Valentines Day. A time of romance and intimacy. A time to reconnect with your partner and remember why you fell in love. Unless you have kids; then it becomes a time of cutting hearts out of construction paper, managing candy overload and madly labeling little cards for every child in your childs class.
Maybe this is the year where you get away for a night with your partner. Has it been so long that you dont know what to do? Here are a couple ideas for a romantic February getaway.
For the history buff
Garnet Ghost Town is one of Montanas premier ghost towns. It was named after the gemstone because of the garnet rock outcrops in the area, but it was gold, copper and silver that brought the miners who established the town.
Rent one of the wood-heated log cabins ($30/night) and spend a night among the ghosts. Its a three or four-mile ski or snowmobile ride to Garnet (depending on the route you choose) and there are 116 miles of ski and snowmobile trails to play on once you get there. There is no electricity or indoor plumbing, but there is a propane stove to cook on. Find out more at garnetghosttown.net.
For the romantic
Dashing through the snow, under a sky filled with stars, snuggled under a blanketsounds perfect, doesnt it? The 320 Ranch in Gallatin Canyon offers a Winter Wonderland package ($200/two people) that includes a sleigh ride, dinner at their steakhouse and a nights lodging for two.
The hour-long sleigh ride follows the Gallatin River to a warming tent and bonfire. Rides that begin at 5:30 or 7:30 p.m., known as the appetizer rides, include chili, cheese and crackers and hot drinks. The 9:00 p.m. dessert ride is the same except hot cobbler replaces the chili. Have dinner before or after the ride. The horses usually get Sundays off, but this year they are working on Valentines Day. Slide over to 320ranch.com for more information.
Montana Parent
February 2010