Winter In Montana

Anyone who knows Missouri River Country, the northeastern corner of Montana, knows unlocking its magic requires one simple act: slowing down. This place is simply not what it seems when you race by at 80 mph.

As temperatures rise and days grow longer, Montana’s waterways draw folks looking to spend time in, on and around the water engaging in favorite warm-weather recreational activities. From world-class fishing to kayaking to lakefront camping, there are so many ways to enjoy a getaway to a Montana lake or reservoir.

Kick off your Eastern Montana adventures on Fort Peck Lake for a day of ice fishing. Clint, the owner of Hell Creek Marina, will get you on the fish — trophy lake trout, walleye and northern pike — if you book a guided session with him.

Lookout Pass > Discovery Ski Area > Lost Trail Powder Mountain > Maverick MountainDiscover where Montanans hit the slopes. These hometown ski areas offer a taste of true winter life in Big Sky Country.

Montana is a state for every season. No matter the time of year, there’s always somewhere to explore, and with 56 state parks to discover, you’re never too far from your next outdoor adventure.

The National Park Service has created an accessible way for people around the world to not only experience the beauty and grandeur of our country, but also for people to learn about the stories that have shaped us as Americans.

Kelsey Rae Morris might see things a little differently from most other people. She’s an artist, so that’s to be expected.

The last time Luke Boswell and Doug heard the muffled crunch of the frost-covered grasses was late last fall. It’s a sound they welcome almost as much as the adrenaline-inducing whoosh of flushed birds taking to the air.

Lost Trail Ski Area, tucked away in the Bitterroot Mountains on the border of Idaho and Montana, is known for abundant stashes, wide-open groomed runs and glade skiing, and incredible cold smoke powder. But beyond the great skiing, Lost Trail’s strong family vibe makes it a favorite with skiers from Montana, Idaho and beyond.

Marc Kloker was born here. Grew up here.

Showdown is Montana’s oldest continuously operating ski area, serving the Little Belt Mountains and beyond for almost 90 years.“Traditionally, we were farmers and ranchers from Central Montana and our slopes would be covered with people skiing in Carhartts and jeans,” says Avery Patrick, vice president and marketing director for Showdown Montana.

Montana is home to more than 4,000 miles of groomed snowmobile trails, offering plenty of opportunities for adventure in the heart of some of the state’s most stunning landscapes. With so many options for exploration, the hardest part is choosing where to start.

Each spring, hundreds of thousands of snow geese, tundra swans and other waterfowl fly from the southwestern United States on their migratory journey north. Along the way, these birds make a pit stop at Freezout Lake in the heart of central Montana — the halfway point on their flight.

There’s no better way to explore the untouched corners of Montana in winter than by snowmobile. Ripping over fresh powder to the furthest reaches of the mountains makes for a solid day of adventure and some epic stories.

Get ready for a road trip packed with adventure. Learn to river surf, fly-fish, watch bison roam, mine for genuine Montana sapphires and wander through charming small towns.

Outdoor adventure and spectacular scenery abound on this scenic loop through southern Montana, along the Beartooth Highway and into Yellowstone National Park. Hike on a wilderness plateau, raft the Stillwater River or horseback ride in Paradise Valley.

Showdown Montana > Bear Paw Ski BowlDiscover where Montanans hit the slopes. These hometown ski areas offer a taste of true winter life in Big Sky Country.

Arrive in the postcard-worthy town of Red Lodge and explore the local shops, galleries and eateries on Main Street. Visit some of the furred and feathered residents of town with a tour at Yellowstone Wildlife Sanctuary.

Montana's Big Sky Resort Is One Of The Largest (And One Of The Prettiest Ski Resorts!) There is no shortage of beautiful mountains to ski in Montana, but there's only one Big Sky Resort. It's 5,800 acres of pure winter bliss on Lone Peark --and if you're an avowed ski bum, there's no better place in Montana to hit the slopes.

On this four-day sampler of Montana winter fun, somewhere among the exhilarating snowmobiling and downhill skiing, the cozy cabins and hot springs and the one-of-a-kind sights and welcoming towns, it’ll hit you: You’re having the best winter ever. To complete this itinerary as designed, you’ll need a snowmobile, cross-country skis, downhill skis and ski poles.

Kick off the holiday season with this three-day itinerary to get you into the Christmas spirit. With scenic winter hiking, warm and cozy restaurants and enough yuletide cheer to last the whole month of December, a winter getaway to Bigfork is pure magic.

From West Glacier, start your journey down MT-83. Stop in the charming town of Bigfork to catch some views of Flathead Lake.

Drive along the scenic U.S.

Starting in Glacier National Park, take the historic U.S.

Begin in Bozeman, the adventure capital of the Northern Rockies. In winter, learn to ice climb in Hyalite Canyon or hit the slopes at the laid-back Bridger Bowl.

The vibrant and charming Montana communities that surround Yellowstone National Park complete your park experience. Discover epic adventures in the ski town of Red Lodge; the arts and culture hub of Livingston; the snowmobiling escape of Cooke City; the family fun destination of West Yellowstone; and the northern gateway to outdoor recreation plus Yellowstone National Park—Gardiner.

Formerly known as the "Richest Hill on Earth," Butte is home to one of the nation's largest National Historic Districts second only to New Orleans. This colorful mining town offers plenty to see and do - from underground tours to palate-pleasing adventures, feel the stories come alive as Butte's vibrant reverberates through the years.

At Missoula's Montana Natural History Center, get a free driving map of the proposed Ice Age Floods National Geologic Trail, and visit some local Glacial Lake Missoula landmarks. Walk in the footsteps of explorers near Lolo at Traveler's Rest State Park, the only site on the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail with a confirmed expedition campsite.

When the sun sets in Montana, we turn our eyes to the sky to take in a true wonder: the cosmos. Our clear, dark skies offer unparalleled views of the stars, with the Milky Way stretching across the endless horizon.

Montana is famed for its stunning natural beauty, but there's more to the state than just majestic mountains, sweeping green valleys, crystal lakes, and lush forests. The quaint towns tucked within these beautiful landscapes are just as worth a visit as the outdoor wonders.

Plan a day or two to explore three of Montana's best preserved ghost towns: Virginia City, Nevada City, and Bannack State Park. The former two towns house a collection of 19th-century buildings and Americana, including more than a hundred arcaded and music machines.

When visiting Montana, it can be easy to jam-pack your trip with non-stop adventure. Hiking through Glacier! Staying up all night stargazing! It's all worth doing, but it's also important to take a moment to relax.

Epic Family AdventuresWhat's in Yellowstone's neighborhood? In the backyard of the world's first national park, Bozeman beckons with hot attractions. Delight the family with all that Yellowstone Country tourism region has to offer.

Check in at Three Bear Lodge, Yellowstone Lodge, Gray Wolf Inn & Suites or Golden Stone Inn and settle in for three days of family fun. Visit the Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center and get a fascinating glimpse (and a little education) into the world of these amazing mammals.

Adventure is Calling.

At Red Lodge Mountain & Discovery Ski AreaMontana has an unpretentious, accessible ski culture that’s ideal for families that want a true winter experience. Ski areas across the state offer affordable lodging and package rates that include rentals and lessons, and varied terrain that suits everyone’s needs.

Check in at the historic Pollard Hotel in idyllic downtown Red Lodge, home to Red Lodge Ales brewery, numerous bars, shops and restaurants, and true Western hospitality just a stone’s throw from Red Lodge Mountain. Grab a craft cocktail and dinner at Marli’s, right on-site at the Pollard.

Grab lunch at Cowboys Lodge and Grille, Grizzly Grille or Eat Café and then explore the area by cross-country ski or snowshoe. After your outdoor adventure, warm up with a soak in the relaxing mineral waters of Yellowstone Hot Springs and enjoy the views.

Explore the vibrant arts and culture scene in downtown Livingston, including galleries and museums, literary adventures, culinary delights, live music and performing arts—and don’t miss the Yellowstone Gateway Museum. Lunch recommendations include Fainting Goat Pub for comfort food, and Stella's Gourmet Kitchen for a hearty house-made meal.

Road Trips to the Best of Montana's State ParksSure, Montana is most famous for being home to Glacier NationalPark (and for being the Gateway to Yellowstone, too!) but justbecause you can visit National Parks here doesn't mean the stateparks are any less awesome. From unique wildlife and stunningscenery to historic caves and rugged hikes, you'll find thatMontana has some really awesome state parks that are unlikeanything you've ever experienced.

Itineraries for those looking to experience several ski areas and towns in one tripWith empty two-lane highways, pastoral landscapes, charming small towns, 14 ski areas dotting the state and the freedom for whimsical plans, a road trip through the state of Montana is practically an American rite of passage. Every road trip should be different, and in Montana, there’s any number of ways to string together a ski adventure in a different location every day while driving some of the most scenic countryside in the U.

Fly into Bozeman where recreation-loving locals can't wait to share their knowledge, enthusiasm and suggestions as your unofficial area guides. Book a stay at The LARK and it's steps to start exploring all that downtown has to offer.

There are places made for those with a winter soul. Places that speak to those with adventure in their heart and powder play on their mind.

Wander through authentic 1800s ghost towns on this rambling route over mountains, across the Continental Divide and along blue-ribbon trout streams. Legend has it that some of the smaller towns harbor gold rush–era ghosts.

Vast overhead expanses give Montana it's nickname: the Big Sky State. Horizons frame the dramatic landscapes, including two spectacular national parks - Yellowstone and Glacier.

Kick off this five-day itinerary with some self-guided exploration of Missoula, Montana’s second largest city. Then gear up to hit the slopes as you make your way from Lost Trail Powder Mountain to Maverick Mountain and finally to Big Sky.

A wide range of winter experiences in Montana can diversify any ski trip, but this itinerary is for the hardcore powder purists – those looking to ski or board without distraction on this five-day expedition. Sign on for this adventure and you’ll discover some truly breathtaking runs in Glacier National Park and at Whitefish, Turner, and Blacktail Mountains.

Looking for the best spots to send it downhill this winter? Central Montana is home to some of the best ski areas in the state, with long runs, short wait times and a friendly feel that makes you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. In between runs, take time to explore the rich history of the region, the relaxing natural hot springs and the eclectic local restaurant scene that is sure to please any palate.

Discover the Magic of Montana's Winter Playground.

Winter is calling—and the skiing here is epic. Stay at one of our resorts or set up basecamp in a friendly mountain town and explore several ski areas in one getaway.

Everything Awesome You Never Knew About Montana.The best piece of advice for planning a road trip through Montana? Be prepared to change up your plans and make unexpected stops, because you never know what you'll stumble across on an adventure through Montana-- it's really full of extraordinary surprises! You could wind up stopping for a quick photo op at one of the country's most unique superfund sites, or spending a full night drinking fishbowl cocktails with mermaids.

Explore the Winter Wonderland of Glacier National ParkWinter in Glacier National Park is a distinct and powerful experience. Spend a the day taking in the frosted splendor and cotton-candy sunsets and the sense of revelry will last beyond your time there.

This scenic drive is one that will amaze. Start in Missoula, located at the junction of five mountain valleys: Clark Fork Valley to the west, Flathead Valley to the north, Blackfoot Valley to the northeast, Deer Lodge Valley to the east and Bitterroot Valley to the south.

When it comes to picking a destination for a family ski trip, there are many options to choose from. But there’s only one place that delivers 14 ski areas, 15,000 acres of terrain filled with deep, light powder (the kind that’s perfect for a variety of skill levels) and two national parks that anchor the state’s northern and southern ends—Montana.

The soul of skiing is alive and strong in Montana. It lives on in community-oriented ski areas; affordable lift tickets, rentals and lessons; and classic double chairs.

Fishing isn’t just for the warmer months: Here in Montana, it’s a year-round sport. Trade your waders for spikes and take to the ice for a fishing trip in northeastern Montana that you’ll never forget.

Kick off your Eastern Montana adventures on Fort Peck Lake for a day of ice fishing. Clint, the owner of Hell Creek Marina, will get you on the fish — trophy lake trout, walleye and northern pike — if you book a guided session with him.

Norris Hot Springs > Butte > Anaconda > Jackson Hot Springs + Elkhorn Hot SpringsYou can’t get more Montana than this winter getaway featuring snowshoeing, Nordic skiing and small-town exploration bookended by hot springs — the perfect winter warm-up. Immerse yourself in Montana’s  winter landscape and enjoy comfort food and cozy lodging.

When temperatures drop, it's time to fill up your thermos, pack your sled and discover the fun of ice fishing in Montana. Ice fishing is more than just a way to fill the days between the closing of one open water fishing season and the opening of the next.

Riders chase powder into basins and carve fresh lines through the timber. Trails stretch on for miles and ridges run even farther.

Whether seeking knee deep powder or a nice long groomer, Montana has a long list of skiing and snowboarding options. Stay at one of our resorts or choose a basecamp and explore several ski areas on your trip.

Montana is a wild place. With vast stretches of open lands, you're bound to see a unique beast or creature in its natural habitat.

Montana is home to more than 4,000 miles of groomed snowmobile trails, offering plenty of opportunities for adventure in the heart of some of the state’s most stunning landscapes. With so many options for exploration, the hardest part is choosing where to start.

Skiing in Montana isn't limited to our 16 ski areas and resorts. Book an excursion with a backcountry ski guide and experience your own private ski slope, complete with scenic views, pristine mountains, and heart-racing rides.

There’s no better way to explore the untouched corners of Montana in winter than by snowmobile. Ripping over fresh powder to the furthest reaches of the mountains makes for a solid day of adventure and some epic stories.

For something different this winter, check out a skijoring competition in Montana. Here, you'll feel your heart pound as horses gallop past, pulling skiers through jumps, turns and obstacles, all while competing against the clock and fellow contestants.

Find a little slice of heaven in one of Montana’s hot springs. Whether you want to enjoy an invigorating morning plunge or to relax after an adventure-filled day, we’ve got more than a dozen hot spring resorts and pools, all fed from natural, geothermal sources.

Experience Montana’s magical winter season with a peaceful ramble in the woods—on snowshoes. Snowshoeing is a great way to stay active and get outdoors with minimal equipment and expense required.

Not only can fat biking extend the cycling season into the snowy winter months, but it also offers the opportunity to explore new terrain and experience winter in Montana from two wheels. And it's a ton of fun.

Whether you're an experienced climber or just looking to try your hand at something new this winter, Montana offers some excellent options for ice climbing. Adventure guides with all the know-how and equipment can get you out on the icefalls for half- or full-day climbs.

Montana’s winter wonderland is certainly a playground for snow lovers, but ice enthusiasts aren’t left out in the cold. Grab your skates and take your pick of places to hit the ice.

While on the trail, enjoy the calmness of your surroundings, the breathing of the high-spirited dogs, and the swish of the sled runners. These dogs were born to run.

Delight your family—and yourself—with a horse-drawn sleigh ride through Montana's winter wonderland. Memories made gliding across the snow, with cuddly blankets and the jingle of sleigh bells will last long after your trip is over.

Seeing the spectacular winter scenery in Montana doesn’t have to be cold. Book a snowcoach tour through Yellowstone National Park and you'll take in the winter wonderland and spot wildlife at a relaxed pace.

Revel in the peace of the winter landscape when you ski Montana’s cross-country and skate-skiing trails. These maintained trails will lead you into the beauty of Glacier and Yellowstone National Parks or to the secret favorite vistas of locals.