Trek to the Big Sky, Montana

Every summer, a local nonprofit called Reach, Incorporated used to host a hike called Trek to the Big Sky. Reach, Inc. is an organization that provides services and support for adults with disabilities. Trek to the Big Sky was an annual fundraiser for this organization. My mom’s work supported the cause, and each year would put together a team for the hike.

Trek to the Big Sky took place in Big Sky, Montana – which is most famously known as one of the best ski resorts in the country. However, plenty of other recreation opportunities are available there once the snow melts away. For this event, we hiked up Andesite Mountain, one of the main peaks at Big Sky Ski Resort. It’s about 2 miles (3.2 km) in each direction, moderately steep, but the trail is a service road so it’s wide and well-maintained.

Once we reached the top, there was food and live music, not to mention pretty stellar views in every direction. Afterwards, we could hike back down or take one of the chair lifts; we opted to hike.

Sadly, this fundraiser no longer exists, but my mom, sister, and I were able to participate in it for 3 or 4 years. It was always a fun way to spend a Saturday afternoon and Reach, Inc. is definitely an organization worth supporting!

The Important Stuff:

• Getting there: located west of US Highway 191 on Lone Mountain Trail Road, about an hour south of Bozeman, MT
• Fees & passes: parking is free in the summer
• Hiking: Andesite Mountain can be summited by following a service road; 4 miles (6.4 km) RT, moderate