Ouray or Bozeman?

I'm planning a road trip to either Bozeman or Ouray from 1/8-1/14, have the wife and brother-in-law coming as well, both of which don't climb. They want to try skiing one day, cross country ski another (which I committed to reluctantly) and possibly doing a moderate snow peak day hike. Hopefully, I'll be able to sneak out for TR solo WI for two days and get some mileage in.

I was leaning towards Ouray because available slopes and cross country skiing within a reasonable distance, then again the Ice Festival is going down. That would probably only leave me with Monday and Tuesday to get on ice and it may still be pretty crowded. My reluctancy with Bozeman seems to be a more arduous drive and well frankly I haven't looked into it as much - any help would be appreciated. Thanks,

Hey Michael! Hyalite is pretty stellar! Lots of great ice without the lines Ouray will have and you can easily set up solo to lines at G1. If I was stateside I'd rope up with you.

Other great amenities are several amazing hot springs and great food and scenery in Bozeman. Look into the Boiling river in Yellowstone and chico in paradise valley.

For skiing you have world class options just out of town.

It is quite the drive but I think it'd be worth it!

Cheers!
Josh

You can still find spots to climb even during the Ice Fest. Usually the majority of the clinics are Friday and Saturday. Come Sunday mid-day, crowds clear out. Ouray has a lot of opportunities to cross country ski (some within the town). If you like groomers, Ironton Nordic Ski Park is just 6-7 miles out of town. There is a great network of hiking trails that originate from in town as well.