Meadowlark Ski Lodge - Bighorn National Forest Winter Sports Lodge
Written By: Sarah Reish
Katelyn and I ventured into the Bighorns to check out Meadowlark Ski Lodge. Neither of us had been there before and the drive was gorgeous. With sun shining and snow falling we made our way up into the Bighorn National Forest to Meadowlark Lake Ski area under the sparkling flurries of indecisive weather.
The History
Wayne met us as we pulled in. We had our plans change last minute so the timing was perfect for us to have an opportunity to meet the owner of the ski lodge and get to tour the facility while it was closed. We learned that Wayne and his wife, Holli had purchased the lodge roughly 13 years ago. When they received ownership they had their work cut out for them. The place had been closed for several years and in bad need of repair. Windows were broken and rain and snowmelt had poured through the lodge. The kitchen was in bad shape and the lodge itself had been broken into several times. This ski area has been around for over 50 years and changed hands several times. Wayne has brought back the original logo and he and his wife have breathed life back into this stunning ski lodge. From the Pennsylvania Dutch handmade furniture to the beautifully maintained slopes, Wayne and Holli created a winter wonderland for guests to enjoy.
The Facilities
The lower level of the lodge houses the ski patrol station and medical facility, a large area to put gear on, bathrooms, gift shop, ticket area and ski and snowboard rental area. This year the rentals feature brand new skis and Burton snow boards! Upstairs is massive dining area which doubles as a space for weddings and events. The centerpiece is a rustic river rock fireplace with windows and a deck surrounding the upper level. Chandeliers and stringed lights create a warm ambiance perfect for cold winter days. Next to the dining and event area is a cafeteria that runs throughout the season, allowing skiers, snowboarders, cross-country skiers, snowshoers and snowmobilers a place to rest and reenergize. There is also a full bar with pub style seating and a pool table. This lodge caters to all.
Outdoor Recreation
Outdoor winter activities can be enjoyed at their finest in this area. The Bighorn National Forest is undeniably one of the most enjoyable and beautiful areas to spend your time, even if you aren’t an outdoor enthusiast, and the stunning views and terrain surrounding Meadowlark Ski Lodge are breathtaking. There are a lot of recreation options for guests to enjoy. First the runs are surrounded by two snowshoe trails, Summit Trail and Lakeside Trail. If you are looking for a new trail to explore for the day, this is it.
For skiers and snowboarders, there are multiple runs for all levels, so anyone hitting the slopes, beginner to advanced, can enjoy this ski area. The runs are divided in thirds; green, blue, and black diamond. There are multiple lifts, both two and three person. Also, the lifts run quickly so lines can stay short. At its peak, the runs reach 1,000 feet in elevation and are both clear and forested. The runs break off in various areas so you can take different routes down the mountain, this means one run isn’t always the same.
Why We Love Meadowlark Ski Lodge
There are many reasons to love this ski lodge. First it’s small, but large, meaning it feels family oriented with big resort offerings. Wayne and Holli have worked wonders creating this magical place that feels like a secret hidden gem, because it’s hidden from the road and off the beaten path. Abe, was another part of the lodge that we loved! This lovable 4 month old German Shorthair greeted us like we were old friends and joined us as we explored. Finally, the people, while we didn’t have the opportunity to meet Holli, I think we would have loved her and Wayne was so kind in showing us around and sharing their history and everything that makes this lodge so amazing.
Details
Here are the details and everything you need to know in order to plan a fun winter adventure.
Location:
426 Forest Service Road
U.S. Highway 16 East
Ten Sleep, WY 82442
Lift Hours:
Friday, Saturday and Sunday 9:30 am - 4 pm
Hit The Slopes and Ski Wyoming!
Roughly 24 miles past Ten Sleep sits Meadowlark Ski Lodge. We encourage you all to take a day trip out and check out this amazing Ski Lodge! Be sure to find Wayne or Holli and tell them hi from us! Share you photos on social media and tag us @LiveWYldMag and use #LiveWYld
