Montana Snowkite Rodeo Wrap Up

noah · Since 19 Oct 2006 173 Posts Bozeman, Montana Stoked

Three days of steady wind, fresh powder, natural hot springs, and great kiter camaraderie made the 9th annual Montana Snowkite Rodeo a resounding success. The Rodeo organizers steadily strive to improve upon past year’s achievements. This year was no exception. In fact, many Rodeo veterans felt it was the best one in years due to great snow conditions and the challenging kite terrain.

One has to wonder what sort of snowkite event has no set schedule, no defined kite location, no competition, and no schwag? None of this matters to the kiters who attend the Rodeo. They show up at the Jackson Hot Springs Resort and from there a cascade of fun begins. First there is the soaking in the natural thermal pool. At 101 degrees F it is perfect for relaxing in every way, shape or form. After that is the Rodeo bar scene. No problem there, even kids can run around the lodge as the adults tune up. Next is the location: Windy, snow-covered mountains surround the Big Hole Valley of Montana. This year we sandwiched two days of riding at reliable Mt. Haggin with one day at a new Big Hole kite spot. The new location was a true step up in challenge for the veterans. Small gliding hills, big gliding hills, tons of pow, and large rolling expanses make the new North Fork location epic.

This year’s Rodeo saw the arrival of a handful of new kiters. These new kiters peppered the seasoned veterans with questions about technique, kite locations and equipment. That is one of the great aspects of snowkiting, sharing the stoke with new friends. The Rodeo has an intimate feel and is one of the most unique snowkiting events in the world. If you ever have a chance to attend, please make the effort. You will be rewarded in legendary style!

Thanks for reading and see ya out there,

Noah

broadbandito · Since 26 Apr 2005 342 Posts CSO headwaters WheatHead

sickness

Wanna-Go · Since 14 Sep 2009 95 Posts Central, Wa

I hope I can put this place on the mid March tour.

registered · Since 12 Jul 2005 1319 Posts tsunami Sandbagger

stoke for the memories of the ice monkey

noah your the man.... I snowkite via your sharing these days

gracias

waynepjh · Since 27 Jul 2008 212 Posts jackson wy Stoked

Looks like a great event! I think the new event format is awesome! Why stand around and wait for wind go to where its good. Worked great for the jackson event 4 different spots in 7 days. I hope to make it up there someday!