In this episode of Mountain Mule Media, Tim sits down with Laurie Stahle, Senior Director of Communications at Crosscut Mountain Sports Center, located just outside Bozeman near Bridger Bowl. Laurie shares how this nonprofit outdoor recreation center connects people to nature year-round—through Nordic skiing, mountain biking, outdoor education, and community programs designed to make the outdoors accessible to everyone.
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A Place for Every Season
Tucked against the Bridger Mountains, Crosscut Mountain Sports Center operates across 500 acres of forest and meadow. In winter, it transforms into a Nordic haven with 28 miles of groomed trails for skate and classic skiing, snowshoeing, and fat biking. In summer, those same hills open up for hikers, bird watchers, and mountain bikers exploring 22 miles of singletrack.
“It’s complicated to explain sometimes because we have both the facility and the programs. But at its core, Crosscut is a place for people to get outside and connect with nature—no matter the season.”
Located just 16 miles from downtown Bozeman, Crosscut serves locals and visitors alike who want to experience Montana’s wild beauty without traveling far from town.
Preparing for Winter
Crosscut’s Nordic season depends entirely on snow. With no snowmaking capabilities, the team relies on nature’s timing—and a lot of hard work—to prepare trails each year.
“We usually won’t open to the public until after December 10th. But as soon as there’s enough snow, we open for season pass holders. That’s one of the perks—those early-season days when the snow first sets in.”
The nonprofit employs around 14 year-round staff and expands to nearly 50 seasonal employees in winter to manage grooming, rentals, education, and events. Every fall, the small team transitions from bikes to skis, swapping out gear, updating signage, and training instructors.
Access for All
Whether you’re a lifelong skier or a first-timer, Crosscut offers a range of ways to experience the trails—from day passes and rentals to private lessons, clinics, and community events.
“You can just show up, rent skis or snowshoes, and get on the trails. We have programs for beginners, families, and even those who’ve never been on skis before.”
One of Crosscut’s most popular traditions is cosmic night skiing, where about a mile of trails are lit with colorful bulbs and local skiers show up in costumes, lights, and tutus for a lively nighttime experience.
“No one ever leaves night skiing wishing they hadn’t gone. It’s magical—especially when it’s snowing and you’re out there under the lights.”
Outdoor Education and the Next Generation
A cornerstone of Crosscut’s mission is education. Each winter, the organization partners with the Montana Outdoor Science School to bring students from across the region into nature-based learning experiences.
The curriculum blends ski instruction with Montana science standards, introducing kids to ecology, wildlife, and snow science while they learn to ski.
“We call them the ‘never-evers’—kids who’ve never been on skis before. By the end of the day, they’re laughing, confident, and proud. Then they bring their families back on the weekend to show them what they’ve learned.”
Crosscut provides free vouchers for families to return together, helping reduce barriers for those who might not otherwise have access to winter sports.
A Community-Driven Nonprofit
As a nonprofit, Crosscut operates on a combination of pass sales, program revenue, and donations. The center’s community donors—both large and small—help sustain trail maintenance, scholarships, and free ski days.
“There’s a big gap between what we raise through programs and what it takes to operate. Every donation helps, whether it’s $5 or $5,000. We also have our Crosscut Stewards monthly donor program and lots of volunteer opportunities.”
Volunteers play a huge role, from helping with trail events to assisting in the ski education program. For Laurie, those acts of service represent what Crosscut stands for: accessibility, community, and connection.
Breaking Down Barriers
Laurie didn’t grow up skiing. Raised in the Ozarks of Arkansas, she describes herself as an “adult learner” who came to cross-country skiing and mountain biking later in life. That experience gives her perspective on what it feels like to step into a new sport.
“We really try to be welcoming. You can ski in jeans—we don’t care. We just want people to feel comfortable and included.”
It’s a message that resonates in a place like Bozeman, where outdoor culture can sometimes feel intimidating.
“You’re on a mountain bike—you’re a mountain biker. You’re on skis—you’re a skier. There’s no test to pass. The hardest part is just walking through the door.”
Events, Championships, and What’s Ahead
This winter, Crosscut will host a full lineup of races, clinics, and community events—including the NCAA Cross Country Ski Championships in March, held in partnership with Bridger Bowl.
Between winter and summer, the team continues to grow its programs, trails, and community outreach. From huckleberry pickers to biathlon racers, Crosscut is proving that outdoor recreation can belong to everyone.
“Our trails are close to town but far enough that it feels like an escape. You can be on the trails for thirty minutes and feel like you’ve had a full reset.”
Learn More or Get Involved
Visit crosscutmt.org to:
- Purchase season or day passes
- Explore lesson and event schedules
- Apply for seasonal positions
- Donate or become a Crosscut Steward
- Sign up to volunteer
Key Takeaways from This Episode
- Crosscut offers year-round access to outdoor recreation near Bozeman.
- Education and inclusion are central to its mission—especially for first-time skiers.
- Nonprofit funding and volunteers make these programs possible.
- Outdoor time supports mental health, connection, and community well-being.
- Everyone is welcome—no experience or fancy gear required.
