPRINGS
About a 45-minute drive from Bozeman is Norris Hot Springs. Open year-round, Norris offers food, live music on the weekends and a warm soak under the stars. i www.norrishotsprings.com
Elkhorn Hot Springs is in the Pioneer Mountains, about 40 miles southwest of Dillon. Elkhorn offers two outdoor natural hot spring pools plus lodging in rustic cabins and its 1900s lodge. i www.elkhornhotsprings.com
BOZEMAN HOT SPRINGS Bozeman Hot Springs is a short drive west of town in the Four Corners area. The mostly indoor facility offers nine pools with temperatures ranging from 59 to 106 degrees and dry and wet saunas. i www.bozemanhotsprings.com
FAIRMONT HOT SPRINGS
CHICO HOT SPRINGS RESORT & DAY SPA
LOLO HOT SPRINGS
About an hour drive from Bozeman in Paradise Valley is Chico Hot Springs Resort & Day Spa. In addition to the warm water, Chico offers overnight accommodations, dining options, a spa and dogsled rides through Absaroka Dogsled Treks. i www.chicohotsprings.com
Past Missoula on Interstate 90 is Lolo Hot Springs, which offers hot springs, snowmobiling and restaurant and bar services at the base of Lolo Pass. i www.lolohotsprings.com
BOULDER HOT SPRINGS
Three hours south of Glacier National Park, this quaint hot springs offers massages, a bikini bar tavern, a gift shop and other leisure activities. i www.quinnhotsprings.com
Between Butte and Helena on Interstate 15 is Boulder Hot Springs. The inn and spa sit on almost 300 acres that are backed by Deerlodge National Forest. i www.boulderhotsprings.com
Fairmont Hot Springs, west of Butte, offers outdoor pools and a waterslide, and fine and casual dining, live entertainment and spa services. i www.fairmontmontana.com
QUINN HOT SPRINGS RESORT
BIG SKY PUBLISHING WINTER DAYTRIPPER 2016
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MONTANA BALLET COMPANY PRESENTS ‘THE NUTCRACKER’
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OR THE 33RD YEAR, THE MONTANA BALLET Company brings the music of Tchaikovsky and the magic of “The Nutcracker” to life for Bozeman audiences, with performances Dec. 3-4 in Bozeman and Big Sky. Based on the book “The Nutcracker and the Mouse King” by E.T.A. Hoffman, the beloved ballet tells the story of Clara’s magical Christmas Eve dream visit to the Kingdom of Sweets after Herr Drosselmeyer gives her a special nutcracker as a gift. Performances are at 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 2, and at 2 and 7 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 3, in Bozeman’s Willson Auditorium, 404 W. Main St., and 4 p.m., Sunday Dec. 4, at Big Sky’s Warren Miller Performing Arts Center. Tickets are $15-$55. Children will be enchanted by “Tea with Clara,” a “Nutcracker” preview featuring cast members, to be presented at the ballroom of the Baxter Hotel, 105 W. Main St., on Sun., Nov. 20. Tea times are at 10 a.m. and 12:30 and 3 p.m. Tickets are $18. On Feb. 25-26 in Bozeman, the company presents two performances of Winthrop Corey’s Snow White.
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Details and tickets for all events are available at montanaballet.org. WINTER DAYTRIPPER 2016 BIG SKY PUBLISHING
HOLIDAY CANDLELIGHT TOURS OF LEWIS & CLARK CAVERNS
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ICKETS FOR THIS POPULAR UNDERGROUND holiday tour go on sale Friday, Nov. 25, with eight daily tours offered Dec. 10-11, 17-18 and 29-30. Located 19 miles west of Three Forks on MT Rt. 2, Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park features one of the largest limestone caverns in the Northwest, decorated with stalactites, stalagmites, columns and helictites. It closed for the season in September, but lights up again for this special event. Guided tours cover a distance of two miles, with 1.25 miles of that outdoors. Dress for walking in snow, wind and cold. For safety reasons, the upper half of the caverns is shown with lights on, the lower half by candlelight. The tour is not recommended for children 5 and under. Tour sizes are limited and book quickly. Tickets are nonrefundable.
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For tickets and tour times, call 406-287-3541, MondayFriday, 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m., or visit stateparks.mt.gov/ lewis-and-clark-caverns.
NEW YEAR’S EVE AT ZOOMONTANA
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OO MONTANA IN BILLINGS CELEBRATES New Year’s Eve for the younger set at noon on Dec. 31 with animal encounters, crafts, a ball drop and apple juice toasts. Festivities are on the Plaza outside the zoo. If there’s snow, bring sleds to hit the hills in Bison Field. Regular admission applies. Then go inside the zoo to see its temporary guests, two orphaned grizzly cubs who will eventually move to the St. Louis Zoo. The Zoo is open every day but Thanksgiving, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. Winter hours are 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Monday-Thursday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Friday-Sunday, depending on weather.
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For zoo admissions, directions and more, visit zoomontana. org. Call 406-652-8100 for weather conditions. BIG SKY PUBLISHING WINTER DAYTRIPPER 2016
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DILLON FESTIVAL OF TREES
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HIS ANNUAL COMMUNITY FUNDRAISER has outgrown its space. You’ll find it at the University of Montana Western’s Keltz Arena this year, on East Poindexter Street east of Hwy 91 on Friday, Nov. 18, and Saturday, Nov. 19. Proceeds benefit the Southwest Montana Arts Council and the American Legion. Friday night is Kids Night, 5-8 p.m., with holiday treats, pictures with Santa, opportunities to decorate a cookie and an ornament and a dance performance. Admission is $1 for people 8 and older. Saturday night is the main event, with the tree display, the silent auction and social hour 5-6:30 p.m., ham dinner 6:30-7:30, and live auction for artworks and gift items at 7:30. Tickets are $25 a person.
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For information, call 406-925-0962.
SPLENDID FEASTS IN VIRGINIA CITY
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HE ELLING HOUSE ARTS & HUMANITIES Center, 404 E. Idaho St., Virginia City, will host two nights of holiday feasting Dec. 9-10. Expect holiday lights and decorations at the 1876 mansion, a roaring fire in the parlor, live music and a four-course dinner prepared by a local chef. The festivities begin at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $50 in advance. Proceeds benefit center programming.
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Call 406-843-5507 or visit www.ellinghouse.org.
WINTER DAYTRIPPER 2016 BIG SKY PUBLISHING
SEE MOSCOW BALLET’S ‘NUTCRACKER’
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HE MOSCOW BALLET SWINGS THROUGH Montana this winter with the U.S. tour of its magnificent production of the “Great Russian Nutcracker,” complete with stunning sets, new costumes and great dancers. Sunday, Nov. 6, at 3 p.m., see the ballet in Missoula at the University of Montana’s Dennison Theatre, 32 Campus Dr. Tickets are $24-$176. Or see it at 7 p.m., Tuesday, Nov. 15, in Great Falls at the Mansfield Center for the Performing Arts, 2 Park Dr. S. Tickets are $30-$177.
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In Missoula, call 406-243-4051. In Great Falls, the number is 406-455-8510.
CHRISTMAS STROLLS BOZEMAN CHRISTMAS STROLL, SATURDAY, DEC. 3
BILLINGS HOLIDAY PARADE & CHRISTMAS STROLL, FRIDAY, NOV. 25
Ring in the holiday season with a Bozeman tradition. Everything begins at 12:30 p.m. at the Emerson Center for the Arts and Culture, 111 S. Grand Ave., with musical and arts performances and fun and events for the whole family, including gingerbread house making. Around 4 p.m., Santa lights the holiday tree outside. Then he leads a parade of revelers from the Emerson for a stroll down Main Street, singing carols and illuminating city lights as they go. Horse-drawn wagon rides, pictures with Santa, entertainment, holiday treats at street booths and more continue until 7:30 p.m. Souvenir buttons that allow participation in the wagon rides, pictures with Santa and the gingerbread house decorating contest at the Emerson cost $4, and will be available at various Bozeman locations after Thanksgiving. The full events schedule will be published in the Bozeman Daily Chronicle and available at downtown locations on the Friday prior.
The parade is a longtime Billings tradition, and this year’s theme is Parade of Trees. Folks line the streets to see more than 100 decorated floats, the last bearing Santa of course. At the same time, there are lights, holiday music and refreshments to enjoy. Santa is available for photos, for a $5 donation, at Downtown Alliance office, 2815 2nd Ave. N. The parade kicks off at 7 p.m. at 3rd Avenue N and N. 27th.
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Email office@theEmerson.org or call 406-587-9797, or visit downtownbozeman.org/event/Christmas-stroll.
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Find more information at downtownbillings.com/holiday-parade.
BUTTE CHRISTMAS STROLL, FRIDAY, DEC. 2 The 26th Christmas Stroll begins at 6 p.m. in Uptown Butte. Start your holiday season with a parade, tree lighting ceremony, ice sculpting contest, music, hay rides, street vendor treats and more in Montana’s first major city.
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For information, contact MainStreet Uptown Butte at 406-565-2249 or visit www.mainstreetbutte.org.
ANACONDA CHRISTMAS STROLL, FRIDAY, NOV. 25
LIVINGSTON CHRISTMAS STROLL, FRIDAY, DEC. 2
The evening begins with the annual tree lighting ceremony with Santa at 6 p.m., followed by a stroll downtown featuring special sales, food vendors and caroling. Local merchants sponsor a contest and prize giveaways.
Home to cowboys, writers and railroad buffs, Livingston will hold its 2016 Christmas Stroll from 5 to 8 p.m. Shops will be open late and Santa will be on hand. Enjoy wagon rides and a Polar Plunge by local firefighters.
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Visit www.discoveranaconda.com or call 406-563-2400.
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Information at www.livingston-chamber.com or 406-222-0850. BIG SKY PUBLISHING WINTER DAYTRIPPER 2016
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COME SKI WITH US. YOUR NONPROFIT COMMUNITY SKI CLUB
BRIDGER SKI FOUNDATION B O Z E M A N, M O N T A N A
ALPINE
NORDIC FREESTYLE FREESKIING
GROOMING FOR THE COMMUNITY
PROGRAMS FOR AGES 5+
70+ KM OF GROOMED NORDIC TRAILS AT 5 VENUES
DECEMBER 1: DEVELOPMENT, COMPETITIVE, & ADULT TEAMS START
GROOMING FUNDED THROUGH DONATIONS AND VOLUNTARY TRAIL PASSES. Please support Bozeman’s incredible Community Nordic Trails.
JANUARY: YOUTH SKI LEAGUES START www.bridgerskifoundation.org
TRAIL MAPS * GROOMING REPORTS www.bridgerskifoundation.org /trailsgrooming
851 BRIDGER DR. SUITE 4, BOZEMAN TEL: (406) 587-2445
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BSF
OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES
SNOWMOBILING IN BOZEMAN: Big Boys Toys, 406-587-4747
IN WEST YELLOWSTONE: All Yellowstone Sports, 406-646-7656 Backcountry Adventures Snowmobile, 406-646-9317 Hi Country Snowmobile Rentals, 406-646-7541 High Mark Snowmobile Rental, 406 646-7855 Polaris West, 406-646-7773 Rendezvous Snowmobile Rentals, 406-646-9564 SeeYellowstone Tours, 1-800-221-1151 Two Top Snowmobiles Rental, 406-646-7802 Yellowstone Adventures, 1-800-231-5991
Yellowstone Alpen Guides, 1-800-858-3502 Yellowstone Arctic Yamaha, 406-646-9636 Yellowstone Tours and Travel, 1-800-221-1151
ELSEWHERE: In Big Sky, Canyon Adventures, 406-995-4450 In Gallatin Gateway, Alpine Adventures, 406-580-3812 In Cooke City, Cooke City MotorSports, 406-838-2231
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Check with the Custer Gallatin National Forest for locations and regulations, at www.fs.usda.gov/activity/ custergallatin/recreation/wintersports.
BIG SKY PUBLISHING WINTER DAYTRIPPER 2016
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BRUSH UP ON AVALANCHE AWARENESS ICE FISHING Winter is Montana’s other fishing season, and it’s big.
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NCE ICE IS SAFE, YOU JUST DRILL A HOLE in it, drop a line, pull up a seat and commence fishing. Don’t forget your fishing license.
BOZEMAN BEACH
The man-made lake is in the East Gallatin Recreation Area north of town, off Manley Road.
BOZEMAN POND The lake is adjacent to Gallatin Valley Mall north of Fowler Lane.
HYALITE CANYON Hyalite Reservoir is 17 miles south of Bozeman on Hyalite Canyon Road, about 10.5 miles up the canyon. It contains cutthroat trout and arctic grayling.
WEST YELLOWSTONE’S HEBGEN LAKE NAIFC ICE FISHING TOURNAMENT This is an official North American Ice Fishing Circuit event, on Hebgen Lake at Kirkwood Resort & Marina on Jan. 13-15, 2017. Enjoy seminars, a free kids’ ice fishing clinic and the competition.
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More information at westyellowstoneicefishing.com
GLASGOW ICE FISHING DERBY Glasgow’s ice derby is Feb. 18, 2017, at the Dredge Cut Trout Pond on Fort Peck Highway 117. The fee is $50 for each hole or $100 for three holes.
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More information at www.glasgowchamber.net.
WINTER DAYTRIPPER 2016 BIG SKY PUBLISHING
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HE BOZEMAN PARKS AND RECREATION Department offers two classes on avalanche awareness and beacon practice this winter, both at the Beall Park Recreation Center, 415 N. Bozeman Ave. Classes cover information on terrain, weather, snowpack and human factors. The Adult Class is at 6 p.m., Thursday, Dec. 15. The Youth Class, for families, is Tuesday, Feb. 7, at 6 p.m. Both are free, but registration is required. Go to bozeman.net/recreation. The Beacon Park will be open 9 a.m.-8 p.m. daily as snow allows. It is also free.
HITCH A RIDE ON A DOG SLED
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OG SLED RIDES ARE A UNIQUE WINTER ADVENTURE that lets you be part of the scenery and part of a dog pack, though your four-legged friends do the hard work. Some outfitters let you go along for the brisk ride. Others will teach you to mush.
YELLOWSTONE DOG SLED ADVENTURES Gallatin Gateway, www.yellowstonedogsledadventures.com, 406-223-5134.
SPIRIT OF THE NORTH SLED DOG ADVENTURES Big Sky, wwwhuskypower.com, 406-995-3424.
KLONDIKE DREAMS SLED DOG KENNEL West Yellowstone, www.klondikedreams.com, 406-646-4988.
ABSAROKA DOGSLED TREKS Chico Hot Springs, Paradise Valley, www.dogsledmt.com, 406-223-6440.
BASE CAMP BIGFORK Bigfork, www.basecampbigfork.com, 406-871-9733.
DOG SLED ADVENTURES Whitefish, www.dogsledadventuresmont.com, 406-881-2275.
RODEO RUN SLED DOG RACES
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HE DOGS COME TO WEST YELLOWSTONE Dec. 17-18 for the Sled Dog Races Rodeo Fun. The free event recalls the days in the early 1900s when winter mail and emergency supplies arrived in town only by ski, dogsled or tractor. These days, dogsledding is pure fun, with several area kennels and racing teams offering tour rides all winter. Sled Dog Races Rodeo events are yapping, colorful, cute (dog booties!) fun. It begins at 9 a.m. Dec. 17-18, and includes different race lengths and Pro and Junior (ages 16 and under) divisions, with teams of four, six, eight or 12 dogs. The starting line is at the “Old Airport,” off Iris Street and U.S. Highway 20 on the west end of town. Chairs and blankets are recommended for spectator comfort.
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More information at www.wysleddograces.com or call 406-646-4988. BIG SKY PUBLISHING WINTER DAYTRIPPER 2016
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HUNTING
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ONTANA IS HOME TO 12 BIG GAME species, including elk, antelope, black bear and more. Here are some of the general hunting season listings for 2016-17. ANTELOPE: Oct. 8 - Nov. 13. BIGHORN SHEEP: Sept. 15 - Nov. 27. BISON: Nov. 15 - Feb. 15. BLACK BEAR: Sept. 15 - Nov. 27. DEER AND ELK: Oct. 22 - Nov. 27. MOOSE: Sept. 15 - Nov. 27. MOUNTAIN GOAT: Sept. 15 - Nov. 27. PHEASANT: Oct. 8 - Jan. 1. TURKEY: Sept. 1 - Jan. 1.
Haynes Pavilion
Indoor Ice Arena
Elizabeth DeFanti, Artistic Director
Gallatin County Fairgrounds
MONTANA BALLET PRESENTS THE 33RD ANNUAL
DECEMBER 2 . 7pm DECEMBER 3 . 2pm & 7pm Willson Auditorium — FOR TICKETS — Visit montanaballet.org or call 406.582.8702
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WINTER DAYTRIPPER 2016 BIG SKY PUBLISHING
PHOTO: RAB CUMMINGS | DESIGN: PAMELA JACQUES
Nutcracker
Curling Figure Skating ting Daily Pleasure Skating Youth & Adult Hockey teams Live Competitive Hockey Games
Recreational Ice in the Heart of Bozeman Learn more at bozemanhockey.org
SKIING
BRIDGER SKI FOUNDATION
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HE OFFSHOOT OF THE ORIGINAL Bozeman Ski Club of 1936, the Bridger Ski Foundation offers educational and competitive programs in Alpine, Freestyle and Nordic skiing. Anyone can join. BSF also grooms 70km of cross-country ski trails at five venues around Bozeman, all open to the public. Get details at www.bridgerskifoundation.org/trailsgrooming. In 2015, the foundation became a Gold Certified Club, the highest recognition given by the U.S. Ski & Snowboard Association.
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Get information on joining the Bridger Ski Foundation at www.bridgerskifoundation.org and trail information at www.bridgerskifoundation.org/trailsgrooming.
BRIDGER SKI FOUNDATION SKI SWAP The Foundation’s annual Ski Swap, a great place to sell or purchase good used gear, is Nov. 5, 10 a.m.-6 p.m., and Nov. 6, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., at the Gallatin County Fairgrounds, 901 N. Black Ave. (at Tamarack). Skis, boards, boots and outdoor clothing are among the items offered. Admission is $2 on Saturday, free on Sunday. Members get in free and early on Saturday. Consignment check-in is Nov. 4, 10 a.m.-7 p.m. There’s a $1 per item fee.
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For more information, visit www.bridgerskifoundation. org/annual-ski-swap.
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BIG SKY RESORT
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ORTY-FIVE MILES SOUTH OF BOZEMAN off U.S. Highway 191, Big Sky boasts the biggest skiing in America, 5,800 acres, with two acres per skier scattered over four connected mountains. Friends and families with differing abilities can all find suitable terrain here. Fifteen percent of the terrain fits beginner/intermediates; look for the steeps on the Lone Peak Tram accesses. New this year are two Doppelmayr lifts, a chair lift to replace Challenger, and a six place, heated seat, high-speed chair lift to replace the Triple. The resort plans to open Nov. 24 and close April 16, 2017. Holiday season is Dec. 23-Jan. 2, and Feb. 17-26. Lifts run 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., half day rates start at 12:30 p.m.
FULL-DAY, REGULAR SEASON TICKET PRICES AT BIG SKY ARE: Adult (18-69) - $119 Senior (70+) - $99 College (with ID) - $99 Junior (11-17) - $99 24
WINTER DAYTRIPPER 2016 BIG SKY PUBLISHING
Youth (6-10) - $69 5 and Under - Free Half-Day Rates are $10 off each category.
BIG SKY DETAILS Summit (Lone Peak) - 11,166 feet Base (Mountain Village) - 7,500 feet Base (Lone Moose & Six-Shooter) - 6,800 feet Terrain - 300 named runs Lifts - 23 Chair, 11 Surface Longest Run - Liberty Bowl to Mountain Mall, 6 miles Terrain Parks - 7 Average Winter Daytime Temp - 25F Average Annual Snowfall - 400+ inches Lift Capacity - 38,300 skiers per hour
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A variety of season pass options are available. https:// bigskyresort.com/the-mountain/lift-tickets-and-seasonpasses/season-passes-and-sky-cards.
ized Author Ski-Doo Dealer
YELLOWSTONE ADVENTURES
CHECK OUT THE NEW 2017 SKI-DOO MODELS SALES • SERVICE • RENTALS SNOWMOBILE VACATION PACKAGES 131 Dunraven Street • West Yellowstone, MT 59758
406.646.7735 or 800.231.5991 www.yellowstoneadventures.com
®
® TM Trademark of Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. or its affiliates.
Tastes as good as it looks! …with Bozeman’s Best Mimosas!
23 N. Tracy • Bozeman 587-8844 breakfast: Mf 72:30, sat-sun 7-2 Lunch: M-f 11-2:30 BIG SKY PUBLISHING WINTER DAYTRIPPER 2016
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BRIDGER BOWL
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HE NONPROFIT SKI AREA, LOCATED 16 miles northeast of Bozeman, covers 2,000 acres. With four large bowls, the ski area offers wide-open terrain on a variety of landscapes, including long, wide-open slopes, glades, chutes and gullies. Family and friends of varying skill levels can ride several of the chairs together while still enjoying varying terrain matched to individual abilities. There’s snowmaking on 5 percent of the area. Generally, the ski area offers beginner slopes in the base area, novice terrain across the lower middle, wide-open intermediate runs in the center, advanced open bowl terrain on the upper third and expert terrain coming off the ridge top. Bridger Bowl plans to open Dec. 9. Lifts operate from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. (Christmas Day start is 10 a.m.)
FULL-DAY, REGULAR SEASON TICKET PRICES AT BRIDGER BOWL ARE: Adult (13-69) - $57 Senior (70-79) - $34 26
WINTER DAYTRIPPER 2016 BIG SKY PUBLISHING
Child (7-12) - $20 Child 6 and Under - Free Senior over 80 - Free Half-Day Rates are $9 less for adults.
BRIDGER BOWL DETAILS Highest Lift-Served Elevation - 8,700 feet Trails - 75 + many unmarked runs Longest Run - 3 miles Lifts - 1 Quad, 5 Triple, 2 Double-Chair Lifts Terrain Parks - 2, off the Sunnyside Lift Average Annual Snowfall - 350 inches
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A variety of season pass options are available. https:// bridgerbowl.com/tickets-and-passes.
SHOWDOWN SKI AREA MAVERICK MOUNTAIN
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AVERICK MOUNTAIN, NEAR POLARIS, MT, is just off the Pioneer Mountain Scenic Byway in the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest, about 40 miles northwest of Dillon. With 450 skiable acres and 2,020 vertical feet, Maverick offers a relaxed environment with wide open skiing. Once the season opens, the resort is open ThursdaysSundays. Holiday operations are Dec. 26-Jan. 3, Jan. 18 and Feb. 15. Lifts operate from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
FULL-DAY, REGULAR SEASON TICKET PRICES AT MAVERICK MOUNTAIN ARE: Adult - $36 Junior (12 and Under) - $22 Senior (70+) - $25 Half-Day Rates are $26 for Adults, $16 for Juniors. Groups of 12 or more receive a discount; call 406-834-3454.
MAVERICK MOUNTAIN DETAILS Summit Elevation - 9,000 feet Base Elevation - 6,080 feet Trails - 24 Terrain - 30% Beginner, 40% Intermediate, 30% Expert Lifts - Chair Lift, Pony Lift Average Annual Snowfall - 250 inches
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For more information, visit www.skimaverick.com or call 406-834-3454.
S
HOWD OWN SKI AREA IS MONTANA’S oldest, open since 1936. It offers all natural snow across its 640 acres. Located off U.S. Hwy 89S near Neihart, MT, Showdown is in Meagher County in the Little Belt Mountains of Central Montana. Opening Day is Dec. 9, conditions permitting. Showdown will be open Dec. 9-11, closed Dec. 12-15, open daily except Christmas Day Dec. 16-Jan. 2. Starting Jan. 4, it is open Wednesday-Sunday, and open Martin Luther King Day and Presidents Day. Last day is April 2. Lifts run 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m.
FULL-DAY, REGULAR SEASON TICKET PRICES AT SHOWDOWN ARE: Adult (18-69) - $45 Military (with ID) - $40 Junior (6-12) - $25 Military Junior (with ID) - $23 College (with ID) - $40 Junior & Senior High (with ID) - $35 Senior (70+) - $35 Ages 5 and Under - Free Half-Day Rates are $40 for Adults
SHOWDOWN SKI AREA DETAILS Summit Elevation - 8,200 feet Base Elevation - 6,800 feet Trails - 36 Terrain - 30% Beginner, 40% Intermediate, 30% Expert Lifts - 1 Triple, 2 Double, 1 Surface Conveyor Average Annual Snowfall - 240 inches
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For more information, visit www.showdownmontana.com or call 406-236-5522. BIG SKY PUBLISHING WINTER DAYTRIPPER 2016
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RED LODGE MOUNTAIN
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HE 1,600-ACRE SKI AREA IS LOCATED in Custer National Forest. The mountain was named one of the 11 Most Underrated Ski Resorts in America by Business Insider in 2015, and the town of Red Lodge has been called the Coolest Ski Town You’ve Never Heard Of. Once the season opens, lifts run 9 a.m.-3:30 or 4 p.m. daily.
RED LODGE MOUNTAIN DETAILS
DISCOVERY SKI AREA
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O C AT E D N E A R P H I L I P S B U R G , M T, Discovery Ski Area offers 2,200 acres of great skiing terrain, including gently sloping runs, steeper groomed runs and mogul skiing. The season runs Nov. 24-April 9. Lifts run 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m.
FULL-DAY, REGULAR SEASON TICKET PRICES AT DISCOVERY ARE: Adult - $46 Child (12 and Under) - $24 Senior (65+) - $35 5 and Under - Free Half-Day Rates are $36 for Adults. Call for info on discounted Montana college/university student days and rates. Group rates for 20 or more.
DISCOVERY SKI AREA DETAILS Summit Elevation - 8,158 feet Trails - 67 Longest Run - Winning Ridge, 1.5 miles Terrain - 20% Beginner, 25% Intermediate, 25% Advanced, 30% Expert Lifts - 5 Triples, 2 Doubles 1 Surface Terrain Park - 2.5 acres (open Friday-Saturday) Cross-Country Skiing - 5km Average Annual Snowfall - 215 inches Snowmaking - 4 runs
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For more information, visit www.skidiscovery.com or call 406-563-2184. WINTER DAYTRIPPER 2016 BIG SKY PUBLISHING
Summit Elevation - 9,416 feet Base Area Elevation - 7,433 feet Trails - 65, 60 acres of glade skiing, 30 acres of advanced chute Longest Run - Lazy M, 2.5 miles Terrain - 17% Beginner, 45% Intermediate, 38% Advanced, 30% Expert Lifts - 1 Quad, 3 Double, 1 Triple, 1 Magic Carpet Terrain Park - 2.5 acres (open Friday-Saturday) Cross-Country Skiing - 5km Average Annual Snowfall - 250 inches Snowmaking - Full coverage on 31% of trails
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For more information, visit www.redlodgemountain.com or call 800-444-8977.
CROSS-COUNTRY SKIING
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HE NONPROFIT BRIDGER SKI FOUNDATION grooms 70 kilometers of trails in five areas around Bozeman: SUNSET HILLS (Lindley Park & Highland Glen, adjacent to Bozeman Health). Park at the Softball Complex on Ellis Street to access. HIGHLAND GLEN BRIDGER CREEK GOLF COURSE SOURDOUGH CANYON/BOZEMAN CREEK HYALITE CANYON, primarily groomed by the U.S. Forest Service with assistance from the ski foundation. Each venue has different guidelines for dogs, bikes and pedestrians. Dogs are allowed on groomed trails at Sourdough and Hyalite. Get details and season trail passes, $50 for individuals and $100 for families, at www.bridgerskifoundation.org. Passes also are available at Bangtail Bikes & XCSkies and Round House Sports.
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Find trail maps at www.bridgerskifoundation.org/ trails-maps/. BIG SKY PUBLISHING WINTER DAYTRIPPER 2016
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BOHART RANCH
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OHART RANCH CROSS COUNTRY SKI Center, 16 miles northeast of Bozeman, offers terrain for skiers of all abilities with 30 kilometers of trails that loop through private and Forest Service lands. The center is open 9 a.m.-4 p.m. December to April.
DAILY TRAIL FEES ARE: Adult - $15 Youth (7-12) - $8 Senior (70+) - Free Children 6 and Under - Free Season, 10-Time and MSU student passes are available. No credit cards, smoking or dogs. Bohart hosts several events through the season, including the Subaru of Bozeman Skinny Festival on Sunday, Jan. 8, 2017. It’s a day for the whole family to give Nordic skiing or ice skating a try, with $5 trail passes and ice skate rentals, free beginner classes at 9:30 a.m., noon and 2:30 p.m. Equipment and lesson space is limited; reservations are required. Call Bohart at 406-586-9070, beginning Jan. 4 for reservations.
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Learn more about Bohart Ranch at www. bohartranchxcski.com.
BEEHIVE BASIN SKI TRAIL A moderate five-kilometer single track loop near Big Sky.
LONE MOUNTAIN RANCH A professionally groomed 85-kilometer trail system 45 miles south of Bozeman on U.S. Highway 191.
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www.lonemountainranch.com.
WINTER DAYTRIPPER 2016 BIG SKY PUBLISHING
RENDEZVOUS SKI TRAILS Five kilometers of groomed trails near West Yellowstone. www.rendezvousskitrails.com.
YELLOWSTONE SKI FESTIVAL Enthusiasts from across the country – including biathlon and adaptive skiers – come for West Yellowstone’s Yellowstone Ski Festival, set for Nov. 22-26, 2016. There are tune-up clinics, gear demos, competitions for all levels including novice, kids activities, special events at the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center and apres ski events galore. West Yellowstone is the place to start racking up your seasonal Nordic kilometers. The town is one of the first places in the country to begin grooming trails, around Nov. 1. Plenty of places rent equipment for all ages, lessons are easy to find, and there are miles and miles of trails. Most streets in West are snow-packed, not plowed, so you can start skiing at your lodging’s door!
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For details, check out www.skirunbikemt.com and DestinationYellowstone.com.
SPORTS
HOCKEY
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ANT TO WATCH A GREAT WINTER sport, with plenty of athleticism, action, strategy and team rivalry – but indoors, so you stay warm? Get your hockey fix at Haynes Pavilion at the Gallatin County Fairgrounds. The Bozeman Icedogs are a Junior A Tier III hockey club that plays in the America West Hockey League. The team’s goal, besides winning, is to advance players to the Junior A tier I/II levels and collegiate hockey, and it has sent players to such high level programs as Michigan State, UConn, Air Force, North Dakota and more. Games go through the end of February.
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Find the Icedogs’ full schedule and more at www. bozemanicedogs.com.
Want to lace up your skates and get out on the ice yourself ? The Bozeman Amateur Hockey Association, now more than 700 members strong, has organized league play for youth and adults for more than 20 years. A nonprofit service organization, BAHA provides facilities and programs for the development of quality, affordable and disciplined competitive and recreational hockey. There’s a youth travel league, youth house league and adult league. The adult league is split into five ability levels from intro to advanced level. They all play at Haynes Pavilion at the Gallatin County Fairgrounds too.
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Visit www.bozemanhockey.org for more information.
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I’m on top of the world
…thanks to Pickle Barrel!
CURLING
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T’S THE OLYMPIC SPORT INVOLVING A STONE and brooms, and people on ice brushing the ice with brooms to try to get the stone into the house (target). It takes strategy and teamwork, and they call it chess on ice. The Bozeman Parks and Recreation Department and the Bozeman Curling Club are joining forces to offer a 2016-2017 Winter Curling League. Details will be announced closer to the season opening.
Serving the largest, freshest hot/ cold subs in the West
LEARN TO ICE SKATE
We have inside seating!
www.picklebarrelmt.com www.picklebarrelmt.com
1528773
We 587-2411 We Deliver! Deliver! 587-2411
Contact Parks and Rec for more information, www.bozeman.net/recreation or 406-582-2290.
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809W. W.College College •• Bozeman, 809 Bozeman,MT MT•• 10AM–10PM 10AM–10PM EVERYDAY EVERYDAY
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HE BOZEMAN FIGURE SKATING CLUB offers 12-week learn to ice skate classes for kids ages 4 and up and adults, for figure skating, hockey and recreational skating, also at the Haynes Pavilion. The smallgroup classes, from beginner to advanced skater levels, include instruction, ice time, USFSA membership, insurance and skate rental. The Winter One Session is underway.
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Visit www.bozemanskating.com for information on the next one.
ONCE WEATHER AND CONDITIONS ALLOW, THE CITY OF BOZEMAN WILL OPEN PUBLIC SKATING RINKS AT: SOUTHSIDE PARK 5th Avenue and College Street. BOGERT PARK 325 S. Church St.
Preserving the Past to Protect the Future... Jail Cells • Hanging Gallows • Photo Exhibits
BEALL PARK Villard Street and Black Avenue.
Research Center • Bookstore
317 W. Main | 406-522-8122 www.gallatinhistorymuseum.org 32
Rink hours are noon-10 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.
Admission $5 • Free for Museum Members and Children 12 & Under
WINTER DAYTRIPPER 2016 BIG SKY PUBLISHING
1529494
Winter Hours: Tues-Sat 11-4
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For rink conditions call the hotline, 406-582-2905.
Enjoy fresh, inspired, authentic Italian dishes prepared with the finest ingredients and pizzas from our wood-fired brick oven
Fine Italian Wines Beer Also Available
90 W. Madison Avenue • Belgrade • 388-2724 Serving Dinner • Tues–Sun 5-9 Reservations Recommended BIG SKY PUBLISHING WINTER DAYTRIPPER 2016
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GO BOWLING BOZEMAN BOWL 414 E. Babcock St., Bozeman, 406-586-5018. TREASURE LANES 1122 W. Front St., Livingston, 406-222.2566.
INDOOR ROCK CLIMBING
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PIRE CLIMBING CENTER, 13 ENTERPRISE Blvd., offers more than 12,000 square feet of roped climbing and an additional 5,000 square feet of bouldering in its facility. Hours are 6 a.m.-10:30 p.m. MondayFriday, 9 a.m.-10 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. The center offers clinics, beginner’s packages and more. Day passes are $17 for adults; $15 for students, military and seniors; $11.50 for youths ages 6-13; and $6.50 for ages 5 and under. Gear rentals are also available.
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Find out more at www.spireclimbingcenter.com or call 406-586-0706.
ENNIS FISH BOWL 59 Highway 287, Ennis, 406-682-7406. KING PIN LANES 1315 S. Montana St., Butte, 406-723-8172. STAR LANES 4600 Harrison Ave., Butte, 406-494-3898. SLEEPING GIANT LANES 3355 Tricia, Highway 12 East, Helena, 406-442-1004. LITTLE’S LANES 517 1st Ave. N., Great Falls, 1-888-452-4116. ELKS LANES 500 1st Ave. S., Great Falls, 406-454-1305. FIVE VALLEY CENTER 1515 Dearborn, Missoula, 406-549-4158. WESTSIDE LANES 1615 Wyoming St., Missoula, 406-721-5263. SILVER STRIKE LANES 609 N. Broadway, Red Lodge, 406-446-3131. VICTORY LANES 514 4th St., Deer Lodge, 406-846-0056. PICK’S BOWLING CENTER 2849 Highway 82, Bigfork, 406-837-2233. PIN N’ CUE LANES 6570 Highway 93 S, Whitefish, 406-862-7529.
ACTIVE WITH PARKS & REC
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HE BOZEMAN PARKS AND RECREATION Department provides opportunities for people of all ages to get active and learn something new, indoors and out, in every season. Check out the Fall & Winter 201617 Program Guide, available at Parks facilities and elsewhere in town, and online at www.bozeman.net/recreation.
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BASKETBALL GAMES
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HE MONTANA STATE UNIVERSITY MEN’S and women’s basketball teams start their seasons in early November at the Brick Breeden Fieldhouse. Full schedules can be found at www.msubobcats.com. Tickets are available at the Bobcat Ticket Office, 406-994-CATS (2287) or online at www.ticketswest.com.
VOLLEYBALL GAMES
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HE MONTANA STATE UNIVERSITY MEN’S and women’s volleyball teams have games scheduled through mid-November. The team plays at the university’s Shoyer Gym. A full schedule can be found at www. msubobcats.com. Tickets are available at the Bobcat Ticket Office at the Brick Breeden Fieldhouse or online at www. ticketswest.com.
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OTHER BASKETBALL VENUES: CARROLL COLLEGE, HELENA Info: www.carroll.edu. Tickets 406-447-4480 or www.ticketswest.com. MONTANA STATE UNIVERSITY BILLINGS Info: www.msubsports.com. Tickets available by calling 406-657-2369. MONTANA TECH, BUTTE Info: www.godiggers.com or 406-496-4337. Tickets: www.ticketswest.com. ROCKY MOUNTAIN COLLEGE, BILLINGS Info: www.rocky.edu/athletics.
Ticketing questions? Call 406-994-CATS (2287).
OTHER VOLLEYBALL VENUES: CARROLL COLLEGE, HELENA Info: www.carroll.edu. Tickets 406-447-4480 or www.ticketswest.com. MONTANA STATE UNIVERSITY BILLINGS Info: www.msubsports.com. Tickets available by calling 406-657-2369. MONTANA TECH, BUTTE Info: www.godiggers.com or 406-496-4337 Tickets: www.ticketswest.com. TAIN COLLEGE, BILLINGS Info: www.rocky.edu/athletics. BIG SKY PUBLISHING WINTER DAYTRIPPER 2016
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WESTERN FUN
SLEIGH RIDES SUNRISE PACK STATION, BOZEMAN
LONE MOUNTAIN RANCH, BIG SKY
Sunrise Pack Station offers daily wagon and sleigh rides (depending on snow) through the winter. Just a few miles from the hotels on North 7th Avenue, at 1099 Manley Rd., the trips take guests along the East Gallatin River. Half-hour and hourlong rides are available. The longer ride stops at a campfire for hot chocolate and holiday stories children are bound to love.
Lone Mountain Guest Ranch offers guests horse-drawn sleigh rides to the North Fork Cabin where dinner is cooked on an old-fashioned wood-fired stove and entertainment is provided by local singers and songwriters.
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Reservations are recommended. Visit sunrisepackstation.com for details and to book.
320 GUEST RANCH, BIG SKY 320 Guest Ranch offers one-hour appetizer or dessert sleigh rides Monday-Saturday from mid-December through March, depending on snow conditions. Private sleigh rides are also available.
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More information at www.320ranch.com/activities/onthe-ranch/winter-on-the-ranch or call 406-995-4283. WINTER DAYTRIPPER 2016 BIG SKY PUBLISHING
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Reservations are encouraged well in advance. Call 406-995-4644 or visit www.lonemountainranch.com.
BEARTOOTH WAGON & SLEIGH RIDES, RED LODGE Beartooth Wagon & Sleigh Rides offers sleigh rides December through March.
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For information, visit www.beartoothwagonandsleighrides.com.
SKI-JORING NATIONAL FINALS
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ED LODGE WILL HOST THE 2017 NATIONAL Finals Ski-Joring Races March 11-12, 2017, weather permitting. Ski-joring originated in Scandinavia as a form of winter transportation. The West has transformed it into a competition with teams of horse, rider and skier negotiating a 700-foot course. The horse and rider take a track to the inside of the course, while the skier in tow negotiates slalom gates and four jumps in hopes of completing two fast, clean runs over the two days. Awards go to the fastest combined times for the two-day event and the fastest times each day. In a separate “longest jump” competition, rider and horse pull their skier over one jump for the longest distance each day. The competition is held at the rodeo grounds west of town.
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For more information visit redlodgeskijoring.com.
MONTANA WINTER FAIR
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OW HELD ANNUALLY IN LEWISTOWN, the Montana Winter Fair has been celebrating agriculture, livestock and the western way of life for 72 years. It’s a great cure for cabin fever. This winter’s fair is Jan. 26-29, 2017 at the Central Montana Fairgrounds, the Eagles, Chokecherry Lane, Brooks Market and the Lewistown Art Center. Everyone who attends is invited to participate. Prior to 2003, Bozeman hosted the event. Activities include a Friday night concert, all breeds heifer show, team sorting, horsemanship clinic, dog show, quilt and fiber arts show, photography show, farm forum, trade show, pinewood derby, cooking contests and much more. Participants come from across Montana, Idaho, Wyoming, South Dakota and North Dakota.
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For details and an events schedule, visit www.montanawinterfair.com.
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INDOOR ACTIVITIES
GO ANTIQUING
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OOKING FOR SOME NEW OLD HOME DÉCOR? Something to add to a collection? Wanting to start a new collection of old things? Spend a day visiting area antique stores. Montana Camp Antiques 26 E. Main St., Belgrade, 406-388-0722. Downtown Antique 122 E. Main St., Bozeman, 406-586-0499. East Main Trading 702 E. Main St., Bozeman, 406-586-5670. The Last Wind-Up 11 E. Main St., Bozeman, 406-587-7209. Cactus Records 29 W. Main St., Bozeman, 406-587-0245. Antique Market & More 8332 Huffine Lane, Bozeman, 406-586-0985. JR Antiques 8332 Huffine Lane, Bozeman, 406-585-0445. Bozeman Country Mall Antiques 8350 Huffine Lane, 406-587-7688.
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WINTER DAYTRIPPER 2016 BIG SKY PUBLISHING
Antique Barn 77070 Gallatin Rd., Gallatin Gateway, 5 miles south of Four Corners, 406-763-4676. Cowboy Connection 110 S. Main St., Livingston, 406-222-0272. Out of the Blue Antiques 211 S. Main St, Livingston, 406-224-1559. Junk and Disorderly 619 E. Park St., Livingston, 406-224-5258. Juhnke’s Montana Junk Antiques 218 S. Main St., Livingston, 406-222-0982. The MainStreeter 206 S. Main St., Livingston, 406-333-2276. Mountain West Mercantile 205 S. Main St., Livingston, 406-223-8617 The Buckboard Mercantile 337 E. Main St., Ennis, 406-682-3775.
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For a listing of other shops around Montana, visit www.visitmt.com/things-to-do/shopping-and-leisure/ antique-stores.html.
TRY A LOCAL BREW MAYBE HARD CIDER OR KOMBUCHA? TRY THESE:
406 Brewing Company 101 E. Oak St., Suite D, Bozeman, www.406brewingcompany.com
Angry Hank’s 20 N. 30th St., Billings www.facebook.com/angryhanks
Bozeman Brewing Company 504 N. Broadway Ave., Bozeman, www.bozemanbrewing.com
Bayern Brewing 1507 Montana St., Missoula, www.bayernbrewery.com
Bozeman Taproom 321 E. Mendenhall St., Bozeman, www.bozemantaproom.com
Blackfoot River Brewing 66 S. Park Avenue, Helena, www.blackfootriverbrewing.com
Bridger Brewing Company 1609 S 11th Ave, Bozeman, www.bridgerbrewing.com
Carter’s Brewing 2526 Montana Ave., Billings, www.cartersbrewing.com.
Bunkhouse Brewery 1216 N. Lincoln St. A, Bozeman, www.bunkhousebrewery.com
Harvest Moon Brewery 7 5th St. S., Belt, www.harvestmoonbrew.com
MAP Brewing 510 Manley Rd., Bozeman, www.mapbrewing.com
Kettlehouse Brewing 602 Myrtle St., Missoula, www.kettlehouse.com
Madison River Brewing Company Building B, 20900 I-90 Frontage Rd, Belgrade, www.madisonriverbrewing.com
Lewis & Clark Brewing 1517 Dodge Ave., Helena, www.lewisandclarkbrewing.com
Outlaw Brewing 2876 N. 27th, Bozeman, www.outlaw-brewing.com
Red Lodge Ales Brewing Company 1445 N. Broadway Ave, Red Lodge, www. redlodgeales.com
White Dog Brewing 121 W. Main St. B, Bozeman www.whitedogbrewing.com
Quarry Brewing 124 W Broadway St., Butte, www.quarrybrewing.net
Lone Peak Brewery & Taphouse 48 Market Place, Big Sky, www.lonepeakbrewery.com
Uberbrew 2305 Montana Ave., Billings www.uberbrew.com
Beehive Basin Brewery 245 Town Center Ave., Big Sky, www.beehivebasinbrewery.com.
Montana Brewing Company 113 N. Broadway, Billings www.montanabrewingcompany.com
Katabatic Brewing Company 114 W. Park St., Livingston, www.katabaticbrewing.com
Draught Works 915 Toole Ave., Missoula www.draughtworksbrewery.com
Neptune’s Brewery 119 North L St., Livingston, www.neptunesbrewery.com
The Front Brewing Company 215 3rd St. NW, Great Falls www.thefrontbrewing.com
Lockhorn Cider House 21 S. Wallace Ave., www.lockhornhardcider.com Dean’s Zesty Booch 111 E. Oak St. F, www.deanszestybooch.com
CHECK OUT A DISTILLERY Bozeman Spirits Distillery 121 W. Main St., www.bozemanspirits.com Wildrye Distilling 101 E. Oak St. N, Bozeman, www.wildryedistilling.com Dry Hills Distillery 106 Village Center Rd., Bozeman, www.dryhillsdistillery.com Headframe Spirits 21 S. Montana St., Butte, www.headframespirits.com Whistling Andy 8541 Highway 35, Bigfork, www.whistlingandy.com Willie’s Distillery 312 Main St., Ennis, www.williesdistillery.com Trailhead Spirits 2314 Montana Ave., Billings, www.trailheadspirits.com Glacier Distilling Co. 10237 Highway 2 E, Coram (West Glacier), www.glacierdistilling.com Steel Toe Distillery 23545 Highway 200 E, Potomac, www.steeltoedistillery.com Montgomery Distillery 129 W. Front St., Missoula www.montgomerydistillery.com BIG SKY PUBLISHING WINTER DAYTRIPPER 2016
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HAVE FUN AND HELP A NONPROFIT EAGLE MOUNT CRYSTAL BALL NOV. 5, 2016 This black tie dinner auction benefits the nonprofit providing quality therapeutic recreational opportunities to people with disabilities and young people with cancer.
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5:30 p.m. start, at Montana Ale Works, 611 E. Main St., $175 a person, call 406-586-1781 for tickets and details.
HAVE A HEART ART AUCTION FEB. 4, 2017 This art auction benefits Reach, which has been empowering adults with disabilities since 1974.
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6:30 p.m. start, at The Commons, at Baxter and Love, $30 in advance, $40 at the door, call 406-587-1271 for tickets and details.
TAKE A COOKING CLASS BRIDGER KITCHENS 7540 Pioneer Way, 406-582-1001, bridgerkitchens.com.
CLAUDIA’S MESA Opening her new studio Nov. 19 at Red Tractor Pizza, 1007 W. Main St., and offering classes at 138 Starling Dr., 406539-8648, www.claudiasmesa.com.
OLIVELLE 2855 N. 19th Ave. K, 406-522-9100, olivelle.com.
1530803
THE HUMMINGBIRD’S KITCHEN
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WINTER DAYTRIPPER 2016 BIG SKY PUBLISHING
111 S. Grand Ave., 406-551-0645, www. thehummingbirdskitchen.com.
ENTERTAINMENT
DOWNTOWN BOZEMAN WINTER EVENTS
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HE DOWNTOWN BOZEMAN ASSOCIATION doesn’t quit hosting events once the summer ends. Winter events not to miss include:
WINTER ART WALK FRIDAY, DEC. 9, 6-8 P.M. Bozeman art galleries and retailers and the Emerson Center for Art & Culture, 111 S. Grand Ave., will present the Downtown Bozeman Winter Art Walk on Friday, Dec. 9, from 6-8 p.m. The businesses and galleries generally feature artists’ openings and receptions, with complimentary hors d’oeuvres and refreshments.
CRAZY DAYS FEB. 17-20, 2017 Some 150 downtown merchants offer sales on winter merchandise to get their stores ready for the new spring lines.
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Contact the Downtown Bozeman Association, 406-586-4008, www.downtownbozeman.org.
BIG SKY PUBLISHING WINTER DAYTRIPPER 2016
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ON CAMPUS
TAKE IN THE CHILDREN’S MUSEUM
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HEN THE KIDS GET ANTSY THIS WINTER, don’t forget that the Children’s Museum of Bozeman, 202 S. Willson Ave., has free Friday nights, 5-8 p.m., every second Friday of every month. Pizza is available for $1 a slice, courtesy of sponsor Tarantino’s Pizzeria, so dinner is easy. Then let the kids play and explore. Dates are Nov. 11, Dec. 9, Jan. 13, Feb. 10, March 10 and April 14. For details, visit www.cmbozeman.org or call 406-522-9087.
BE ENTERTAINED AT THE BRICK
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HE BRICK BREEDEN FIELDHOUSE AT MONTANA State University plays host to a number of concerts and shows throughout the year. Coming up:
BROADWAY IN BOZEMAN: Broadway Christmas in Wonderland Holiday Show, Dec. 6. Annie, Jan. 27. Rain, A Tribute to the Beatles, Feb. 27. Twentyone Pilots, Feb. 7. Eric Church, March 22.
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BROWSE THE WINTER FARMERS MARKET
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VERY OTHER SATURDAY FROM OCTOBER through November, the Farmers Market moves indoors to the Emerson Center for the Arts and Culture, 111 S. Grand Ave. Shoppers will find 25 food and farm product vendors offering eggs, cheeses, beef, pork, lamb, honey, bread, Montana grown grains, fermented vegetables, jams and syrups, soaps and salves, locally made dog treats, wool, coffee, hot breakfast and more all under one roof in the Emerson Ballroom. Hours are 9 a.m. to noon., except when it’s on break due to other events at the Emerson.
2016-17 MARKET DATES: Oct. 22
Nov. 5 & 19
Dec. 17
Jan 7 & 21
Feb. 4 & 18
March 4 & 18
ALSO:
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ONTANA STATE UNIVERSITY WILL HOLD its second Montana Hall Lighting Ceremony, open to students and staff, the public and alumni, at 6 p.m., Wednesday, Dec. 7. MSU’s Madrigal Singers will perform, and MSU President Waded Cruzado will give the welcome. Expect draft horses, a drum line and a countdown by MSU cheerleaders before thousands of festive lights illuminate Montana Hall. Gather at the Alumni Plaza and Bobcat Spirit Statue just north of the hall.
For tickets, call 406-994-2287. For information, 406-994-7117. brickbreeden.com. WINTER DAYTRIPPER 2016 BIG SKY PUBLISHING
April 1, 15 & 29
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For more information, visit www.bozemanwintermarket. com or contact Stephanie Archer, Market Manager at wintermarketbozeman@gmail.com.
GO DANCING
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he Bozeman Folklore Society’s annual Wintergreen Contra Dance Weekend of dancing, music and workshops is Jan. 27-29, 2017, at the Bozeman Senior Center, 807 N. Tracy Ave. Performers include Barefoot and Prodigal Sock Puppet; callers are Michael Hamilton and Roy Curet.
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More at www.bozemanfolklore.org.
BALLROOM DANCE BOZEMAN Winter events at the Bozeman Senior Center are on Oct. 29, 2016, and Feb. 11, 2017, with a DJ; Jan. 29, 2017, with live music from HighLites. On New Year’s Eve, the party at the Bozeman Masonic Temple, 14 S. Tracy Ave., features live music from the Sugar Daddies ($25). All events start at 8 p.m.
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More at www.ballroomdancebozeman.com.
BOZEMAN SWING This volunteer-run swing dance club offers lessons and events twice a month.
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More at www.bozemanswing.com.
BOZEMAN TANGO This nonprofit has regular events, plus lessons, at a couple of locations around town.
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More at bozemantango.com.
HAVE FUN DANCING OF BOZEMAN Since 1993, this studio has offered beginner to advanced classes in swing, country, tango, salsa and more at 414 Bryant St.
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More at www.havefundancing.com or call 406-763-4735.
MSU SWING CAT This group has dances regularly at multiple locations.
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More at www.facebook.com/msuswingcats.
D AY T R I P P E R
UMME 2016 S
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P U B L I C AT I O A SPECIAL
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CLE I LY C H R O N I OZEMAN DA N OF THE B
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LOOK FOR THE NEW
SUMMER EDITION JUNE 2017 BIG SKY PUBLISHING WINTER DAYTRIPPER 2016
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BIG SKY BIG GRASS FESTIVAL
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HE BIG SKY BIG GRASS FESTIVAL OF bluegrass music takes the stage at Big Sky Resort Feb. 9-12, 2017. Bands include Sam Bush Band, the Travelin’ McCourys,the Del McCoury Band, Billy Strings, Drew Emmitt Band and more. Tickets are available on line. For information, visit www.facebook.com/bigskybiggrass.
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MOVIES & ARTS
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ERFORMING & VISUAL ARTS ORGANIZATIONS and venues offering programming in southwest Montana this winter include:
THE BOZEMAN FILM SOCIETY Presenting classic, documentary and independent films monthly at the Ellen Theatre.
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Visit bozemanfilmsociety.org.
THE BOZEMAN SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA Presenting classical music and guest soloists monthly at the Willson Auditorium, 404 W. Main St.
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Visit bozemansymphony.org.
THE ELLEN THEATRE Offering an ever-changing menu of music and performers from around the world, 17 W. Main St.
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Visit www.theellentheatre.com.
THE EMERSON CENTER FOR THE ARTS & CULTURE Classes for all ages, plus galleries and changing exhibits, 111 S. Grand Ave.
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Visit theEmerson.org. WINTER DAYTRIPPER 2016 BIG SKY PUBLISHING
INTERMOUNTAIN OPERA BOZEMAN Presenting Sondheim’s “A Little Night Music” in February.
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Visit intermountainopera.org.
KALEIDOSCOPE YOUTH THEATER Offering workshops and performances regularly for young people of all ages.
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Visit kytbozeman.org.
THE MONTANA CHAMBER MUSIC SOCIETY Presenting an assortment of performers at Montana State University’s Reynolds Recital Hall on S. 11th Avenue.
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Visit www.montanachambermusicsociety.org.
THE OPEN DOOR THEATER Presenting Julian Wiles’ “Helium” March 10-26, with auditions in January 2017.
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Visit opendoorbozeman.org.
THE VERGE THEATER Comedy, improv, stage plays, children’s theater and more at 2304 N. 7th Ave., across from Murdoch’s Ranch and Home Supply.
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Visit vergetheater.com.
THE BLUE SLIPPER THEATER 113 E. Callender St., blueslipper.com. THE SHANE LALANI CENTER FOR THE ARTS 415 E. Lewis St., www.theshanecenter.org.
FACTS & FIGURES MONTANA WEATHER STATS
DISTANCES FROM BOZEMAN TO MONTANA CITIES:
BOZEMAN AVERAGE TEMPERATURES
Big Sky............................................ 43.8 miles | 54 min.
October.........................................................Hi 59/Lo 32 November....................................................Hi 43/Lo 22 December.....................................................Hi 34/Lo 13 January.........................................................Hi 36/Lo 14
Billings...............................143.3 miles | 2 hour 15 min.
February......................................................Hi 39/Lo 16 March............................................................Hi 48/Lo 23
Source: weather.com
Butte......................................86.4 miles | 1 hour 16 min. Helena...................................99.6 miles | 1 hour 38 min. Livingston...................................... 25.1 miles | 26 min. Missoula...............................205.8 miles | 3 hour 6 min. West Yellowstone..............89.5 miles | 1 hour 46 min. Whitehall....................................... 62.28 miles | 56 min.
AVERAGE ANNUAL SNOWFALL Bozeman.....................................................................86” Big Sky Resort...................................................... 400+” Bridger Bowl Ski Area..........................................350” Discovery Ski Area................................................210” Maverick Mountain...............................................180” Red Lodge Mountain.............................................250” Showdown Ski Area..............................................245”
Sources: wintermt.com, bigskyresort.com, montana.edu
TO PLACES FURTHER AFIELD: Anchorage, AK............................2,618 miles | 50 hour Denver, CO...........................694 miles | 9 hour 49 min. Los Angeles, CA.............1096 miles | 16 hour 22 min. New York, NY...............................2183 miles | 30 hour Pocatello, ID.........................247 miles | 4 hour 18 min. Seattle, WA...........................677 miles | 9 hour 59 min. Salt Lake City, UT...............404 miles | 6 hour 30 min.
d a e h d e l s
n e v hea TEST YOUR SKILLS
Our performance mountain snowmobiles have longer tracks, deeper lugs and more CC’s. Ride the Upper Tepee Basin, Lion’s Head or Centennial Mountain Range** and while on these backcountry adventures, you will glide through deep powder and breathtaking terrain. **Your safety is our number one priority, so all guests taking these tours will be required to take a short, onsite avalanche training course. Avalanche packs will be supplied at an additional cost.
800.221.1151
EXPERIENCED OR NEW TO BOONDOCKING
GUIDED RIDES
We have a sled for you. Ride a 2017 Arctic Cat M8000 SnoPro, or if you’re new to mountain riding, try a Ski-Doo MXZ Sport. Want more power? We carry a large selection of late model powder or mountain sleds from Arctic Cat, Polaris and Ski-Doo.
Join a group (maximum of 10 people), put away your map, and let a local guide fill your day with fun, thrills and scenery. We also have daily guided trips to Two Top Mountain designed for riders of all abilities. Call for pricing and availability and don’t forget your camera.
West Yellowstone, Montana