Itinerary
Bridger Bowl Ski Weekend in Bozeman
A ski weekend at Bridger Bowl – just outside of Bozeman, Montana – is a treat for any level of skier. This non-profit community ski area is loved by residents and visitors alike for its incredible terrain, light, fluffy snow, and laid-back vibe.
In its earlier days, Bridger Bowl was known for having some of the best inbound extreme skiing in the country, turning out skiing pioneers such as Tom Jungst and Scot Schmidt. The Ridge, accessed by hiking or riding Slushman's Lift, requires avalanche equipment, knowledge of the area, and expert skills. It is also some of the most incredible skiing in Montana.
Since then, Bridger Bowl has expanded its beginner and intermediate terrain, creating a vast playground for those just learning to ski or snowboard. The base area spans seven acres of gentle slopes with two covered moving carpets and a warming hut. Its Snowsports School offers private, group, and adaptive lessons to advance any level of skills.
It's an intimate ski area with down-home roots, great terrain, and spectacular views, and we've got some ideas to help you plan a fantastic weekend at Bridger Bowl.
Getting to Bozeman
Getting to Bozeman is easier than you think. Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport has nonstop service to over 20 destinations this winter. If you’re renting a car, 4-wheel or all-wheel drive is recommended during the winter - it’s helpful to make your way to the mountain!
If you're driving to Bozeman, I-90 and US-191 both lead to Bozeman. US-191 is a gorgeous drive, but the road is winding and heavily trafficked, so it's best to drive it in the daylight.
Where to Stay to Visit Bridger Bowl
Several hotels right off I-90 provide easy access to Bridger Canyon, which leads to Bridger Bowl. Near the N. 19th Exit, Comfort Suites-Airport University or Country Inn and Suites by Radisson both offer spacious rooms. The C'Mon Inn boasts five hot tubs, an enticing option after a long ski day. Holiday Inn Express is also nearby, and all these locations are close to one of Bozeman's shopping hubs.
Just off the N. 7th exit, you'll find Springhill Suites and the Hilton Garden Inn.
Day 1
Gear Up and Explore Bozeman
If you're looking for rentals, Round House Ski and Sports Center is easy to get to and has plenty of parking. You can also rent gear at Bridger Bowl. Once you are geared up for the weekend, explore downtown Bozeman. The dining, boutique shops, art galleries, and entertainment venues such as Rialto or Ellen Theatre draw you into this charming Main Street.
Stop into the Sky Shed for a libation. It's on the roof of the Kimpton Armory Hotel and has the best view in town. Pop downstairs for dinner at Fielding's or Squire House in the Element Hotel just down the street.
Day 2
Hit the Slopes at Bridger Bowl!
Ghost Town Coffee Roasters is located just off Bridger Canyon Road. It has delicious coffee, an in-house bakery, and quick breakfast options.
If you'd rather not make the drive up the canyon yourself, Bridger Bowl offers free bus service to and from the mountain.
Once you're there, lunch is available at each of the four lodges on the hill. (The french fries at Jim Bridger Lodge are a local favorite.)
The mountain is laid out with beginner slopes at the base and intermediate runs in the middle served by Alpine, Powder Park, and Pierre's Knob lifts. Bridger Lift services expert terrain. View the Trail Map for more details.
Bridger has a nice mixture of groomers, ungroomed chutes and gullies, and some long, steep mogul runs – something for all levels of skiers and riders. Their Mountain Hosts offer free mountain tours to help you familiarize yourself. Tours meet at the bottom of the Sunnyside chairlift by the mountain trail sign. No signup or registration is required.
Warm Up With a Hearty Dinner
When you’re done skiing for the day, dinner options are vast and varied in Bozeman. If you're craving Thai food, Rice Fine Thai or Sweet Chili Asian Bistro are both excellent. gute Laune (beer and brats) or Pho Sai Gon are also great options for unique meals. For a casual dinner, Sidewall Pizza Company in the Emerson Cultural Center has delicious pies and salads that can be served family-style.
Soak in Hot Springs
If you're feeling up for a soak, Bozeman Hot Springs has twelve pools with varying temperatures. It also has live music, a sauna, a cold plunge, and a complete fitness center. (Keep in mind that it opens at sundown on Saturday nights.)
Day 3
Brunch, Shopping and Shredding
For the die-hard shredders, another full day on the mountain gives you ample time to explore new areas or return to the slopes you enjoyed the most. Bridger Bowl offers a half-day pass beginning at 12:30 p.m. for the not-so-hard-core skiers and snowboarders. This option gives you time to catch a little extra shuteye and treat yourself to a nice brunch.
Ponderosa Social Club has an excellent menu, including an omelet bar, chicken and waffles, and chilaquiles. Tanglewood also has a nice brunch.
This is also a great time to shop for a piece of Bozeman to take home. Montana Gift Corral carries various Montana-made gifts (including huckleberry treats) and clothing. If you love jewelry, Montana Silversmiths has a storefront on Main Street, and for a sweet pair of cowboy boots or western apparel, you can't beat the quality of Lucchese Bootmaker.
Of course, Bridger Bowl has its own merch, which you can purchase online or in their retail store on the hill.
Enjoy apres' ski with hot cocoa or a cold beverage on the deck of Saddle Peak or Jim Bridger Lodges at the base of the hill. Wrap up your trip with dinner at the ever-lively Montana Ale Works in the historic Northern Pacific freight building.
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