Over 150 years ago, a mountain man by the name of James “Jim” Bridger traversed the Western United States, trapping, guiding, and exploring new territory. His trail blazing eventually led him through what is now known as the Bridger Mountain Range. Among the many recreational opportunities that the mountain has to offer, the Bridger Bowl ski resort stands out as a local hot spot.
Skiing enthusiasts have been testing the terrain since the 1940’s, but it wasn’t until 1955 that the ski resort opened to the public. Since that time, the relationship between MSU and the ski resort has continually blossomed. As in all good relationships, there is a quintessential balance of give and take to endure a long lasting enjoyment.
Over one hundred thousand dollars have been donated to the MSU ski team since its opening and almost sixty thousand dollars since 1995 alone. Being a non-profit community area, Bridger ski resort has undoubtedly extended itself, creating a healthy alliance with the campus. In addition, the ski lift ticket prices are affordable, with some of the lowest you will find anywhere.
The terrain offers a variety of landscapes, including open bowls, long slopes, chutes, gullies, glades, tree skiing, and a terrain park with two different lines. With 2000 acres of rideable terrain, 71 trails, and 2700 feet of vertical rise, there is ample exploration and playtime for the taking. If you have some expertise behind your belt, the new Schlasman’s chairlift will take you up 1700 vertical feet and add 311 acres to your riding repertoire. This ridge terrain provides some challenging natural features, including steep chutes, rock cliffs, and snowfields which may potentially end in unmarked cliffs. Anybody that is planning on partaking in this ridge riding should plan on packing an avalanche transceiver, a partner, a shovel…and some serious riding ability.
If you have a knack for finessing the slopes, there are all types of competitive events being held at Bridger Bowl that you may enjoy watching or participating in. Events such as the Alpine and Telemark Community Race Series held in January, where racers of all ages dualed in downhill timed runs.
February has some solid competitions in the works as well. The Bridger Gully Free Ride is popping off on the 21st, all disciplines welcome. This free riding event takes place on naturally featured terrain just off of Bridger ridge and will be judged on a variety of criteria. If the terrain park is more your speed, the following weekend offers the Terrain Park Jam, which is a slope style competition and Jam session. There will be 2 judged runs on the slopestyle event plus 2 jam sessions on jumps, rails, and boxes. Saturday caters to snowboarders and Sunday is for skiers. $10 gets you into the event with the award ceremony to follow at Jim Bridger Lodge. For more information, go to www.bridgerbowl.com.
See ya on the slopes!
