The Way I Ski It: Big Sky Resort's Blog

Sunshine and Bluebird Skies: A telling sign of golf rounds to come

5/21/2013 4:11:00 PM
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THE BEAUTIFUL SPRING weather of recent is a telling sign of summer golf rounds to come and a wait that is almost over.

With the course scheduled to open this Friday May 24th, it’s time to bust out the clubs, give them a good cleaning, and brush up on your swing. But if you’re feeling a little rusty, look no further than Big Sky Resort’s PGA Golf Professional, Mark Wehrman. Coming into his 2nd year with Big Sky, Mark is eager to get things underway and with his expert instruction, he’ll get your swing back on plane.

Don’t go worrying if you’re just visiting though, Mark has got you covered. With a brand new line up of Nike rental clubs you’ll be stroking the ball just like Tiger in the Players Championship (or at least we hope so).

But since the snow has melted, we locals have been left drooling as we hanker for an opportunity to tee off on the plush green carpet that offers one of the most beautiful backdrops in golf: Lone Mountain and the surrounding Spanish Peaks. If the scenic views from the course aren’t enough, the extra carry you receive off the tee at 6,500 ft. will surely have you strutting up to your second shot. But be sure to keep that in mind when stepping up to the ball, I’d hate for you to sail one over the green.

With sunshine and blue bird skies in the forecast, it looks like we’re in store for another phenomenal start to golf season up here in gorgeous Big Sky.

-Kipp Proctor

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Womens golf clinic

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View from the putting green looking down the 1st tee

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Aerial view of the back 9
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A Very Big Sky Mother's Day

5/14/2013 11:33:00 AM
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PERFECT SPRING WEATHER was welcomed with open arms this past weekend and it couldn’t have arrived at a better time: Mother’s Day. Even though I was well over 1,000 miles from home, I felt the need to take advantage of the warm sunshine after a long phone call Sunday morning wishing my Mom a great day.

With highs in the mid to upper 70s over the weekend, Mother’s Day brought spring with summer closely in tow. Around the area families were out in full force enjoying the sunshine, dry trails and green grass. Even my friend’s Brit and Kelsey (a new mother as of Saturday) were out with their newest addition (puppy) Gus: an adorable 7 week old Brittany Spaniel.

Not about to let a great day pass us by, my friends and I spent Mother’s Day at Big Sky’s community park. We made a day of it using the multi-purpose field to its fullest extent. Tossing around the frisbee, softball and football, we bided our time between sports stretching out and lounging under the blue skies above.

We even found time to session the new bouldering wall (a large concrete boulder) next to the basketball court and new skatepark. Running low on chalk and stamina after a long day, the wall eventually got the best of my hands with a few blisters to prove it. But with multiple faces, pitches and holds, it’s a splendid addition to Big Sky’s already fabulous community park complex. My friends and I will be back.

Making our mom’s proud; we soaked up the warm weather and good company. Exactly how they would have liked.

-Kipp Proctor

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Gus had quite the weekend!

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3 Reasons Why You Can't Beat a Summer Vacation to Big Sky Resort

5/8/2013 3:45:00 PM
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NESTLED IN THE southwest corner of Montana between the city of Bozeman and the west entrance to Yellowstone National Park sits Big Sky: a small mountain town with a Montana sized heart. While known as one of the country’s top ski resort destinations, the charming yet lively town blossoms into a summer resort with so many activities at your fingertips, it would be nearly impossible to check them all off in just one visit.

Big Sky is easily accessed via the Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport and a short 50 minute drive through stunning Gallatin Canyon. The setting for the movie A River Runs Through It, Gallatin Canyon offers a beautiful and scenic setting to take in as you navigate your way down highway 191 along the banks of the Gallatin River.

While the scenic drive alone would sell most on a visit, here are three key reasons why Big Sky needs to be at the top of your list of must do summer vacations.

Basecamp to Yellowstone Park: If you want to make your summer vacation feel more like Family Summer Camp, look no further than Basecamp. Conveniently located in the Resort’s Mountain Village, it serves up an extensive activities menu that ranges on the adventure scale from easy going to full on adrenaline rush for the entire family. With activities geared specifically for little ones, teens, adults or all the above, there’s something for everyone.

The guided Lone Peak Expedition ($79/person) whisks you to the top 11,166 ft. Lone Peak via chairlift, Mountain Safari Truck and Lone Peak Tram. From the top take in the 360 degree views that overlook 3 states, 2 national parks, and mountain ranges as far as the eye can see. On your way to the summit, one of Big Sky’s friendly and knowledgeable Basecamp guides will point out different geological features along with specific peaks that begin to emerge on the horizon.

Lone Peak Expedition too mellow? Harness up for the Adventure Zipline Tour ($79/person) to pick up the pace and really get the blood flowing. Coupled with heart pounding speed, multiple spans and gorgeous mountain vistas, it’ll put a whole new spin on the wild wild west. Don’t worry though if the adventure part is a bit intimidating, the Nature Zipline Tour ($59/person) offers an option for those looking for a more scenic and less adrenaline driven option. With height and weight requirements of only 3ft. and 45lbs. respectively, there’s nearly no barrier for a family to part in this fun-filled activity.

For a full list of Big Sky’s Basecamp offerings, visit www.bigskyresort.com/basecamp.

Close vicinity to Yellowstone: With geysers, mud pots, western wildlife, and an awe-inspiring backdrop a short and scenic 45 minute drive away, Big Sky’s closeness to Yellowstone National Park (YNP) is no doubt one of the top reasons to visit in the summer.

Known as the world’s first national park, Yellowstone offers more than enough elbow room for you and any in-laws. Spanning an area of 3,468.4 square miles, half of the world’s geothermal features (geysers, mud pots, hot springs, etc.) call YNP home making it one of the most visually stunning parks in the world. A few of the notable attractions that make for a memorable Yellowstone experience include Old Faithful, Yellowstone Falls, Grand Prismatic Spring, and the Fountain Paint Mud Pots but only comprise 4 of over 10,000 total geothermal features within the park’s gates.

If the colors and showmanship of the geothermal features aren’t enough, the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem is one of the last remaining large and nearly intact ecosystems in the northern temperate zone. Hundreds of species of birds, mammals, fish, and reptiles make it their home here including grizzly bears, wolves, and free-ranging herds of bison and elk. Following the roads that lead you through the park, it’s easy to view of these animals in their natural habitat from the safety of your car or from a distance at one of the many viewing pullouts along the way.

Think of it as an American Safari from the safety and comfort of your car that’s taken at your own pace. For more park information visit: www.yellowstone.visitmt.gov.

Family Friendly: Remember the good old days when parents allowed their children to roam freely without a worry about their wellbeing? Guess what, at Big Sky they still do.

With a centrally located mountain village, the resort features a layout with every activity, meal, or lodging option only a few steps away. Personally, I’ve always enjoyed the inviting mountain plaza that sort of acts as the hub within the resort which offers picnic tables, a free putt-putt course and Lone Peak as the backdrop. From here you can easily access Basecamp, stores in the Mountain Mall, or simply bask in the sunshine while catching up with friends and family.

Adding to the safe, tight knit feeling of the village, the friendly resort staff polishes things off with their warm Montana Hospitality and desire to ensure your stay is the best it can be. So unleash the kids, kick back, and rest assured that as long as they’re not trying to pet the wildlife, they’re probably not getting into trouble.

Whether you’re checking off items on your bucket list, heading out for a quick hike around the base area, or lounging by one of the resort pools, Big Sky has the ingredients for an unforgettable summer vacation. So load up Aunt Edna and the old family Truckster because Lone Peak and the Big Sky state are beckoning.

-Kipp Proctor

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A scenic lift ride gets you half way to the top and just above the tree line
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Lower Tram Dock and the Mountain Safari truck
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The view from the atop 11,166 ft. Lone Peak
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One of the many natural hot springs
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Bull Elk bedding down in the tall grass
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YNP's most common foot hoof traffic
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One of the views from the Nature Zipline Tour
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The mountain plaza
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Smoke Jumper Giant Swing located in the Mountain Village
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Buck's T-4: Plating more than a great meal

5/1/2013 5:11:00 PM
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Located on the edge of highway 191 sits Buck’s T-4, Big Sky’s first lodging and dining destination. While most pass by without thinking twice, through the front doors is a restaurant rich in history and Montana cuisine.

When entering my skepticism quickly vanished with a warm Montana welcome. On a busy winter evening reservations are strongly recommended. Arrive early and take in the original chinked log décor at the bar while you sip on a signature cocktail, local brew or a glass of wine from their expansive list.

At the Bar, the bartenders told me all about the history of this roadside hunting lodge, local intel about the mountain, Yellowstone National Park, or one of the many other activities offered in the area.

I tried a Bacon Bourbon Old Fashioned (which may be a new favorite for me). The mixture of apple wood smoked bacon-infused Buck Bourbon, crushed oranges and cherries, pure maple syrup, bitters, and soda cured my bacon craving for the day and with fewer calories. They also serve up a Moscow Mule. A combination of Smirnoff vodka, Cock ‘N Bull ginger beer, fresh lime juice, and served in a chilled Buck’s copper pint mug. The copper mug being the key ingredient, provides (for lack of better words) a smooth copper finish mildly taming the tart lime juice.

In the dining room I noticed the paper place mat; this is however not a telling sign of the food to come. Chef Chuck Schommer, a James Beard award winning chef has carefully designed a menu of culinary flair and local ingredients. Beginning with their Calamari, tossed in a sweet chili sauce and served with a side of lemon aioli that combinded fried crunchy, tangy with a smooth and creamy finish. This was delicious and I couldn’t wait to dive into the rest of the menu.

Being in the flanks of Yellowstone Country, Buck’s is renowned for its wild game entrees. I decided to go with the Bison Tenderloin.  A Ranch raised char-grilled 8 oz. tenderloin with onion straws, roasted garlic mashed potatoes, and fresh seasonal vegetables. Recommended at medium-rare, each bite was one juicy, savory morsel after the next.

Still a wild game option but a less expensive route, there is the Bison Meatloaf Grilled Cheese. Smoked cheddar and Swiss cheese, slabs of hearty meatloaf, homemade smoked tomato catsup, onion straws, thick sliced sourdough, served with hand cut Montana fries. Not for the faint of heart (or appetite), it’s any local’s well-earned go to after a long day on the mountain.

To finish off the meal, the homemade Skillet Chocolate Chip Cookie topped with a scoop of locally made Huckleberry Ice Cream was a tasty treat. Made fresh after ordering and served in a hot cast iron skillet, the warm ooey-gooey cookie barely holds its form as it melts in your mouth alongside the cold huckleberry ice cream.

Buck’s is a local and visitors favorite plating more than a great meal from an impressive menu selection it serves up a side of Big Sky history and rustic décor making this stop quintessential Montana.

-Kipp Proctor

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Conquering the Wall: Indoor rock climbing

4/26/2013 11:12:00 AM
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When the snow is still piling up, lifts have stopped spinning, and a backcountry mission seems daunting, have no fear, Big Sky has some great indoor options and a new favorite that I was recently introduced to: rock climbing.

On my first visit to Geyser’s indoor wall, I don’t think that I was prepared for how demanding it was actually going to be. Not that I ever doubted that climbing was a strenuous means of exercise but after completing just a handful of routes, I definitely felt it. Not only does it work your upper body; your legs play a key role in climbing, making for a true a full body workout.

My buddies Tucker, Dylan and Kevin joined me on the first visit and it was fun to not only have them there to offer tips and guidance but to also watch. They picked the wall apart like a massive puzzle and it was a huge help seeing them navigate their way up using a combination of different holds. What boosted my confidence the most were their supportive words that rooted me on to the top of each route.

In addition to the main climbing wall, the facility also offers a challenging bouldering wall that consists of a handful of routes that don’t require being on belay. Watching Kevin begin from a sitting start on one (one that didn’t even look possible mind you) he sprang up and around the wall with ease.

Wanting to try my hand at it, I sat down to give it a shot. Slightly embarrassed, I couldn’t even make the first move which required you to hold on to a rock that was not only rounded but also slanted back and to then in one movement spring off the ground with your legs while reaching for the next hold. I still wonder how Kevin did it but know that with time and practice, I’ll come back and get it.

While Geyser offers a great climbing center located here in Big Sky, Spire in Bozeman offers a world class facility that's just down the road. So if you find yourself in Bozeman and can't make it all the way down the canyon, stop into Spire for some great indoor rock climbing.

Climb on!

-Kipp Proctor

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Spire's climbing center

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A view from above at Spire's climbing center
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Fun Fall Activites Cont.

10/3/2012 4:48:00 PM
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THE ARRIVAL OF AUTUMN is not only a final reminder that warm weather is on the way out and winter is right around the corner, but it's also another one of the many reasons Montanans proudly boast that Montana is the “Last Best Place.” In addition to fly fishing, day hikes, and all-around outdoor fun; here are a few other ideas to get you outside enjoying the Big Sky State.

Horseback Riding – Fall is an amazing time of year to saddle up a horse and explore some of Montana’s remote wilderness areas. With miles upon miles of trail to cover there is nearly no limit to the amount of country you can take in. Here in Big Sky there are quite a few quality outfitters and ranches that offer a wide array of trail ride options from short 2 hour rides to longer full day and overnight pack trips. A few notable ones in the area are 320 Ranch, Lone Mountain Ranch, and Jakes Horses. Using an outfitter like 320 Ranch is a great way to take advantage of Montana’s beauty since their guided rides take you to secluded destinations like Ramshorn Lake (picture below). Add a few cowboys/cowgirls as your guides and you’re sure to be thoroughly entertained.

Football – While beautiful fall foliage and autumn go hand in hand, autumn for many marks the beginning of football season, tailgating, and cool weather fun. With 2 major in-state rivals just 3 hours apart, you’re sure to find a great game most any Saturday during the fall. The Montana State Bobcats located in beautiful Bozeman, MT (currently ranked #2 in the country in FCS rankings), have the reputation of being ferocious competitors. Further west down I-90, the University of Montana Grizzlies call Missoula home. Touting recent conference titles, the Grizzlies are a perennial powerhouse which always adds a little something extra to the annual in-state rivalry game “Cat/Griz” at the end of every season. This year the Grizzlies are hosting the matchup on November 17th, so watch out if you’re in Missoula that weekend, it can get pretty crazy.

Mountain Biking – The arrival of cooler temps and morning frosts, autumn is a spectacular time of year to get out on your bike and explore some of Montana’s amazing trails. When hitting the trails in the fall you’ll benefit from the cool crisp air and tacky trails on the descent. Don’t worry if the uphill pedaling part is a slight deterrent; Big Sky Resort has you covered with miles of lift accessed downhill mountain biking to keep you occupied for days. But if cross-country riding is your cup of tea, check in with a local shop like Big Sky Sports for tips on what trails are riding well or for an assortment of great maps detailing different rides in the area. And if you’re looking to end your season on a strong note, there are quite a few longer rides in the area to meet your needs. 320 Ranch to Porcupine Creek is an amazing 16 mile shuttle ride that takes you deep into the backcountry and offers not only an amazing destination, Ramshorn Lake (as mentioned above), but over 7 miles of unbelievable downhill single track that will have you planning your return as soon as you finish.

-Kipp Proctor 

Ramshorn Trail Backdrop Ramshorn Lake Ramshorn Ride Backdrop
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Fun Fall Activites

9/28/2012 4:14:00 PM
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MONTANA'S FALL FAVORITES are in full swing with the arrival of autumn and cooler temps. Fly fishing, day hikes, and all-around outdoor fun should be on everyone’s agenda. So here’s a quick guide to some of our favorite fall activities.

Fly Fishing – When the weather cools down and the rivers clear up, there’s no better time to get out on the water and cast a few flies. Fall is arguably the best time of year to head to your local river or embark on a short trip to a nearby river destination, according to many guides in the area. The fish are more active in the cool waters plus you're less likely to bump into other anglers out on the water with the busy tourism months behind us. In addition to the increased likelihood of landing a big hog; the crisp fall air and gorgeous Montana landscape make getting out for a good fly fishing session a guaranteed pleasure.

Day Hike – A favorite activity for most all Montanans and visitors; a scenic day hike on one of our beautiful mountain trails offers the opportunity to take in some of the magnificent fall beauty across the Big Sky state. But the beautiful fall foliage isn’t all there is to take in. Catch a glimpse of a bull moose or a heard of elk as the graze on the mountain side but be sure to keep your eyes peeled for bears since they usually don’t begin to hibernate until after the first snow and the temperature really drops. Some notable hikes to check out in the area would be Lava Lake in Gallatin Canyon, Ousel Falls in Big Sky, or summit Lone Peak and take in the view of 3 states along with countless peaks in the greater Big Sky area.

Basecamp to Yellowstone – Don’t get caught thinking that Big Sky Resort only offers world class skiing and an amazing spa to escape to and relax in; because Basecamp to Yellowstone is sure to have an activity to meet everyone’s needs. Whether you’re looking for a fun competitive family outing on the Paintball course, high speed fun on the Zipline canopy tour, or the scenic and exciting Lone Peak Tram Expedition; Basecamp has you covered. Located right at the base of Big Sky Resort, Basecamp offers a full menu of great family fun. With just a few weeks remaining until the resort closes for the summer season, there’s no better time to book an activity. Contact Basecamp at 995-5769 to book a fun adventure or to hear about all they have to offer.

For more ideas on fun fall activities around Big Sky, check back next week for another quick list and a few more ideas to check off your fall lists. There’s always something fun to do around Big Sky Resort and we’ve got you covered. Happy fall frolicking!

-Kipp Proctor 

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Guide to Romance and Chivalry under the Big Sky

9/14/2012 10:57:00 AM
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THIS PAST WEEKEND while reading the Sunday New York Times, I found an article on Destination Weddings that referred to a Jamaican resort’s “romance director.”  I stopped reading immediately, started the paragraph over to be sure I understood the context correctly, and again had to pause in the same place.  How had I never heard of such a job before?  What exactly is a romance director?  What sort of training and experience is needed to hold such an esteemed title?   As the Wedding Sales Manager, am I, in fact, Big Sky Resort’s Romance Director?
Almost immediately, I turned to Google as I was literally bursting with curiosity.  As I pored over the search results, I was amazed to find out that not only do Romance Directors exist, but also Romance Concierges, Chief Romance Officers (I would only assume CRO’s, for short), and even entire Romance DEPARTMENTS in resorts across the globe. 

Take The Canyons in Park City, for example, where you call or e-mail their “Romance Specialist” in order to find out about their “extra touch.”  Or 70 Park Avenue in Manhattan, where the tony hotel’s “Romance Sommelier” is “on hand to arrange specialty diva-worthy services” such as rose petals on your bed or a private helicopter tour of the city that never sleeps.

But perhaps my favorite find was Royal Palms Resort & Spa in Phoenix.  This resort’s Director of Romance, Robert Vickrey, has a bio online stating that his role “goes way beyond ordering flowers and making dinner reservations; it’s more that of a personal romance coach, especially to the ‘romantically challenged.’” Royal Palms also has an online Guide to Romance & Chivalry – a must see for anyone, no matter what your relationship status.  Among my personal favorites are number 41 (“Never wait for nightfall - Romance should live at all hours”), 33 (“Present her with an heirloom as rich in its pricelessness as her beauty”) and of course, the tried-and-true number 3 (“At the first shiver, wrap her up in your coat”).

Which got me thinking, here at Big Sky Resort we are wrapping up our busiest wedding season ever, and offer the perfect setting & amenities for a romantic honeymoon or weekend getaway – why don’t we have our own?  So, I got to work, and here it is:

Guide to Romance under the Big Sky

1. Hold hands at 11,166 ft – summer or winter, ride our Lone Peak Tram together and watch your love reach new heights as you peer down at the endless mountain peaks below you.
2. Relax & rejuvenate together with a couples massage at the newly renovated Solace Spa & Salon.
3. Trade bites of authentic Italian spaghetti & meatballs (Lady & the Tramp, anyone??) at Andiamo Italian Grill.
4. Tap into your youthful side with a thrilling ride through the trees on Big Sky Resort’s Yellowstone Zipline Tour.
5. Cuddle together in front of your very own private fireplace in the Village Center.
6. Have a bottle of wine from our award-winning Peaks Wine List delivered to your room, with two glasses of course.
7. Stargaze – escape from the city lights and see how much brighter the Big Dipper is in Big Sky Country.
8. Show your love by purchasing gifts for each other at Big Sky Sports and Provisions.
9. Tee off together on our 18-hole, par 72 golf course, making sure to let her win.
10. Finish the day with a soak in your private Jacuzzi.  Rose petals optional.

Happy Romancing! 

-Margo Humphries

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