No fresh snow? A scenic Tram ride for 360 degree views of 3 different states is still well worth it.
AFTER A FULL WEEK of school in Bozeman, it was nice to get back to Big Sky last weekend for some snowboarding – the life of a weekend warrior can be a rough one when you’re forced to hit the books instead of the slopes five days a week.
It was sunny and warm out, and I was fortunate enough to have my parents in town for the weekend. Both in their 50s, my parents keep up with the best of them –not only did they ride with my friends all day long, but they rode longer than I did on both days. While my mom dialed in her skiing techniques on a few groomers, my dad, Ed, and I were able to tear around the open terrain.
After some fun Swift Current laps, the word was that the Tram was opening for scenic rides and runs on the Big Couloir. Usually when I take the Tram, it’s an excited ride up and then a quick strap-in before I hit the runs off the top. But with such calm weather, we decided it would be worth it to take our time and kick it on the peak for a while.
It was an eerie ride up with only the two of us in the Tram, instead of the usual shoulder-to-shoulder crowd and excited buzz. At the top, all was peaceful and the Tetons were well in our view. We had the whole summit to ourselves and found ourselves lost in the beauty of the view of most of Southwest Montana.
After we left for the weekend, a storm rolled in on Wednesday leaving the peak covered in nine more inches of snow. Another foot came in on top Thursday night, and word from Ski Patrol is Liberty Bowl and Marx may be open for this weekend. I’m excited for the fresh powder, but I’m glad I got a chance to take in a purely scenic tram ride before the frenzy of fresh lines sets in. It’s that kind of thing that reminds you that riding is more than just making turns – you can’t beat a sunny day outside with family, friends, and a killer view.
- Big Sky rider and snowboard ambassador Shane Stalling
Get more news on the latest snowfall on the Big Sky Resort Snow Report.
Check out shots of Shane Stalling's riding at Ryan Kirk Phtography.
Go to 0:56 for shots of Shane in the terrain park during Big Sky's Opening Week.
A powder day Tram lap involves shouldering up to 14 other skiers and riders. Try ditching your skis or board at least once a season to spend some time just taking in the view at 11,166 feet.
When Stalling can't ski powder like this, no sweat. Any day spent on the mountain is a good day.
Stalling hits the books all week long, but come Saturday, it's the slopes he's hitting.
