Bozeman (Winter)

Bozeman, home of Montana State University, lies at the foot of the Gallatin Valley, surrounded by mountains. It’s a lovely setting, and Bozeman makes the most of its physical attributes, with hiking and skiing practically out the back door. The state’s largest ski area is at Big Sky, about 30 minutes south of town, where about 150 trails lace two mountains, with the top of Lone Peak (the larger mountain) just a tram ride away. On Lone Peak's north face, find a newer and smaller ski area, Moonlight Basin. Halfway up the mountain, Lone Mountain Ranch is a great destination for cross-country skiers. Although many Big Sky-area skiers and ...

Bozeman, home of Montana State University, lies at the foot of the Gallatin Valley, surrounded by mountains. It’s a lovely setting, and Bozeman makes the most of its physical attributes, with hiking and skiing practically out the back door. The state’s largest ski area is at Big Sky, about 30 minutes south of town, where about 150 trails lace two mountains, with the top of Lone Peak (the larger mountain) just a tram ride away. On Lone Peak's north face, find a newer and smaller ski area, Moonlight Basin. Halfway up the mountain, Lone Mountain Ranch is a great destination for cross-country skiers. Although many Big Sky-area skiers and snowboarders stay somewhere on the mountain (plenty of lodging from the valley floor to the lifts), it’s an easy enough drive from town. An even easier commute from Bozeman is Bridger Bowl, the locals’ favorite ski area. Much of what makes Bozeman such a great destination for a traveler is its handsome old downtown, with excellent restaurants, art galleries, lodging options ranging from budget motels to high-quality B&Bs, and an outgoing, youthful population.

About the Expert

Judy Jewell and W.C. McRae are frequent collaborators: together they have written Moon Handbooks to Montana, Utah, and Zion-Bryce and updated the Moon Handbooks to Oregon and Coastal Oregon. Judy wrote the Compass American Guide to Oregon.