Lone Mountain Ranch celebrates "Winter Trails" day Jan. 7

Big Sky—As part of the 17th annual “Winter Trails Day” sponsored by the SnowSports Industry of America, Lone Mountain Ranch will offer ski rentals, a trail pass and a mini lesson for $5 on Jan. 7 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The event is family-friendly with cross-country ski and snowshoe rental gear available for both children and adults.

As part of this initiative, Lone Mountain Ranch joins almost 100 resorts and Nordic Centers to encourage participation in Nordic skiing and snowshoeing. Last year more than 11,000 people participated in the program nationwide.

“Winter Trails Day offers those new to snow sports the chance to try snowshoeing and cross-country skiing,” said general manager Mark Parlett. “We are excited to host an event that helps people discover the great fitness and social benefits that go along with winter sports.”

The Lone Mountain Ranch Lodge Dining Room will offer lunch from 12 to 1:30 p.m., with a menu that includes house made lunch items by Chef Bill Baskin and a soup, salad, bread, and dessert bar.

Located in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem of the Rocky Mountains near Big Sky and Moonlight Basin ski areas, Lone Mountain Ranch is a historic summer and winter guest ranch that has been a special getaway for the young and old since it was homesteaded in 1915. Placed on the National Registry of Historic places in 2006, the Ranch is open to the public providing 85 kilometers of meticulously groomed Nordic ski and snow shoe trails, a retail and rental shop, sleigh ride dinners, overnight packages, and week-long all-inclusive stays in cozy cabins. The old-fashioned saloon often hosts live music and the dining menu features local and regional ingredients.

For more information on Winter Trails Day, go to wintertrails.org, For information on the event at Lone Mountain Ranch, call (406) 995-4644 or visit lonemountainranch.com.