Summer in Ski Country scape There are people who say there is nothing quite like the thrill of standing on top of a snowcapped mountain, breathing in the cold, pristine air, pushing off and gliding down a powdery incline. I have NOTHING in common with these people! Leaping into a vast white oblivion, avoiding trees, other lunatics and death, while trembling from the mid-winter cold, is not my idea of a good time. I prefer ski resorts when days are long and warm, nights are short and cool and there is no snow. I prefer summer in ski country. Though I might pass on mountain biking, white water rafting, fly fishing, hotair ballooning and hiking, I love clean mountain air, fields of wild flowers and crystal clear lakes and an occasional kayak ride. And so when the opportunity to spend some time with family at their ski house in Big Sky, Montana, arose, I was thrilled. Big Sky is home to America’s biggest skiing. There are more green runs and black diamonds than you can shake a ski pole at. But in early August there isn’t a snowflake in sight. There are, however, golf courses, tennis courts, horseback riding and boating, as well as a chance to ride the Loan Peak Tram. The Lone Peak Tram soars 11,l66 feet into the sky and offers a 360 degree view of two national parks, three states, and the Tetons. It is an awesome experience and a chance to learn about the history and geology of this area of Montana along the way. There are also zipline courses, kid’s activities, archery and skeet shooting. In addition, in the town center there are several stunning high-end art galleries. The Gallatin River Gallery and the Creighton Block are both outstanding. Many of the restaurants are also winners. Buck’s T.4 with its excellent bison burgers and outdoor dining in the Carabine Lounge are great. Like many other ski resorts, Big Sky has exceptional summer events. I was fortunate enough to be there when the 2nd annual Vine & Dine Festival was held. There are fine food and wine pairings, vintner’s dinners, mountain luncheons and the Vine & Dine Stroll through Big Sky’s Mountain Village, featuring more than 20 wineries that poured samples and served food selections from the Big Sky culinarians. No doubt about it, summer in ski country is for me. And though skiing and snow boarding are not on my itinerary I would be delighted to comeback to Montana in the winter. After all I am an Olympic champ at hot chocolate! Travelscape by Roberta Graff 48 North Shore Towers Courier n October 2015
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