As warmer weather settles into the mountains, snow has been melting, the river is roaring and the first signs of summer have begun to appear. Spring is a transitional time in Big Sky where one can find themselves skiing and sun bathing on the same day. Once the ski lifts close, many retreat to the backcountry to hike and earn their last turns of the year. Spring is typically a safer environment regarding avalanche danger. It is also a beautiful time to hike with the sun warming your back and you ascend ridges in virtual solitude and make fresh tracks, even if it is on corn snow until the white disappears from the hillsides.
Memorial Day Weekend is traditionally when the Beartooth Pass opens along the Beartooth Highway which is South of Columbus, MT and near Red Lodge Mountain. Backcountry skiers flood the area from all surrounding areas of Montana to get one last chance to shred world class terrain before enjoying the Rocky Mountain summer’s treasures. Big Sky ski bums were no exception. We packed our cars, trucks and campers full of brats, ski boots, tents and beer and then headed out to the Rock Creek campground at the base of the pass. It was a joyous occasion and a bit of a reunion for many of us who had not seen each other since the chair lifts closed at Big Sky and Moonlight ski resorts. There were a few large camp-sites filled with Big Sky skiers, our campsite had about twenty of us. We spent the first night partying around the warm campfire, excited to get back on the snow the next day and excited to see each other again. Saturday morning we rose, filled ourselves with coffee and food, and then headed up the pass. The Beartooth Pass ascends to 10,947 feet and resembles somewhat of a large plateau, but is surrounded by 20 peaks, which reach over 12,000 feet. Glaciers are abundant in the Beartooth Mountains. From Red Lodge we ascended over 4,000 feet in 15 miles. The Beartooths are breathtaking and are filled with lakes, forests and of course abundant wildlife.
We began our day at a turnout which was filled with skiers, many we recognized. We left a few vehicles at the turnout and shuttled up toward the Rock Creek headwall. I jumped into the back of my friend’s pickup truck filled with skis in my t-shirt and enjoyed the scenic ride to the top. There was a small hike ahead of us and then we descended to a fabulous chute on the Rock Creek headwall. The corn snow is very different to ski; it is difficult to carve a perfect turn because the edges of the skis slide on the round snow. But I didn’t let that stop me from enjoying the first few steep turns into the narrow entrance and down around the cliff walls. The views were incredible as I peered down this incredibly long and dynamic run. The Rock Creek Headwall was so much fun; we had to it twice that day. Other great places to ski in the Beartooths include Gardiner Headwall, 57 Chevy and Hidden Couloir.
Skier, friend and all around wonderful guy; Eric Hansen was definitely not missed at the Beartooths. Eric is the owner and creative remodeler of the Powder Bandit Ski Bus. The Powder Bandit is a mid-size school bus once used for a school sports team. Eric bought the bus and remodeled the interior to be an ideal mobile ski condo for him and his girlfriend Allison. A kitchen, dining area, two beds and ample storage space fill the interior while the exterior houses ski racks and a lockable storage compartment. Eric truly holds a genuinely positive and inviting outlook. Eric shuttled skiers up the pass Saturday and Sunday so that many could enjoy the skiing. A true public servant, Eric Hansen deserved much more than the bottle of wine I gifted to him as a ‘thank you’ for shuttling.
Spring is also the most exciting time to raft the whitewater. As the snow melts from the surrounding mountains it drains into the Gallatin River creating wild whitewater. The water is so high that often the raft companies do not take commercial trips through the notorious “Mad Mile” section of the Gallatin River. However there are plenty of whitewater thrills to be had in the upper section of the river. The staff at Buck’s T-4 is looking forward to rafting the upper section next week!
As one drives on 191 in the scenic canyon between Big Sky and Bozeman, one will see many kayakers running and playing in the rapids as well as commercial and private rafting boats. The river comes alive in June and the canyon is filled with whitewater enthusiasts. If you have some space in your vehicle and you don’t mind company, be sure to pull over and give one of these guys a lift. Montana may be the last place on Earth where hitchhiking is still common practice and a fine opportunity for friendly conversation and meeting new neighbors. Kayakers and rafters often must hitchhike in order to get back up or down the river to their vehicle.
The last of the spring showers is moving through Big Sky now and summer season has officially begun at Buck’s T-4. This summer Buck’s is offering unbeatable value with activity packages. Choose a la carte from whitewater rafting, fly-fishing, horseback riding and Yellowstone Tours. You can plan your whole Montana vacation by staying at Buck’s T-4. Travelers will not find a better deal in town for hotel and activities than they will at Buck’s T-4.
Buck’s Pub offers $10 Steak Night every Wednesday. Hand cut steaks average about 10 oz. and are cooked to order and served with salad, baked potato and steamed vegetables. Buck’s Pub is serving a barbeque themed menu this summer.
Buck’s Main Dining Room continues its tradition of offering elegantly prepared wild game; hand cut prime grade steaks, delicacies and an award-winning wine list. If you are visiting Big Sky don’t miss this diamond in the rough. Buck’s Main Dining room has been acclaimed in publications such as Gourmet, Bon Appétit and Wine Spectator.
Call 1-800-822-4484 or (406) 995-4111 to plan your Montana experience and get the best value in Big Sky.
Hopefully I will see you in Big Sky enjoying all of Montana’s fabulous treasures.
Sunny days and best wishes,
Erin
