Happy New Year! Is it time to leave the twice-baked potatoes and Christmas cookies behind and dust off the blender for some tasty smoothie action?

While New Year’s resolutions tend toward the dietary, there are better, more adventurous options out there, especially here in Montana. So tweak the stale, classic resolutions in favor of more rewarding experiences. I’ll bet your success and satisfaction rates will skyrocket.

RELAX MORE

post-relax Photo from Bozeman Hot Springs

If, after trying any of the following options, you still need help relaxing, you can take a yoga class, learn to meditate, or just hit up a local hot springs.

EXERCISE

You don’t have to grunt at the gym to get your heart racing. The list is long on fun mountain alternatives: go downhill or cross-country skiing, hiking or snowshoeing, fat biking, or sledding. (Carry your kids up and down the sled hill a few times and tell me you’re not winded.)

LEARN A NIFTY SKILL

Take that fly-fishing lesson you’ve always wanted. With hundreds of miles of blue ribbon streams and rivers, all within a short, scenic drive, you can experience some of Montana’s wild trout diversity.

MAKE SOME NEW FRIENDS

No, I’m not encouraging you to drink more in 2017, but I am suggesting that you visit a local brewery and strike up a conversation with your neighbor. You’ll be surprised what friendships can come from hop-filled discussions.

SET A GOAL. ACCOMPLISH SAID GOAL

If the Bridger Ridge Run is a bit more than you can handle, participate in a local fun run. From Run to the Pub (St. Patrick’s Day) to Huffing for Stuffing (any guesses?), you’ll benefit a local cause and get a T-shirt to prove you did it.

EAT BETTER & TRAVEL MORE

post-relax Image from Oba Brazilian Café.

You are what you eat, and after holidays at the in-laws, you’re a cheesy mess crashing on sugar. Choose to eat healthier, tastier food—and save money on international travel while you’re at it. Visit Oba Brazilian Café for an acai bowl, Saffron Table for Yellowstone Grassfed Beef Vindaloo ,and the Whistle Pig Korean for some Bibimbap all without leaving Bozeman.