WHEN YOU GO   The B Bar Ranch

Getting There: Several major airlines fly to Bozeman, Montana, the nearest major town. Most major car rental companies operate at the airport. The B Bar Ranch is about 74 miles from Bozeman. From the airport drive about eight miles to Interstate 90 and follow the freeway east about 25 miles through and past Bozeman to Livingston. Take the second Livingston exit (Exit 333, toward Yellowstone National Park) and follow Highway 89 about 35 miles south. Turn right at the Tom Miner Creek gravel road, then drive about eight miles to the ranch entrance. Driving time is 1-1/2 to 2 hours, depending on weather and road conditions. Phone numbers and Web links for the major transportation companies can be found at this magazine's Airlines and Autos pages.

Guests preferring not to drive are encouraged to use the Bozeman-based 4 x 4 Stage (telephone 800-517-8243) for the round trip between the airport and the ranch.

Equipment rentals: Skis rentals are available in Bozeman at Northern Lights, 1716 West Babcock, telephone (406) 586-2225; or Bangtail, 508 West Main St., (406) 587-4905; or in Livingston at Timber Trails, 309 West Park St., (406) 222-9550.

Staying There: Six cabins include a private porch, living room, bedroom, and bath on the main floor, and an upstairs loft bedroom. A living room sofa opens into a double bed, if necessary. Three rooms are located in the main lodge. Room rates include all meals, on-ranch activities and gratuities. The B Bar has no liquor license, but guests are invited to bring their favorite alcoholic beverages. For information, contact: B Bar Guest Ranch, 818 Tom Miner Creek Road, Emigrant, Montana 59027, telephone (406) 848-7523, fax (406) 848-7793, email at [email protected].

Guests need to provide their own winter gear, although the ranch provides snowshoes, toboggans, and sleds. The cabins have robes, alarm clocks and hair driers. Visitors should plan to dress in layers for skiing and other activities. Informal winter wear is suggested for dining and evening activities.

Useful WWW links:

B Bar Ranch, information and reservations: www.bbar.com