Skiing Meets Rodeo: Skijoring is Montana’s Wildest Winter Sport

“Over the first hill! Now through the whoopsies—catching some air on Hill 2. Over the tabletop, no problem! Holding on through the corner and coming down the homestretch! Ladies and gentlemen, put your hands together for the Buckleroos!”

The crowd erupts in cheers as another team flies through the finish line, a blur of snow, horsepower, and sheer grit. We can’t think of a more stereotypical “Montana” event. Sure, skijoring originated in Scandinavia, but come on, a sport where rodeo meets skiing??? It is the perfect adrenaline rush.

“Skijoring the Big Rock” draws a crowd of locals, visitors, and competitors to Boulder, Montana. The camaraderie at this event is unlike anything else. Not only do the competitors act like family, but the spectators come together to enjoy a beautiful day in Big Sky Country, laughing and chatting as riders and skiers fly by.

While competitors prepare for their run, spectators line the track and tailgate the event. There are a number of vendors with food and drink, and like any good tailgate, the best are the spreads hauled in and shared with friends old and new.

Skijoring the Big Rock is now in its third year and we decided that there was no better time to make a weekend trip to Boulder – and boy were we pleasantly surprised with the entire experience!
So, what’s on our recommendation list to make an action packed weekend getaway out of Boulder’s annual Skijoring festivities!?

A Boulder, Montana Itinerary for Skijoring the Big Rock

Day 1: Arrival & Pre-Skijoring Adventures

🛏️ Where to Stay: Boulder Hot Springs
Nestled between rolling hills and natural hot springs, Boulder Hot Springs is the perfect place to relax before and after a weekend of skijoring action. This historic inn offers cozy accommodations, geothermal soaking pools, and a peaceful setting to unwind. This is a very traditional bed and breakfast experience, you’ll find clean and cozy accommodations, and home cooked meals. They have a variety of themed rooms available across this historic property. For skijoring weekend, the hot springs fills quickly so make reservations well in advance!

🚘 Enjoy the Drive
The drive into Boulder is part of the experience—whether you’re coming from Helena, Butte, or beyond, you’ll pass through scenic Montana landscapes, with views of the Elkhorn Mountains and the wide-open ranchlands that define this stretch of Big Sky Country.

🥩 Where to Eat: The Windsor Bar
No trip to Boulder is complete without dinner at The Windsor Bar, a legendary Montana steakhouse known for its hand-cut steaks, hearty portions, and classic small-town atmosphere. Order a ribeye or T-bone and enjoy an old-school Montana dining experience. If you leave hungry, you did something wrong!

✨ Stargazing at Boulder Hot Springs
After dinner, take a late-night soak in the outdoor hot pool at Boulder Hot Springs and enjoy some of the best stargazing in Montana. With minimal light pollution, the sky comes alive with countless stars, planets, and maybe even the Northern Lights if you’re lucky.

Day 2: Skijoring & Local Fun

☕️ Grab Coffee and a Pastry from the Sweet Spot
Before heading back to the skijoring course, stop by The Sweet Spot, Boulder’s go-to coffee spot. Their strong espresso and fresh pastries make for the perfect morning pick-me-up.

🥾 Hike to the 7 Generations
Before heading over to the skijoring course, stretch your legs with a short hike. Just a 20-minute walk from the Hot Springs and you’ll find yourself at the “Seven Generations,” a sculpture by New York artist Frederick Franck. It reflects the Iroquois principle that every decision should consider its impact on the next seven generations—a philosophy embraced by the Hot Springs as a guiding value.

🐴⛷️ Skijoring the Big Rock!
The main event! Watch horse and rider teams pull skiers through a challenging course featuring jumps, gates, and high-speed turns. This high-energy, adrenaline-pumping sport brings the Boulder community together with an exciting mix of cowboy culture and extreme winter sports. Whether you’re competing or spectating, the atmosphere is electric!

🥪🍻 We Suggest Tailgating / Packing a Picnic
Skijoring in Boulder isn’t just about the thrill of the race—it’s also about the atmosphere, and there’s no better way to soak it all in than by tailgating or packing a picnic for the event. Many spectators set up tables, heaters, camp chairs, and coolers along the course, creating a lively, festival-like feel. There are also several vendors providing tasty food as well as alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages to warm you up.

🎤 Don’t Miss the Calcutta at Dave’s 32oz Bar
After a full day of skijoring, head to Dave’s 32oz Bar for the Calcutta auction, where teams are bid on before the next day’s race. Enjoy a rowdy night of friendly betting, live music and local camaraderie, plus the chance to walk away with some of the winnings!

Day 3: Coffee, Skijoring & Saying Goodbye

🍽️ Breakfast at BHS
Fuel up with a hot breakfast at Boulder Hot Springs, featuring hearty homemade dishes made with local ingredients. The dining room’s historic charm makes for a cozy morning before heading out for the day’s adventure.

🐴⛷️ Skijoring the Big Rock – Round Two!
Day two of skijoring brings faster runs, tougher competition, and plenty of action as the top teams battle for victory. Cheer on the competitors, enjoy the festive atmosphere, and take in one last day of winter fun in Boulder before heading home.

Whether you came for the high-speed action, the camaraderie, or just an excuse to soak in the hot springs, this event delivers an unforgettable Montana experience. With breathtaking scenery, small-town charm, and a sport that embodies the best of the West, there’s no doubt—this is a weekend worth planning for again and again. See you next year in Boulder for Skijoring the Big Rock!