Alpine valley views and seriously expert trails make Montana Snowbowl a favorite with residents from Missoula, which is only 20 minutes away, with the students from the University of Montana, as well as with skiers visiting Montana and the Rocky Mountains. You will feel like you are in the Rocky Mountains when you drive to the Snow Bowl and the road turns from paved to five miles of gravel!
It has 5,000 feet of elevation, 300 inches of snow every year, and a lot of light powder that you can even enjoy off trail and between the trees. For expert skiers, it is really ideal. The two chair lifts take you to the top. Paradise trail is a long three mile glide while the aptly named Grizzly trail is a steep heart-racing experience which drops you 2,000 feet to the bottom. Intermediate skiers have a good choice of wide nicely groomed runs off the back side of the Snow Bowl.
Montana Snow Bowl is big on education. It has tons of programs for children and teens, a For Women Only program for women to learn how to snowboard, telemark and ski; a First Timers program; and a six-week program for kids. There is not a large area for beginners, so the education program gives you a good opportunity to get the most out of your skiing easier slopes.
There's a great on site alpine style lodge called Gelandesprung Lodge where you can stay for a very affordable rate. Even their two room suites are amazingly good value. It has a hot tub and kitchen facilities. You can also book the C'mon Inn, which has an open atrium in the lobby with a fireplace, giving it an après ski ambiance. Also there's a Staybridge Suites hotel nearby, an all suite hotel. Each suite has a full kitchen. Montana Jack's, a popular eating establishment, is right across the road for dinner if you don't feel like cooking in your suite. And if you want to stay in a "mansion", try booking the Gibson Mansion B&B, a gorgeous Victorian home with great décor and really comfortable big rooms.
For a fun night out try the Silk Road Restaurant. It serves global cuisine, so each of the dishes are from a different country, from Spanish tapas to French to Chinese noodles. And if you are in Missoula you can't miss Bayern Brewing, a microbrewery that has been in operation for 25 years. It is known for its German-Bavarian style beer. You can wash down your brew with their bratwurst and German style pretzels.
The University of Montana is located in the town of Missoula as well, which has great shopping, galleries, museums, and restaurants to enjoy. On non-ski days you can visit the Art Museum of Missoula, the Historical Museum at Fort Missoula, go to concerts at The Wilma Theater, or ride on the beautifully hand carved carousel downtown.
You can even visit the local wineries! Try Missoula Winery for tastings and music evenings and events. Or try Ten Spoon Winery, maker of organic wines. Their National Park wines with specially designed labels for Glacier Park and Yellowstone make great gifts!
View Larger Map
