Snowmobiles, Side-by-Sides, and Surviving a Grizzly: Rudy Noorlander's Wild Montana Life
May 20, 2025
Tim sits down with Rudy Noorlander, owner of Alpine Adventures in Big Sky, Montana. Rudy rents snowmobiles and side-by-sides year-round and shares his deep experience exploring the backcountry. In this episode, Rudy talks about his battles with the Forest Service, his unique approach to customer service, and surviving a brutal grizzly bear attack in the Montana wilderness.
Click here to listen to the audio-only version on Spotify.
Alpine Adventures in Big Sky, Montana
Rudy Noorlander runs Alpine Adventures, a rental service for snowmobiles and side-by-sides in Big Sky. With a hands-on, personal approach, Rudy meets clients at the gas station, outfits them with gear, and leads them into some of the best terrain in Southwest Montana.
"If there’s snow, I can go. I don’t have an off-season."
Unlike larger operators, Rudy’s routes are based on real-time conditions and personal knowledge. Moose Creek, Portal Creek, and Swan Creek are just a few of the less-trafficked areas he guides riders toward.
A Fight for Access and Permits
Rudy shares how he’s been in a 15-year dispute with the Forest Service over guide permits. Though technically not allowed to charge a guide fee, he still shows up for nearly every group to make sure they’re safe and well-supported.
"I go with most groups. I just don’t charge them. They still get the experience."
Despite legal battles and ticket dismissals, Rudy remains committed to running his business and fighting for his right to operate fairly in public lands.
A Harrowing Bear Encounter
Midway through the episode, Rudy recounts a life-changing grizzly bear attack that happened while helping a client track a deer. The story is raw, intense, and filled with survival lessons for anyone who ventures into Montana’s wild terrain.
"He had me by the jaw and picked me up... I remember seeing the father running toward me and I said, 'Help me.'"
Despite serious injuries, Rudy’s sense of humor and resilience shine through. He reflects on bear safety, adrenaline under pressure, and how that moment changed—but didn’t define—his life.
Big Sky-Based, Montana-Tested
With over two decades of experience in snowmobiling, lawn care, and side-by-side rentals, Rudy’s story is one of grit and adaptability. Alpine Adventures continues to serve locals and travelers who want to explore Big Sky on their own terms.
"I meet people where they are. I get them geared up. And I let them ride."
Rudy stores his equipment in Big Sky and lives in Bozeman. His deep knowledge of Gallatin Canyon and surrounding trails makes Alpine Adventures a trusted name for independent outdoor rentals.
To learn more about Alpine Adventures, contact Rudy directly at 406-580-3812.
https://www.alpineadventuresmontana.com/
Mountain Mule Media is a production of Mountain Mule Transportation. We connect visitors and locals to Montana’s wild places with safe, premium private transportation.
