Winter In Montana

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

As temperatures rise and days grow longer, Montana’s waterways once more 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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.