My parents recently retired in Pray, Montana (about 1 hour outside of Bozeman) and this was the first time that my husband and I had visited them since they moved last year. To say that we had an amazing time would be an understatement. WE ABSOLUTELY HAD A BLAST! There's something to be said about the great outdoors and the tranquility of Montana living. The views were unbelievable and the recreational activities at your fingertips are endless. Even -12 degree weather didn't hold us back from exploring the beautiful winter wonderland. Although, I will admit, there were moments that I thought my fingers and toes had frostbite.

I wanted to share some of our Montana winter experiences and the activities that are on our bucket list for our next winter visit. If Montana is on the top of your travel list, I highly encourage you to go! It's well worth it! Happy traveling!

Winter Activities we LOVED:

• Dog Sledding - What a once in a lifetime experience!

• Cross-Country Skiing through Yellowstone National Park 

• Chico Hot Springs - This hot spring pool is FABULOUS. Plus, you get to bring your beer and cocktail in with you. It's crazy how you can feel warm swimming around under the stars with frozen hair when it's below zero outside. I highly recommend Chico!

• Snowmobiling to Old Faithful - I did this on a previous Montana trip and it was SPECTACULAR. It's a full-day trek, but so worth the beautiful scenery and amazing wildlife that you see along the way. 

Bucket List Activities for our next visit:

• Sleigh Ride Dinner at Lone Mountain Ranch (Big Sky, Montana)

• Ice Fishing

• Swim in the Boiling River at Gardiner 

Bozeman (also referred to as Boz Angeles) Foodie Favorites:

• Open Range - My favorite dinner spot. Try the Elk Tenderloin. It literally melts in your mouth and the parsnip puree is to die for. You will thank me later.

• Sweet Chili Bistro - Feeling like you need something light? This place is where you go for sushi and a hot bowl of miso soup. We loved it! 

• Bozeman Spirits Distillery - If you are up for a mid-day cocktail, you have to go here (especially because they close by 8PM). They distill all of their spirits in-house and serve amazing cocktails with their well-known Huckleberry Vodka.

• Zocalo Coffee House (117 E Main St, Bozeman, MT 59715) - If you are feeling tired or extremely cold after walking down the main drag of Bozeman, stop in Zocalo for a warm treat and pick-me-up.