Six Ways Montana Makes Christmas Better
We all know Montana is the best state in the Union, and that Christmas is one of the best holidays. But did you know celebrating Christmas is a little bit better right here in Montana? Seriously. I read it in a book. A book about Christmas. Here are six ways Montana makes Christmas better.
1. Your Tree
Western Montana is literally covered with Christmas trees. You can cut down your own Christmas tree as nature intended! Sure, other states will let you cut down your own Christmas trees, but with over 30 million acres of state and federal land to explore, you know Montana does it a little better. So consider leaving your artificial Christmas tree in the basement (or mailing it to your family in Florida) and getting in touch with your inner lumberjack. Just make sure to purchase the $5 permit from the Forest Service and check with your local authorities where cutting is allowed. Remember – Santa doesn’t leave presents under illegally-cut trees.
2. Winter = Hunting Season
Speaking of public land, why not celebrate Christmas in the back-country? Here in Montana you can decided to skip the grocery store and bag your own Christmas goose! Not everything is in season, but you can check out the Fish, Wildlife, and Parks website for hunting season information. (http://fwp.mt.gov/hunting/seasons/)
3. Mountains make the best backdrop
Our state is blessed with gorgeous mountain ranges, made even more majestic with a dusting of snow. Make your out-of-state relatives jealous with a winter wonderland as the backdrop in your Christmas photos:
4. Skiing. Lots of Skiing
No Christmas vacation would be complete without hitting the slopes. Montana boasts a selection of ski resorts for you alpine skiers and snowboarders, as well as many groomed trails and backcountry areas for the Nordic junkies (including your’s truly). Whether you are a downhill or cross-country fan, a double black diamond skier or a fan of the bunny hill, we are lucky to have plenty of ski options that are never too far away. And maybe you’ll see this guy on the slopes!
5. The Best Christmas Gifts come from Montana
Remember those out-of-state relatives I mentioned? It’s easy to impress them with Made in Montana gifts (http://www.madeinmontanausa.com/). And if you’re having trouble picking something out, just go with something huckleberry. It’s my go-to when I’m looking for something for my family back in the Midwest. (the Montana Mint Store also has some great, Montana-made gear).
6. We have seasonal beers that pack a punch
I can’t write an article about Christmas in Montana without talking about beer. Beer is a staple at my yuletide celebrations, especially “Bad Santa”. No, I’m not talking about Billy Bob Thornton. I’m talking about Bayern Brewing’s “Bad Santa” eisbock or “ice bock”.
Eisbocks are made by freezing out some of the water in the beer, thus creating a higher alcohol content. (Are you sold yet?) And “Bad Santa” is no exception. At 14% ABV, this malty beer packs a festive punch, and may just help you make it through a family holiday dinner.
From all of us at the Mint, drive safe, have fun, and have a very Merry Christmas!
About the Author
Courtney Lake Missoula raised, Billings educated. Loves skiing, soccer, craft beer, and obscure history.
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