Catch some rays and big air south of Bozeman.

While some Montana snowboarders stow their riding tools in the garage rafters when spring ushers in the close of business at Bridger Bowl, a hearty, unsatiated few are only getting started. Springtime in Montana brings magnificent corn snow, sunnier skies, longer days, increased backcountry access and, best of all, no liftlines.

After a quick stop for coffee in Bozeman, point your vehicle south toward Hyalite Canyon and enjoy the river views as the curvy road ascends into the mountains. From the trailhead leading to Mount Blackmore, you’ll follow a steepening path into the forest that’ll get your heart thumping. In little time, you’ll be moving over crusted snow as you ascend into south-facing bowls filled with acres of rideable terrain. Here, you’ll discover chutes, trees and wide-open spaces, all blanketed with sugary snow as vibrant as diamonds.

Enjoy the gorgeous view of the Hyalite Range spreading behind you as you ascend above timberline. Continue to kick steps as high into the bowl as you can. When the pull of gravity becomes too much to bear, strap on the board and carve turn after glorious turn (after, of course, taking all avalanche precautions). Although the first run may prove a bit icy, rest assured that by the 12th or 15th descent, the sun will have warmed the snow enough that every deep carve will throw up a rooster tail of granular effervescence.

Photos by Ty Milford

GO THERE: Skiing and riding season in Montana starts early and closes late. (June is the best time for spring/summer riding in the Bozeman area, as it boasts the best mix of settled weather and access to the higher elevations.) No matter when you go, start the day right with a hearty breakfast at the Cateye Café (406-587-8844). To reach Hyalite Canyon, drive south out of Bozeman on 19th Street and turn left on Hyalite Canyon Road. From Bozeman’s charming downtown, it’s 17 miles to the Blackmore Creek Trailhead. Once on foot, a 10-mile roundtrip ascent of 3,800 feet will take you to the summit of Mt. Blackmore. Before heading out, be certain to contact the Gallatin National Forest Avalanche Center (406-587-6701; www.mtavalanche.com), or the Gallatin National Forest (406-587-6701; www.fs.fed.us/r1/gallatin/).