HAVRE, Mont. (NMB) – Bear Paw Ski Bowl is just about ready to open for the season, but one thing is needed — more snow.
Mountain Manager Dave Martens, Sr. says as of Thursday morning, they were in need of about another foot of snow to open, in part because high winds have blown much of the snowpack off of the top half of the mountain.
“We’ve had terrible winds. And yes, the snow is blowing off the top. So that hampers everything. If we don’t have the top half of the mountain, we can’t open. That’s kind of where we’re sitting right now.”
Martens says when they do open, there will likely be an indoor mask requirement in order to comply with the rules of the Chippewa Cree Tribe.
“We follow the recommendations of the Chippewa Cree Tribe. They own and operate the ski area and if it wasn’t for them, there wouldn’t be a ski area. So we follow their rules and regulations and really appreciate the fact that they are there. We really want to protect our skiers and our lift operators from Rocky Boy.”
Bear Paw Ski Bowl is a volunteer run ski bowl located 30 miles south of Havre that is owned and operated by the Chippewa Cree Tribe. It features one double chairlift with a midway unloading area, as well as a beginner rope tow. 2022 marks the 61st anniversary of its initial opening.
Bear Paw Winter Sports is open in the Old Creative Leisure building downtown by reservation for those looking to rent or buy gear or get their skis or boards waxed. Message them on Facebook to schedule a time.
