Bridger Bowl Unveils Ambitious Upgrade Plan with New Lifts, Terrain, and More

Bridger Bowl, the non-profit ski area located near Bozeman, Montana, has unveiled an ambitious Master Development Plan (MDP) aimed at significantly upgrading its infrastructure. The plan proposes six new chairlifts, expanded snowmaking capabilities, various structural improvements, and more.

Among the key changes, two new lifts are planned for the beginner area. The first is a brand-new 500-foot lift designed to offer a smooth, gentle ride for newcomers. The second is the realignment and replacement of the current Snowflake lift, which aims to reduce congestion in the learning zone.

The MDP also includes a minor expansion of the ski area’s Special Use Permit boundary and the creation of a new ski school hub. This new center will shift ski school operations away from the ski patrol building, helping to alleviate overcrowding and improving the experience for both beginners and ski patrol staff.

Other proposed lifts would expand access to Bridger Bowl’s intermediate and expert terrain. A new lift, planned for Bradley Meadows, would be located north of the alpine area in a popular backcountry zone and would come with the development of several new ski trails. Another lift, Pierre’s Knob 2, would offer easier lift access to advanced terrain between Schlasman’s and Pierre’s Knob, helping to ease congestion on the south side of the mountain.

For freestyle enthusiasts, a new rope tow will serve a terrain park off the existing Porcupine run, enabling quicker laps and faster progression. A final lift in the plan is a ski patrol-only platter lift, which will provide access to the ridge and improve avalanche mitigation efforts.

In total, the proposed changes would add 70 acres of new skiable terrain. Additionally, the MDP outlines several other enhancements, including night skiing on the lower mountain, expanded snowmaking, a relocated and expanded Jim Bridger Lodge, and more parking.

According to the MDP, these upgrades are designed to meet the evolving needs of the Bridger Bowl community while preserving the ski area's local and authentic character.

Before submitting the MDP to the Forest Service, Bridger Bowl is gathering input from the local ski community. Comments can be submitted online, and the resort is also hosting two in-person sessions to discuss the plan. The first is for members and passholders on February 27 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Saddle Peak Lodge. The second session, open to the public, will take place on March 1 from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Hilton Garden Inn.

Should the Forest Service approve the MDP, all proposed projects will still require further analysis and approval under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). Bridger Bowl has emphasized that Forest Service approval of the MDP does not equate to immediate authorization to begin construction.

If you want to check out the full plan, click here.