Christmas Vacation
The holiday shopper’s alternativeby jennifer molk 
In all the hustle and bustle that only the Christmas season can bring, the aspect of traveling during the holidays can certainly add to the tension.
AAA estimates you will spend $100 per day per person while on vacation. So instead of stuffing the stockings this year, why not spend your money on a family Christmas vacation, one that will prove priceless in the memories it will create?
There are many exciting, and economical, destinations that begin right at our back door.
The Institute for Tourism and Recreation Research, part of the University of Montana in Missoula, reports that mountains, forests and Yellowstone National Park are the strongest attractions within Montana.
So before you call the airlines and take out a second mortgage on the house to pay for Christmas this year, get out your roadmap, pack an overnight bag and settle in for a unique Christmas where the kids forget about toys and trinkets and begin to build a photo album of memorable experiences.
Here are just some ideas of great family vacations:
Sleigh Rides
Whether over the river or through the woods, sit back a nd relax and enjoy the pristine Montana countryside.
320 Guest Ranch
Big Sky
800-243-0320
Off the Beaten Path
Bozeman
800-445-2995
Winter Safaris
Choose from: Winter Wolf and Wildlife Safaris; Snowcoach Safaris; Skiing or Snowshoeing Safaris.
Safari Yellowstone
Livingston
800-SAFARIS
Ranch Vacations
Go back in time for a pack trip or a wagon train ride, or gather by the campfire and roast marshmallows.
Diamond C Guest Cabin
Fishtail
406-660-1112
CWC Ranch Houses on Boulder River
Big Timber
406-932-4359
www.cwcranch.com
Dog Sledding
Let Alaskan sled dogs take you through Montana’s backcountry in a safe and comfortable sled.
Dog Sled Adventures Montana
Whitefish
(406) 881-2275
www.dogsledadventuresmontana.com
Hot Springs
Enjoy geothermal waters for soaking and swimming.
Boulder Hot Springs
Boulder
www.boulderhotsprings.com
Symes Hot Springs Hotel and Mineral Baths
Hot Springs
www.symeshotsprings.com
Chico Hotsprings
Prey
www.hotwada.com
Fairmont Hot Springs
Fairmont
www.fairmontmontana.com
Outdoor Ice Skating
Glide under Montana’s big sky with kids in tow. Ice skating is a great way to reenergize yourself from a harried holiday season.
Bozeman Recreation Center
Bozeman
406-587-4724
Glacier Ice Rink
Missoula
406-728-0316