First ski day hosted by Blackfoot Challenge

The Blackfoot Challenge hosted the first ever Winter Ski Day on the Blackfoot Community Conservation Area (BCCA) Feb. 24.

"I spend a lot of time skiing on the BCCA in the winter and wish that other people were enjoying it too," Elaine Caton, Blackfoot Challenge Education Coordinator.

Thirty adult and children winter aficionados attended the ski day on the Blackfoot Challenge property north of Ovando. Maps were distributed and small groups found their way by cross country skis or snowshoes on a groomed loop and out and back trails. Hot dogs and marshmallows were roasted over a bonfire and hot chocolate was served. The event was publicized in the Blackfoot Challenge newsletter. Participants came from as far as the Bitterroot Valley.

"It's safe to say that enough fun and good cheer led to a quick decision to make this an annual event," Blackfoot Challenge said in the followup newsletter.

The BCCA serves a mutiple-use mission of stewardship, agriculture, forestry and recreation, the Challenge said. This year's event fell on the same day as Seeley's Sno-Joke, which organizers hope to plan around next year. To stay informed of next year's event sign up for the Blackfoot Challenge newsletter.

"People seemed to have a really good time," Caton said. "I always think that if people can get outside in the wintertime and enjoy themselves it would be great."