Press Release

The Biggest Skiing in America Just Got Bigger

BIG SKY, Mont. - As if 5,300 acres were not enough terrain to explore in a day, if not a lifetime, Big Sky has announced it will open the Dakota Territories for the 2006-07 season. Dakota is accessed from the Lone Peak Tram and is located directly west of Liberty Bowl. The addition will bring the official acreage between the Big Sky, Moonlight Interconnect to 5,512 acres and Big Sky's terrain to 3,812 acres.

Dakota Territories is primarily open bowl, above tree line skiing at an intermediate angle. The run out includes well-spaced, natural glades that border Bavarian Forest. After the giant sweeping open bowl turns, the run contains plenty of natural rollers and kickers before reaching the exit. At the bottom there is a path through the forest that connects with the Hippy Highway, the road that leads to the bottom of Shedhorn. From there skiers and riders will be able to go back to the front of Lone Mountain.

"We made history last season by partnering with Moonlight Basin to create the largest skiable acreage in the U.S. on one ticket," said Big Sky general manager, Taylor Middleton. "We're pleased to announce that the biggest just got bigger."

The new terrain complements the healthy dose of some of the most varied lift accessible terrain in North America. Big Sky's beginner area underwent extensive reconstruction this summer with the addition of a third magic carpet and a tube park. Intermediates have their hands full with access to Andesite Mountain which offers three high-speed lifts with big, wide, blue intermediate cruisers that are regularly groomed.

The real treat is for the adrenaline-fueled advanced and expert skiers who can explore the steeps on the Challenger chair and the Lone Peak Tram. The 11, 166 foot tall Lone Peak offers never-ending, Alps-like terrain between a series of open bowls, tight couloirs and technical gullies. The steepest parts of the south wall of Lone Peak are 50 degrees where the next turn requires faith and skill instead of vision. Dakota Territories will fit snugly in the overwhelming menu of choices for Big Sky skiers spread over three mountains and 5,512 acres.