BRIDGER SKI FOUNDATION
Known as an iconic Bozeman event that heralds the beginning of ski season, the Bridger Ski Foundation’s Annual Ski Swap will mark its 50th year Nov. 4-5, at the Gallatin County Fairgrounds.
Winter recreationists can find just about any kind of equipment at the swap, from cross-country skis to fat powder skis, snowshoes, poles, backpacks, clothing, boots and more. For those looking to upgrade their equipment this season, the swap is also a chance to sell old equipment.
BSF takes a 20 percent commission if a consignment item is sold, and the volume of sales makes it the biggest fundraiser of the year for the nonprofit club, which provides ski programs for more than 600 youth and adults and also grooms an incredible network of community Nordic ski trails.
“But it’s more than just a fundraiser for us,” said BSF Executive Director Swithin McGrath. “This is a community event. It’s part of how we help the community (and our athletes) source affordable equipment and sell their used gear. It keeps skiing more affordable for everyone.” And, she added, it’s just a fun weekend where you bump into old friends and begin to get excited about ski season.
The ski swap also brings in thousands of items from local retailers, who sell their rental gear and leftover inventory at the swap. Those endless tables of hats, mittens and gloves? Most of them are brand new, being sold at a steep discount.
For those who are selling items, BSF suggests cleaning up gear that will be for sale, as this will help items sell. Also know the size, color and brand of each item. Consignment items can be dropped off at the fairgrounds on Nov. 3 between 10 a.m. and 7 p.m. with a cash-only fee of $1 per item. Items that do not sell during the swap will be posted to the BSF website and must be picked up Nov. 5 between 2 and 5 p.m.
The annual ski swap will run from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Nov. 4 and from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Nov. 5. BSF members will have an opportunity to get in an hour early both days.
For additional information on the Annual Ski Swap, visit bridgerskifoundation.org/skiswap.
