Our Fun Loving Northeasterly Neighbor, Bridger Bowl

Trade Risk Guaranty is located in beautiful Bozeman, MT.  Part of the allure of locating our main office in Bozeman is the exceptional outdoor fun that can be had year-round.  One of the best examples of Bozeman’s cornucopia of fun and adventure is Bridger Bowl, a world-class community ski area located only 15 miles Northeast of town. 

Skiing in the Montana Rockies is an inimitable experience because of the mountain range’s unique geography.  An arid climate, frigid weather, and sizable distance from the coastline combine forces to form Montana’s legendary “cold smoke” snow, as it is known to locals and visitors.  This snow is not like other snow, in the sense that it is almost lighter than air and is resistant to clumping up and packing.  The result is an unparalleled experience of gliding through a cloud while only tentatively attached to the ground beneath.  Most people are helplessly addicted to the Montana Rockies after their first ride through these fabled snowflakes.

Bridger Bowl is a non-profit ski area, which means that money collected by the organization goes straight back into its infrastructure and expansion.  The latest territorial addition is accessed by the Schlasman’s lift, which leads to a section of the mountain that had long been off-limits to pass holders.  It offers expert terrain, slope angles as extreme as anyone could ask for, and of course, plenty of deep powder.  If Bridger’s terrain isn’t enough draw, the family atmosphere is more than enough excuse to get up there.  From the ski school classes to the bustling Jim Bridger Lodge and Deer Park Chalet, Bridger Bowl exudes a sense of community uncommon in other mountain resorts. 

That is why several of our employees have returned to this mountain year after year, since their childhood.  I have personally enjoyed racing down the slopes of Bridger Bowl since I was three years old, and I am not alone in my love for Bridger Bowl here at TRG.  On a given powder day, you might see just about any TRG employee spending one of their personal days amongst the glistening trees and snow-capped mountain peaks.

We are lucky to be located where we are, and we don’t take it for granted.  Esprit de Corps is one of TRG’s 8 Core Values, and being part of Bozeman and Bridger Bowl’s communities is definitely being part of something special.  The spirit of community and adventure are omnipresent here, and we gladly take part every day.

10 Months of Winter: Bozeman Montana's Winter Recreation

What is your favorite thing to do in the winter?  Put on your Forever Lazy and read a book...Hike the ridge and cut fresh tracks down the mountain...Eat peppermint ice cream and hot chocolate?  Whatever it is, you will find Bozeman to be an active community during Montana's 10 months of winter.

Here are 10 activities to keep you entertained as the snow falls.

1.  ICE GLIDING:  AKA ice skating or for those less graceful, ice falling, is a popular activity to keep you in shape during the holiday season.  Beall, Bogert and Southside City Parks offer public ice skating access.

2.  BOBCAT SPORTS:  Spend an evening cheering on the Bobcat Men's and Women's basketball teams.  The Bobcats will be running sidelines until March 2012.

3.  SKIING:  One of the most beloved sports of Gallatin Valley.  Whether you ride down the mountain on a one , two or three skis, downhill skiing is a community favorite.  If you don't have a  need for speed you can also find access to many local cross country ski trails.

4.  WARM SPRINGS:  Dethaw yourself after a day in the snow by visiting Norris or Bozeman Hot Springs.  There is nothing better than relaxing in the natural springs of Montana.  There is something special in the water here.

5.  HOCKEY:  Montana does not host a professional sports team.  This however, allows us to put our full attention into our college athletic programs as well as the Bozeman Icedogs.   The Icedogs are a Junior A Tier III hockey club in Bozeman.  Support the team and attend a game this season.

6.  SNOWMOBILING:  Hop on your snowmobile and head west.  You will find many trails to ride as you navigate the canyon toward Big Sky or hit up the party at the 2012 West Yellowstone Snowmobile Expo.

7.  ICE CLIMBING:  Yes!  Ice climbing has been a secret passion for many Bozemanites for decades.  Hyalite Canyon was discovered as the home to "the most reliable and concentrated ice climbing in the United States" in the 70s.  Join the daring at next year's Bozeman Ice Climbing Festival.

8.  VISIT THE THEATER:  The Ellen Theater in Downtown Bozeman will provide you with cozy entertainment throughout the year.  Reserve your ticket to White Christmas The Musical today.

9.  SING SING SING:  Screaming Monkey Productions travels the Valley offering a vocal outlet for the best and worst in karaoke talent.  From Belgrade to Three Forks find a local pub and let your jingle bells rock.

10.  ICE FISHING:  Yet another frozen water sport...Grab your auger and fishing pole and head up to Hyalite Canyon.  Ice fishing begins the end of December.  Put your snow tires on!