Tag Archives: msu

Get Up & Go

by Luke Ebeling

Getting around town.

Let’s face it: the MSU campus is pretty nice, and maybe even partially why you decided to come to school here. So, when you live in a place where your bed, food, a duck pond, friends, classes, and even a gym are all within walking distance, it can be comfortable and easy to never leave. Not to mention plenty of students who live on campus leave their cars at home, or don’t want to pay for the gas to get their cars out of the parking lot.

However, only a couple minutes from campus is a plethora of things to see and do, both indoors and out. If you have limited transportation, here are some suggestions on how to get off campus and experience what’s around you.

New year means new clothes, hopefully reasonably priced.

The cheapest form of transportation: your own two feet.

Use Your Legs
God gave you them for a reason—use them to explore the world around you. I suggest wearing shoes, but if that ain’t your style, no sweat. If you live on campus, the Gallagator and the boulders along it are only a few minutes away, making it easy to get in some trail time or a quick climb. It’s also a just a short walk to Peets Hill or downtown.

Pedal Power
A bike is a great mode of transportation, especially in a place like Bozeman, where things are close and there’s little traffic. Also, it’s human-powered, so it’s good for the environment and your health. A bike is quick and efficient, and will get you a bit further than your feet will take you. Be sure to lock it up; scum that they are, bike thieves do exist, even in a relatively crime-free town like Bozeman.

Mooch a Ride
If you don’t have a car, it’s likely that one or more of your friends do, so hitch a ride. This is a great option for going a bit further than downtown, whether it’s to fish the Gallatin, hike in Hyalite, or ski at Bridger. Don’t be too much of a mooch, and pitch in for gas or spring for a beer. Otherwise, you risk losing your ride, not to mention your reputation.

Photo by Devon Lach

Ride the Short Bus
The Streamline bus system—Bozeman’s fleet of old-school yellow busses—runs all around Bozeman, and to Four Corners, Belgrade, even Livingston. Also, during winter they offer rides up to Bridger, so you can sleep on the way to or from the mountain. Don’t want to buy a bus ticket? Well, you’re in luck: it’s free. For more info or a bus schedule go to streamlinebus.com.

King of the Hills

Pray for snow.

by David Tucker

If you’re at MSU, odds are you’re aware of Bozeman’s endless powder possibilities. But where to start? Here’s a rundown of the area’s best downhill, Nordic, and backcountry options.

Ski the cold smoke.

Ski the cold smoke.

Downhill Dreamland
Closest to campus, and to many Bozemanites’ hearts, Bridger Bowl is the epitome of challenging ridgeline skiing. While it doesn’t feature the biggest vertical relief around, the tight chutes, deep powder, and down-home atmosphere more than make up for it. Bridger’s abundant “cold smoke” powder is legendary, but the mountain is more than just waist-deep stashes. Improved facilities mean beginners are welcome, so if you’re new to the downhill game, don’t shy away—before you know it, you’ll be hiking the Ridge with the rest of us.

Not to be outdone, Big Sky, just over an hour down Gallatin Canyon, offers world-class skiing and riding, with a larger variety of terrain for those seeking a little of everything. Or a lot of everything—with the recent addition of Moonlight Basin and the Spanish Peaks Resort, Big Sky is bigger than ever, and has the options to prove it. Forty-plus-degree slopes, gladed tree runs, endless groomers—you name it, Big Sky’s got it. Most days, your legs will quit long before the chairlifts.

If you’re looking to go a little further afield, but still want the convenience of lift-access skiing, don’t neglect any number of small-town hills within a three-hour drive. Red Lodge, Maverick Mountain, Teton Pass, Lost Trail, and Discovery all make for awesome road-trips that harken back to simpler—and cheaper—times.

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Bozeman is laden with cross-country trails.

Nordic Nirvana
Not into the downhill? Fear not—Bozeman has more cross-country trails than you could cover in a lifetime, let alone four (five?) years. Start with the in-town trails, many of which are groomed by the Bridger Ski Foundation, a local nonprofit. Make your way from the Highland Glen Nature Preserve’s mellow groomers up to the labyrinthine network in Hyalite. As with all things outdoors in Bozeman, there’s a trail for every skill level, so start easy and work your way up.

For a more formal outing, head to Bohart Ranch in Bridger Canyon. Here you’ll find one of Bozeman’s most storied outdoor institutions and over 30k of groomed trail, less than 20 minutes from campus. Want to make a weekend of it? Lone Mountain Ranch in Big Sky and the Rendezvous ski trails in West Yellowstone are great options for a close-to-home getaway.

Can't get much better than untracked powder.

Can’t get much better than untracked powder.

Backcountry Bliss
If crowds aren’t your thing, or you need an adventure that goes beyond the lift line, southwest Montana will still deliver. Now, part of the backcountry experience is finding secret stashes on your own, so we aren’t going to point you to any specific location, but rather remind you of some importance considerations to make before heading out. First off, get educated. ASMSU offers excellent avalanche-safety courses on the cheap, so there’s no excuse for ignorance. Secondly, respect begets respect. There’s nowhere you’re going to go that hasn’t been skied before, by folks who are much more “rad,” “epic,” and “gnarly” than you are; understand your history and venerate your predecessors. Finally, take advantage of your access. We’re surrounded by outstanding ski terrain and it’s all free for the taking—so get out there and explore.

Powerhouse Profs

Learn from the best. 

by Lea Brayton

Students at Montana State hail from far and wide, gathering under the Big Sky to learn from decorated faculty whose achievements, research, and talents are tough to beat. Don’t miss the chance to study under one of these memorable mentors this year.

William WyckoffProfessor of Geography, Earth Sciences

BillWyckoff_Courtesey

According to Wyckoff, landscapes are great teachers—and he would know, as he wrote the book on it. His latest publication, How to Read the American West: A Field Guide, focuses on the changing geography of the West. His philosophy stresses that people and place are cohesive, jointly transforming their environment. In his newest project, he follows the footsteps of Arizona state employee Norman Wallace to recreate landscape images from over 70 years ago.

Wyckoff is known for clarity of presentation and his articulate, passionate rhetoric. Kyla Jewel, junior at MSU, says his class was one of her most memorable: “Geography’s not always the most thrilling subject, but I liked that Professor Wyckoff was always enthusiastic about the material and that translated to the whole class.”

Wyckoff’s professorship is one to admire. He inspires true educational growth, teaching that “Learning about geography should ultimately take you out of your classroom, beyond your computer, even away from your books, and into the larger world which tends to be much more complicated, interesting, and unpredictable.”

 

Whitney HinshawDirector of Group Exercise, Recreational Sports & Fitness

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Athlete, coach, instructor, and director Whitney Hinshaw has always been involved in the world of athletics. With a dietetics degree giving her a strong health background and a master’s in higher education, Hinshaw is one of the lucky few who have successfully coupled passion and profession.

Relatively new to MSU, Hinshaw is focused and encourages her students to move outside their comfort zones. Her courses are informative and instructive; her stories of her own competitive experiences often relatable and humorous; and her spin classes likely to be difficult and invigorating. As an educator, she believes in something she calls transferable heart skills, which her wellness philosophy explains: “If you can train heart and mind for a trail race, you can train for anything educational, professional, etc. It’s all the same skillset. Training requires grit, persistence, discipline, self-control, and emotional intelligence—so does preparing for the professional world.”

Hinshaw is working toward her own personal goal of “50 by 50”—completing a half-marathon or similar competition in every state by age 50 (she’s currently in her 20s). So far she has seven states checked off. Run at the chance to learn and train with her this year.

 

Selena AhmedAssistant Professor, Health & Human Development

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With 17 different courses on record and teaching experience at six major universities, Montana State’s powerful “rising star” Selena Ahmed is bringing much-deserved attention to the Sustainable Food and Bioenergy Systems (SFBS) program. Her complex research looks at variations in agro-ecosystems—such as economic, environmental, and human factors—to discover better management practices and more sustainable solutions.

Ahmed is a big-time contributor to MSU’s research community, and she’s continuously heading up groundbreaking global projects. She has spearheaded research in nine countries and is distinguished for her work examining tea production, which she calls “a diverse and elegant system.” She’s currently studying local food choices in on the Flathead Reservation and the Tibetan Plateau.

Working closely with students, Ahmed encourages collaboration across disciplines and involvement in research. Recent SFBS graduate, Cory Babb, remembers the opportunity: “Her class was my first chance to actually take part in publishing research.” Keep an eye out for this inspiring intellectual on campus this year.

Springs Break

Some like it hot.

by Corey Hockett

Soaking in hot springs, aka “hot-potting,” is a universal and timeless pleasure. Nothing beats the sensation of slipping into slightly stinging water, only to feel comfy and tranquil seconds later. Whether you’ve had a great day on the slopes, been in the library too long, or just have an afternoon off, these are the spots in which to soak your bones.

Lap of Luxury
For those into a well-developed, plush backdrop, check out these commercial pools for a luxurious soak.

Bozeman Hot Springs
Status: Developed
Access: Open to the public
Admission: $8.50
Location: 8 miles west of Bozeman

Courtesy_Boz-hot-springs2This massive facility recently underwent renovation and now has nine pools, both inside and out. It has wet and dry saunas, a fitness center, and campground. If you’re coming back from Big Sky or don’t want to travel far, this is your place.

 

Chico Hot Springs
Status: Developed
Access: Open to the public as well as to registered guests
Admission: $7.50 for adults; less for kids. Guests soak free
Location: 22 miles south of Livingston

KenDineen_chico_contest

Located in Paradise Valley, just south of Livingston, Chico provides two refreshing pools and an assortment of accommodation options for overnighters. Check it out if your family is in town or you’re looking for a romantic weekend getaway.

Norris Hot Springs
Status: Developed
Access: Open to the public
Admission: $7 for adults; reduced for kids and seniors
Location: 35 miles west of Bozeman

CourtesyNorris

This 30’ x 40’ pool is a collection of geothermal springs located near the Madison River. Dubbed “Water of the Gods” by the current owner, Norris has live music every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Added bonus: be the DD and get in for free.

 

Simple Soaking
If you’re the less-is-more type, or prefer nature to civilization, these are your hot spots.

Boiling River
Status: Primitive
Access: Unrestricted (Yellowstone Park pass required)
Admission: Park pass is $35 for single vehicle
Location: 2 miles south of Gardiner

KimTashjian-BoilingRiver

Just inside the Gardiner entrance to Yellowstone National Park, scalding channels mingle with the cold river water to form the perfect temperature for soaking—and this set of pools is only a half-mile walk from the parking lot. This gem is a must, but expect crowds.

Potosi Hot Springs
Status: Primitive
Access: Open to the public
Admission: Free
Location: 8 miles west of Pony
Head to Pony and travel southwest on Potosi Rd. / South Willow Creek Rd. Follow the signs to the campground and then venture the mile-long trail back down the creek to the spring. It’s not the warmest pool around, but it’s sized nicely for a group of 6-8.

Renova Hot Springs
Status: Primitive
Access: Open to the public
Admission: Free
Location: 10 miles south of Whitehall
Head south of Whitehall on Hwy. 55, taking the Waterloo turnoff. The road deposits you a quarter-mile from the spring, where you can bathe in rock-lined pools along a side-channel of the Jefferson River. The river mixes with warmer thermal water in two separate hot-water seeps, creating a variety of soaking temperatures. Check the river flow beforehand; at high water, the pools can get washed out.

Museum in the Mountains

Get MOR out of your college experience.

by Mark Robinson

When Mount Vesuvius erupted in 79 AD, the super-heated pyroclastic flow of rock and ash that destroyed Pompeii also devastated the opulent villas of some of Rome’s wealthiest citizens at Oplontis. Now all that remains of this seaside community are the artifacts of leisure and luxury.

Leisure & Luxury in the Age of Nero: The Villas of Oplontis Near Pompeii is an exhibit appearing at Montana State University’s Museum of the Rockies (MOR) through December 2016. MOR is one of only three museums in the U.S. to host the artifacts, none of which had ever left Italy before now.

Museum of the Rockies MSU photo by Kelly Gorham.

Like all exhibits at MOR, Oplontis brings the stirring history and unexpected wonders of our world right to the MSU campus. From a 60-million-year-old T. Rex and a working Montana homestead, to Native American culture and a planetarium that propels students into the outer reaches of the universe, the museum is an integral part of the learning experience at MSU. Students, as well as their parents, can participate in programming and lectures that stimulate the desire to learn, open minds to new ways of thinking, and shed new light on their interpretation of the past.

This school year alone, MOR programs and exhibits will allow students to delve deep into the civilization of ancient Rome, examine the heritage of Rocky Mountain peoples, or even to raise a glass of beer while learning about Montana industry—and that only scratches the surface.

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Another vital aspect of the museum is its seamless collaboration with MSU instructors and their coursework. Professors often bring classes to MOR as part of their curriculum, utilizing the museum’s unique resources to enhance student learning and engagement.

MOR offers discounted memberships for just $36 per year, giving students unlimited access to the exhibits, the Living History Farm, the Taylor Planetarium, lectures, programming, and more. The museum is also a part of the Association of Science & Technology Center’s Passport Program, which means members enjoy free admission to over 300 other museums across the country and around the world.

Nifty & Thrifty

Only got $20 in your pocket?

by Kate Beaudoin

Face it: as much as you may want to strut around in Patagonia and Orvis, your budget demands something a little more… college. Which is where Bozeman’s local discount stores come in—with a little patience, you can score sweet deals on stylish, lightly used apparel and hard goods. Gear isn’t the only thing with huge post-purchase depreciation—many of these stores also have great buys on used furniture, dorm-room décor, and more.

Second Wind Sports
EmmaLight_ThriftStore20120723_4Imagine rack upon rack of top-of-the-line brands, all at significant discount—at Second Wind, this fantasy is reality. Pick up a new touring setup or a classic Coleman campstove, and everything in between, all without breaking the bank. Got a bunch of climbing gear but decided you’d rather fish? This place operates on consignment, so work with them on prices and you’ll be getting an even bigger discount on that almost-new Winston rod.

Sack’s Thrift Store
This local favorite is a nonprofit that helps support the Help Center & the Sexual Assault Counseling Center. With locations in Bozeman and Belgrade, you’ll find a wide selection of clothes, books, jewelry, antiques, and housewares at Sack’s. They’re also an off-campus employer for work-study and volunteer programs at MSU, so you can get credits to help them out. Hone your scavenging skills during half-price Saturday, which is every Saturday in Belgrade and the first Saturday of the month in Bozeman.

Head West
A western resale-clothing store in the heart of Main Street, Head West carries vintage boots, bags, buckles, jackets, dresses, and more. Everything is in good condition (you really can’t tell that most of it was pre-loved), organized, and easy to find. They also carry new inventory, so you get the best of both worlds.

Catwalk
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This store is a local Plato’s Closet—sell your gently used clothes (when they’re accepting; in a college town, they’re nearly always full to the brim with kids seeking extra cash), and pick up great finds on the neatly organized racks. The Cat Walk’s brand-name clothes, shoes, and accessories are always in good condition, and they have a special section with some particularly kooky costumes, so keep your eyes open around Halloween.

Nu2u Thrift
A self-proclaimed “thrift superstore,” Nu2u is more than just catchy text-message shorthand. It’s enormous—full of furniture, décor, and a whole upstairs section dedicated to vintage clothing. It’s the go-to store for new and used costumes with tons of accessories and a wide selection of outfits. If you know what you’re looking for and you have some time on your hands, you’re almost certain to find it here. They also have a huge selection of hunting, camping, and fishing gear.

ReCouture & UFS
EmmaLight_ThriftStore20120723_2For higher-quality items at prices well below retail, head out W. Main, just past 19th. The Used Furniture Store (UFS) has great deals on home furnishings, while ReCouture sells lightly-used clothing, furniture, and more.

 

Habit for Humanity / Restore
Outfitting your nice rental? This is your spot, with household items, beds, couches, cabinets, blenders, toasters etc.

Modest Maintenance

Tune-up on a tight budget. 

by Ryan Diehl

So you got to school and your gear is in shambles. Your bike needs a tune-up and your skis have core shots galore. Problem is, you’re on a tight budget—does deciding between tuned gear or putting food in your belly sound familiar? Well, now there’s a solution: bring that gear into the ASMSU Outdoor Recreation Program Bike & Ski Workshop and don’t worry about a thing. This service is provided to MSU students at a low cost to help keep your stuff in tip-top shape, so you can go back to skiing powder and ripping singletrack—I mean, studying.

The Bicycle & Ski Workshop, which is located in the Outdoor Recreation Program building, allows MSU students, faculty/staff, and affiliates to perform maintenance and repairs on personal equipment. All current students have access to tools and the facility for a small fee and are welcome to work on their own bikes, skis, or snowboards. Assistance is often available, as well as drop-off services for a reasonable hourly rate.

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You can also purchase essential tools for maintaining a smooth-running bike, or to keep your favorite pair of skis or board in good shape. If mechanics aren’t your specialty, shop attendants are happy to show you the ropes to get you started.

Skiing and biking opportunities abound in the Bozeman area. As an MSU student, you can’t always afford to keep your gear in good working order. So bring it on down to your favorite peer-run shop, feel welcome, and get back to exploring in no time.

For more information, call 994-3621.