Cross-Country Skiing and

Snowshoeing at Lone Mountain

Ranch - PO Box 160069, Big Sky MT 59716

Nationally acclaimed Lone Mountain Ranch (406-995-4644; 800-514-4644 www.lmranch.com) offers 80 km of international-caliber xc skiing for all levels, with groomed trails and skating lanes. The xc ski trail system winds through open meadows and forested canyons. There are 3 packed snowshoe trails and alpine skiing or snowboarding at resorts nearby with a free shuttle to Big Sky Resort or Moonlight Basin.

Deluxe, cozy cabins with fireplace and full bath can be rented for a week, with all meals, trail pass and evening programs for $1,740–$2,160 double occupancy, based on the group and cabin size. The Ranch has a Nordic shop with apparel, equipment and mementos.

Trail pass is $17 for adults; children ages 12 and younger ski free. Half-day tickets are available, as are lessons. The lessons are available for first timers, groups, or privates. XC ski and snowshoe equipment rentals available. Fly fishing, too.

LMR won the best overall xc ski resort in Cross Country skier magazine's Best XC Ski Resort Poll in 2002. Located just 18 miles from the northwest corner of Yellowstone National Park, there are endless opportunities to ski tour and view wildlife in the park during the winter. LMR received the 2002 ORVIS Endorsed Lodge of the Year Award and it is a historic property originally homesteaded in 1915, with some of the original cabins built in 1926 still being enjoyed by guests today. The return rate for some months in the winter is 100% - that means that 100% of the visitors there are that time were traveling to Lone Mountain Ranch for at least their second time.

Some recommended xc ski trails - The Silverbow Loop in the meadow offers gentle terrain and wonderful mountain views all around offering first time skiers a perfect trail. All the willows there provide a great place to look for moose. The Mountain View Trail is great for intermediate skiers with some winding uphill and a fast exciting downhill. It's a Ranch favorite because of its spectacular views of Lone Mountain. The 16 km Siberia trail is a ranch classic. After a long climb, ski gradual rolling terrain well suited for classic skiing. Spectacular views of the surrounding mountain ranges from the top with lots of "lunch spots" along the way. Intermediate and advanced skiers will love the long fast downhill on the way back to the Ranch!

Snowcoach tours into Yellowstone National Park interior (Old Faithful Geyser) or the northwest corner are available. Lone Mountain Ranch will conduct 5 day/6 night Women's Camps in a memorable winter getaway for a positive and supportive learning environment held TBA during December, January, and March. They include video analysis, downhil control clinics, accommodations, meals, evening programs and airport shuttles starting at $1,585 per person.

Outdoor Youth Adventures offer half and full day activities for kids aged 4 -18 with mornings on skis and afternoons snowshoeing, animal tracking, building snow caves, sledding and more. Half day is $60 and full day is $85. CCSAA member.