13.8 Tons
Landfill Waste Reduced
Bridger Bowl is committed to sustainability and community. From land stewardship to energy efficiency, every effort protects the mountain for future generations.
13.8 Tons
Landfill Waste Reduced
68,515 kWh per year
Of Clean Solar Energy Produced
25,997
Bus Rides per Year
Bridger Bowl has a longstanding commitment to stewardship; from private land holdings to the partnership with Custer-Gallatin National Forest, the ski area maintains a constant effort to reduce environmental impact. Bridger Bowl is committed to operating the ski area in the most socially responsible manner possible. Energy and product purchases, waste stream management and care for the land are conducted in an accountable manner consistent with prudent and environmentally sustainable practices.
This commitment extends to preserving the culture and vitality of Bridger Bowl as a community ski area and maintaining a healthy place for locals and visitors alike to recreate. Recognizing the importance in the community, Bridger Bowl is passionate about preserving the essence of Bridger for future generations.
During the 2018-19 season, data was collected throughout the organization in order to calculate Bridger’s carbon footprint. This data provides a baseline for gauging the performance of future efforts, demonstrates how much change is possible in the short-term, and guides the development of short- and long-term reduction goals. These efforts are spearheaded by the newly formed Green Team, comprised of enthusiastic individuals from across the Bridger Bowl workforce. The Green Team is researching, implementing and advocating for best sustainability practices in the operations of every department. Bridger Bowl joins 194 other ski areas in National Ski Area Association’s Sustainable Slopes Program. As a member of the NSAA Climate Challenge, we completed a ski area greenhouse gas inventory in 18-19 and are committed to ongoing GHG reduction projects.
Our sustainability program spans energy, water, waste, and transportation. Browse each category to learn what we’re doing now and the measurable impact each project is delivering.
Through grant funding from NorthWestern Energy, Bridger Bowl partnered with local provider OnSite Energy to invest in a clean energy solar project aimed at reducing reliance on fossil fuels. The system primarily supports upper mountain lift operations while also offsetting energy use at Deer Park Chalet (DPC).
Generates up to 68,515 kWh of clean energy annually
Fully supports Deer Park Chalet’s summer operations
Reduces traditional energy demand for lift infrastructure
Advances Bridger Bowl’s transition toward renewable energy
Features on-mountain display centers with real-time production data
Bridger Bowl is in the process of incorporating energy saving improvements in all lodges by upgrading to LED lighting, motion sensor switches, and Energy Star rated appliances.
Our total clean energy generated to date is equivalent to...
This renewable generation project received funding through the Northwestern Energy Energy Efficiency Plus renewable energy program. The program is established with Universal System Benefits Program Funds collected from all NWE customers in Montana.

Hydration Stations in Every Lodge
Bring a Bottle. Leave No Trace.
Or purchase a refillable, packable water bottle in our retail store
Smart Water Use Across the Mountain
Upgraded Fixtures for Water Efficiency
Water-Saving Technology in Every Lodge
Since 2012, Bridger Bowl has partnered with the Department of Civil Engineering at Montana State University to develop a sustainable wastewater treatment solution for mountain environments. Supported in part by the Montana Department of Environmental Quality, the project centers on a two-stage vertical flow treatment wetland that uses native plants to naturally remove nitrogen while reducing energy demand.
Replaced energy-intensive recirculating sand filters with plant-based treatment
Established regional design standards and best practices
Provides a scalable solution for mountain communities
Significantly lowers energy use compared to conventional systems
Preserves the surrounding Western landscape through nature-based infrastructure

Bridger Bowl has significantly expanded its waste diversion efforts, growing its recycling program from 16.7 to 30.5 tons over the past two seasons and reducing landfill waste by 13.8 tons. With a long-standing commitment to responsible resource management, the mountain continues working toward a goal of recycling 100% of recyclable materials.
Bales cardboard and crushes glass on-site for reuse
Recycles oils, grease, fryer fats, metals, wire, plastics, paper, and magazines
Launched composting in 2020 to further reduce landfill waste
Partnered with www.happytrashcan.net and sourced bear-proof bins from www.owenhouse.com
Diverted approximately 17.4 tons of compostable material, saving an estimated 12 MTCO₂e

Since 2007, Bridger Bowl has leased a parking lot at the Gallatin County Fairgrounds for the use of carpooling and bus riders.
Guests with three (3) or more in a vehicle have access to parking closer to the lodge. Two events each year award carpooling groups with deeply discounted lift tickets or mountain-wide discounted food and beverage purchases for season passholders.
In continual effort to reduce Bridger Bowl’s carbon footprint, bus service is provided FREE OF CHARGE from MSU or the Gallatin County Fairgrounds (at the park & ride lot) for employees and guests.


EPA Region 8’s Regional Pollution Prevention Recognition Award

Annual recipient of Montana EcoStar Pollution Prevention Award
Sustainability Director received NSAA Hero of Sustainability Award
Winner of the National Ski Area Association Golden Eagle Award for Environmental Excellence
NSAA runner up for Innovation in Sustainability for vertical flow water treatment wetlands
Montana Department of Environmental Quality Certificate of Environmental Excellence
National Geographic’s Greater Yellowstone Region Geo-tourism Map for sustainable practices and service as a non-profit community ski area
Gallatin National Forest Sustainability Achievement Award
National Ski Area Association’s Climate Challenge, and Sustainable Slopes programs enhance and inform our sustainability efforts.
Bridger Bowl also partners with Protect Our Winters, Montana Renewable Energy Association, We Are Still In, and Montana Environmental Information Center.