Otherwise, tromp down along the Hoffer Lakes outlet creek for .8 miles to Anthony Lake and follow the lake shore left to complete the loop. A more difficult six-mile backcountry tour to Crawfish Meadows starts out the same, by climbing Chicken Hill Road. After touring the panoramic field, return as you came. Another more difficult goal is Black Lake, 1.5 miles southeast of Anthony Lake. To reach Black Lake without tromping around in the groomed fee area, snowshoe east from the lodge through the snowed-under campground for a mile and turn south on the Elkhorn Crest Trail.
Ungroomed trails are free.
Then follow signs 21 miles west to Anthony Lake. The highway is not plowed past this point. As a result, snow falls cold and dry here, often leaving wonderful powder conditions. The resort itself is generally open from Thanksgiving through mid-April. The lifts and lodge are closed Mondays and Tuesdays, except during Christmas vacation and spring vacation.