Bridger Bowl
Bridger Bowl Ski Area beside Bozeman in Montana was opened to the public in 1955 and remains a popular non-profit ski area. Although it may not have the glitz of other ski resorts, Bridger Bowl offers an amazing ski and ride experience, without the hefty prices. Well-known for its ‘cold smoke’ snow, Bridger is ideal for extreme sports enthusiasts as well as a great ski area for the entire family. With some of the best downhill skiing and most stunning views in the Northern Rocky Mountains, Bridger Bowl Ski Area is an absolute delight.
Whether you are a skier or snowboarder, you will have a fantastic time exploring the 71 trails covering 1,500 acres of Bridger Bowl Ski Area bordered by two massive bowls in the south and north. The diverse landscape, with a total vertical of 2,600 feet, features glades, gullies, chutes and bowls. Bridger Bowl’s terrain is great for newcomers, as well as offering some challenges for seasoned skiers. The runs are categorized as follows: 25% beginner, 35% intermediate, 30% advanced and 10% extreme. Receiving some 350 inches of snow each year, visitors are guaranteed to enjoy excellent ski conditions. A total of 7 ski lifts will whisk you up the bright white slopes of Bridger Bowl into the vast winter playground. Expert skiers can hike 400 feet up to Ridge. Here they can venture across snowy fields, chutes and challenging rock cliffs. Those who want to learn to ski or brush up on their skills can make their way to the Snowsports School. Certified instructors will assist you to ski the slopes in confidence whilst creating a fun learning environment.
Bridger Bowl Ski Area boasts three convenient full-service lodges, namely Jim Bridger Lodge, Saddle Peak Lodge and Deer Park Chalet. The main lodge offers equipment rental, child care and a hotel shuttle. Visitors have several dining options to quell the hunger pangs. At Jim Bridger Lodge there is a cafeteria, Jimmy B’s Bar & Grill as well as Faceshots. The other two lodges at Bridger Bowl also have excellent cafeterias. Accommodation is available at the nearby town of Bozeman, were you can choose from hotels, guest houses and B&Bs.
As winter draws to an end and the snow begins to melt, the good times roll on at Bridger Bowl Ski Area. A whole new set of recreational activities opens up in summer including hiking, mountain biking, river rafting, kayaking, fly fishing, rock climbing and camping to mention a few. This truly is a superb all-seasons vacation destination.