Skiing in the "Big Sky country"

     You might be considering down hill or cross country skiing in the near future.and if so, you might want to know this information to choose where to go to  enjoy the sport. Many areas in the Big Sky country can provide you with thrills and beauty all in one.  After having lived in Montana for 30 years, I can be your guide to  both down hill and cross country skiing. 

     Northwestern Montana holds some nice invitations to winter skiing from the beginner to the experienced person. All ages are found to" take to the hills", really mountains, for enjoyment of the winter activities in the Big Sky country. Ski rental,  with all the gear needed, can be readily available for the person wanting to get their feet wet in Montana ski areas. Some resorts give lessons as well, so beginners don't have to go on their own.

    Cross country skiing equipment can be rented at some sporting goods stores. Sportsman and Ski house in Kalispell, Montana is well equipped to get you on your way to enjoying the scenery while sliding along on well groomed trails or going down hill. Meadow Lake golf course in Columbia Falls permit cross country skiiing on the greens, during the winter months. The wide open spaces there  give the cross country skier a great view of the  close mountain ranges. There is condo rental on the premises for onsite, overnight accomodations. The saw shop and engine repair on Necleus Ave.in Columbia Falls will rent cross country skis for a fun filled time without the hastle of bringing your own equipment when you travel. If you have some time to scout out other places to cross country ski, consider going to Glacier National Park.  The park is closed for motorized travel past McDonald Lake, yielding lots of quiet, serene, pleasant hours for the cross country skier.The wildllife abounds in the Park.

   Down hill skiing is widespread in the Flathead Valley. Big Mountain in Whitefish, Montana is so well known that it was rated in the top 20 of the United States a few years ago for down hill skiing. Accommodations  and ski rentals are available on site. Slopes range from bunny to advanced with some instruction available somedays. Blacktail Mountain in Lakeside, Montana gives you a smaller skiing adventure and none the less exciting. Bridger Bowl in Bozeman bring you out of the Flathead Valley with a wonderful opportunity to down hill ski with sightseeing to boot. The college town is close by for all the conveniences one would need.

    Plan on skiing in Montana soon and experience the wonder of the slopes and breath-taking scenery. Have fun in the Big Sky Country!