A governor’s welcome

This is a guest masthead letter from Montana Gov. Steve Bullock, first published in the Feb. 6 issue of the Explore Big Sky newspaper.

On behalf of the state of Montana, please accept my warmest welcome to Yellowstone Country. The Big Sky area is one of Montana’s greatest recreational treasures and a favorite to bring my family year round. But it really shines during the winter.

If you’re here to ski or snowboard, you’ve come to the right place. You’re about to enjoy some of the country’s biggest and best skiing, set against a spectacular Montana horizon – with no lift lines.

But skiing and snowboarding are only parts of a winter Montana adventure. From dogsledding to snowshoeing and everything in between, there are many breathtaking experiences just around the corner. And once you’re done at the end of the day, you can look forward to a relaxing meal, a Montana-made craft beer, and the quiet solitude that this region embodies.

Yellowstone National Park is open through the winter to commercial snowmobile and snow-coach traffic. If you’ve never experienced the majesty of America’s first national park under a blanket of snow, I will tell you that it’s truly a sight to behold.

Last February brought the most snow of the 2013-2014 season, and we hope Mother Nature is equally generous this year, especially over President’s Day weekend. Whether you’re here to ski or snowboard, watch wildlife, or simply enjoy the winter scenery, I hope you enjoy your stay under the Big Sky.

– Montana Governor Steve Bullock