What is your favorite thing to do in the winter? Put on your pajamas and read a book, hike the Ridge and cut fresh tracks down the mountain, or sip hot chocolate at the Christmas Stroll?
Whatever your favorite winter pastime is, you will find Bozeman to be an active community during the winter. Here are 10 activities, listed in no particular order, to keep you entertained as the snow falls.
- ICE SKATING: This is a popular activity to keep you in shape during the holiday season. Beall, Bogert, and Southside City Parks offer public ice skating access.
- BOBCAT SPORTS: Spend an evening cheering on the Bobcat Men’s and Women’s basketball teams. The Bobcats will be running sidelines until March 2016.
- SKIING: This is one of the most beloved sports of the Gallatin Valley. Whether you ride down the mountain on a one, two, or three skis, downhill skiing is a community favorite. If you don’t have a need for speed, you can also find access to many local cross country ski trails.
- WARM SPRINGS: Dethaw yourself after a day in the snow by visiting Norris or Bozeman Hot Springs. There’s nothing better than relaxing in the natural springs of Montana — there must something special in the water here.
- HOCKEY: Montana doesn’t host a professional team, however, the allows us to put our full attention into our college athletic programs and the Bozeman Icedogs. The Icedogs are a Junior A Tier III hockey club in Bozeman. Support the team and attend a game this season.
- SNOWMOBILING: Hop on your snowmobile and head west. You will find many trails to ride as you navigate the canyon toward Big Sky, or hit up the party at the 2015 West Yellowstone Snowmobile Expo.
- ICE CLIMBING: This has been a secret passion for many Bozemanites for decades. Hyalite Canyon was discovered as the home to “the most reliable and concentrated ice climbing in the United States” in the 70’s. Join the daring at this year’s Bozeman Ice Climbing Festival.
- CHRISTMAS STROLL: Held annually during the first weekend in December, this event is not to be missed. Enjoy local food vendors and horse-drawn wagon rides on Main Street, and don’t miss Santa Clause as he lights up the downtown holiday lights.
- SNOWSHOEING: An adventurous winter activity, snowshoeing allows you to revisit your favorite hiking trails from the summer in a new way. Consider visiting one of the many trails in Bridger Canyon and make your own path across the thick blankets of snow.
- ICE FISHING: Grab your auger and fishing pole and head up to Hyalite Canyon. Ice fishing begins the end of December, but don’t forget to put your snow tires on before traveling the canyon.
Hopefully, this list has sparked your excitement for the upcoming winter season in Bozeman. So next time you find yourself in this corner of the Treasure State, consider doing on one of these activities and immerse yourself in our winter wonderland.
Image via BozemanNet
