montana places to visit winter

12 Incredible Montana Winter Vacations to Do This Year

Winter Getaways in Montana You’ll Want to Brave the Cold For

Montana in the winter is spectacular. Sure, I may be biased since I live here, but my family and I think it’s pretty darn wonderful even in the cold. Montana is a wonderful place to go for a winter vacation to celebrate the holidays, ski during mid-winter break, or just to experience the gorgeous winter ambiance at anytime during the season!

The crowds are gone; heck, even the ski resorts here in Montana aren’t anywhere near as busy as Utah and Colorado while still offering world-class resorts and luxurious (or budget) accommodations.

Even beyond the epic skiing and snowboarding, a Montana winter vacation can introduce you to some of the coolest towns in the state when they’re all cozied up like a winter wonderland.

And the national parks in Montana (that would be Glacier and Yellowstone ) are breathtakingly gorgeous in the winter. Even though large parts of the parks are closed in the winter months, it’s still well worth a visit to see the remote, snowy plains and snowcapped mountains with barely another soul around.

We go into more about each destination we recommend for a winter trip in Montana below.

So read on for our top 12 destinations (starting with a few of our favorite ski towns and then moving onto some other blissful winter escapes) for a Montana winter vacation, and start daydreaming of snow and hot chocolate (or wine) in front of the fireplace!

Red Lodge, Montana

Best for: Montana ski vacation with a local flair

One of our family’s favorite winter getaways is Red Lodge. I’ve been skiing there since I was a kid and took my kids there pretty much as soon as they could walk, and now my young grandchildren are snow plowing down the mountainside. 

Red Lodge is an easy drive from Billings as long as the roads are cleared. Once there, you can spend your ski vacation where the locals hit the slopes. Take breaks in the chalet to sip a beer or hot chocolate.

In the evenings, get dinner along Broadway Ave, Red Lodge’s cute little Main Street. For an excellent way to start the day, get the protein-packed breakfast burrito and a coffee from the Wild Table.

Where to Stay: —> My daughter loves the steam showers at the Yodeler Motel on Broadway. —> Another great option (also on Broadway) is the historic Pollard Hotel .

READ MORE: Winter Ski Guide to Red Lodge Mountain

Whitefish, Montana

Best for: cozy ski getaway 

Whitefish is another epic ski vacation in Montana. It’s bigger and it’s a longer drive from Whitefish Resort to downtown Whitefish for drinks and dining compared to Red Lodge, but it’s worth the drive and you’ll really feel like you’re in a ski town. Or just rent a ski in / ski out chalet and stay up on the mountain the whole time! 

Whitefish is one of the most beloved mountain towns in Montana and you can vacation there via train, car, or plane since Amtrak stops in Whitefish and it’s also a doable drive (2.5 hours) from Missoula County International Airport (or 5 hours from the busier and usually cheaper Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport).

If you aren’t into skiing and snowboarding, then I recommend staying down the mountain right in the town of Whitefish and enjoying the charming mountain town atmosphere, lake views, and quick access to the bars and restaurants lining the Main Street of Whitefish.

Where to Stay: —> In Town: Lodge at Whitefish Lake for scenic lake views or Firebrand Hotel to be right in downtown. —> On the Mountain: There are a variety of accommodations on Whitefish Mountain that you can book through skiwhitefish.com or vrbo.com.

READ MORE: Best Things to Do in Whitefish, MT

Want to streamline your planning? Get our in-depth guide Montana for First Timers !

Big Sky Resort

Best for: ski and snowboard fanatics 

And now onto the biggest of Montana’s ski resorts: Big Sky. Unlike other ski resorts in Montana which get a lot of locals, Big Sky is a destination unto itself. (The locals who live close to Big Sky typically ski at Bridger Bowl Mountain.) 

Still, touristy places have their perks. And Big Sky Mountain is home to some of the most incredible ski runs in the country, with state-of-the-art chair lifts and gondolas. There’s an excellent ski school for kids and tons of different lodging options close to the slopes. The excellent ski slopes and amenities easily make this one of the best Montana winter vacations you can do.

Down the mountain, you can go snowshoeing alongside the Gallatin River or snowmobiling in Gallatin National Forest. For epic dining, you’re still close to downtown Bozeman, a foodie haven. Which brings us to our next Montana winter vacation destination…

Bozeman, Montana

Best for: winter vacation for foodies who love the outdoors 

Bozeman is rapidly growing in popularity as both a travel hot spot and as a place to live. One of my daughters lives there and says what makes Bozeman so special is the sheer number of things to do outdoors all around the city.

Bozeman is close to Big Sky and Bridger Bowl; epic snowshoeing and cross-country skiing is a short drive away in Hyalite Canyon; and groomed cross-country ski trails are also located at Crosscut Mountain Sports and Bridger Creek Golf Course.

For ice climbers, Hyalite Canyon is also great and considered one of the best spots in the country for ice climbing.

On a cold day, it’s also wonderful to soak in the steamy indoor and outdoor pools at Bozeman Hot Springs, one of our favorite things to do in Bozeman.

Where to Stay: The Lark offers hip, comfortable accommodations right in downtown Bozeman.

READ MORE : Best Things to Do in Bozeman, MT

Billings, Montana

Best for: winter city escape

Billings is a place I call home and so it’s easy to forget that it can be an awesome winter vacation spot, too (especially when I’m shoveling snow off my driveway). 

But yes, Billings has some winter charm that makes it a great Montana winter getaway. Especially if you’re looking for breweries , good food, easy access to an airport, and nearby recreational opportunities like snowshoeing, cross country skiing, and snowmobiling. For downhill skiing, Red Lodge Mountain is just 90 minutes from Billings and a doable day trip. 

Where to Stay: —> The Northern: a boutique hotel with a luxurious western vibe right in downtown Billings.

READ MORE: All the Top Things to Do in Billings, Montana

Fairmont Hot Springs

Best for: centrally located resort style vacation with day trips

Indoor and outdoor hot springs abound at this upscale resort conveniently located between Bozeman and Butte . Base yourself at Fairmont Hot Springs for your Montana winter vacation and you can enjoy the relaxing ambiance of the resort in between day trips to some of Montana’s best cities. 

Some day trip options from Fairmont Hot Springs include Bozeman (100 miles away) and visiting the Museum of the Rockies ; Butte (15 miles away) with its mining history attractions and pretty carousel; and Dillon (68 miles away), where you’ll find a cute little main town with some historic railroad sites and even a Patagonia outlet store.

Back at Fairmont Hot Springs enjoy the indoor and outdoor pools all fed by local hot springs. There is even a swirling 350-foot enclosed waterslide that is open year-round!

Yellowstone National Park

Best for: one-of-a-kind snowmobiling and winter photography

Montana and Wyoming share the access points to Yellowstone National Park , but Montana boasts the only Yellowstone entrance open in winter, which would be the North entrance near Gardiner, Montana. 

The north entrance is close to Mammoth Village, a near mystical feeling place in the winter thanks to the steam rising into the air from the otherworldly looking Mammoth Hot Springs. 

During winter in Yellowstone National Park, you can go snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling and see hardly anyone else.

Here’s a cross-country ski trip picture my middle daughter took from her winter weekend getaway to Yellowstone a few years ago:

Yellowstone has a couple winter lodges that make for a great place to stay for a winter vacation:

Old Faithful Snow Lodge is especially unique since it is only accessible via a snowcat or horse-drawn carriage. Once there, you can go snowshoeing and cross country skiing or take excursion via snow coach to the town of West Yellowstone for some snowmobiling. 

Mammoth Hot Spring Hotel and Cabins is easily accessible by car from the north entrance.

READ MORE: Best Snowmobiling in Montana

Izaak Walton Inn

Best For: family getaway in the mountains to bond and get outside

Izaak Walton Inn is a unique lodge escape in Glacier Country. Located in Essex, you’re just roughly 30 minutes from both the east and west entrances to Glacier National Park (though only the west entrance is open in winter.) 

Izaak Walton Inn is right by an Amtrak stop and you can sometimes hear the trains whistling by throughout the day and night (so bring ear plugs if you’re sensitive to noise at night). The train activity is super exciting for families.

Kids will be especially thrilled with a stay in one of the train car accommodations. You can choose from cabooses and locomotives that have all been refurbished into cozy accommodations. These train cabins offer ski-in and ski-out Nordic skiing. 

You can also choose to stay at the main lodge, which has a rustic feel. Rooms include family suites and standard double rooms. The Lodge has on-site eateries, too. 

—> Click here for pictures and prices for Izaak Walton Inn.

READ MORE: Montana Cross-Country Skiing Guide

Cross-Country Skiing in Glacier

Best for: winter sports in solitude

Glide by Lake McDonald and Avalanche Lake as you take in peace and solitude on a cross-country ski trip to Glacier National Park. (Though solitude should mean for your group, we don’t recommend solo adventures in Montana in the winter!)

Not much is accessible via road in Glacier in winter , but that provides an excellent opportunity for outdoor enthusiasts to get away from it all and explore the beloved national park via snowshoe or Nordic ski. 

My middle daughter did the route to Avalanche Lake a couple years ago and said it was so peaceful and quiet.

For snowshoeing, you can even enjoy a ranger led snowshoe walk around the Apgar area by Lake McDonald. It’s a fun and adventurous way to learn about this beloved national park in Montana .

Where to Stay: —> Columbia Falls (18 miles / roughly 25 minutes from west entrance): Cedar Creek Lodge is a lovely building with many onsite amenities. —> Kalispell (34 miles / roughly 45 minutes from west entrance): Kalispell Grand Hotel is located right along the central part of Main Street and is a beautifully restored, historic hotel.

READ MORE: The Ultimate Lodging Guide for Glacier National Park

Chico Hot Springs

Best for: therapeutic relaxation in a beautiful setting

This is a winter getaway in Montana that’s loved by both locals and visitors — so book early even in winter! 

Chico Hot Springs is located in Pray, MT (about an hour southeast from Bozeman) and has a historic lodge that creates a rectangle around the steamy waters of a naturally fed pool. Enjoy the warmth and healing properties of the water throughout the day and into the evening.

Intersperse hot spring time with winter activities and getting meals or drinks at one of the on-site eateries at Chico Hot Springs . There is also a spa you can book treatments at.

For accommodation you can stay on the lodge and be close to the action or bundle up for walks to and from your own little cabin. 

Tip: If you’re just looking for a luxurious spa and 5-star service, check out the exquisite Sage Lodge down the road.

READ MORE: 15 Best Hot Springs in Montana

Ranch at Rock Creek

Best for: luxury all-inclusive vacation with exciting activities

The Ranch at Rock Creek is a luxurious dude ranch located near Whitefish, MT. The expanse of land and activities make it ideal for both couples and families. Couples might prefer to cozy up in one of the main lodge rooms to be close to the excellent dining, drinks, and activities, while families might prefer one of the luxury ranch houses for more room to spread out.

Tip: Couples who want more privacy should also check out the cozy, 1-bedroom Bluebird luxury house that has a sumptuous king-size canopy bed.

You can go cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and horse back riding right on the ranch. You can even take an unforgettable sleigh ride through the ranch. Other fun winter activities include sapphire mining, frontier skills classes, meditation and yoga classes, ice skating, UTV adventures, bonfire happy hours, and more.

After a day of action and fun, you can restore tired muscles with a massage at the onsite spa.

It’s also easy to do winter excursions from the Rock at Ranch Creek . Discovery Ski Area is just 35 minutes away and offers excellent downhill skiing or snowboarding.

READ MORE: The Best Dude Ranches in Montana

Missoula, MT

Best for: a city escape with some hipster charm and nearby winter sports

Missoula is the first major city you’ll hit when coming from the west — and you’ll have to drive over some extreme mountain passes to do so if you’re arriving to this prime winter getaway destination in Montana by car. However, it’s worth it (but maybe get 4-wheel drive first) to spend some time in Missoula during the magical winter months.

Like many cities and towns in Montana, Missoula goes all out for the holidays so if you’re arriving in December, you can enjoy city lights and decor in the downtown area. It’s a sleepier time there due to students being gone from campus for the winter holidays and makes for a lovely time to bundle up and stroll around the streets, perhaps popping into a coffee house or brewery or two.

READ MORE: Montana in December Travel Guide

Of course, this being Montana, there are also tons of outdoor activities to do on a winter vacation in Missoula.

A short drive from downtown and you’ll find snowshoeing and cross-country trails, dog sledding, and snowmobiling. You can also get some thrills racing down the mountainside at Snowbowl, a ski area known for excellent runs without any of the pomp and circumstance ski resorts sometimes have. Plus, there are rarely lift lines!

Where to Stay: For Families: C’mon INN has a great pool area and indoor courtyard. For Couples: Doubletree by Hilton Missoula Edgewater has a great waterfront location and excellent bar and restaurant.

READ MORE: The Top Things to Do in Missoula

We hope you have a fabulous time on your Montana winter vacation — just remember to pack really warm clothes and winter snow gear! And if you’re planning a visit during the holidays, don’t stop reading yet: check out our Best Christmas Spots in Montana article.

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13 Top Things to Do in Montana in Winter

Written by Brad Lane Updated Feb 10, 2023

Author Brad Lane lived in Missoula for nearly three years and has many fond winter memories, though snowy hot springs stand out most in his mind.

Winter is a special time in the state of Montana. Montana's national forests and mountains get a new coat of snowy appeal throughout the colder months of the year. And the dropping temperatures usher in a whole new category of attractions and things to do within these snowbound landscapes.

The ski and snowboard slopes in Montana are some of the best in the country. Alongside thousands of acres of skiable terrain, Montana ski resorts offer short lift lines and jaw-dropping terrain. Many of the best ski resorts in Montana are in the more mountainous western half of the state.

But the entire state delivers a variety of great outdoor things to do in winter. Other common winter adventures include cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, or soaking in a commercial hot spring. The 10 different national forests that cover the state of Montana support all these adventures and more.

Glacier and Yellowstone National Parks offer memorable winter visits. These bucket-list Montana destinations have far fewer crowds in winter due to the extra effort involved in visiting, including the use of snowcoach tours. Plan your winter trip accordingly, though, and these national parks in Montana sparkle under the winter snow.

Pack your parka and plan your next Montana adventure with these things to do in Montana in winter:

1. Ski or Snowboard at Whitefish Mountain Resort

2. cross-country ski in yellowstone national park, 3. soak at chico hot springs, 4. catch a live show in missoula, 5. snowshoe in glacier national park, 6. dogsled in big sky, 7. go to a museum in bozeman, 8. stay in a forest service cabin, 9. snowmobile in the bitterroots, 10. ice fish near helena, 11. attend the whitefish winter carnival, 12. go ice-skating in kalispell, 13. visit the residents at zoomontana in billings.

In northwest Montana and accessible by Amtrak, Whitefish is one of the number one places to visit in winter in Montana. Much of the wintertime excitement comes from the slopes of Whitefish Mountain Resort right at the backdoor.

With over 3,000 acres of accessible terrain, skiing at the "Big Mountain" behind Whitefish offers endless new tracks to make. And eleven chairlifts at the resort make it easy to get around. On bright days, great views of Glacier National Park and the surrounding Flathead National Forest stand out from the slopes.

It's not just downhill pursuits that make Whitefish a winter destination. Resort amenities on the mountain include restaurants, shopping, and a lodge. The resort also operates cozy places to stay, like slope-side condos and four-bedroom vacation homes.

The city of Whitefish also caters to winter vacations. Hotels, heated art galleries, and lively nightlife options add plenty of boot prints to the snow-laden sidewalks of downtown. And in February, the city hosts the acclaimed Whitefish Winter Carnival — one of the largest winter celebrations in the state.

And Whitefish is just one of the best ski resorts in Montana . The largest ski resort in the state, Big Sky Resort , offers unparalleled winter adventure and a summit journey on the Lone Peak Tram. Other local ski resorts, like Bridger Bowl and Snowbowl , are favorites for the university cities of Bozeman and Missoula.

Address: 1015 Glades Drive, Whitefish, Montana

While much of Yellowstone National Park is in Wyoming, the park's two northern entrances are in Montana. The Northeast Entrance of the park is accessible via the summertime favorite Beartooth Highway . This scenic corridor is closed to vehicles in the winter.

The North Entrance, however, near Gardiner , opens the door to the winter wonderland of Yellowstone.

The Gardiner Entrance is 80 miles south of Bozeman through Paradise Valley. This entrance leads to the Mammoth Hot Springs area of the park, first passing by the aptly named Boiling River . At Mammoth Hot Springs, snow-covered boardwalks reveal a world of steaming travertine terraces. These hydrothermal features are even more scenic with melted snow surrounding their edges.

Groomed cross-country trails lace the Mammoth Hot Springs area. Routes like the Upper Terrace Loop are a great introduction to cross-country skiing in Yellowstone. More adventurous winter athletes can charter a ride on a snowcoach to find further-reaching trails in the park.

The town of West Glacier—one of the best small towns in Montana —is also a winter hot spot for cross-country skiing. This festive winter town boasts easy access to the national park's snow-covered roads, as well as premier cross-country ski trails in the adjacent national forest. The Rendezvous Ski Trails offer over 35 kilometers of trails near West Glacier, which are often the center of winter celebrations.

• Read More: Visiting Yellowstone National Park: Attractions, Tips & Tours

Nothing pairs better with cold weather than some hot water steam. The state of Montana specializes in commercial hot springs perfect for soaking . One such celebrated facility is Chico Hot Springs, located within Paradise Valley near Pray, Montana. This long-standing institution offers much more than a dip in their two open-air pools

Established in 1900, Chico has grown in prominence as a winter destination, without severing its roots. The resort offers several overnight options, including antique-filled rooms in the historic Main Lodge . And the most elegant dining in Montana is also available in the Main Lodge, within the Chico Dining Room .

Yellowstone Hot Springs , another notable hot spring in Montana, is 30 minutes south of Chico Hot Springs. This relatively new commercial hot spring features a beautiful pool with stunning mountain backdrops. Yellowstone Hot Spring is not associated with the neighboring national park.

Address: 163 Chico Road, Pray, Montana

Official site: https://www.chicohotsprings.com/

Creative energy keeps Missoulians warm in the winter. The university city brims with cultural attractions throughout the year, and the winter is no exception. From weekly screenings at the Roxy Theater to live storytelling performances at the historic Wilma Theater , the early sunsets of winter aren't a problem in Missoula when it comes to evening entertainment.

Missoula also has a live music scene that outweighs the city's size. Local and regional acts take to the stage in Missoula every week, thanks to the community members and college students who pack the crowds. A few hot spots for live music in Missoula include Top Hat and the Zootown Arts Community Center .

A couple of other winter adventures in Missoula include cross-country skiing in Pattee Canyon and hitting the slopes at the Snowbowl . For a full look at everything Missoula has to offer, check out our things to do in Missoula article.

The Crown of the Continent is in northwest Montana. Some may know it as Glacier National Park.

Every year, over three million tourists visit Glacier National Park to lay eyes on its magnificent mountain peaks. Over two million of these visits occur in June, July, and August. Glacier sees a fraction of tourists in the winter, making it an excellent time to go.

Aside from fewer crowds, winter in Glacier is absolutely stunning. It's more challenging to reach this remote part of the country in winter, but make the trek, and this snowy wonderland offers many outlets to stay warm. Several of the park's roads remain unplowed throughout the season. Snowshoes and cross-country skis are the best ways to explore the park.

Winter trails are on both sides of the park. West Glacier features trails at Apgar, Avalanche Creek, and Polebridge . Trails at these iconic locations meander throughout the large, quiet environment of Glacier this time of year. Places on the east side, like Two-Medicine and St. Mary , also have access to the solitude.

No overnight lodging is available within the park during winter. Visitors can camp for free at the Apgar Picnic Area or get a permit to sleep in the backcountry. Several towns on the outskirts of Glacier offer hotel rooms and other heated overnight options.

Accommodation: Best Places to Stay at Glacier National Park

Read More: Top Things to Do in Glacier National Park

Few other means of winter transportation compare to dogsledding. It's not exactly an easy sport to get into, however, without a team of sled dogs trained and ready to go. Luckily, several commercial dogsledding companies in Montana offer a chance to mush one of their experienced packs.

The adventurous town of Big Sky, home to Big Sky Resort , has two commercial dogsledding outfitters. Yellowstone Dog Sled Adventures and Spirit of the North Dog Sled Adventures offer two-hour trips in the surrounding forestland. It's more than just a ride-along experience with these dogsledding tours — visitors learn to mush a team of sled dogs on their own.

Other dogsled tour companies are in West Yellowstone and Pray, Montana, within Paradise Valley. Northwest Montana also has places to join a dog sledding team in Whitefish and Bigfork. The regular operating season for these dogsledding adventures is typically between late December and April.

For some indoor winter things to do in Montana, cities like Bozeman have several exciting exhibits and engaging museums. One of the best museums in Bozeman is the acclaimed Museum of the Rockies . This Smithsonian Affiliate museum attracts a lot of attention throughout the year.

The main point of interest at the Museum of the Rockies (MOR) is the Siebel Dinosaur Complex . This award-winning exhibit features one of the largest collections of dinosaur fossils in the world. The collection includes one of a few Tyrannosaurus Rex fossils on display.

The Welcome to Yellowstone Country exhibit also garnishes interest at MOR. This highly detailed permanent exhibit tells the evolving story of settlers in the region and the indigenous people who call it home. The museum also features the Taylor Planetarium , where visitors can watch movies full of stars.

While the Museum of the Rockies is a must-visit, Bozeman also has several other museums worth checking out. The American Computer & Robotics Museum is nearby, with rooms showcasing technological advancement. In downtown, the Gallatin History Museum uncovers more antiquities of the region.

All three of these museums rank as some of the best things to do while visiting Bozeman .

The state of Montana has 10 different national forests within its borders. This remarkable amount of public land doesn't go dormant in the winter. One unique resource spread throughout Montana's national forests are rustic cabins where visitors can spend the night.

Cabins operated by the Forest Service vary in size and structure. Most cabins include a woodfire stove, bunks to lay a sleeping pad, and some lighting (such as kerosene lamps). Not all cabins have electricity, and no cabin has indoor plumbing, though outhouses are always nearby.

Access to Forest Service cabins also varies. Some cabins are accessible via vehicle, while others require visitors to ski or snowshoe. Some of these remote cabins require crossing through avalanche terrain. Visitors should plan accordingly and remain within their comfort zones for travel.

Several Forest Service cabins are also reservable ahead of time. Many cabins tend to book out months in advance. However, winter is an easier time of year to find availability. To check out all the overnight options and to make a reservation, visit www.Recreation.gov .

Snowmobile trails lace the state of Montana come winter. The typical snowmobile season spans from December through April, depending on snow conditions. The best riding takes place in Western Montana. For those that don't own a snow machine, several outfitters in this part of the state offer tours and rentals.

Among many other adventures, the Bitterroot Mountains of southwest Montana offer many trails to explore. The Skalkaho Snowpark is one popular place to snowmobile in the Bitterroots, with over 50 miles of groomed trails. Lolo Pass is also a hot spot for snowmobiling nearby, with a staggering 250 miles of interconnected trails.

Small towns in the Bitterroot Valley like Darby have commercial snowmobile outfits that offer guided tours. These outfits also provide half- and full-day snowmobile rentals.

Another popular region for snowmobiling in Montana is West Yellowstone . This welcoming community is next to the West Entrance of Yellowstone National Park. It ranks high as one of the best small towns in Montana . West Yellowstone is also a premiere snowmobile base camp, with approximately 400 miles of trails nearby.

Snowmobiling often takes visitors into avalanche territory. It's important to check local conditions before heading out and to familiarize yourself with proper avalanche safety.

The fishing season doesn't end in winter for some Montana anglers. Lakes and inlets freeze over across the state to provide excellent ice fishing conditions. The many reservoirs and tributaries surrounding Helena in southwest Montana offer several places to drop a line.

A few of the frozen fishing spots near Helena include Holter Lake, Hauser Lake, and Canyon Ferry Lake . Each is within an hour's drive from the capital city. Canyon Ferry Lake is one of the best lakes in Montana . It has rainbow trout and perch biting throughout much of the winter.

Other great ice fishing spots are across the more mountainous western half of the state. Montana's largest lake, Flathead Lake , doesn't freeze over entirely but provides many frozen inlets to drill a hole. Ice depths vary throughout the week, and visitors should check local conditions before stepping foot on a frozen lake.

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in Helena

Several snowy attributes draw visitors to Whitefish throughout the winter season. But it's the annual Whitefish Winter Carnival , culminating on the first weekend of February, which draws the most concentrated crowds. This longstanding winter celebration has donned upon the streets of Whitefish for over seven decades, all the while evolving this time-honored tradition.

Winter Carnival events occur throughout Whitefish beginning in mid-January. But the real festivities take place on the first weekend of February, kicking off with a festive Carnival Gala and Penguin Plunge. The Grand Parade is another signature attraction, taking over the streets of Whitefish in mid-afternoon.

Expect costumed characters and a general sense of merriment the entire weekend. Events occur downtown and at Whitefish Mountain Resort. Much of the fun is free to enjoy. Other activities include ice-sculpting contests, a Kiddie Carnival, and evening fireworks.

Things to do in Kalispell in winter are almost unlimited. The town, approximately half-way between Whitefish and Flathead Lake in northwest Montana, has an excellent location for all types of winter endeavors.

Downhill and cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, and ice fishing are all within an easy drive of the charming downtown district.

Ice skating and ice hockey are two arteries of winter fun in Kalispell. Flathead Valley Hockey Association owns and operates a community ice rink at Woodland Park on the east side of town. The Woodland Ice Center is open to the public typically between November and February. The facility hosts public skating times, men's and women's adult ice hockey leagues, and youth hockey.

The cold-weather attractions extend well beyond the ice rink in Kalispell. Other winter destinations within a short drive include ski resorts, wilderness trailheads, and the frozen shores of Flathead Lake . And, come evening, the lively downtown district of Kalispell offers other ways to stay warm.

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in Kalispell

Billings, the largest city in the state and dubbed "Montana's Trailhead," is primed for winter excitement. The standard array of snow sports is right at the city's back door, including cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, and snowshoeing. Things to do in Billings in winter also include downhill skiing at the nearby Red Lodge Mountain .

Billings is also home to the AZA-accredited ZooMontana . And, while visiting the zoo might not be the first consideration on a winter vacation, it's actually one of the best times to visit the facility. Fewer crowds in the winter give you a more personal experience at ZooMontana, and many of the resident animals absolutely love their snow-covered landscapes.

Nearly every animal at ZooMontana is well-adapted to the winter surroundings. And some animals, like wolverines and red pandas, are noticeably more active during this time of year. The zoo is open throughout the entire year, excluding Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year's Eve, and Easter Sunday.

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in Billings

More on Montana

Epic Winter Trips

Discover the Magic of Winter in Montana

Find Your Winter Gateway

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. Places that exceed expectations, where at the end of the day when you settle in for the night, your heart is full and mind is dreaming about the epic adventures that await the next day. If you haven’t found that place, Montana is calling. From breathtaking mountain vistas to sweeping plains with charming small towns dotted in between, there are incredible experiences found around every corner. Combine endless adventure and spectacular views with winter in Montana, and you have a snow-covered paradise.

Yellowstone Country

Layer your trip with alternating ski days on this four-day adventure from Bozeman to Red Lodge, which includes a well-worth-it detour to Yellowstone National Park. Along the way, traverse Bozeman Pass at 5,760 feet, journey through the city of Livingston, compare soaking experiences at Chico Hot Springs and Mammoth Hot Springs and climb on board for a dog sled adventure. 

Western Montana

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. For a change of pace, take the final day to explore Yellowstone National Park in all its winter glory. 

Central Montana

Start out in Central Montana with this four-day trip that makes the rounds from Great Falls to Teton Pass back down to Showdown and finally over to Great Divide.  Toast to your epic powder adventures with a final night out in the capital city.

Glacier Country

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.

Powder's Ultimate Winter Experience

No other winter experience in the U.S. is quite like Montana’s. It’s the crisp air, the stunning mountains, vast and diverse terrain and immense snowfall. The state has high-end modern amenities and easy accessibility to airports, and yet these mountains rarely have crowds. Ski areas dot the state—Montana has 14 in all, from charming family-owned gems to world-class resort destinations.

National Park Trips

As the snow begins to fall in Montana, the bustle of summer and autumn crowds disperse and the landscape becomes covered in a glistening blanket of white. Winter is the perfect season to explore Big Sky Country. Home to two national parks, Glacier and Yellowstone, winter is one of the most peaceful and magical times to visit.

Family Winter Trips

There are many places to choose from for your family's next winter adventure. But there's only one place that gives you world-class ski resorts, breathtaking mountain vistas, charming small towns and incredible winter experiences around every corner. 

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A Montana Travel Blog

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• Inspired by MT

Winter in Montana: Things to Do for an Unforgettable Trip

Use this guide to plan your dream winter trip to Montana, and get ready to experience some magic (even if you don’t ski!).

November 29, 2023 //  by  Jen Ambrose //   Leave a Comment

No doubt summer is the most popular time to visit Big Sky Country. But honestly? Winter in Montana is a whole new level of magic.

Yes, it’s cold and snowy. Yes, the roads can be icy. Yes, many attractions are closed, and some activities are limited. But if you’re willing to brave the conditions, you’ll be rewarded.

The unique beauty of frosted landscapes and the array of cold-weather adventures will make your Montana winter vacation unforgettable. And it’ll give you the rare opportunity to experience the state without crowds and at reasonable prices.

So yeah. It’s more than worth visiting Montana in winter. You’ll see.

Table of Contents

Hit the slopes at one of Montana’s ski resorts.

Stick to flat land, and go cross-country skiing., go snowshoeing., try fat tire biking., ice skate at an outdoor rink., soak in a hot spring., watch a skijoring race., take a sleigh ride., visit a ghost town., browse a winter market., visit one of montana’s many museums., catch a film at an independent theater., indulge in a spa treatment., cozy up in a brewery or coffee shop., ice skate at an indoor rink., yellowstone & glacier national parks: an unexpected treat, bozeman & whitefish: best in the winter, eastern montana: off the beaten path, lewis & clark caverns candlelight tours, snoflinga winter festival – butte, montana winter fair – lewistown, whitefish winter carnival – whitefish, big sky documentary film festival – missoula, montana winter weather, packing for winter in montana, montana winter roads, montana prices in the winter.

Some links in this post are affiliates, meaning we may earn a small commission if you make a purchase. Your cost stays the same!

The Best Montana Winter Adventures

The amazing winter adventures available in Montana are a big part of what makes this such an incredible season to visit. So bundle yourself up, shake out your muscles, and go get after the wildest cold-weather experiences Montana.

Winter in Montana is practically synonymous with downhill skiing – but with a whopping 16 ski areas in the state , where should you go?

If budget is no concern, Big Sky Resort has unmatched amenities, abundant terrain for all levels, and luxe accommodations, plus plenty for non-skiers to do. Nearby Bridger Bowl is a less-costly and locally-beloved alternative just outside Bozeman, known for both its experts-only Ridge Terrain and variety of green runs.

Whitefish Mountain Resort is the state’s other big destination ski resort, with slightly less upscale amenities than Big Sky and a much lower price tag (but you can still get a ski-in, ski-out cabin ). For something a little more offbeat, Blacktail Mountain overlooks Flathead Lake and is one of the best Montana hills for beginners. Regular lift tickets at most hills run between $45 and $70, not including rentals or lessons.

Montana has even more places to go cross-country skiing, but if you ask me, the most incredible ones are in the national parks. Both Yellowstone and Glacier National Park are largely closed in the winter – but some of the entrances are accessible for cross-country skiing, and you’ll have it nearly all to yourself, especially in Glacier.

Many lodges and Nordic centers, especially around Bozeman and Whitefish, offer access to their cross-country trails at a rate of $20-$30 per day. But plenty of other spots for cross-country skiing in Montana are free or by donation, including some of our favorites:

• Blacktail Nordic Trails near Flathead Lake
• Mount Haggin Ski Trails near Anaconda
• South Flower Trails near Libby
• West Fork Area near Red Lodge

Most major towns in Montana have an outdoors store that rents cross-country gear. And if you’re new to cross-country skiing or just want to improve (which will make it more fun, honestly), I highly recommend taking a lesson at Homestake Lodge near Butte.

Snowshoeing is another of the most popular winter activities in Montana, and there are abundant opportunities for it. Many of those cross-country spots above are also some of the best places for snowshoeing in Montana – especially Glacier and Yellowstone National Park.

Some of the designated cross-country areas prohibit snowshoers because the trails are specifically groomed for skiing, but many allow snowshoeing at least in certain areas, so those are also great places to check.

Otherwise, you can really snowshoe anywhere you can hike, but these are some of our favorites:

• Lake Como Loop Trail near Hamilton
• Lone Pine State Park by Kalispell
• South Hills Trail System by Helena
• The Whitefish Trail

Of course, even in Montana, there’s no guarantee you’ll have a ton of snow. As has happened to me many times, you may set out to go snowshoeing, only to realize there’s not nearly enough snow to warrant snowshoes. But if that happens to you, these are all still great hikes for the winter – just grab a pair of YakTrax instead of your snowshoes. Otherwise, you can find snowshoe rentals at an outdoors store in most larger towns.

Fat tire biking is… well, riding a bicycle that has fat tires. But, that’s what makes it possible to bike year-round in Montana!

The wide tires provide better traction on slippery terrain, and they let you pedal through the snow instead of sinking down into it. It takes some extra effort compared to riding a regular bike – but it’s totally worth it to be able to bike in the snow.

The easiest way to try fat tire biking in Montana is at a Nordic center that rents bikes on-site and has groomed trails with some easier terrain. The Whitefish area has the most to offer first-timers, with both the Whitefish Bike Retreat and Dog Creek Lodge & Nordic Center . You’ll pay around $50 for a day of fat biking at either spot.

If you’d rather head out on your own, bike shops in most major Montana towns rent fat bikes, and you can really ride on any road or trail that has snow. Some of the cross-country areas also allow fat bikes – many reserve the trails for skiers, though, so be sure to double check.

Outdoor ice skating is just one more fun way to get out and stay active during a Montana winter.

No doubt, the top place to go ice skating in Montana is at the famed High-Altitude Skating Center  in Butte, once a popular training site for Olympic speed skaters.

But there are plenty of other options throughout the state. With the woeful exception of our hometown of Great Falls, most of Montana’s major towns and many of its smaller ones have outdoor ice rinks, generally open December through February.

These are just a few of the places you can channel your inner Michelle Kwan or Wayne Gretzky:

• Beall Park in Bozeman
• Lion’s Park in Red Lodge
• Memorial Park in Helena
• Winninghoff Park in Philipsburg

Some of Montana’s outdoor rinks are free to use and accessible at any time, while others have set hours and charge an admission fee (generally $3-$7) – and are better maintained! These rinks also usually have skate rentals available.

More Outdoor Things to Do in Montana in Winter

Montanans get especially pumped up to hit the slopes and tackle other wild cold-weather activities. But there are also PLENTY of less intense things to do in the winter in Montana.

So if spending half your day freezing on a chairlift or trudging uphill through a foot of snow in 10-degree weather isn’t your idea of a good time (or you’re just wiped out from all that adventuring), this section is for you!

Montana in winter is cold, but the state’s many hot springs are toasty warm – and a soak is the perfect way to relax your muscles after all those outdoor adventures.

With nearly 20 designated hot springs in Montana, you’ll have plenty of choices – and at least in western Montana, you’ll never be far away from one.

Places to soak range from a single outdoor pool like Norris Hot Springs near Bozeman, to upscale resorts with multiple pools and other amenities, like Boulder Hot Springs near Butte and Yellowstone Hot Springs just outside the park. Most hot springs charge $10-$20 for a day pass, with free access for overnight guests.

If you’re never heard of skijoring, you’re in for a treat! It’s a ski race in which the skier is pulled by a horse galloping ahead of them, guiding them around turns, over jumps, and through slalom gates. It’s wild, it’s adventurous, and it’s pure Western spirit.

And if you visit Montana in the winter, you just might get to see it for yourself! These are the annual opportunities we know of to attend a skijoring event:

• Montana Winter Fair in Lewistown (January)
• Whitefish Carnival (January/February)
• Best in the West Showdown in Big Sky (February)
• National Finals in Red Lodge (March)

Picture this: you’re bundled up cozy on a sleigh, the footsteps of trotting horses the only sound in the air, and a starry sky expands above you as you float past snowdrifts and evergreens.

Horse-drawn sleigh rides are one of the most unique winter experiences in Montana, and they’re perfect for the whole family. And unlike many other activities, no skills or gear is required.

A handful of ranches and outfitters around western Montana offer sleigh rides, but these are among the best:

• Bar W Guest Ranch near Whitefish
• Lone Mountain Ranch in Big Sky
• Parade Rest Guest Ranch in West Yellowstone

Sleigh ride options may include drinks, appetizers, or even multi-course meals, and generally start around $65, depending on what’s included.

There are tons of old ghost towns in Montana, all of them interesting to explore in their eerie stillness. And nothing enhances that nobody-is-here, nature-is-taking-over feeling like seeing an abandoned town blanketed in snow.

These are some of the ghost towns that are accessible in the winter months:

• Bannack State Park near Dillon
• Elkhorn near Buttece
• Marysville near Helena

Indoor Things to Do in Montana in Winter

There are actually winter days in Montana when any local would admit it’s too cold to spend much time outside. And even the most avid adventurers need to thaw out eventually! But don’t worry – when that happens, you’ll still have plenty of other ways to enjoy Montana in winter.

While lively farmers’ markets are a staple of Montana summers, they die down during the winter (no surprise). However, regular winter farmers’ markets are held on Saturdays in Bozeman , Butte , and Missoula . All of these markets are great places to find locally-produced goods, unique food items, seasonal products, gifts, and more.

A good way to escape the cold temperatures outdoors is by heading indoors to one of the museums in Montana. While many of the smaller museums in the state are only open during the summer, the bigger ones are open year-round, and these are some of the best:

• Montana’s Museum in Helena
• Museum of the Rockies in Bozeman
• Yellowstone Art Museum in Billings

The day that you’ve had enough of the cold is the perfect day to go watch a film at one of Montana’s independent movie theaters.

Anaconda’s Washoe Theatre , an extravagant Art Deco building dating to 1936, is the most offbeat, and it has to be the most unique one in Montana. Otherwise, head to The Roxy in Missoula or the Art House Cinema & Pub in Billings, both of which are non-profits showing a curated selection of old and new movies.

After a trip full of winter adventure, nothing feels better than relaxing with a massage or another indulgent spa treatment. And all throughout Montana, there is NO shortage of spas, so you’re sure to find one wherever you’re at.

Whether you need a break from adventuring and sightseeing or you want to experience some local flavor (or you just want a drink!), Montana’s beer and coffee scene has you more than covered.

Montana is one of the top states for breweries per capita, so you’ll have absolutely no trouble finding one. Most of the major towns have quite a few, and you’ll even see them in the most remote corners of the state.

For a cozy spot to hang out earlier in the day, the same goes for Montana’s independent coffee shops. If you’re really a coffee aficionado, choose one that’s also a roaster – you know they’ll be serious about serving quality coffee.

There’s something magical about ice skating outside, but sometimes it’s just too cold (or too warm!) for that. Fortunately, every major town in Montana has an indoor ice rink, so you can still hit the ice regardless of what it’s like outside. Indoor rinks typically have public skating sessions at least a few times per week for $5-$10, with skate rentals available.

Places to Visit in Montana in Winter

No matter where you go in Montana in the winter, you’ll have access to many of the activities listed above. You could make a terrific winter trip basing yourself out of almost any of the state’s main towns or near one of the ski resorts. But there are a few places that I think warrant some extra discussion.

During every month in the summer, hundreds of thousands of visitors descend on Glacier and Yellowstone, making it a struggle to find parking, book a campsite, or get an unobstructed view.

But you can visit the parks (well, parts of them) during the winter months, when they’re buried in snow and you’ll barely see another soul. And if you ask me, this is one of the best things to do in Montana in winter.

In Glacier Park , a small section of road from the West Glacier entrance is plowed year-round, giving intrepid winter visitors access to some of the best snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in the state. Other than restrooms and water fountains at Apgar Visitor Center (which is only open on weekends), there are no services available and usually no staff around.

In Yellowstone , only the road between the North entrance by Gardiner and the North East Entrance by Cooke City is open year-round. But Yellowstone has far more winter amenities than Glacier. Ski shops are located near Mammoth Hot Springs and Old Faithful, four visitor centers stay open, and numerous companies offer guided tours.

You can ski and snowshoe with a guide or on your own, or take a snowcoach tour – one of the most unique Montana winter activities, which honestly should be on anyone’s bucket list.

Bozeman and Whitefish are by far the most-visited towns in the state – the gateways to the national parks and two towns that are becoming nationally recognized names.

But both were built as small mountain towns, lacking the infrastructure and sheer space needed to support the masses of tourists arriving each summer. Traffic clogs the roads, crowds fill every bar and restaurant, reservations must be made months in advance, and summer prices are now out of reach of most.

For those reasons, Bozeman and Whitefish are generally not my top recommendations for places to visit in Montana. In the winter, though, it’s a different story.

Despite their proximity to world-class skiing, neither Bozeman nor Whitefish ever feel too crowded in the winter. Since hotel prices fall to a fraction of what they’d be in the summertime, it’s practically affordable to visit. And with a blanket of snow, these towns turn into winter wonderlands like almost no other place.

Even outside of the nearby national parks and ski resorts, both Bozeman and Whitefish boast epic adventures, fun events, and cozy places to warm up. Truly, they are best visited in the wintertime.

With most of the larger towns, airports, and even mountains all in the western half of the state, eastern Montana doesn’t get a lot of love. But that doesn’t mean there’s nothing to do once you cross the Divide. And heading east is the easiest way to get off the beaten path in Montana, in the winter or otherwise.

Most trips to eastern Montana will probably pass through Billings. It might be the biggest town in Montana with around 120,000 people, but it’s one of the least-touristy of the state’s main towns. And it’s got a happening brewery scene, year-round museums, and tons of parks and trails with great snowshoeing and cross-country skiing opportunities in the winter.

Billings is just an hour from Red Lodge, a little mountain town with an old-school ski resort vibe. It’s got all of the stunning scenery and none of the pretension (or eye-popping prices) – and so does Red Lodge Mountain , its namesake ski area just down the road.

Not many people visit Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area in the wintertime, although the steep canyon walls are only more impressive when everything’s blanketed in snow. The South District, about two hours from Billings, is accessible for hiking and snowshoeing in the wintertime, and the visitor center stays open all year.

Yet another eastern Montana gem with unique landscapes that are all the more stunning in the snow is Makoshika State Park . It’s a long drive from…anywhere, but it’s massive (the largest state park in Montana), with amazing badlands scenery, unobstructed stargazing, nearly a dozen hiking trails, and a year-round visitor center.

Montana Winter Events

In addition to all the regular winter attractions, Montana is also host to tons of special events throughout the season. See if you can catch one of these – they’ll make your trip all the more memorable.

Mid-December

With its huge limestone cavern system and intriguing geological features, Lewis & Clark Caverns is one of the most popular state parks in Montana. It’s only accessible by guided tour, and typically only during the summer months. But on a few days in December, the park offers special candlelight tours, offering an intimate look at the cave formations and a totally unique experience.

Reservations open in late-November, and these tours are wildly popular, so book your spot as early as possible.

Mid-January

Butte’s annual Snoflinga Festival is truly everything that’s great about winter in Montana. It’s a jam-packed weekend of cold-weather adventures, set in one of the state’s most underrated towns.

Snoflinga offers opportunities to try cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, ice skating, curling, and hockey, and has events like a 5K, polar plunge, and (indoor) yoga classes. Make sure you check the schedule to see which activities require advance reservations.

Late-January

The Montana Winter Fair, an event run by hundreds (!) of volunteers, puts on over 20 events throughout Lewistown. You can attend art workshops, textile demonstrations, cooking contests, home brew and wine tasting, or even a skijoring race, and the trade show has dozens of vendors from around the area.

It’s the type of thing you’d normally associate with the summer months, and I love Lewistown for showing us there’s no reason not to have fun in the winter.

January/February

Legend has it that when Ullr, the Norse god of winter activities, was searching for a new home, he chose to settle at Big Mountain in Whitefish. Now, the annual Whitefish Winter Carnival pays homage to him and celebrates the season with festivities throughout January, culminating in Carnival weekend in early-February.

The World Skijoring Invitational takes place during the Carnival, and a gala, disco party, and polar plunge are just a few of the other popular events leading up to the Grand Parade. And no matter which activities you hit up, you just might run into a Yeti or a Viking princess.

Mid-February

The Big Sky Documentary Film Festival isn’t necessarily a celebration of winter, but it’s an epic event – the biggest non-fiction film festival in the Western U.S. (!). And winning films in some categories automatically qualify to be considered for an Oscar.

So, this event is a big deal in the film world, but it’s also a ton of fun to attend. The 150 or so films screened range from mini-documentaries made by University of Montana students to feature-length films by directors from around the world. But they are universally films that inspire, educate, and make you think.

What to Know about Winter in Montana

A winter trip to Montana is not for the faint of heart, or for the unprepared. It’s fun to think about all the adventures you’re going to have, but the most important thing is making sure you know what to expect in Montana this time of year.

The winter weather in Montana is the first thing people ask about – no surprise, given the state’s reputation. But the unhelpful truth is that Montana winters are as unpredictable as they are extreme, made stranger by the fact that high and low temperatures in a single day can differ by 40 degrees or more. Plus, since Montana is so massive, the weather can vary tremendously across the state.

Montana winter temperatures can drop to -20 and even -40 (brrr) – but the mercury can rise into the 50s on other days. Similarly, there’s a good chance you’ll see feet of snow, but (depending on location) there’s also a real possibility of no snow whatsoever.

My advice is to be prepared for extreme cold and heavy snow, but know that you may not experience that at all. Check forecasts for your specific location before and during your trip (just don’t put TOO much stock in them!).

And regardless of weather, remember that daylight hours are limited, with sunrises between 7:00 and 8:00AM and sunsets between 4:30 and 5:30PM.

The best way to handle Montana weather in the winter is by packing for it. Bring all your warmest gear, including footwear and accessories, in case it’s super cold. But make sure you also have some lighter weight clothes you can layer, since the weather is so unpredictable.

What to Wear in Montana in Winter

Winter driving in Montana is another big concern for visitors – and rightfully so, especially if you’re not used to driving on ice. Even in larger towns, not all of the roads get plowed, and black ice is always a possibility. Snow tires or chains are a must in most cases, and 4WD and high clearance is a good idea if you’ll be driving through the mountains.

Check the Montana Department of Transportation road conditions map before heading out of town, and avoid driving in the dark if possible. Otherwise, go slowly, be alert for wildlife, and leave plenty of space between you and other vehicles.

The massive drop in prices compared to summer months is just one more reason to consider a winter trip to Montana.

Winter hotel prices in parts of the state can drop to a quarter (!) or less of the summer rates, with the same at campgrounds and RV parks. Many hotels and resorts offer discount packages during the winter, too. National park entrance fees also dip in the winter, as do prices at certain attractions.

Flights into Montana airports are also usually cheaper in the winter months, although there might not be quite as many options. Even rental cars are cheaper in the winter (and less likely to run out!).

Basically, unless you’re going all-out on the ski trip of a lifetime at Big Sky, you’ll almost certainly save money by visiting Montana in the winter instead of summertime.

Would you want to experience winter in Montana?  

About Jen Ambrose

Jen Ambrose was born and raised in Great Falls, MT, and has also spent extensive time in Missoula, Helena, Bozeman, and Butte. She and her husband Ryan are well on their way to their goal of visiting every county and every state park in Montana! When she’s not writing, Jen is also a yoga teacher and personal trainer, and you’ll find her teaching and taking classes across Montana and wherever she goes.

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Montana's best winter activities – that aren't all skiing

Dec 6, 2022 • 6 min read

Go for cold: Montana has plenty of amazing winter activities beyond skiing © wanderluster / Getty Images

Winter in Montana is a harsh but magical season. A winter hush descends upon a landscape so cold that even sound seems frozen. But for those well equipped and with a certain level of experience, Montana offers incredible ways to get out and explore its stunningly beautiful mountain terrain.

Whitefish and the surrounding Flathead Valley is unbeatable for almost every kind of winter activity, as is the Gallatin Valley between Big Sky and West Yellowstone. For pristine backcountry skiing and snowmobiling, plus access to Yellowstone National Park, remote Cooke City is a great in-the-know destination.

1. Snowshoe, ski and spot wolves in Yellowstone National Park

Winter is many people's favorite season to visit Yellowstone National Park . There are almost no crowds, the geysers are at their steamiest and the frozen landscapes are simply stunning.

Yellowstone National Park has two main areas to visit in winter. From West Yellowstone, snowcoach tours shuttle to Old Faithful , from where you can make ski or snowshoe excursions around the park's geyser basins, before a hot chocolate and overnight at the cozy Snow Lodge .

Further north, the park entrance at Gardiner and its road to Cooke City are the only ones open to cars during winter. This opens up a host of snowshoe and cross-country ski trailheads around the Mammoth region, some of which are served by snowcoach drops.

Planning Tip: The wildlife spotting in Yellowstone is legendary in winter because it's easier to spot animals against the white background. For an unforgettable opportunity to lock eyes with a Yellowstone wolf, sign up for a wildlife-spotting trip with an expert local company like Yellowstone Wolf Tracker .

2. Snowmobile the Targhee or Flathead National Forests

It may not be the most environmentally friendly activity (with access to places like Yellowstone National Park long mired in controversy), but if you are a confident rider, there's no more exciting way to traverse Montana's epic scenery than on a snowmobile.

Cooke City is one of the most remote towns in Montana, with only one access road in winter (through Yellowstone National Park), but once you get there, the snowmobiling is incredible. Rentals and guides are available in town, and groomed Forest Service roads climb to passes that offer astonishing views of the powder-filled Beartooth Mountains.

As the gateway for winter trips into Yellowstone, West Yellowstone is also well set up for snowmobilers, who can choose from hundreds of miles of spectacular trails in the nearby Targhee National Forest.

Other must-ride locations include the 250 miles of trails at Lolo Pass in the Bitterroot Mountains southwest of Missoula, or the Flathead National Forest near Glacier National Park , where you can rent snowmobiles or join a tour with  Swan Mountain Snowmobiling .

3. Watch the curious sport of skijoring

Combine Montana's cowboy heritage with its Norwegian immigrant history and you get skijoring, in which a skier is towed by a horse over a series of jumps and through slaloms at speeds of up to 40mph. It's the kind of sport that feels like it was invented during a night of heavy drinking. Expect high adrenaline and some slightly silly action.

Planning Tip: For spectators the best action is to be found at Whitefish's World Skijoring Invitational  in January or at West Yellowstone's National Championship in February. Alternatively, try Big Sky's Best of the West competition in the same month or the skijoring finals held during Red Lodge's Winter Fest in early March.

4. Ski untrammeled slopes from a backcountry yurt or hut

Montana has some mind-blowing backcountry skiing, but it's the kind of terrain reserved for experienced skiers, and it doesn't come cheap. That said, it's an unforgettable experience to ski powder-filled slopes all day, only to return to your private wilderness accommodations miles from civilization.

Several companies offer backcountry accommodations and guides. You can base yourself in cozy yurts with Yurtski  in the Swan Mountains, with Big Sky Backcountry Guides  in the Bitterroot Mountains or with Beartooth Powder Guides  in Cooke City. All offer a range of avalanche and backcountry skiing courses, which are a wise investment.

Hellroaring Powder Guides has both unguided and guided backcountry skiing from their hut in the Centennial Mountains, 25 miles from West Yellowstone.

Great Northern Powder Guides  in the Whitefish region offers the only Cat skiing in the state, using their 14-person cabin as a base for incredible, pristine descents.

Planning Tip: The cheapest way to do some gentler cross-country backcountry skiing is to hire a Forest Service Cabin. For $65 you can get a basic cabin for four, though you'll need to chop wood and pack in all your food.

5. Learn how to mush on a dog sled trip

It's hard to think of a more romantic way to traverse Montana's snow-draped winter forests and valleys than in a dog-powered sled. Apart from the thrill of the scenery and learning how to mush, getting to interact with the dogs is a highlight in itself.

Several outfitters offer hands-on dog sledding trips. In western Montana, try Base Camp Bigfork in the Flathead Valley, Winter Woods Dog Sled Tours  outside Whitefish or nearby Dog Sled Adventures . Closer to Bozeman, check out  Yellowstone Dog Sled Adventures in the southern Gallatin Valley or Spirit of the North Dog Sled Adventures  in Big Sky.

6. Try out fat biking on the Whitefish Trail

A fat bike is essentially a mountain bike equipped with chunky double-width tires for riding on packed snow. The increasingly popular sport extends the biking season, opens up whole swatches of winter terrain to non-skiers and allows you to push your riding. Don't worry about wiping out – the snow will cushion your fall.

The 22-mile Whitefish Trail is one of the best places for snow biking in the state. The trailside Whitefish Bike Retreat , 9 miles west of Whitefish, offers fat bike rentals, groomed trail access and accommodations, plus lots of trail advice and occasional three-day fat biking clinics.

7. Ski the Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park

Montana has an almost unlimited choice of Nordic trails across the state. West Yellowstone , Bozeman , Big Sky , Missoula , Red Lodge  and Great Falls  all offer Nordic ski centers with plentiful groomed trails. In Whitefish, try the Glacier Nordic Center or Big Mountain Nordic Trails , the latter best suited to more experienced skiers.

For something special, visit  Glacier National Park  in winter. Most park roads and accommodations close in winter, but you can ski or snowshoe from Lake McDonald Lodge near Apgar on the western side of the park, or along the Going-to-the-Sun Road from St Mary on the eastern side. Remote wilderness trails lead into the park from Polebridge ranger station and Marias Pass.

This article was first published January 2022 and updated December 2022

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Learn how to easily plan your dream trip to the Midwest!

15 Best Things to Do in Winter in Montana

December 6, 2022 by //  by  Midwest Explored Leave a Comment

Are you wondering about what to do in winter in Montana? Well, then you have come to the right place!

From exploring the hot springs to visiting the small towns, there is no shortage of epic things to do in Montana .

In this article, we will be sharing some of the best Montana winter activities and festivals that you simply cannot miss.

Montana is a popular destination to visit in the winter and is home to Glacier National Park and lots of amazing mountains.

Montana winters are truly magical as a layer of snow covers the national forests and mountains in this Midwestern state.

The reduced winter temperatures in the state make it the best time to enjoy a hot cup of chocolate or go skiing/snowboarding on the slopes of Montana.

That’s not all, there are lots of Montana winter events and festivals that you should look into.

So, whether you are looking to go on a winter hike, participate in cross-country skiing, or have fun at a local winter festival, Montana has it all.

If you also want to plan your perfect Montana winter vacation, then check out our list of the 15 best things to do in winter in Montana.

Enjoy a Dip in Chico Hot Springs

Of course, one of the best Montana winters activity that you cannot miss out on is soaking in hot water steam.

As the winter temperatures in Montana lower, this is a great activity to enjoy.

It helps you beat the cold weather while enjoying some gorgeous mountain views in the vicinity.

Thankfully, there are many good commercial hot springs in Montana where you can enjoy your winter vacation.

One such amazing facility is Chico Hot Springs which is located in Paradise Valley near Pray and features two open-air pools.

Opened in the 1900s, Chico Hot Springs is the perfect winter destination to beat the Montana temperatures and offers lots of overnight stay options to visitors.

So, if you are looking for a perfect winter getaway to escape the cold temperature in Montana, then visit Chico Hot Springs.

It is one of the coolest hot springs in Montana to add to your bucket list!

Snowshoeing in Glacier National Park

For some winter fun, plan a visit to the Glacier National Park in Montana which is also known as the Crown of the Continent.

With an area of over 1 million acres, this national forest in Montana offers a lot of fun outdoor activities to visitors.

The national park is filled with gorgeous cascading waterfalls and has beautiful winter scenery, making it perfect for photography as well.

If you want to enjoy snow in Montana, then you can go skiing or snowshoeing in this national park.

Explore the forest and wildlife here. Join a snowshoeing tour in this national park and enjoy the wildlife in peace and serenity.

For those who wish to further immerse themselves in nature, a camping tour is a great idea as well as it allows you to stay overnight at the park.

Learn to make igloos and how you can explore this beautiful terrain in the Montana winters.

Overall, snowshoeing and camping in Glacier National Park are some of the top things to do in winter in Montana!

Have Fun at the SnoFlinga Winter Festival

One of the top Montana winter events that you must attend is the SnoFlinga Winter Festival in Butte. It is one of the cool winter things to do in Butte MT .

This is a free community-sponsored festival that takes place for a couple of days in January every year to have fun in Montana in winter.

Located in Butte, this winter festival first started in 2016 and is the perfect way to keep the community active during the winter months.

Although the festival started small, it has now expanded and is held in 8 different venues and features around 18 fun activities.

From enjoying winter walks to skiing to curling, there are a lot of interesting winter activities to indulge in at this festival.

You can try fat biking on the Thompson Park bike trails or practice yoga, try the polar plunge and so much more at this festival.

Trust me, if you are searching for good winter festivals to attend, then you have to check out the SnoFlinga Winter Festival.

No matter when you visit, there is great hiking in Montana!

Enjoy the North Pole Adventure Train

If you are looking for a fun Montana activity in the winter, then there is nothing better than riding the North Pole Adventure Train from Hanover Boarding Station.

This train adventure takes place every year on the Charlie Russel Chew Choo during the Christmas season.

As it is one of the best ways to enjoy snow in Montana, there are limited dates and tickets available for the adventure ride.

This is why it is important that you book your tickets in advance if you don’t wish to miss out on this amazing experience.

The train ride is 1.5 hours long and boards 10 miles from Lewistown, Montana.

The best thing is that this ride is filled with cookies, cocoa, games, stories, a trip to the North Pole, and interactions with Santa and Mrs. Claus.

As a result, your kids are absolutely going to love this train ride during the Christmas season!

Attend the Whitefish Winter Festival

Are you looking for fun Montana events to participate in? If yes, then don’t forget to attend the Whitefish Winter Festival in February.

This Montana event in the winter takes place in the charming little town of Whitefish where locals keep the old traditions alive.

This annual carnival has been running for over 60 years now and is the very essence of Nordic traditions.

In the carnival, the locals pay homage to the god Ullr who is considered the master of winter sports.

During this festival, everyone is encouraged to participate in snowboarding competitions.

That’s not all, it also features fun activities such as skiing, dancing, skijoring, and more. The carnival ends with a grand parade where people win awards for the best costumes and floats.  

If you wish to attend a fun carnival in Montana in winter, then do attend the Whitefish Winter Festival.

Explore Bitterroot on a Snowmobile

Another perfect winter activity in Montana that you should try is snowmobiling in the Bitterroot mountains.

Visitors will find a lot of trails to explore in the mountains for snowmobiling as this is a popular Montana activity in the winter.

The Skalkaho Snowpark offers 50 miles of trails while Lolo Pass features 250 miles of trails for snowmobiling.

You can easily get commercial snowmobiling outfits, snowmobile rentals, and guided tours in the towns of Bitterroot Valley such as Darby.

Make sure to check the local conditions before heading out for a snowmobiling adventure as you can unknowingly head into the avalanche zone.

For those who love outdoor winter activities, snowmobiling in Bitterroots is one of the best things to do in Montana in winter.

Go Ice Climbing at Hyalite Canyon

Do you love adventure activities like skiing, snowboarding, etc.?

If the answer is yes, then one of the top Montana winter activities that you should try is ice climbing at Hyalite Canyon.

Hyalite Canyon is located near Bozeman and features over 250 routes that can be done by both beginner and expert climbers.

You can take a guided tour of the canyon where you can not only climb the icefalls but also learn how to do ice climbing.

That’s not all, this canyon is home to other amazing Montana activities in the winter as well. This includes fat-tire biking, fishing, sledding, and more.

So, if you are looking for a fun day out during the winter months, then do try ice climbing at Hyalite Canyon.

Plan a Trip to Missoula

Are you planning to make the best of the Montana winters? Looking for good winter getaways in the state?

One of the best things about Missoula is that it offers a lot of amazing attractions and activities to visitors.

There are many hot springs, breweries, ski hills, etc. around the town that the guests can make use of to keep them entertained in the winter.

There are certainly many fun things to do in Missoula!

If you are arriving in December, you will find the entire town beautifully decorated which is great to put yourself in the festive season.

Furthermore, since the students have left for home for the winter holidays, the town is much more peaceful and is great for strolls throughout the day.

So, whether you wish to spend time indoors or outdoors, you won’t be disappointed with the options available both in and around this charming town.

Skiing at Whitefish Mountain Resort

For a memorable Montana winter vacation, one of the best towns to visit is Whitefish where you can plan a stay at the famous Whitefish Mountain Resort.

One of the top Montana activities in the winter that are sure to enjoy is skiing at the Big Mountain behind the resort.

There are 3,000 acres of skiing terrain that can be accessed using 11 chairlifts available at this mountain resort.  

Moreover, if the weather is clear, you can also enjoy stunning views of Glacier National Park from the slopes here.

Visitors can stay at the mountain resort and enjoy several amenities such as a lodge, restaurant, shopping, and more.

If you are into skiing adventures, then do plan a visit to the Whitefish Mountain Resort in Montana in winter.

Visiting Bozeman Is One Of The Best Things To Do in Winter In Montana

One of the top Montana winter attractions that you should visit is the city of Bozeman. There are a lot of fun things to do in Bozeman including soaking in a geothermal hot spring, exploring the museums, and more.

There are over 12 hot springs to enjoy in this town that can help you relax and stay warm during the cold Montana temperatures.

Apart from that, this town is also perfect for foodies with lots of local food and fine-dining restaurants to try.

Most of the restaurants in Bozeman use locally sourced ingredients and are great for visiting with family or friends.

For those who are fed up with the cold temperature in Montana, there are many indoor museums to explore in the city as well.

The Museum of the Rockies is one of the major museums to visit as it features one of the largest collections of dinosaur fossils in the world.

This is why Bozeman is one of the best places to enjoy a Montana winter vacation!

Explore The Lewis And Clark Cavern State Park During Winter In Montana

Lewis and Clark Cavern State Park is one of the top Montana winter attractions that you cannot miss out on.

Visitors can explore these limestone caves on a caving expedition and have the most amazing Montana winter vacation.

Take the self-guided nature trail to marvel at the tall columns and curtains of limestone in this state park. This two-mile hike into the caverns is how the hunters discovered these caves in 1882.

Plus, if you plan a visit to this state park during Christmas time, you can opt for a holiday candlelight tour inside the caves.

This special tour is the best way to understand how historians saw the caverns back in the day.

You can visit the caves only with a guided tour and there are different options available at the park.

So, if you are looking for unique Montana attractions in the winter for exploration, then you must visit Lewis and Clark Cavern State Park.

One of the best things to do in Great Falls MT is to visit the Lewis & Clark Exhibition there.

Enjoy Award-Winning Beer At Montana Breweries

Did you know that Montana is home to over 32 breweries? Yes, that’s correct!

There are lots of local breweries available in this state that produce locally crafted beer using homegrown ingredients.

So, if you are looking for some winter fun to keep you warm, then drinking beer at one of these breweries is best for you.

You can choose Missoula city or Big Sky Country to sample the different kinds of beers that are offered here.

From dark ale to seasonal specials, you will find a large variety of beers available to sample at these breweries.

That’s not all, paired with live music, these tastings turn out to be the best way to combat the low Montana temperatures in the winter.

If you are also trying to stay warm amidst the cold temperature in Montana in winter, then opt to sample award-winning beers at the Montana breweries.

Exploring breweries is one of the fun things to do in Helena MT.

Go Snowboarding or Skiing at Snowbowl

Of course, when we are discussing fun Montana winter activities to enjoy, we cannot miss out on skiing or snowboarding at Snowbowl.

You can plan a complete winter vacation at Snowbowl and spend a few days learning how to snowboard or ski on the well-groomed slopes here.

This winter destination offers multiple lodging options and a couple of food options for adventure seekers.

Visitors can opt for the 3-day snowboarding and skiing lessons or the daily sessions, depending on the budget and time.

There are two main trails to explore here – Paradise and Grisly trails that include different challenges for the skiers.

Are you looking for an adventure-filled winter in Montana? If so, then do try snowboarding and skiing at Snowbowl.

If you are adventurous, camping in Montana is even fun during the winter!

Attend the Montana Winter Fair

If you are still unsure of what to do in winter in Montana, then we have the perfect event for you.

Montana Winter Fair is an annual celebration of the world-class agricultural production and the western lifestyle of Montana.

This fair is being held every year since 1946 and was earlier celebrated in Bozeman. In 2002, it was relocated to Lewistown and has become a popular Montana winter event to visit for all ages.

There are over 20 events and activities to enjoy at this winter fair that includes a skijoring, chili cook-off, stick horse rodeo, cinnamon roll bake-off, and more.

For 3 days of absolute fun and mayhem in January, make sure to attend the Montana Winter Fair this season.

Indulge In Winter Hikes In Montana

Of course, if you wish to make the most of the winter in Montana, then you cannot miss the chance of going on a Montana hike in winter!

Although Glacier National Park offers lots of amazing winter hiking opportunities to the guests, it is not the only winter trail in Montana.

There are several amazing winter hikes to explore here such as Lava Lake Trail, Ousel Falls Trail, Four Dances Trail, Leverich Canyon Trail, and more.

So, whether you are looking to hike around a lake or climb a peak, or reach a canyon, you will easily find a fun winter hike to indulge in this state.

With the entire state blanketed with snow, these hikes will transport you to a winter wonderland with stunning views.

Trust me, a winter hike in Montana is a must to make the most of the snowy landscape.

There are several winter hikes to choose from in West Yellowstone MT!

Packing List When Visiting Montana In Winter

If you will be traveling, either by plane or by car to Montana, here are some  tips on how to pack lightly.

A  concealed travel pouch  may be one of the most important items you bring along when searching for things to do in the winter in Montana. 

It is  always   important  to protect your personal information. Identity thieves are everywhere.

This  unisex RFID-blocking concealed travel pouch is  lightweight and comes in several colors. It has lots of organization to give you peace of mind.

You can place it under your clothes next to your body to carry your ID safely.

If you have a pouch already that does not come with RFID protection, as I do, these  RFID sleeves are the perfect solution.

This configuration comes with enough credit card sleeves that the entire family would be protected. They are slim too, so they will easily fit into your pouch or wallet. 

If you are planning on taking a lot of pictures with your phone you will definitely want to consider an  external charging battery .

This  Anker high-speed phone charging battery  is  the exact one  I carry with me on all of my trips.

It can be used on a variety of phones, not just an iPhone like I have. And wow is it fast!

My daughter gifted me with this  FugeTek selfie stick and tripod   setup for my birthday. I absolutely love it! It is made of lightweight aluminum and so easy to use.

It has Bluetooth connectivity and is a breeze to use for taking photos during your Montana winter trip.

You will want to bring your own  refillable water bottle  with you. 

I never leave home on a trip without my  Bobble filtration bottle .  The 18.5-ounce size is perfect for hiking and it fits nicely in the pocket of a backpack.

When filled with water, it is not too heavy to carry. And the replaceable carbon filter ensures fresh clean water whenever you fill the Bobble.

Perhaps you are traveling a long distance and packing space is a premium in your suitcase, or in your car.

Then this collapsible silicone foldable water bottle  would work well for you. Would not take up much space at all. 

You will want a  backpack or daypack  with you to store snacks, your water bottle, phone, extra clothes, etc… No matter the time of day or evening.

This   foldable water-resistant backpack   would be great.

It is very affordable and is available in many color options for you to choose from. The fact that it folds down into a zippered pouch will make it easy to pack.

Visiting during winter in Montana is a great idea. Montana is a beautiful state, no matter the season, but during Montana winters, the state looks spectacular.

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The Wandering Road

Usa rv road trip travel blog.

Winter in Montana: 35+ Things to Do

Add these activities for your montana bucket list.

Full disclosure: this post contains affiliate links. If you purchase something through these links, I may get a small commission at no extra cost to you. All opinions are 100% my own and 100% honest. Thanks!

Table of Contents

Winter in Montana

Central montana, glacier country, missouri river country, southeast montana, southwest montana, yellowstone country, what to pack when visiting montana in winter, what’s on your winter in montana bucket list.

As I write this, winter has finally arrived in Montana. And I am not mad about it one bit! After a balmy start to the season, in a week’s time we went from 50 degrees to -20 in southwest Montana. Everyone around these parts is pretty excited about all that fresh snow on the slopes.

Are you planning a visit to Montana in the winter months? Never fear, the state doesn’t shut down when the seasons change. Not a skier? That’s okay! There’s still a beautiful world – not to mention, those famous big skies – out there to explore, with a little preparation.

It would take a lifetime to experience all of the things to do in winter in Montana. Inspired by this list from the Great Falls Tribune , I’m writing down my own bucket list of Montana winter activities, organized by region .

I will update this post as I am able to scratch things off my to do list or discover new activities to add. Note that some of the events listed were postponed due to the pandemic – here’s hoping they are able to return in winter 2021/2022.

Winter in Montana reminds you of that old adage – there is no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothes. Check out my gear guide at the end of this post to help you have a warm and safe visit.

• Ride a train across the Hi-Line from Havre to Glacier National Park.
• Or, take a ride to the North Pole on the Charlie Russell Chew Choo . Lewistown takes its Christmas celebrations very seriously!
• Experience the annual Christmas singalong (and the famous Montana mermaids) at the Sip ’n Dip Lounge in Great Falls .
• Find your favorite local craft beer . (But be warned, Montana has the second most breweries per capita of any state… so this might take awhile.)
• Cozy up for a tasting menu meal you won’t forget at one of Montana’s delicious fine dining destinations. I recommend the Grand Union Hotel in Fort Benton .
• Learn about the Corps of Discovery at the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center in Great Falls.

• Watch a dog sledding competition. Cheer on the teams competing in Race to the Sky , Montana’s 300-mile sled dog race held each February in Lincoln.
• See the Garden of One Thousand Buddhas under a blanket of snow, located north of Missoula.
• Find your favorite local coffee shop. My pick in Glacier Country: Montana Coffee Traders , of course.
• Watch Christmas In Montana , the Hallmark movie about, well, Christmas in Montana. It features a financial planner from LA who is sent to save a ranch in Bigfork… but finds love instead. Get the DVD for yourself, here!
• Stay in a red caboose at the Izaak Walton Inn . Then, explore Glacier National Park in winter. Going-to-the-Sun Road is closed but there’s still plenty to see.
• Attend the World Skijoring Invitational held in Whitefish every January.
• Watch A River Runs Through It and Legends of the Fall , two of the most iconic Montana-based movies.
• Find some live music or theater at The Wilma Theater in Missoula.
• Decide which ski town is your favorite – Bozeman, Big Sky, Red Lodge, or Glacier Country’s Whitefish?

• See the northern lights . It is possible to see the northern lights in Montana – with the right weather conditions and a whole lot of luck. (The last forecast for northern lights in the U.S. ended up being a bust .)
• Rent a winter cabin. Go ice fishing. Ride a snowmobile.
• Visit Malta’s Great Plains Dinosaur Museum and Field Station .
• Go winter wildlife watchin g for bison, pronghorn, bighorn sheep, and hundreds of species of birds at the C.M. Russell National Wildlife Refuge.
• Book a weekend retreat at Sleeping Buffalo Hot Springs .

• Enjoy the ZooLights at ZooMontana in Billings. This unique park is dedicated to the conservation of animals that live in Montana and elsewhere on the 45th parallel.
• Bundle up and walk the Billings brew trail .
• Go back in time during a visit to Montana’s first dinosaur museum, the Carter County Museum , in Ekalaka.
• Stop for a libation at The Historic Montana Bar , which dates back to 1908. It is one of the best preserved western watering holes in Montana.
• Fishing is a year-round sport. Stop by Tongue River Reservoir State Park for a chance to catch crappie, walleye, bass and northern pike.
• Visit Makoshika State Park during the off-season. This is Montana’s largest state park, known for its fossils and jaw-dropping badlands.

• Stock up on Christmas gifts (or treat yourself) at the Patagonia outlet in Dillon .
• In October, attend a ghost walk at Bannack State Park. Bannack was the first territorial capital of Montana, and today is a well preserved ghost town.
• Go ice skating in an outdoor rink.
• Eat a pasty in Butte . This classic miners’ food is a perfect winter meal.
• Visit the state capitol in Helena to watch the Montana Legislature in session. While you are there, tour the Montana Historical Society or Original Governor’s Mansion to learn more about the Treasure State’s heritage.
• Visit the Fairmont Resort’s indoor and outdoor hot springs.
• Attend one of the region’s MANY Christmas strolls .

• Book an adventure with the several sled dog outfitters around the state, including Yellowstone Dog Sled Adventures in Big Sky and Spirit of the North in West Yellowstone.
• Book a relaxing retreat at Sage Lodge . Get away from it all at this rustic and refined getaway in the Paradise Valley.
• Soak in as many hot springs as possible, including Chico Hot Springs or Yellowstone’s Boiling River in Yellowstone Country.
• Learn how to ice climb. Montana Alpine Guides offers classes for all skill levels in Hyalite Canyon, just outside of Bozeman.
• Drive to Cooke City , the long way. Visit one of the most isolated communities in the USA. For a good eight months of the year, the only way in and out of Cooke City is through Yellowstone’s Lamar Valley and out the park’s northern entrance.
• Experience the rivalry of a Montana/Montana State Cat-Griz football game.
• Eat a few cinnamon (or huckleberry) rolls from Wheat Montana .
• Experience the peaceful side of Yellowstone National Park. Want to avoid the crowds? Visit Yellowstone during the winter. Gardiner’s northern entrance stays open year round, which provides access to Mammoth Hot Springs, Lamar Valley, and everything in between. There are many cross country ski or snowshoeing trails to choose from. A winter visit to the Old Faithful Snow Lodge is high on my bucket list. Kids (and the young at heart) can earn the elusive snowflake patch by completing the Winter Junior Ranger workbook.
• Binge watch every season of Yellowstone . Beth and Rip forever.
• Hike Bozeman’s M trail in the snow.
• Cut your own Christmas Tree from one of Montana’s National Forests.

A safe and fun winter excursion in Montana starts with packing right. Below is a list of essential winter gear. Of course, if you plan on skiing, snowshoeing, ice climbing or other winter adventuring, you will need additional gear.

• Daypack for carrying the essentials – I have one similar to this from Osprey .
• Reusable water bottle. Everyone loves a good Nalgene or Yeti .
• Quick-dry towels that fold down small, for visits to hot springs. Bring a couple gallon ziplock bags for those wet swimsuits, too.
• A great Yellowstone or Glacier trail guide.
• National Parks Annual Pass – just $80 gets you access to thousands of federally-managed public lands across the country. What a deal.
• A large stash of Hot Hands . (Enough said.)

Car Travel:

• A dependable flashlight .
• Portable phone battery .
• Windshield scraper.
• A shovel , if you need to dig out of snow.
• Water, blankets and snacks (plus a roadside emergency kit like this one ) in case you get stuck somewhere. (It happens.)
• If you don’t have a rugged vehicle, you might want to consider renting a vehicle with AWD or 4WD so you can enjoy the snow without stressing.

• Plan ahead with lodging. In this age of social distancing, Airbnb is useful to find cozy cabins and more all around the state. (If you are new to Airbnb, click here for $40+ off your first stay.)
• If you’re camping or RVing, my favorite app to scope out campgrounds is Allstays .
• Speaking of safety, be sure to check weather conditions before you venture out. PassWarrior is a Montana-specific app that provides real time updates on road conditions around the state. I like MyRadar for checking which way a storm is moving.
• Download the free Yellowstone NPS app to access an interactive map on the go – and see when six of the most popular geysers in the park will erupt next.
• Don’t forget to download a few hours’ worth of binge-worthy podcasts to listen to when you hit areas with no cell service!

Winter Clothing:

• Sunglasses for that snow glare. You NEED Goodrs , they changed my life.
• A warm base layer. I live in these North Face lined leggings – one pair has lasted me five years! Smartwool makes great base layer tops .
• If you plan to be out in the elements quite a bit, pack some snow pants just in case. You never know when you might need an extra layer.
• When it comes to warm winter jackets, I am firmly on team Patagonia. My go-to is this puffy parka .
• Thick socks, like these ones from Smartwool .
• Footwear is a very personal decision. While I love my classic Bean Boots for 90% of all situations, for adventuring in serious snow, you can’t go wrong with Sorel .
• Gloves. I’ve had a pair similar to these from The North Face for years.
• You need a beanie, so why not make it a fun one ?

Are you planning a winter trip to Montana? Did I leave your favorite Big Sky Country destination off this list? Let me know in the comments or connect with me on Instagram ! Thanks for reading!

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Your Ultimate Guide To Winter Attractions And Activities In Montana

Tori Jane is a storm chaser, writer, photographer, and the village idiot - in that order. When she's not out and about dancing with the meanest storms on planet Earth for funsies she can be found wandering, shooting landscapes, writing, editing photos, and otherwise up to no good. Legend has it that she can also be occasionally spotted typing up short bios in the third person, but those rumors are unsubstantiated.

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If you were to ask the average American which US states they thought could be called the most beautiful, there’s a decently high chance that Montana will be mentioned multiple times by many different people. It truly is a stunningly beautiful little corner of the planet, and during the winter, it only seems to get even better. We’ve compiled the ultimate list and travel guide of all the best things to do in Montana in winter, all of which will allow you to get a clearer picture of just how beautiful winter in Montana can truly be. Come out and enjoy – you won’t regret it for even a moment (unless you forget to pack warm clothes… that could be an issue). Don’t plan your next winter trip without us!

Holiday Events In Montana

Each and every winter season, Montana and all of its beautiful small towns (and bigger cities) are truly at their best. There is no shortage at all of lovely holiday events in Montana, Christmas events in Montana, and other similar ideas; no matter who you are, which holiday you celebrate, and how you choose to celebrate it, you’re sure to find some fun winter events in Montana to get you by.

1. Christmas Lights: Montana Trolley Co. Christmas Lights Tours

• Location: Kalispell, Montana
• Popularity: Fairly Popular
• Price: $15 per person, everyone two years and under are free

2. Tree Lighting: Whitefish Christmas Stroll

• Location: Whitefish, Montana
• Popularity: Very Popular
• Price: Free

3. Holiday Festivals: Big Sky Winter Fest

• Location: Big Sky, Montana
• Price: Free, though some events participating in the festival do require tickets; check out the official website for the most up-to-date ticketing info.

4. Long-Time Traditions: Montana Winter Fair

• Location: Lewistown, Montana
• Popularity: Popular

Christmas Towns In Montana

The Treasure State is absolutely magical year ‘round, but there’s a special thing about winter that brings out the best in all its small towns especially. There is an assortment of picture-perfect Christmas towns in Montana just waiting to be discovered by you and yours, year after year, time and time again. Many of them are timeless in and of themselves; you never know what’ll be happening at any given time during the chilly season, but you know something certainly is going on somewhere, always!

• Location: Flathead County, Montana

6. Livingston

• Location: Park County, Montana

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• Location: Nestled within the Rocky Mountains of both Gallatin and Madison counties

9. Seeley Lake

Outdoor Activities In Montana

Montana is one of those states that are literally famous for the incredible nature of, well, its nature. There are hundreds of ways to enjoy the truly great outdoors in Montana, even when everything’s frozen and covered in snow. From snowshoeing and cross-country skiing to dog sledding, ice fishing, and snowboarding, there are winter activities in Montana to be enjoyed no matter who you are or what you’re into.

10. Ice Skating: Decisions, decisions!

• Location: Statewide
• Popularity: Varies per rink
• Price: Varies per rink; be sure to check before you go.

11. Snow Tubing: Blue Mountain Recreation Area

• Location: Blue Mountain, LoLo National Forest, Montana
• Price: Winter recreation passes are required December through March; it’s just $5 for a day pass, $20 for five day passes, or $35 for a season pass.

12. Winter Hikes: Plenty to choose from!

• Popularity: Varies; some trails are quite popular and others you’ll get all to yourself.

Winter Getaways In Montana

Summer and fall seem to get all the credit when it comes to the average planned getaway in Montana … and just about anywhere else, too. Believe it or not, though, there are plenty of wonderful things to do all throughout the frigid Montana winter – no matter how chilly it just might get! Hoping to steal away on the perfect winter vacation this year? Spend your winter months in Montana… and don’t forget to dress warm.

13. Snowy Cabin: A Secluded Escape from Real Life

• Location: Darby, Montana
• Price: Varies, but averages about $100 per night

14. Hot Springs: Yellowstone Hot Springs

• Location: Gardiner, Montana
• Price: Varies from summer to winter; check the official website before you go for the most up-to-date information.

15. Skiing/Snowboarding Resort: The Resort at Paws Up

• Location: Greenough, Montana
• Price: Varies based on dates, season, and accommodations needed. Check the official website to book your adventure ASAP and well ahead of time.

It’s difficult to oversell the wonders of all the winter adventures to be had in Montana. Whether you prefer a cold-weather road trip to keep you warm or a visit to one or all of the amazing National Forests and/or parks in the state, you’ll surely find the perfect arrangement for your hopes, dreams, and needs. Places like Yellowstone National Park and Glacier National Park are especially spellbinding when covered in a layer of snow, and many of the amazing winter hikes in Montana you can do are absolutely jaw-dropping this time of year, too. Come out and visit Montana at least once during every season and decide for yourself which one reigns supreme. Until then, we’ll meet you at the ski resort.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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Explore Montana

A Guide To Visiting Glacier National Park In Winter

By Will Beck

Glacier National Park is nature at its most spectacular at any time of year, from its glacier-clad mountain peaks to its pristine lakes, wild nature from grizzly bears and bighorn sheep to majestic elks, and the famous Going-to-the-Sun Road traversing the park. 

But for those truly seeking a respite from the park’s crowds, Glacier National Park in winter is an appealing alternative. 

Nestled in Montana’s snowy mountains, Glacier National Park offers a million acres of jaw-dropping beauty!

With rugged mountains, picturesque meadows, and more than 700 lakes, Glacier Park has been a go-to spot for those possessed by the spirit of adventure ever since its establishment in 1910.

I visited Glacier for a marvelous week of hiking and exploration during the summer but was intrigued to learn what it would be like to visit during the quiet winter months, what activities could be enjoyed, and what would be open for more intrepid travelers venturing to the park at that time of year.

For winter sports lovers, Glacier offers a gorgeous setting for cross-country skiing , snowshoeing, and hiking. The snow lays a blanket of white over the landscape and provides a tranquil environment to get out in nature and get away from it all.

A trip to Glacier National Park in winter is truly a unique experience and well worth making an effort for.

Things to Know Before You Go

Before you pack your bags and book a flight or rent a car for a trip to Colorado, there are a few key things you need to know about Glacier National Park in winter. 

Everything in this section is about preparing you for your trip so you don’t find yourself caught out unprepared for a destination that can be as formidable as it is breathtaking! Despite the snowy beauty, a winter visit to Glacier will require special planning as the cold and snowy conditions can be unforgiving for the unprepared, there are closures of park facilities throughout the winter months to take into consideration. 

Best Time to visit Glacier National Park in Winter

Most people head to Glacier National Park in summer for hiking, fishing, and other outdoor activities that are best done in the warm light of the sun. 

In winter, however, there is a whole different range of activities to enjoy: skiing, snowshoeing, and guided winter tours.

There are, broadly speaking, three different periods at Glacier National Park in Winter. December to January is when the snow comes down. 

This is the time for winter sports like cross-country skiing, and the best time to experience that winter wonderland feeling.

February brings with it a more stable snowpack and some better visibility for park wildlife, so you’re more likely to see critters out and about in the snow. 

Finally, Early March is when most of the snow is over and the temperatures become milder. There’s still a chance of snow, but it’s more comfortable if you want to avoid the bitter cold. 

Getting to Glacier National Park in Winter

You can get to Glacier National Park a few ways in winter. Most visitors travel by car, but you have to prepare for road closures and be ready to drive icy roads. 

This can be dangerous, so be sure to check weather forecasts and road closures ahead of your voyage and look into fitting your car with winter tires for better traction. Some stretches may require snow chains! 

You can also fly into Glacier Park International Airport in Kalispell , Montana. You can rent a car at the airport and drive the rest of the way to the park. 

Finally, Amtrak’s Empire Builder line can take you as far as Whitefish , a town near Glacier National Park’s west entrance. You can arrange buses or suttles from there to and from the park during winter. 

What to Expect in Terms of Weather and Conditions

There’s a joke that the seasons in Glacier are June, July, August, and Winter.  While that may be stretching it a bit, summer can indeed be brief, snows can arrive early, and winters can be long.  Average temperatures during the traditional winter months range from highs of 27-32 degrees and lows of 14-17 degrees.  Snows can arrive in September and last until May or June.

Climate conditions vary from one side of the park to the other since it straddles the Continental Divide, and the level of snowfall can be dramatically different. Weather conditions can change quickly with wind and snowstorms causing the temperature to drop dramatically in a few hours.

December to February is the real heart of winter. Expect freezing temperatures and a lot of snow. 

Daytime temperatures can range from 20-30F, while nighttime temperatures plummet well below freezing. Snowstorms are common. Road closures may apply, so be aware of weather forecasts and any other official announcements.

March is when things tend to ease up. Daytime temperatures range from 30-40F, so it’s a more moderate climate to get out and about in. 

Snowfall is still possible, however, so keep abreast of the weather forecasts and any other announcements. 

What to Pack

Be prepared for the cold weather and have the right gear for any outdoor activity you may be planning.  Here’s a checklist of what to bring to ensure you’re set for whatever winter weather you face on the ground in Glacier.

• Waterproof winter parka: to keep melted snow and any sleet off your clothes
• Insulated thermal underwear and shirts: because it will be very cold
• Insulated socks
• Insulated, waterproof gloves: you may also want to wear a pair of touchscreen-friendly gloves underneath

Winter Gear

• Snow pants: essential for any trip out in the snow.
• Face shield: to protect against the icy wind.
• Polarized sunglasses: The sun reflects brightly off the snow!

Safety and Navigation

• Map and Compass: a detailed map of the park area you are in and a compass will ensure you always know where you are.
• GPS device: always a good idea to provide additional navigation assistance. 
• Trail guidebook: park officials have put a lot of work into creating a sourcebook of park information. Use it. 
• Emergency whistle: for signaling in case of emergency
• Park information brochures: Important for any extra information that may come in handy. 

Food and Hydration

• Water: Ensure you take sufficient water. Use insulated bottles to keep it from freezing. 
• Warm beverages: a thermos of hot coffee or soup can be a great addition to help keep you warm.
• High-energy snacks: take energy-dense snacks like granola bars and dried fruits to give you a boost in energy throughout the day. 
• Sandwiches or wraps: prepare sandwiches or another decent meal if you plan to be out most of the day. 
• Electrolyte replenishment: Consider taking electrolyte replenishment drinks or supplements, especially if you’re engaged in strenuous exercise at higher elevations. 

Miscellaneous

• Waterproof daypack: to carry water, snacks, bags to carry out trash, toilet paper, sunscreen, lip protection, flashlight, maps, first aid kit
• Crampons: traction cleats for walking on snow and ice
• Dry bags: to protect gear
• Walking sticks or trekking poles

Park Facilities in Winter

The entry fee to visit Glacier in winter is less than in other seasons.  The cost per auto is $25, or $15 per individual.  The winter rate is in effect from November 1st through April 30th and provides for a 7-day permit for a private vehicle.

That being said, what sort of park facilities are open in winter for you to experience when you visit in the snow?

Most of Going-to-the-Sun Road shuts down during the winter owing to snow buildup and icy road conditions along its highest elevation stretches through Logan Pass . 

For most of the winter, the only drivable roads are the 11 miles of Going-to-the-Sun Road between Apgar Village and Lake McDonald Lodge, the Apgar Village roads, and the mile and a half from the Park’s east entrance to St. Mary Campground.

Visitor Centers

Of the three Park visitor centers, only Apgar on the west side is open during the winter but is available only on weekends. However, restrooms and drinking water are available at the Apgar Visitor Center year-round.  St. Mary and Logan Pass Centers are closed during the winter season.

Campgrounds

Only St. Mary and Apgar campgrounds remain open during winter for those who have the gear for cold-weather camping.  Sites at St. Mary Campground near the East Entrance are free in winter and available on a first-come, first-serve basis. There is no water or toilets in the winter.

Apgar Campground is also open in winter, mostly for RV or auto camping.  Loop B in the campground has some tent sites available on a first-come, first-serve basis. There is a vaulted toilet, but no water.

Glacier National Park offers lodging options, including historic lodges and chalets. 

These accommodations, such as the Lake McDonald Lodge and Many Glacier Hotel, provide a cozy retreat with proximity to key attractions.

Winter activities

The whole point of visiting Glacier National Park in Winter is to get up to all the winter activities. 

Snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, snow-hiking, and wildlife and landscape photography are perfect examples of the great activities you can enjoy in inter.

Shuttle Services

Shuttle services can run on clear roads in winter, but are often replaced with snowmobile taxis when the snow is too thick. 

Be sure to check timetables or make the appropriate bookings so you don’t get stranded. 

Where to Stay and Eat in Glacier National Park in Winter

While the availability of lodgings in summer can be very limited and competitive, winter is a less busy time of year!

Be aware that some lodgings will be closed for the winter period, so be sure to check which ones are open when before you commit.

Winter Camping

Outdoor camping in winter is for the hardy to be sure and is only available with very limited services available if any. Stock up on supplies and food outside the park at towns like Columbia Falls .  Backcountry camping is the most rustic option and only for experienced cold-weather campers and will require a backcountry permit (free in winter).  You can get this in person up to 24 hours in advance of your trip at the Apgar Backcountry Permit Center.

Hotels in Glacier National Park

None of the Glacier Park hotels are open during the winter months, so those seeking more warmth and creature comforts will need to venture beyond the park for lodging.  The closest options outside Glacier’s boundaries are along Montana Rt. 2, the southern perimeter of the park. 

There are a fair few lodges you can choose from, and all of them are warm and comfortable bases to start and finish your days in the park. 

Isaak Walton Inn : stay in historic train car accommodations with fine dining, located between Glacier’s two entrances, roughly a 30-minute drive from either entrance. Isaak Walton Inn is named after the famous English author and poet and was built in 1939 as a lodge for those crossing the country by rail.

Izaak Walton Inn boasts a historic aesthetic, several remodeled train cars, and service buildings to stay in, and can arrange and facilitate a number of exciting winter activities like snowshoeing, skiing, sledding, or snowmobile rental.

Izaak Walton Inn has a lot of variety for places to stay, from railcars and cabooses to lodge rooms and family cabins. There’s plenty of choice to suit your tastes. 

Whitefish Lake Lodge in Whitefish : lake and mountain views 40 minutes from the West Entrance of Glacier. Similarly diverse, you can stay in the lodge’s hotel rooms, lakefront cabins, luxury homes, and the thrillingly named Viking Lodge.

Named after Viking Falls and Viking Creek, the Viking Lodge is a luxury hotel-style accommodation with all the modern conveniences.

Other lodging options, like the main lodge and the lakefront condos, offer similarly comfortable spaces and appliances to ensure you have everything you need. 

Cedar Creek Lodge in Columbia Falls : This is a National Parks Service lodge, but it’s outside the park, it’s open year-round, and is located 20 minutes from the West Entrance. Parks Service lodges inside Glacier National Park are closed in winter, so this is your best bet for the same thing over those winter months. 

Cedar Creek Lodge is a beautiful classic-style winter lodge only 20 minutes from Glacier National Park and offers a discount for longer stays. This is perfect for taking advantage of those cheaper winter lodging prices and adding a discount on top. 

Cedar Creek Lodge offers shuttle tours of the area and complete dining services, so there’s plenty to do right from your hotel.

Winter Activities

For those prepared for the cold, there is beautiful scenery, a lack of crowds, and lots of outdoor activities to take advantage of.

Snowshoeing

One of the most enjoyable winter activities is snowshoeing. With a pair of snowshoes, you can navigate the wintry landscape and not sink into the surrounding snow! There are ranger-led, two-hour snowshoe tours along McDonald Creek originating from the Apgar Visitor Center on weekends between January and March.

Since many of the roads are closed during the winter, this opens up great opportunities for snowshoeing on parts of the Going to the Sun Road near Lake McDonald Lodge. The Apgar Village has a variety of trails available. For a short 3-mile excursion, explore the Lower McDonald Creek Trail.

Snowshoeing is a great activity for those who want to get out and about and see the breathtaking landscapes under the guidance of a skilled and experienced park ranger. 

It is quite strenuous, however, so be sure you take snacks and drinks so you have the energy to trudge far and wide. 

Cross-Country Skiing

Cross-country skiing is a great winter workout, all the while passing extraordinary winter landscapes and mountain vistas within the park.

Once many of the roads close for the winter, they also become attractive cross-country ski trails!  Skiing the Going-to-the-Sun Road is itself the most popular trail in the park.  Other popular areas for skiing are found in the Lake McDonald and Apgar sections.  Some of the best options for cross-country ski trails include:

• McDonald Falls Trail
• Avalanche Picnic Area Trail
• McDonald Creek Trail
• Rocky Point Trail

There is a range of places where you can rent cross-country skiing gear, and the more beginner-friendly courses will be better suited to those who need to rent. 

Because cross-country skiing can be quite a strenuous pastime, it is often done only by experienced skiers who own their own gear.

That being said, be sure to investigate the availability of beginner courses to see if you can’t get out and experience this incredible sport for yourself! 

There are trails that will be open during the winter but be prepared for snow-covered paths that may be icy.  In addition to snow boots, you may want to apply crampons to the bottom of your footwear to get a better grip on the ground surface.

Several recommended hikes start from around Apgar, including the Apgar Lookout, Fish Creek to Apgar, and Lake McDonald West Shore hikes, all of which are mostly level and well-suited for enjoying the winter weather.

Be sure you prepare your navigation and safety equipment before heading out. Snow can roll in at any time, so check the weather forecasts before you begin. 

Wildlife Viewing

Although bears will normally be hibernating during the winter months, don’t neglect to bring bear spray on your outdoor adventures just in case!  But there will still be plenty of active wildlife to potentially see, including bighorn sheep, elk, deer, snowshoe hares, moose, chipmunks, beaver, and more.

Scenic Drives

The section of the Going-to-the-Sun Road between the West Entrance and the Lake McDonald Lodge remains open year-round winds along the scenic and picturesque shore of Lake McDonald for about 10 miles and provides great winter scenery!

This trip is better suited for March, as snow can block roads from December to February. In any case, be sure your car has winter tires or even snow chains to keep it on the road. 

Photography

The beauty of the mountains and lakes is only enhanced by the snow on the peaks and covering the trees.  This can mean getting some great photographs during your winter vacation !

But be prepared to pack the extra equipment you need for cold-weather photography.  Bring a battery pack to charge your camera, and extra camera batteries since the cold can cause the battery charge to ebb much more quickly.

With the lack of crowds, you can take some amazing pictures of Glacier’s gorgeous scenery. Be sure to visit Lake McDonald to get beautiful shots of the mountains reflected on the water’s surface.

Dog Sledding

Although this activity occurs outside of the Park’s boundaries, this is such a fun winter activity that I couldn’t leave it out.  Dog Sled Adventures in Montana offers tours by dog sled, mushing across the wintry landscape behind a team of eager dogs.

They are located just outside the western flank of the park and have 130 huskies trained to pull the sleds through the awesome Montana scenery. Tours last about an hour and a half and depart three times daily, from December through March. The tour cost is $150 for adults, and $75 for children 11 and under.

Winter Sports Tours

Sometimes it’s better to err on the side of caution and join in on a group activity to maximize your enjoyment of the winter wonderland of Glacier but under the supervision of local pros who are knowledgeable of the local conditions and what winter weather precautions to take.

Glacier Adventure Guides runs a variety of tours, including snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and winter camping trips.

Visiting Glacier in winter is a magical way to see the park and the Going-to-the-Sun Road under less crowded conditions when you can have large swaths of the park to yourself. The snow creates a hushed environment that lets you commune with nature and let the stress go as you get out into the winter wonderland on your snowshoes or cross-country skis or camp under the stars on a frosty winter night.

About The Author

Will is a true digital nomad, taking his work on the road at every opportunity. His first love is coffee, with travel a close 2nd. He loves nothing more than hitting the road in his self-build campervan and visiting off-the-beaten-path places, away from popular tourist destinations.

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15 Things to Do in Montana in the Winter

Montana needs no introductions, and for good reason. Home to both Yellowstone and Glacier National Parks , this western state has everything under the sun from hot springs to ski slopes . The lush landscape turns into a magical winter wonderland where carnivals and snowmobiles are aplenty.

Big Sky & Yellowstone Country is a treasure box filled with hidden gems that await travelers who have wanderlust and adventure on their minds. So go ahead and rent your car , book your travel insurance, and get ready to explore Montana!

Keep in mind that Montana is cold in the winter. Duh, sounds obvious no? Sure, but I mean REALLY cold.

When my husband took me to Montana for the first time as he studied there I expected a standard winter, but I didn’t predict the amount of powdery snow and how freezing it would be everywhere. Take a good coat with you and pack some hand warmers for sure.

1. Embark on a Snowcoaching Journey Through Yellowstone National Park

Home to the oldest bison herd in the United States, Yellowstone National Park is one of a kind. This surreal destination has captured the hearts and imaginations of visitors who flock over to this corner of the earth to experience what the park has to offer.

Perched on top of an ancient volcano and home to sizzling hot springs and howling wolves, the park looks even more captivating in the snow , just like Paris in winter .

Snowcoaches are the best way to discover the picturesque landscape during snow season . These vehicles were built for leisurely cruising past forests, lakes, and other attractions. All you need to do is relax in your seat and get your camera ready to capture grizzly bears, bighorn sheep, and coyotes.

Snowcoach tours last for seven hours and include a guide who is ready to answer your questions regarding the history and geography of the park. Each snow coach is large enough to accommodate 8 to 12 passengers, allowing you to share your excitement with your friends or family members.

Yellowstone offers a wealth of tours including winter photography excursions that operate from December to March. These tours offer flexible itineraries and the chance to capture memorable wildlife images with the guidance of an experienced photographer.

Another great tour worth mentioning is the Old Faithful Tour. This snowcoach tour makes several stops and offers visitors the chance to snowshoe their way through the Upper Geyser Basin. Lunch is served at a fast-food grill followed by a walking tour of Geyser Hill .

Of course, if there’s not enough snowfall during your visit, you can still do all of these things including visiting Old Faithful, Artist Point, Paint Pots, Hayden Valley, Prismatic Spring, or the Lower Grand Canyon Waterfalls on a day tour to Yellowstone National Park .

Other Information

• Make sure you check the Yellowstone park calendar to check which roads or sections are open and closed .
• Here is a list of companies authorized to provide snow mobile and snow coach tours in Yellowstone .
• Entrance fees to Yellowstone are $70 for the annual pass.

2. Visit the Yellowstone Art Museum

The Yellowstone Art Museum tells the history of the area through progressive contemporary art pieces that were collected over the years. This growing collection includes sculptures and illustrations by famous regional cowboys and painters.

Every year between January and March, the museum hosts an auction where local pieces by well-known artists are sold to the highest bidder.

Art lovers can also pay 5 dollars for the chance to walk away with an original piece of art or handmade jewelry. All they need to do is find the museum’s Art-o-Mat machine and pull the knob in order to receive a small art package in return.

3. Ski at Bridger Bowl

About 240 miles South East of Snowbowl, Bridger Bowl is another popular ski destination in Montana. Named after Felix James Bridger, one of the first mountain men to explore the Yellowstone region in the 1800s.

With an elevation of 8800 ft and a vertical rise of 2700 ft and over 2000 acres of skiable terrain , it has areas suited to all levels of skiers, from easy slopes for beginners to Black Diamond or Double Black Diamond runs for experts.

Other Information About Bridger Bowl

• To ski on the expert-only Ridge at Bridger Bowl, you need to always carry an avalanche beacon and a shovel.
• You can find good accomodation to stay in Bozeman which is about 18 miles from Bridger Bowl.

4. Take an Invigorating Plunge at Bozeman Hot Springs

Winter vacations in Montana are not complete without soaking in a soothing geothermal hot spring .

Bozeman Hot Springs features more than twelve steaming pools that give relaxation a whole new meaning. These naturally heated pools have different temperatures ranging from 57° to 106°.

Visitors have a choice between indoor and outdoor pools that provide warmth and a wealth of minerals including sodium, silica, and carbonate. Both dry and wet saunas are also on offer in addition to other fun activities such as yoga and Zumba.

5. Go on a Snowshoe Walk inside Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park, also known as the Crown of the Continent , is where the most fun outdoor activities take place during winter.

The thriving ecosystem and wildlife in Glacier stretches over an area of one million acres and features breathtaking scenery and cascading waterfalls. Every inch of the park is Instagram-worthy , especially in winter when tall spruce trees and mountain peaks are covered in a blanket of snow.

Visitors who are interested in more than just skiing can join a park ranger on a guided tour around the park . These weekend snowshoe tours allow you to explore the forest and its wild inhabitants on foot . Snowshoeing is a great alternative to snowmobiles that can rob you of the chance to bask in the calm and ambient sounds of mother nature.

Visitors who want to immerse themselves in this peaceful atmosphere can book a camping tour in order to stay overnight at the park . This multiday excursion is offered by Glacier Adventure Guides who teach you how to build igloos and how to navigate this undisturbed terrain. Camping tours cost $450 per person and include meals, transportation, and group gear.

Of course, if you visit in summer, you can hike without snowshoes or even rent mopeds and explore the park on your own.

You can camp inside the park or stay at one of the lovely cottages close to the entrance at Glacier Outdoor Center or Meadow Lake Resort & Condos .

6. Explore the Lewis and Clark Caverns

Nothing screams adventure like a cave expedition at the Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park. The limestone caves are a geological marvel worth visiting, especially if you are on your way to Yellowstone National Park.

Visitors can admire the tall columns and jagged curtains of limestone while they head down the self-guided nature trail. The two-mile hike inside the caverns allows you to walk in the footsteps of the hunters who first discovered these caves back in 1882.

Visitors who happen to be in Montana sometime between 16 and 30 December can treat themselves to a holiday candlelight tour inside the caverns . This special tour takes place every weekend and has become a yearly tradition in the area. It’s a great way to see the caverns in the way the historians who found it did.

Opening Hours and Other Info About The Lewis and Clark State Park:

• Day use entrance fee to the park is $8 with vehicles, $4 for walking or bicycles, and free for residents of Montana.
• Guided hikes in the park cost $4.
• Photography tours are $50 per person, while educational tours booked in advance are $12 per person.
• The Lewis and Clark State Park is open all year round but the caves can only be accessed by guided tours that are available from May 28 to September 30 only.
• A limited of tickets are sold daily on first come first served basis, so try to get there earlier in the day.
• The moderately difficult Classic Cave tours are $15 for adults, and $10 for ages 5 to 14, and $5 for children.
• The easier Paradise Cave tours are $15 for adults, and $10 for ages 5 to 14, and free for children.
• The Wild Cave tours are $40 and only open to adults above 15 years . Senior citizens pay $25.
• There are over 40 campsites in the park with fees ranging from $4 to $34 per night.

7. Attend the Whitefish Winter Carnival

Whitefish is a charming little town in Montana where old traditions are still alive and well. Winter for the locals means taking part in the annual carnival that is will celebrate its 63rd anniversary in Feb 2022.

The carnival embodies the essence of Nordic tradition and pays homage to the god Ullr who was a master of winter sports.

Locals and visitors are encouraged to participate in snowboarding competitions and other entertaining activities such as dancing and skijoring where horses and skiing are combined.

The Whitefish Carnival has a different theme every year in February and ends with a grand parade where awards are handed out to the best-decorated floats and costumes. The next event is from Feb 4 to 6, 2022.

8. Drink Award-Winning Beer at the Best Local Breweries

Montana is home to around 32 breweries that produce premium locally crafted beer using homegrown ingredients and pure glacial water.

Big Sky Country has the second largest number of breweries in the United States , so narrowing down your options when it comes to beer tasting can be hard.

Missoula city is a great place to start your journey since it is home to 9 breweries that have tasting rooms where you can sample all kinds of beer including smooth dark ale and seasonal specials that you can savor while listening to live music.

Breweries like KettleHouse, Tamarack, Imagine Nation, and Big Sky Brewing are a must-visit.

9. Practice Your Ski Moves at Snowbowl

Put on your ski gear and head over to Snowbowl for the day. This popular skiing destination is home to the Paradise and the Grizzly trails . Both trails offer different challenges for skiers and the chance to show off their moves down intermediate runs and well-groomed slopes that offer breathtaking scenery .

Snowbowl offers three-day snowboarding and ski lessons packages for beginners. Three-day lessons cost $119 and one-hour daily lessons cost $50 per person. There are three lodging options available in the area in case you want to stay the night, and two dining options for hungry skiers who are in the mood for hot drinks and brick oven pizza.

10. Give Ice Climbing a Try at Hyalite Canyon

Hyalite Canyon is known for being a playground for seasoned climbers and people with an adventurous spirit. Located near Bozeman, the canyon has 250 routes that cater to beginner and expert climbers who enjoy new challenges.

Montana Alpine Guides are available to give people a hand during their first visit to the canyon. They also offer custom guides that match the individual needs of anyone interested in taking on the icefalls. Basic lessons cost $420 and can last between 5 and 9 hours. The canyon is home to other winter recreational activities including fishing, sledding, and fat-tire biking.

Montana paints a beautiful picture in winter , and adding it to your list of dream destinations is a no-brainer. The Treasure State has so much more to offer with hundreds of attractions and excursions that barely scratch the surface of this alpine paradise.

11. Be a Foodie in Bozeman

Bozeman is much more than a ski town. Visit and you’ll find that beyond the powder and the mountains, there’s also fantastic tasting local food and even some fine dining restaurants.

For a classy dinner, visit the upscale South 9th Bistro with its Victorian orange facade, or the gorgeous Blackbird Kitchen and artsy Plonk.

If you’re looking for budget-friendly meals, head over to the Nova Cafe or Main Street Overeasy.

For locally sourced food try the signature burgers at Montana Ale Works made with Wagyu or Angus beef. Their Black and Blue Burger and Monarch Elk Burger are worth the trip to Montana! And don’t forget the Backcountry Burger at Backcountry Burger Bar!

And with nine breweries in the city, there’s no shortage of places to grab a pint . Don’t miss Bozeman Brewing Company, Bridger Brewing, Nordic Brew Works, Mountains Walking Brewery, Map Brewing Company, Union Hall Brewery, Outlaw Brewing, and others.

And if you want to try brews from more than one brewery at a time , head over to the Bozeman Tap Room !

12. Ski at Big Sky Resort

Seeing an average snowfall of over 400 inches , Big Sky Resort is a year-round destination. Opened in 1973 by newscaster Chet Huntley, it features over 5800 acres of downhill skiing.

This resort near Bozeman is also popular for hiking, fishing, rafting, biking, golfing, ziplining, and more.

During season time, visitors can choose to stay at condos, cabins, or luxury chalets within the Mountain Village Area and avail discounts on skiing and other activities. There are also 4 hotels that suit different budgets:

• Huntley Lodge at Big Sky
• Big Sky Mountain Village Center
• Summit Hotel At Big Sky Resort
• Shoshone Condos At Big Sky Resort

13. Cross-Country ski past Geysers in Yellowstone

Montana is home to the iconic Yellowstone Geyser, the Steamboat Geyser, the Great Fountain Geyser, with most of them in the Old Faithful area. And then there are around 10,000 other hydrothermal features from hot springs to mud pots and fumaroles .

In summer, you’d probably hike or drive to see these wonders of nature, but in winter you can ski cross-country to see the geysers . There are a number of trails that loop around these locations, from day-long to week-long trails. Each trail has its pros and cons, but here are the most followed.

• Old Faithful Geyser Trail
• Lone Star Geyser Trail
• Mallard Lake Trail
• Imperial Geyser Trail
• Spring Creek Trail
• Upper Geyser Basin Trail
• Shoshone Geyser Basin Trail

14. Do some fat biking at Lone Mountain Ranch

Since it started in 1915 , the Lone Mountain Ranch has been a symbol of the American West. Even today, you can still stay in some of the rooms built by Clarence Lytle and his brother William, and the next owners the Butlers.

Taken over by the Schaaps in 1977, the ranch soon became the number 1 destination for cross country skiing .

This once ‘dude’ ranch is also perfect for horseback riding, hiking, fly fishing, paddle boating, canoeing, tubing, and more. But the best bit is the mountain biking or fat-tire biking on local trails around the resort. With bike trails for all levels and abilities, the Lone Mountain Ranch will give you the perfect adrenaline rush!

15. Enjoy dogsledding or cross-country skiing with your dog

Don’t want to leave your furry friend at home? Go skijoring!

Also called Nordic skiing, skijoring is skiing with horses or dogs . Your canine is harnessed and attached to you by a rope or towline, and while you use the skis and poles, the dog also helps.

Of course, you need to check if your dog is above the 35-pound weight limit and if he’s one of the breeds that are allowed to go cross-country.

Popular areas to ski with your dog include the Lindey Park Dog Ski Loop near Bozeman and the Hyalite Canyon loop.

If you don’t have a dog, don’t worry. December through March, you can go dog sledding. Trained snow-loving dogs will mush through the winter-wonderland ahead of you and your family while you enjoy the landscape whizzing by.

Other Info :

• Skijoring does not require any prior knowledge other than skiing.
• Dog sledding does not require any prior knowledge, just common sense.
• Dog sleds can take up to 2 adults and 2 kids.
• There are quite a few dog-sled adventure organizers in Montana. Some include Dog Sled Adventures , Yellowstone Dog Sled Adventures , Klondike Dreams, and Husky Power: Spirit of the North .

16. Take a snowmobile to the frozen lake

In the thick of winter Glacier National Park is a paradise filled with frozen lakes and snow-covered treetops . It’s like heaven for sledders and snowmobilers.

Glacier National Park has 8 groomed trails for snowmobilers, with some popular ones being Mission Mountains, Kootenai Country, Lolo Pass, Cut Bank, and more. And riding a snowmobile at high speed while crossing hills and valleys is definitely something that must be experienced!

Other Info About Snowmobiles

• Residents of Montana must have valid Snowmobile Trail passes for $20.
• Visitors from other states must buy a Nonresident Temporary Use Permit for $35.
• And more importantly, check avalanche information before heading out on your snowmobile.
• Some popular snowmobile rentals in Montana are Swan Moutain Snowmobiling , Summit All Terrain Rentals , and others.

Where to Stay in Montana?

Montana has different types of lodgings to suit every need , from pocket-friendly hostels and B&Bs to luxurious ski lodges and resorts. Here are a few top choices!

Where to Stay in Bozeman

Luxury Accomodation in Bozeman

Best Western Plus GranTree Inn – Classy, with an indoor heated pool and hot tub, and an onsite casino.

Bozeman Lewis & Clark Motel – Close to popular local eateries, fabulous spa, and onsite hot tub and pool.

Element Bozeman – Close to Main Street in the city center, modern, well-equipped, and close to almost everything.

Affordable Accomodation in Bozeman

Travelodge by Wyndham Bozeman – Close to Jackpot Casino and the highway on the outskirts of Bozeman.

The Lark – Right on Main Street in the heart of Bozeman, this boutique hotel with charming rooms is close to everything.

La Quinta By Wyndham Bozeman – In a quiet location even though it’s close to the highway, with large spacious rooms and suites.

Hilton Garden Inn Bozeman – A short walk from the Bridger Peaks Town Center and the historic center, this stylish hotel is peaceful and inviting.

Where to Stay in Yellowstone

Luxury Accomodation in Yellowstone

Kelly Inn West Yellowstone – Less than a km from the entrance and across the road from the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center, this inn offers spacious rooms and suites and a communal sauna.

Montage Big Sky – This luxurious lodge near Big Sky is close to the Lewis and Clark 4 High-Speed chair lift and the Sacajawea 3 Chair Lift. Spacious rooms, suites, and apartments have everything you need,, while the wellness area also features a hot tub and sauna.

Under Canvas Yellowstone – Glamp in style in luxury tents or stay in economical tipis at this rustic resort.

Affordable Accomodation in Yellowstone

Yellowstone Park Hotel – Conveniently close to the park entrance, Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center, stores, and restaurants, this hotel features an indoor pool.

1872 Inn – Adults-Only – Boutique hotel with sauna 1.7 km from the West Entrance to Yellowstone National Park.

Crosswinds Inn – 1.5 km from the West entrance, pocket-friendly, plus an indoor pool and onsite hot tub.

So that’s our list of favorite things to do in Montana in winter and places to stay near the Yellowstone National Park. Comment and let us know if you have any questions!

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8 Stunning Winter Getaways in Montana

Known for being one of the coldest states in the USA , Montana is one place that truly transforms during winter. From water to ice and green to white, the entire landscape turns from lush greenery to a mysterious yet serene icy wonderland. Moreover, with a plethora of beautiful national parks, unique landscapes, and historical towns, there is a lot to do during Montana in the winter. So, whether you are an adrenaline lover or a nature enthusiast, here are some of the top winter getaways in the lovely state of Montana.

Glacier National Park

Located in northwestern Montana along the Canada -United States border, Glacier National Park is one of the most scenic winter getaways in the state. This park is home to more than 4,000 sq. km. of natural beauty housing two mountain ranges and upwards of 100 lakes, which all turn into a snowy wonderland during winter months. Also, being a protected park as well as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, this park is filled with a wide range of animal and plant species. Namely, out of the 100+ animals said to live at this park, some such as the grizzly bear and lynx which are threatened species can also be found in their natural environment at Glacier National Park.

If you do plan a winter trip to this park, there are a few highlights which can make your trip perfect. Probably the most renowned is “Going-to-the-Sun Road” which is arguably the most scenic drive you can take in the Park. Surrounded by snow-covered mountains along a twisty road that tops out at the 2000 metre-high Logan Pass, this two-hour and approximately 80 km drive is sure to be a lifetime experience. For those of you who want to enjoy a closer look at the winter wonders, you can also take a hike along one of the many paths such as Hidden Lake Overlook which puts you on top of the beautiful Hidden Lake. With all these things to do, Glacier National Park is one of the most visited parks in America and the perfect winter gateway for a nature lover!

The county seat of Carbon County in Montana, Red Lodge is a small town with a lot to offer. Encompassed in an area of 7 sq. km. this town of 2,200 odd people is known for being a hidden gem when it comes to winter vacation spots. While one of the biggest attractions nearby is Yellowstone National Park which is just down the scenic Beartooth Pass, the town also has many winter activities for tourists. For example, the local Red Lodge Mountain is home to one of the state’s best ski resorts which offers a long season all the way from Thanksgiving to early April. So, whether you are free in early winter or near the end, this lodge is open with its short lift lines and low-cost tickets so everyone can enjoy some skiing. Along with Red Lodge Mountain, the town is also surrounded by other mountains such as Beartooth and Absaroka which are full of beautiful hiking trails such as “The Beaten Path” which can show you some amazing sights.

However, unlike some national parks and wildlife reserves, Red Lodge also has some winter civilization on offer for an all-around vacation. You can spend your day with the locals around town or enjoy local history at the Carbon County Historical Society & Museum. If this isn’t to your liking, enjoy a meal at the famous Cafe Regis on 16th street which is known for its appetizing cinnamon rolls. Follow this up with some sweets at the Montana Candy Emporium nearby and viola, you have yourself a fun yet peaceful small-town winter getaway!

Located in Flathead County, Montana, Whitefish is a popular ski and outdoor town ideal for a winter vacation. Specifically, situated near the 32 sq. km. area of Whitefish is the renowned Whitefish Mountain Resort which is filled with adrenaline-pumping activities that can make your winter enjoyable. From skiing along the tens of routes to taking a hike up the many trails, there is a lot to do at this lively resort. Parallelly, the resort also has beautiful dining options for a complete winter vacation spot perfect for both you and your family. Along with this, Whitefish is located near both Glacier National Park and Whitefish Lake which are both serene spots for enjoying the natural beauty of Winter in Montana!

While it may have some of the best winter sports and activities, Whitefish is also a great town with lots of cultural and artistic importance. The town holds amazing events such as the Whitefish Winter Carnival in February which is full of snow sculptures, plunges into the nearby lake, and many more unique areas. Even if you don’t go during an event, the downtown area is full of tourist traffic during winter and has lots of arts & crafts, home decor, gifts, and other shops for a fun day out. To top it off, Whitefish is well connected via the U.S.-93 so getting here isn’t too much of a hassle.

Yellowstone National Park

Located in Montana, Idaho, and also Wyoming, Yellowstone National Park is one of the world’s most well-known parks of its kind and is often lauded as being the first national park. This massive 9,000 sq. km. UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to some of the most diverse natural sights and beauty that you can witness anywhere. Since its establishment by President Ulysses S. Grant in 1872, Yellowstone has been one of the most famous tourist spots in the region and also one of the most beautiful places to visit year-round. Specifically, when it comes to things to do at Yellowstone National Park, the list is truly endless which is a testament to the immense 4+ million visitors the park got in 2021.

To name some of the winter beauties of this Park, the Upper Geyser Basin and Geyser Hill have to be at the top of the list. These areas are packed with more than 100 geothermal features such as hot springs, pools, and geysers which remain warm during most of the winter. So, you can watch warm fountains of water shoot up while being surrounded by chilly winds and beautiful snow. Once you do take a look at the many geyser spots within the park, there are also an endless number of high-altitude peaks and hills which can put into perspective how winter transforms nature. Namely, the South Rim along the southern end of the canyon in Yellowstone provides an iconic view of mountainous cliffs, large pines, and even a lovely waterfall. With all this and much more at Yellowstone National Park, it is a great place for an extended winter getaway in Montana.

Nestled within Montana’s famous Rocky Mountains within Flathead County, Bigfork is a census-designated place (CDP) home to approximately 4,200 people. The area gets its name as it is located above Flathead Lake near the fork of two charming rivers, Flathead River and Swan River which give it a dynamic geographical feel. Along these rivers, you can enjoy some fun ice fishing along the Flathead Lake Lodge. Just next to the lodge is Wayfarers State Park & Campground which provides a decent amount of green space along the shore to enjoy a picnic or camp out with your friends and family. Thankfully, with nearly 100 sq. km. of total area, this is not all you can do in Bigfork.

The CDP is well-known for its winter sports that ramp up immensely after a layer of snow forms in and around the valley. Once this happens, locals and tourists alike can be seen enjoying activities such as snowshoeing, sledding, ice skating, and other things that make a winter getaway memorable. Moreover, with Glacier National Park nearby, there is always a whole new icy scene to enjoy every day near Bigfork. Thankfully, with all this activity, you can relax at night by tasting some exquisite winter drinks at the local whiskey-tasting sessions which are sure to warm you up.

Libby is the county seat of Lincoln County in northwestern Montana which is tied to a tragic yet uplifting history. Having been hit with contamination from nearby vermiculite mines more than two decades ago, the city was contaminated with asbestos making it unsafe for the public for a span of more than 10 years. Thankfully, with work from the Environmental Protection Agency, Libby has managed to be cleared of risk in 2015 and since then, the city has become a great location for tourism, especially during the winter. Home to approximately 2,750 people, Libby has a small-town feel that makes for a relaxing and cosy winter vacation. The local McGinnis Meadows Cattle and Guest Ranch provides a great authentic ranch feel with a wooden cabin vibe that can be fun for adults and kids alike. Connected to the ranch are various activities such as horseriding, fishing, and much more.

Slightly astray from the innards of Libby and you will find some interesting natural spaces that can liven up your winter vacation. Namely, Turner Mountain Ski Area and Kootenai National Forest provide a bilateral view on winter with one being completely open and perfect for skiing while the other has more than 1,500 kilometres of hiking trails hidden within thick tree cover. With so much to offer and having been through such a haphazard past, Libby is a hidden gem when it comes to vacation spots in Montana.

Bozeman is one of the larger cities on this list home to more than 53,000 people and the county seat of Gallatin County in southwest Montana. Thankfully, with a rich history originating from indigenous roots, this city has managed to become a beautiful place often referred to as “the most livable place” in the region. So, with such a brand, you must be wondering what exactly Bozeman has to offer. Well, the short answer would be everything! Nestled within the beautiful country and next to Yellowstone National Park, there is truly no end to the natural winter activities you can indulge in near Bozeman. To name a few, mountain biking, hiking, skiing, hunting, etc. are all easily accessible in the nearby National Forest and hiking trails such as Hyalite Creek. The area also offers some unique sights such as Palisade Falls which is often deemed the top attraction of Bozeman as it is a 25-metre-tall waterfall along a vertical rock wall which is only accessible via a short hike.

Coming into the city, winter truly brings out a fun and festive feel to the entire city of Bozeman. This often involves taking a walk down the downtown roads and enjoying every manner of store from antiquity shops to artistic cafes. Moreover, during the winter season, you are sure to find the area filled with tourists either grabbing a bite or interacting with the many historical buildings scattered throughout. Thankfully, with more than 50 sq. km. of land area, this city also has fun places to end your winter days such as the Bozeman Hot Springs which can warm you up or Montana Ale Works, which can probably do the same! To be honest, there are more things than you can get done on a short trip making this a great place for a winter vacation this season!

Philipsburg

Philipsburg is a small town in Montana and the county seat of Granite County. Known for its immense mining history and even named after the mining engineer, Philip Deisedheimer, this town has a different angle than many other winter vacation spots. Specifically, unlike many others, the town is known for its past as a geologically rich zone with mineral deposits, many beautiful lakes, and much more. Thanks to the mineral deposits, Philipsburg is a top spot for mining multicoloured gemstones and you can check out Gem Mountain near the town for a complete tourist gemstone experience. On the other hand, the nearby lakes and hilly landscapes make the area a winter wonderland with icy fishing areas and hiking trails spread throughout valleys, hills, and other unique geographical landscapes.

What makes the town even better is the combination of these activities with the local history. This is visible when you visit the nearby Granite Ghost Town which is the original mining camp of the region and a remnant from its 1870s construction can still be seen. So, taking a trip here, you can truly reminisce about the mining history of the region and take in the derelict buildings such as the old hospital, and mining routes, all with the help of a self-guided tour. With this and a lot more to do, you can end the day at Fairmont Hot Springs for a warm and relaxing session to end a great winter vacation day!

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Montana In Winter: 8 Adventurous Activities (Besides Skiing)

From hot springing to dog sledding to skijoring, get outside on your Montana vacation with these 8 adventurous winter activities.

*This post was originally sponsored by Visit Montana back in 2017 and has since been updated. It’s a winter destination I’ve had my eye on for quite some time, and in this blog post, we’ve rounded up 8 adventurous winter activities in Montana that offer the ultimate #MontanaMoment.

When most people think of Montana, they picture Glacier National Park’s colorful valleys and high alpine lakes or bison roaming through the wildflowers of Yellowstone National Park. But have you ever thought of visiting Montana in winter? Not only can you find solitude in some of Montana’s most scenic destinations throughout the winter months, but Montana also offers a wealth of unique winter activities, some of which are found nowhere else.

Sure there’s epic resort skiing at Big Sky and Bridger Bowl, but you can also try ice climbing or skijoring and end your day by soaking your muscles in some very inviting hot springs.

Ready to check out Montana in winter? Here is our list of 8 exciting winter activities that will get you outside to experience the best of what a Montana winter has to offer.

Important Note: Before planning any trips, please do your research to ensure these areas are open to visitors, follow local guidelines, and do your part to be a responsible visitor. That means taking precautions against COVID-19 like wearing a mask and social distancing. Also, as we ask with all of the destinations we share, please follow  Leave No Trace guidelines  and practice good trail etiquette .

8 Unique Things To Do In Montana In Winter

1. dog sledding.

You don’t have to travel to Alaska to mush with a team of dogsledding pups. Whether you want to experience a dog sled ride or be a spectator, there are plenty of opportunities in Montana all winter long.

Dog Sled Adventures in Olney, Montana offers a 12-mile trail they refer to as the “Eskimo Roller Coaster.” If you aren’t finding yourself this far north in Montana, there are also companies in Big Sky as well.

In January & February, the Darby Dog Derby, Race to the Sky, and Flathead Classic are all great spectator events to catch if you’re not too keen on sledding yourself.

2. Winter Fat Biking

Mountain biking in Montana isn’t just for summer visitors. Whitefish, Montana offers numerous winter fat biking trails, with a few rental locations in town.  Whitefish Bike Retreat offers lodging, rentals, and winter trail access on the 22-mile Whitefish Trail. The trail provides a gorgeous ride through the woods, with glimpses of nearby lakes and the Whitefish Mountain Range.

If you are new to winter fat biking, they also offer a 3-day winter fat biking clinic with both a male and female instructor that includes accommodation.

3. Shack up in a Backcountry Hut

Resting on a gorgeous ridge, the Downing Mountain Lodge is a dreamy & accessible backcountry ski lodge located an hour south of Missoula in western Montana. This winter getaway has a hot tub, communal fireplace, catered food, and immediate access to 2,800 feet of vertical skiing.

If you aren’t comfortable venturing there on your own, you can enlist a private guide to show you around the Bitterroot Mountains. Prior avalanche training is required. For a full list of Montana’s backcountry huts, check out the Montana Backcountry Alliance .

4. Snowshoe & Winter Camping in Montana’s National Parks

Less than 4% of Yellowstone’s 4 million annual visits happen in the winter. That means winter is an incredible opportunity to have Montana’s National Parks all to yourself.   Glacier National Park and Yellowstone National Park both offer free ranger-led winter snowshoe hikes where you can learn about the wildlife, history, and ecology of the areas.  

Read Next: How to Snowshoe

If you’re looking to overnight in Glacier National Park, one of the most adventurous things to do in Montana in winter is a multi-day snowshoe (or cross-country ski) tour offered by Glacier Adventure Guides . On these trips, you’ll learn navigation skills, tricks for staying warm, and even get to build your own igloo that you’ll sleep in. From your base camp, you’ll explore frozen waterfalls, icy gorges, and have places that are typically packed in the summer all to yourself.

5. Try Skijoring (or Watch a Skijoring Competition)

Skijoring is the ultimate mix of Montana’s cowboy culture and tricked-out skiing. Originating in Norway, the sport of skijoring involves skiers being pulled by a horse or dogs through a course full of jumps, gates, and obstacles.

Skijoring has become a favorite winter activity in Montana – so much so that the World Skijoring Invitational is held in Whitefish every January. At this high-speed (and high-stakes) competition, spectators can place bids on the skijorer they think will take the cake. The event takes place the last weekend in January prior to the Whitefish Winter Carnival where you can dance the night away at the disco party, freeze your buns off during the penguin plunge, and cheer on the fancy floats during the Grand Parade.

6. Go Ice Fishing in Montana in the Winter

Spend a day out on the ice fishing for dinner. Northern Pike, perch, trout, and kokanee are just a few of the species you can try to land. If you’re new to ice fishing and want a guide to show you how it’s done, Flathead Lake Charters offers guided ice fishing near Whitefish Mountain Ski Resort. They know what’s biting on what bait and they bring their own ice shelter so you don’t freeze out in the cold. Plus, they’ll fillet whatever you catch so you can enjoy your hard day’s work at the dinner table.

Just make sure you pack a thermos with a hot drink, lots of warm layers , and a fishing permit.

7. Learn to Ice Climb

Crampons, ice screws, ropes, and intense mental fortitude. If those things excite you, then ice climbing might be for you. This Montana winter activity will challenge the mind and the body while offering incredible views that are only accessed from the top of a tall wall of ice.

If you are new to ice climbing. Montana Alpine Guides  offers courses for all levels in Hyalite Canyon, just outside of Bozeman. Depending on conditions, there are over 150 routes from October-April, making it the ice climbing mecca of North America.

8. Visit A Hot Spring Resort

There is nothing better than soaking your muscles in some hot springs after a long day of adventuring. Luckily, with over a dozen different hot springs resorts, Montana offers a lot of options.

Norris Hot Springs , located in the Madison River Valley, has campsites with hook-ups. You can jam out to live music poolside, drink local beer and stuff your belly with fresh produce grown right on site.

Another option is the Chico Hot Springs Resort just north of Yellowstone, where you can choose between a private log cabin or a retired caboose decked out with a gas fireplace and a pedestal bathtub.

Montana is an amazing place to visit during the winter months and has so many amazing opportunities for adventure. We hope this post inspires you to plan a visit to Montana in winter!

What adventurous winter activities in Montana would you like to try this winter? Leave a comment below!

With two decades of hiking and seven years of van life under her belt, Kristen has dedicated her life to helping people experience the positive effects of nature. As a pioneer in the outdoor blogging space, she founded Bearfoot Theory in 2014 and has since authored more than 350 blog posts about outdoor travel, hiking, camping, and van life. Her work has been featured in National Geographic, Outside Magazine, and Backpacker, and when she’s not on the road, she lives in Park City, Utah with her partner Ryan, their son, and two adventure pups.

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The 15 best montana vacations.

Plan your next getaway to one of these scenic locales or combine several itineraries to create your own amazing Montana vacation.

The Best Montana Vacations

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Breathtaking landscapes and year-round outdoor adventures will inspire you to visit Big Sky Country.

Montana's spectacular scenery makes it the perfect destination for year-round outdoor adventures. The state is famous for its mountainous terrain yet only one-half to one-third of the state has mountains. The rest is made up of prairies, badlands and rivers. Each season's landscape offers an entirely different playground. Plan your trip in the winter when snow blankets everything and Montana becomes a wintry wonderland. When the ice and snow have melted, the warm weather brings flowing rivers and blooming pastures. From world-class skiing, fly-fishing and Old West ghost towns to luxury dude ranches and Native American history and culture, there's something for everyone in Montana. No matter which season you choose to travel, these vacation ideas will inspire your visit to Big Sky Country.

Big Sky Resort: Big Sky

Jeff Engerbretson | Courtesy of Big Sky Resort

Located approximately 45 miles southwest of Bozeman, Big Sky Resort is one of the largest ski resorts in the U.S. , encompassing more than 5,850 acres of world-class ski runs. The vertical drop is 4,350 feet and the summit, Lone Peak, measures at 11,166 feet above sea level. Accommodations range from luxury hotels and ranches to individual vacation homes. Spend winter days snowboarding or skiing or try something new like dog-sledding through the mountains with a team of huskies. In the winter – or in the summer – ride the longest zip line in the Yellowstone area, Adventure Zipline. For a challenging hike, take the scenic lift where you can venture to the top of Lone Peak for unforgettable views of the surrounding scenery.

Flathead Lake

Located in northwestern Montana, Flathead Lake is the largest freshwater lake west of the Mississippi, covering almost 200 square miles – and with 185 miles of shoreline. The scenery here is truly awe-inspiring: Snow-dusted mountains serve as the lake's backdrop, while verdant forestry and cherry orchards line its calm shores. Spend your days here with family or friends swimming, water skiing, fishing or boating. Make sure to take time to visit Wild Horse Island, which is only reachable by boat and is home to bighorn sheep, mule deer and a small band of wild horses. For accommodations, reserve a rustic room or cabin at Flathead Lake Lodge, an all-inclusive 2,000-acre dude ranch situated along the lake.

Glacier National Park via the West Glacier Gateway

The majestic beauty of this region in Glacier Country is unparalleled. Take a week off to explore the 1,600 square miles of pristine landscapes and rugged beauty that make up Glacier National Park . Guides and outfitters are available year-round for activities like hiking, rafting, snowshoeing or even ice climbing. While here, don't miss one of the most scenic drives in the U.S., the Going-to-the-Sun Road . This 50-mile drive crosses the Continental Divide at 6,646 feet at Logan Pass. After long days of adventuring, relax in the nearby town of Whitefish at The Lodge at Whitefish Lake. This chic resort town located approximately 30 miles southeast of the West Glacier gateway to the park features excellent restaurants, nightlife and boutique shopping. If you want to stay a little closer to the park, Columbia Falls – about 20 miles from the gateway at West Glacier – offers several types of lodging and vacation rentals. During your visit to Columbia Falls, Backslope Brewing is a great spot to grab casual fare and a cold brew – and you can hire a local guide for a customized tour of the park with Glacier Adventure Guides.

[See more of Glacier National Park: Things to Do | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos ]

The Blackfeet Indian Reservation: Browning

For another option to enter the park, check out the eastern gateway entrance from the town of Browning. This entrance is approximately 70 miles east of West Glacier – and Browning is home to the Blackfeet Indian Reservation. Encompassing 1.5 million acres of land on the eastern side of the park, these lands have been home to the Blackfeet Tribe (and many other tribes) for thousands of years. If you're visiting the area in early July, don't miss Browning's North American Indian Days, a celebration of the Blackfeet traditions and one of the largest gatherings of U.S. and Canadian tribes.

In the park, you can learn about the Blackfeet, Kootenai, Salish and Pend d'Oreille tribes during Native America Speaks. This series of programs, started in 1982, takes place during the summer – and it's the longest running Indigenous speaker series in the National Park Service. You'll find these programs at various locales throughout the park, including the St. Mary Visitor Center, and the historic lodges and park campgrounds. There are also cultural presentations along Two Medicine Lake, at the 193 Ranger Station and at Logan Pass during what's known as "star parties." These events are hosted by the Big Sky Astronomy Club and feature evenings of stargazing under the Montana's big dark sky.

Virginia and Nevada cities

Take a step back into 1864 and the days of Montana's gold rush with a trip to these famous ghost towns in southwest Montana. Here, families can spend long summer days exploring the second most extensive collection of Old West artifacts and buildings in the U.S. (behind the Smithsonian). Kids can learn about the art of blacksmithing during Living History events or go panning for gold. And you can take a ride on the seasonal Alder Gulch Shortline Railroad, which connects the two old towns that are located just 1.5 miles apart – or even take a tour by stagecoach. Then, plan to spend a spooky night at the rumored-to-be haunted Fairweather Inn in Virginia City.

Helena, Montana's capital, is located halfway between Glacier and Yellowstone national parks in southwest Montana. This old prospecting town offers activities and attractions perfect for family vacations. The Gates of the Mountain boat tours take visitors along Lewis and Clark's exploration on Holter Lake. And The Last Chance Tour Train highlights Helena's Old West history, traveling through gold rush-era neighborhoods such as Reeder's Alley. Adventure-seekers will appreciate Helena's world-class fly-fishing, mountain biking, rock climbing, horseback riding and 80 miles of hiking trails that are accessible from downtown. No matter what you decide to do, save time for a relaxing dip in the invigorating mineral waters at Broadwater Hot Springs.

Located along the Yellowstone River in southeast Montana, Billings is the most populated city in the state. It's also the gateway to Yellowstone National Park, the first national park in the U.S., via the Beartooth Highway. Known as Yellowstone's Most Scenic Route, the nearly 70-mile-long drive to the northeast entrance of the park offers unparalleled views, especially at the summit of 10,977 feet elevation through Beartooth Pass. You'll also find more than 20 mountains with peaks reaching over 12,000 feet high along the route. Back in town, check out Montana's only walkable brewery trail, the self-guided Billings Brew Trail. Culture and history buffs can peruse several museums, including a Western Heritage Center, which is affiliated with the Smithsonian and highlights the history of Billings and the surrounding area.

If you're visiting in mid-August, you won't want to miss nine days of fun at the annual MontanaFair, the largest event in the region. There's also plenty of year-round adventure for outdoor enthusiasts, including rock climbing, horseback riding, hiking, biking, boating, paddleboarding, kayaking and windsurfing. In the winter months, you can bundle up and head outdoors for cross-country skiing , ice fishing and spectacular views of the town's winter wonderland. For accommodations in the heart of Billings, close to the city's top restaurants and bars, reserve a room at the historic boutique property, the Northern Hotel.

Warrior Trail Highway

Discover the history of the Native American warrior on this storied route in Indian Country. Warrior Trail Highway is one of three road trip routes through Indian Country, and it takes travelers from Billings through southeast Montana. Along the way, you'll hear stories of the tribal war chiefs and visit the fields where famed battles once happened. Take a guided tour of the former site of Sitting Bull's camp on the Little Bighorn River at the Custer Battlefield Museum on the Crow Reservation. Afterward, stop at the Custer Battlefield Trading Post and Café for a buffalo burger or an Indian taco. And at the Medicine Turtle and River Crow Trading Post, you'll find souvenirs of Crow-designed handcrafted artwork and jewelry. If you're continuing on the trail, plan an overnight stay where you can stargaze outside your luxury tent provided by the Apsaalooke Glamping Company.

Situated in southwest Montana, Bozeman is regarded as a home base for many visitors to Yellowstone National Park. The city sits between the park's north entrance – 91 miles away in Gardiner – and the west entrance (78 miles away) in West Yellowstone. Bozeman is also an outdoor adventurer's paradise. Anglers will want to fly-fish for several species of trout and other fish, like white sucker and mountain whitefish, on the 97-mile-long Gallatin River, which has seven access points for fishing. Hyalite Canyon Recreation Area, the most visited recreation area in the state, is another draw for active outdoor enthusiasts. Located just 15 miles south of Bozeman, the popular spot features several campgrounds, trails for hikers and bikers, and a reservoir for canoeing and fishing. In the winter, thrill-seekers can go ice climbing, while less adventurous visitors can head out for cross-country skiing. After a long day of exploring, visitors can head back to explore Bozeman's exciting culinary and bar scene. You can kick back and relax over craft beers, casual bites and steaks at Montana Ale Works or, if you prefer to sip a glass of wine and people-watch outdoors, grab a seat with a view at Plonk. And for accommodations, the historic Kimpton Armory Hotel downtown is an excellent choice for your stay.

Yellowstone National Park

Montana is one of the best spots in North America for seeing wildlife. As the first national park in the U.S., Yellowstone National Park (which stretches across parts of Montana, Wyoming and Idaho) is home to grizzly bears, elk, mountain lions, gray wolves, bighorn sheep, bison, pronghorn, bald eagles, and many more species of mammals and birds. At one time, as many as 60 million bison roamed the Great Plains, and now Montana is one of the last places where you'll find them in the wild. You can even take a private safari-style tour to view the animals year-round with Safari Yellowstone. If you want to stay close to the park, West Yellowstone is the closest town – located just minutes from the West Entrance. Here, you'll have access to a variety of accommodations, restaurants and fun activities like ice fishing, dog-sledding, sleigh rides and cross-country skiing in the winter. In the summer months, head out on the hiking and biking trails, take a ride on 3,000 feet of zip lines at Yellowstone Aerial Adventures, or check out the action at the Wild West Yellowstone Rodeo.

[See more of Yellowstone National Park: Things to Do | Tours | When to Visit | Photos ]

The Ranch at Rock Creek: Philipsburg

Courtesy of The Ranch at Rock Creek

For romance and adventure combined with a five-star luxury experience, plan a getaway to western Montana at The Ranch at Rock Creek . This all-inclusive Relais & Châteaux resort is set on a 6,600-acre working cattle ranch. Choose from 29 distinct accommodations, which include upscale Western-themed rooms with a view of the grasslands at Granite Lodge to glamping under the stars in hybrid canvas-covered cabins situated along the banks of Rock Creek. Fill your days with invigorating outdoor activities such as fly-fishing on Blue Ribbon Rock Creek, horseback riding in the wilderness, or try your hand at sporting clays at Rimfire Range. When you're ready to relax, unwind with a signature treatment at The Spa at Rock Creek or grab a drink on a seat with a saddle at the Silver Dollar Saloon.

Central Montana's Scenic Byway motorcycle ride

Hop on a motorcycle or put the top down for this 265-mile road trip through central Montana. The route begins 25 miles east of Great Falls on U.S. Route and includes 71 miles of the Kings Hills Scenic Byway before circling back to Great Falls. Take a break for a locally brewed Pig Ass Porter or Get Lost Ale at Harvest Moon Brewery in Belt or take a dip in the hot springs at White Sulphur Springs. Between Helena and Great Falls, explore sections along Interstate 15 and the frontage road with its picturesque scenery along the Missouri River. And at First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park in Ulm, visit an archeological site and educational center that pays tribute to the bison and the Native American people that honor this magnificent animal. Before heading back, dine with the locals at The Angus Bar in the small town of Cascade.

Missoula – then take a road trip to Kalispell

Take several days – or even a week – to make the 120-mile trip from Missoula to Kalispell. Start your adventure with a few days in Missoula at the AC Hotel Missoula Downtown, which is convenient to some of the town's best dining and imbibing spots, including The Camino Mexican restaurant and Bar Plata, a Spanish-inspired cocktail bar and eatery. If you're an angler, you'll want to head out on the Bitterroot, Blackfoot, Clark Fork or Missouri rivers for some of the best trout fishing in the U.S. with local outfitter Grizzly Hackle Fly Shop. And don't miss attractions like the Missoula Art Museum, Radius Gallery, a hike on the short M Trail to the top of Mount Sentinel and live music performances at the KettleHouse Amphitheater, situated along the Blackfoot River. When it's time for a sweet treat, get in line at Big Dipper Ice Cream to choose from tasty, handcrafted flavors like huckleberry, a local favorite.

On the way to Kalispell, make sure to plan a quick stop in Bigfork. This charming community, located at the convergence of the Swan River and Flathead Lake, about 100 miles north of Missoula, features boutiques and galleries with artwork and pieces from western Montana artists. While in town, grab breakfast at Pocketstone Café (be sure to order a cinnamon roll) and have lunch and a cold beer at Flathead Lake Brewing Co.

Courtesy of The Kalispell Grand Hotel

During your visit to Kalispell – approximately 15 miles south of Whitefish, the gateway to Glacier National Park – plan to stay at The Kalispell Grand Hotel, a historic property located on Main Street. From here you can walk to three legendary favorites in town. A visit to Kalispell wouldn't be complete without a trip to Norm's Soda Fountain for huckleberry ice cream; pizza and a cold beer at Moose's Saloon; and shopping for a pair of Western boots (with more than 2,500 pairs to choose from) at Western Outdoor.

When you're ready for outdoor adventure, local outfitter Sea Me Paddle offers year-round kayaking excursions. Horseback riding is also available year-round on trails in the Salish Mountains with Artemis Acres Guest Ranch. You can also take a 2-mile walk or go biking on the new Parkline Trail, which sits along the tracks of the Great Northern Railway running through the downtown area. And for a unique way to explore northwestern Montana's beautiful scenery, book a shorter three-hour evening trek or an extended multiday excursion with Swan Mountain Llama Trekking. After working up an appetite, check out the culinary and beverage scene featuring locally sourced meats and produce. Some not-to-miss spots include Mercantile Steak, KM Bar, Waters Edge Winery & Bistro and Big Mountain Ciderworks.

Fort Peck, Montana

Northeastern Montana's section of the Missouri River is home to the largest body of water in the state, the Fort Peck Reservoir. There are 1,520 miles of shoreline and 50 species of fish, including the prized walleye, small mouth bass and chinook salmon. Spend time fishing and hiking in the Charles M. Russell National Wildlife Refuge, which offers more than 1 million acres of public land. Then, visit the Fort Peck Power Plant Museum to learn about the "largest hydraulically filled earth dam in the world." In the evenings, return to The Historic Fort Peck Hotel, built in the 1930s, to experience an earlier slice of Montana life.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Weekend Getaways in the Midwest
• Incredible Midwest Vacations
• The Best National Parks in the U.S.
• The Top Romantic Winter Getaways
• The Top Montana Ski Resorts
• The Top Colorado Ski Resorts
• The Top Restaurants in Jackson Hole, Wyoming
• The Top Restaurants in Omaha, Nebraska
• The Top Restaurants in Colorado Springs

Tags: Travel , Mountain Vacations , Montana Vacations , U.S. West Vacations

World's Best Places To Visit

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• # 4 Bora Bora

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Montana Winter Weather: What to Expect and How to Prepare

Dreaming of a winter wonderland escape? With its snow-capped mountains and wide plains, the Treasure State offers a cold season straight out of a storybook. But before you pack your bags, let’s delve into what chilly Montana winter weather is like.

From frigid temperatures that can dip below -50°F (45.6°C) to snowstorms that blanket the state, Big Sky Country’s winter is no joke. The transition from fall to winter can be abrupt, and the state’s varied topography means that temperature extremes can differ dramatically from one region to another.

If you’re planning a trip to Montana’s renowned national parks like Glacier and Yellowstone, a solid grasp of the winter weather patterns is essential. But even if you’re not venturing into the wilderness, knowing how to navigate the state’s icy roads and what to wear can make your winter experience much more enjoyable.

I know the thought of packing up and heading into the freezing wilderness can be a bit daunting but fear not!

• Related article: Climate of Montana

Don’t let the cold weather scare you off – I’m here to help you navigate the frosty terrain with ease and confidence. From snowfall averages to essential winter safety tips, this guide has you covered.

7 Key Takeaways on Montana’s Winter Weather

• Montana winters are a roller coaster, with temperatures ranging from -10°F (23.3°C) to -50°F (45.6°C) and sudden temperature drops.
• The state is a snow lover’s paradise, with an average of 38.1 inches of snow and opportunities for winter sports galore.
• Montana’s winter wind can be intense, with an average speed of over 20 mph and bone-chilling wind chills.
• National parks like Glacier and Yellowstone offer unique winter experiences, but weather conditions can be unpredictable and extreme.
• Essential Montana winter weather tips include investing in winter tires, dressing in layers, and staying informed about road and weather conditions.
• Winter hazards like black ice and avalanches should be taken seriously, especially for those venturing into mountainous areas.
• Despite the challenges, Montana’s winter beauty is unmatched and offers a magical experience for those who are prepared.

Winter Weather in Montana

Winter in Montana is a season of contrasts, where snowflakes gently blanket the landscape, and temperatures can plummet. The vast size of the state, combined with its diverse topography, makes for some of the most unpredictable and breathtaking winter conditions in the United States.

This section will give you the lowdown on what to expect during your winter visit, from the average temperatures to the types of winter weather you might encounter.

Montana Winter Temperature

When it comes to winter weather, Montana doesn’t mess around. From November to March, you’re in for a wild ride.

Montana ranks as the 6th coldest state in the U.S., with an average winter temperature of 42.6°F (5.9°C) and a daily high of just 14°F (-10°C). Temperatures can swing from a chilly -10°F (-23°C) to a bone-numbing -50°F (-45.6°C) in some parts. 

The western region, home to Missoula and Kalispell, enjoys milder winters compared to the eastern part of the state, where they face bitter colds, often dipping below -30°F (-34.4°C). Places like Billings in the mountainous regions experience even chillier winters compared to the western regions.

Montana’s winter season isn’t for the faint of heart, and the state has a reputation for enduring extreme temperatures and heavy snowfall. Don’t be surprised by sudden temperature drops or record-breaking cold snaps in Montana .

The onset of frigid weather can be unpredictable, swinging from gradual to sudden. As snow and ice envelop highways, avalanche alerts are rampant, and power outages are not uncommon.

On the bright side, you’ll get a decent amount of daylight, with roughly 8 to 10 hours to work with.

Montana Winter Snow

Snow is as much a part of the landscape as the tall mountains when it comes to winter in the Treasure State.

In 2022, Montana averaged a cozy 38.1 inches of snowfall, according to World Population Review. But don’t let that number fool you; some mountainous regions can see over 300 inches in a single season.

The western part of the state tends to be a winter wonderland, with more snowfall than the eastern plains. However, no matter where you are in Montana, you can expect some deep drifts. 

The chilly weather is a hallmark of Montana’s winter, and the state’s temperature is often affected by snowstorms. Blizzards are most common in the northeastern part of the state, occurring about 5 times per year.

But if you’re a fan of the white stuff, you’re in for a treat. Montana’s abundant snowfall means plenty of opportunities for winter sports, from skiing and snowboarding to snowshoeing and snowmobiling.

So, if you’re planning a trip to Montana in the winter, be prepared for an abundance of snow and chilly weather, no matter which part of the state you visit.

Read more about Montana and Its Snowfall here .

Montana Winter Wind

Montana’s winter wind is no joke. Ranked as the fifth windiest state in the U.S., you can expect an average wind speed of over 20 mph.

But here’s an interesting twist: the wind isn’t evenly distributed. Eastern Montana takes the crown for the windiest winter spots, while western Montana enjoys relatively calmer breezes.

Ever heard of Chinook winds? These warm and dry gusts are common along the eastern slopes of the Rocky Mountains. They can be a blessing, bringing sudden temperature spikes during a frigid week. But they can also be a curse, as the rapid temperature changes can cause havoc with roads and infrastructure.

And Montana isn’t an exception for wind chills. Wind chills take into account both the actual temperature and the wind speed, giving you a sense of how cold it is. It’s not just about the temperature; it’s about how it feels.

Wind chills in the state can be bone-chilling. I remember when an Arctic air mass invaded the Northern Rockies; the extreme wind chill would make you feel like you were in the heart of Siberia.

When you visit during the winter months, be prepared, and don’t let the wind deter you from experiencing the magic of Montana’s winter wonderland.

Winter Weather in Montana National Parks

National parks have always been a top destination for tourists, offering stunning landscapes and unforgettable outdoor experiences. When planning a visit, understanding the winter weather pattern is important, especially in Montana.

The state’s national parks, including Glacier and Yellowstone, are known for their breathtaking beauty and diverse wildlife. But as the temperatures drop and snow covers the region, knowing what to expect in terms of weather can make or break a winter adventure. 

Winter Weather in Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is a winter paradise that’s as beautiful as it is unpredictable. Here, the weather is a character all its own, and it’s not afraid to make a statement. 

Glacier’s weather is a wild card, ranging from serene snowfall to intense blizzards. One day, you could experience a burst of sunshine, with the sun shining brightly on the snow-covered landscape. The next, you might find yourself shrouded in clouds, with flurries of snow dancing in the air.

Most of Glacier National Park is buried under several feet of snow during winter, with the snowfall settling into an impressive 16-foot (4.9 m) average snowpack, transforming the park into a serene and enchanting winter paradise.

The east side of the park, with its higher elevation, can be even more extreme, with frigid temperatures and stronger winds. You can expect temperatures to drop from a chilly 10ºF (-12.2ºC) to 15ºF (-9.4ºC) at higher elevations, like at Logan Pass.

Glacier’s winter weather can be as inviting as it is challenging, so come prepared to embrace the frigid beauty. Just remember, the weather can change on a dime, so flexibility is key. But don’t let that intimidate you; the rewards of witnessing this icy paradise are well worth it.

Winter Weather in Yellowstone National Park

When it comes to winter weather, Yellowstone National Park is a whole different ballgame. I’ve spent some bone-chilling days there, and let me tell you, it’s winter magic like no other.

Here’s what you need to know about Yellowstone National Park before you go in winter:

• Daily Temperature Range – Expect the mercury to hover between 0°F and 20°F (-18°C to -7°C) throughout the day. It’s not just the cold; it’s the biting wind that can make it feel even more frigid.
• Sub-Zero Reality – Nights and higher elevations can easily dip below zero. So, pack those extra layers and a good pair of thermal socks. Trust me, you’ll thank me later.
• Snowfall Surprise – Snowfall is as unpredictable as a roulette wheel. One day, you could be trudging through knee-deep powder; the next day, it’s a winter postcard with fluffy snowflakes. Be prepared for both.
• Slippery When Cold – Those iconic boardwalks near thermal areas? They can be icy and treacherous. I learned this the hard way. Tread carefully and consider using traction devices for your boots.
• Deep Snow Delight – The snow here is a serious matter. So, if you plan on hiking, snowshoeing, or even just strolling, make sure you’re equipped for deep snow.

A winter journey through Yellowstone promises a wild adventure with its burstiness of weather and perplexity of conditions.

Montana Winter Weather Tips

When it comes to winter weather in Montana, preparation is key. Here are some essential tips to keep you safe and comfortable during your winter adventures:

• Tires and Chains – Invest in a good set of winter tires and learn how to put on tire chains. They can be a game-changer when navigating snow-packed roads or icy conditions.
• Ice Scraper – Don’t leave home without a high-quality ice scraper. Clear all the snow off your car before hitting the road for optimal visibility.
• Dress for the Cold Winters – Layer up with warm, moisture-wicking clothing. Think winter boots , wool socks, gloves, hats, snow pants, a heavy jacket, and even hand and foot warmers.
• Stay Upright – Wear traction aids, like ice cleats, when walking on slippery surfaces. They can prevent some embarrassing and potentially dangerous falls.
• Bear Awareness – Yes, bears can still be active during the winter. Carry bear spray, especially when you’re venturing into bear country.
• Hydrate – The combination of high altitude and dry winter air can lead to dehydration. Keep a water bottle handy and drink plenty of water.
• Winter Hazards – Black ice, snow-packed roads, and whiteouts are all common sights during Montana winters. Take it slow and steady on the roads.
• Avalanche Awareness – If you’re a mountain climber or planning to explore high mountain elevations, be aware of the risk of snow avalanches. Be on alert and take necessary precautions.
• Stay Informed – Road reports, weather updates, and winter warnings are your best friends. Frequent snow and wind storms, along with blizzards causing heavy snowfall, can lead to road, trail, and mountain pass closures lasting for several days. Check the National Weather Service or local sources for the latest information.

Montana’s winter season can be both breathtaking and challenging. By following these tips, you can make the most of your snowy exploration while staying safe and prepared. So pack your winter gear, plan your routes, and get ready to embrace the beauty of a Montana winter.

Read more in this Winter Clothing Guide for Montana .

Montana Winter Weather Guide Final Thoughts

Winter in the Treasure State is a season of beauty, but it’s not without its challenges. From bone-chilling temperatures to deep snow and intense winds, the state’s winter weather demands respect and preparation. But even with the winter hazards, the beauty of the region is undeniable.

While it may be one of the coldest states, Montana is still a go-to place for winter fun. Even Glacier and Yellowstone National Parks are no exception to the extreme colder weather.

Whether you’re exploring national parks or simply navigating snowy highways, following essential winter weather tips in Big Sky Country is crucial.

From packing the right gear to staying informed about road and weather reports, these precautions can make all the difference in ensuring a safe and enjoyable winter adventure.

So, as you plan your Montana winter getaway, remember that the state’s diverse landscapes and ever-changing weather patterns offer a rich tapestry of experiences.

Embrace the beauty, but do so with caution and respect for the elements. Big Sky Country’s winter is a journey best enjoyed when you’re prepared to face its challenges and revel in its wonders.

Winter Weather in Montana FAQs

1. is montana the coldest state.

Alaska, with its icy reputation, holds the title of the coldest state. Yet, Montana is still one of the coldest states in the U.S. and has plenty to offer for those brave enough to face the chill.

2. What Is the Coldest Part of Montana?

When it comes to Montana, the chilliest temperatures tend to settle in the higher elevations and mountainous regions. Especially during the winter months, the mercury can plummet to some seriously frigid levels. 

3. What Is the Coldest Month in Montana?

January takes the cake as the coldest and iciest month in Montana. The snow blankets the state, creating a winter wonderland that’s both breathtaking and bone-chilling. 

4. Is Montana Beautiful in Winter?

Montana is exceptionally beautiful in winter. The snow-covered landscapes create picturesque scenes that are perfect for skiing and snowmobiling. The crisp, fresh air and the stunning views make it a must-visit destination for winter sports enthusiasts. 

5. Does Montana Have Hard Winters?

Montana is known for having harsh winters characterized by cold temperatures, heavy snowfall, and icy conditions, particularly in the mountainous regions.

January 20th, 1954 holds the record for the coldest date in Montana history, with the temperature plummeting to a bone-chilling -70°F (-56.7°C) at Rogers Pass. 

Uncover more interesting facts about Montana below:

• Best Weather in Montana
• Montana’s Summer Weather
• Montana’s Earthquake Patterns
• https://www.nps.gov/glac/planyourvisit/weather.htm
• https://www.nps.gov/yell/planyourvisit/weather.htm
• https://www.nps.gov/yell/planyourvisit/winter-safety.htm
• https://www.nps.gov/glac/planyourvisit/conditions.htm
• https://www.umt.edu/this-is-montana/columns/stories/montana-winters.php

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20 Best Places to Visit in Montana

Are you interested in finding the truly best places to visit in Montana ? Perhaps you’ve heard of Glacier National Park or Yellowstone National Park. Both are otherworldly and are top Montana vacation spots for a reason. But did you know that there are many more lesser-known Montana vacation spots that are equally as wonderful as the big ones?

For example, have you ever heard of the Lewis and Clark Caverns? They are as incredible as they sound. It’s time to explore the best places to visit in Montana , from the vast Glacier National Park to the sleepy ghost towns of the prairies.

Here is our list of top Montana vacation spots that you can spend either one afternoon or a whole week exploring. Here’s a deep dive into the best places to see in Montana.

20 Best Places to Visit in Montana – Montana vacation spots

Where are the best places to visit in Montana? If you want to know where to vacation in Montana in summer and winter, then we’ve got you covered:

• Yellowstone National Park
• Lake McDonald
• Glacier National Park
• Lewis and Clark Caverns
• Pryor Mountains
• Garden of One Thousand Buddhas
• Beartooth Mountains
• East Rosebud
• Great Falls
• Chico Hot Springs

Let’s discuss each one in detail.

1. Best Places to Visit in Montana – Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is one of the best places to visit in Montana and is also one of the most popular. And well, it’s one of the most popular for a reason. It’s beauty and awe are unmatched by any other place in the state. This is why we’ve put it at the top of our list, despite not being a hidden gem of top Montana vacation spots. 

If you’ve ever seen a photo of Yellowstone National Park then you may already know why. Underneath the whole area of Yellowstone National Park is a caldera, sometimes called the Yellowstone Supervolcano. 

The result of this deep and diverse caldera underneath this whole land mass is an otherworldly landscape of geysers, hot springs, colorful pools, steaming lakes and boiling rivers. 

Top Montana Vacation Spots – Pools of bright orange and electric blue

Pools of bright orange and deep blue with white steam climbing to the skies are common in Yellowstone. In many of these areas you’re able to park, get out of your car and walk a boardwalk around the pools so you can get an up close look at the natural phenomenon. 

Just be aware of your step and be sure you always remain on the designated walkways. These pools can reach over 400 degrees fahrenheit. The Grand Prismatic Spring in Yellowstone is the largest hot spring in the United States and the third largest in the world. 

Other, less hot streams and pools of water exist that you can even swim in. Some of these are pools and other places in the park there are rivers with hot water flowing from geysers into the river, making for a very pleasant water temperature for swimming. 

Of course, only jump in if you are a confident swimmer, because these are wild pools of water and, of course, there are no lifeguards on duty. Some of the calmer pools of water are generally safe for everyone and are a delight to sit and relax in stress free. I highly recommend them.

Top Montana Vacation Spot – Old Faithful Geyser

Any Montana trip to Yellowstone National Park should include a visit to the Old Faithful Geyser. Old Faithful is one of the most famous geysers of Yellowstone and this is for good reason.

Each time Old Faithful erupts it releases 3,700 to 8,400 gallons (14,000 to 32,000 l) of boiling hot water straight up into the sky. There aren’t too many places on earth where you can watch such a beautiful spectacle occur in the wild without any human engineering behind it. 

The water column reaches a height of 100 to 200 ft (30–55 m) and has an average temperature of 169.7°F (76.5°C).

After some time in the otherworldly environment of Yellowstone National Park, you may even forget that you’re in Montana.

See it on the map .

2. Best Places to Visit in Montana – Lake McDonald

(Lake McDonald, Glacier National Park)

Lake McDonald is one of the best places to visit in Montana because of its mystic natural beauty nestled in between dramatic mountain ranges. Perhaps you’ve heard of Glacier National Park. I will talk more about the park below. But first, Lake McDonald deserves some attention of its own. 

Lake McDonald is one of the reasons Glacier National Park is so admired by Montanans and out-of-state visitors and is one of the best places to visit in Montana. It’s one of the reasons Glacier National Park has the reputation it does.

This natural spectacle is 10 miles long and 470 ft deep. Many visitors say it reminds them of a Norwegian fjord. It is the largest lake in Glacier National Park. 

Going-to-the-Sun Road – Best places to visit in Montana

If you’re ever here, one popular driving route is on the nationally-renowned and scenic Going-to-the-Sun road, which eventually runs right up and along the southern shore of Lake McDonald. 

Lake McDonald is a popular Montana vacation spot not only for its natural beauty but because of its historical significance. The lake sits in an ancient basin that was carved out of the ground by glaciers during the Ice Age.

People looking for the best place to visit in Montana for hiking and walking in nature will be delighted by Lake McDonald. 

The lake is one of the best places to visit in Montana for: 

• Wildlife viewing
• Sightseeing

Aside from the lake, this area abounds with wildlife. Keep an eye out for:

• Black bears
• Mountain goats
• Bighorn sheep

And much more. As with almost every natural area in Montana, it’s always advised to be prepared for bears. A bottle of bear spray is a good method of defense. 

(Importance of Bear Spray in Montana)

Wherever you purchase your bear spray from, ask one of the specialists from the shop to explain how to use it. Basically, a canister of bear spray shoots a strong stream of highly potent, stinging liquid several yards. 

When it comes in contact with the bear’s eyes, it immobilizes it and gives you a chance to get away.

Important note: If you decide to test your canister of bear spray at any time, make sure you’re in an open space outdoors, that no one’s nearby, and never spray it upwind. 

Even if the slightest remnant floating through the air in your direction comes into contact, it can be a very painful experience and take hours before you start to feel normal again.

Unfortunately, it’s a necessary topic to cover when we’re talking about Montana travel and vacation spots. Montana’s wild and stunning natural environment is what continuously draws visitors to the state. However, there are aspects of wild nature that we need to be prepared for. 

A little foresight and preparedness goes a long way. It can ensure you avoid any serious problems and make sure your vacation in Montana is a pleasant one!

Back to Lake McDonald

On the other hand, the natural wildlife underwater in Lake Powel is absolutely stunning and doesn’t pose a threat! Many natural inhabitants call Lake McDonald home, which is another reason it’s considered one of the best places to visit in Montana:

• Native trout

And much more. 

There are many places to see in Montana which can make it hard to decide which is the best place to visit in Montana for you. However, if your time is limited and you’re going to visit some of the top spots, like Glacier National Park, we highly recommend stopping by Lake McDonald. 

See it on the map . 

3. Best Places to Visit in Montana – Glacier National Park

Besides the beauty of Lake McDonald, there is much more to see in Glacier National Park. It’s also one of the most popular Montana vacation spots. We’ve included it in this list of the best places to visit in Montana because it just never disappoints. If you’re in Montana, I can’t recommend enough that you visit Glacier. 

Glacier National Park is an expansive area of majestic beauty sitting on the US-Canada border, where sites like Lake McDonald abound. The park covers an area of 1 million acres and includes two mountain ranges, more than 100 lakes and thousands of animal and plant life.

It’s a natural oasis sitting in the middle of what many scientists refer to as the Crown of the Continent Biosphere Reserve. 

One of the reasons Glacier is one of the top Montana vacation spots is that here, you can do many outdoor activities:

• Mountain climbing
• Wildlife watching 

There are more than 650 miles of trails that twist and roll through the forests and meadows, past the mountains and lakes. If you prefer exploring Glacier by car, you’re in for a treat. The Going-to-the-Sun road is a famous scenic 50-mile road that is also a marvel of modern engineering.

Other Sites in the Park – Best Montana vacation spots 

Inside the park you can also visit Two Medicine, the Goat Haunt and Many Glacier where you can learn about Native American history, see some former homesteading sites and further immerse yourself in the history and nature of the park.

The views and the atmosphere that Glacier has to offer are what many visitors to Montana came here hoping to see. 

This makes it one of the best places to visit in Montana.

Glacier National Park is one of the most famous Montana tourist attractions. Be sure to add it to your list of Montana destinations . I think the best time to visit Glacier National Park is during the summer. Though if you love the sparkle and charm of a dramatic natural setting blanketed in snow, visiting Glacier National Park in the winter also won’t disappoint. 

4. Best Places to Visit in Montana – Columbus

Columbus, the town, is very small and doesn’t offer much beyond some historic antique shopping, a large gas station right off I-90 which is great for refueling on a long road trip to Montana, some restaurants serving local cuisine and the Yellowstone river flowing through. 

However, it’s on this list of the best places to visit in Montana because the town itself is quiet and pleasant to stop through and just outside of Columbus is some of the nicest nature Montana has to offer. 

Follow the road through Columbus, cross the tracks over the Yellowstone bridge and veer right up towards the Stillwater River. Take this road as far as you like. The drive itself is beautiful. 

Drive Along the River – Best Montana vacation spots

Stop at any of the many public accesses to the river and take it all in. The Stillwater is one of the most pristine and beautiful rivers in Montana. It’s not a far drive from Billings – about an hour. This makes it one of the best places to visit in Montana if you’re in or nearby Billings. 

The further you follow the highway up the valley along the Stillwater River, the scenery changes and reveals itself in a new way, opening up to new hillsides and mountains where the river narrows and widens. 

This Montana vacation spot is suited for those who are looking to get a taste of Montana nature with the opportunity to eat at a small restaurant on the way without being in the city.  

If you’re not interested in small towns off the beaten path, then I can’t recommend this as one the best places to visit in Montana. You may prefer Livingston or Bozeman better.

Absarokee – Best places to visit in Montana

It can make you feel as if you’re driving through the setting of a Hollywood film. Take the road all the way to Absarokee (pr. abzorkee ), a small town that is well prepared to cater to the many local and foreign tourists that make their way up there. 

Despite how small Absarokee is, there are several nice restaurants serving local food.

After lunch continue on up road 420 to continue following the Stillwater. The scenery remains as beautiful as ever and there are several public accesses along the road with bathrooms and places to picnic.

Again, cell service can be intermittent when you’re this far up in hills, so be sure to take note of how you got to where you are so that if it’s already dark when you decide to go back, you know how to get there. 

At the very least, you can simply remember to follow the 420 back to Absarokee. From there, you just follow highway 78 back to Columbus, where you can get back on I-90 and head back to Billings or continue West to Livingston or Bozeman. 

5. Best Places to Visit in Montana – Livingston 

Livingston is a well-kept, medium-sized historic Montana town, with a main street that could have been taken straight from a film set. This makes it one of the best places to visit in Montana.

Livingston is set in a picturesque location and offers almost everything you could desire if you are looking for the modern version of an old western town. This includes antique shops filled with mysteries, historic souvenirs, stylish furniture and more.

The restaurants in Livingston are equally impressive, which makes the town one of the best places to visit for those looking to experience local Montana cuisine. 

Paradise Valley – Top Montana vacation spots

A short 30 minute drive from Livingston, in the opposite direction of I-90, is another stunning area, called Paradise Valley, that is worth taking a drive through if you’re Livingston. 

The name speaks for itself. Paradise Valley is another example of a beautiful place that is a short drive from a city. Once you leave Livingstone and enter Paradise Valley, it feels like you’ve entered another world and are miles from the nearest town. 

The sweeping meadows lined by jagged mountains are about as dramatic and beautiful as it gets in Montana. You can expect winding rivers that glide through open fields and forests set below dramatic rising mountains. Just driving through is enough to feel the atmosphere. 

Paradise Valley is a top Montana vacation spot, which means slowly and surely, homes and cabins continue popping up here and there, but it’s mostly open nature with a very special atmosphere, especially in the summer. 

6. Best Places to Visit in Montana – Bozeman

(Hyalite Canyon, 5 minute drive from Bozeman)

Bozeman is one of the most unique places to visit in Montana. Because it’s one of the larger towns in Montana, with a University and a relatively diverse population, it has become one of the top Montana vacation spots in the past several decades and one of the best cities to visit in Montana. 

Bozeman is a small town of about 50,000 residents with one of the most popular Universities in the state. It’s also one of the most popular places in Montana that people from out of state and even out of the country choose to move to.

At the same time, Bozeman was originally a small, farming town, without much outside influence. The current mix of residents makes for a very diverse and stimulating atmosphere. 

This is one of the main reasons many people consider it one of the best places to visit in montana.

Shopping Bozeman – Best places to visit in Montana

If you’re interested in Montana shopping, Bozeman will be a top Montana vacation spot for you. Main street is a typical western American main street, lined with record stores, chic boutiques, coffee shops, book stores, ski and snowboard shops, restaurants, historic hotels and much much more. Historic hotels are some of the best places to stay in Montana.

Once you’ve strolled main street, step one block north or south and stroll up and down one of the side streets parallel to main street. There’re more small restaurants and shops to be discovered. 

Skiing Bozeman – Best Montana vacation spots

Bozeman doesn’t only have an energetic city-life to offer. Bozeman is located one hours’ drive from Big Sky Mountain Resort and about 45 minutes’ drive from Bridger Bowl Ski Area. These are two of the most popular Montana vacation spots in the whole state. 

Big Sky is known for being wide and open, offering almost every type of terrain imaginable. Bridger Bowl is a ski resort spread across a large ridge, with different runs peeling off from different points cutting through forests and glades. 

Back in Bozeman you can find many restaurants on Main street and plenty of hotels throughout the town. It’s one of the more expensive cities in Montana, but still relatively affordable relative to the rest of the country. Except for its real estate. Bozeman real estate is exceptionally expensive. But this is because it’s such a popular place to live.

7. Best Places to Visit in Montana – Lewis and Clark Caverns

The Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park is as incredible as the name suggests, which is why it is one of the best places to visit in Montana. It is one of the most popular Montana vacation spots. 

The caverns are one of the biggest and most elaborate limestone cave complexes of the Northwestern United States. 

The park is the first and one of the best known national parks of Montana. It’s been a popular Montana vacation spot for a long time. The park covers 3,000 acres of land and sits at around 5,000 ft above sea level. 

Underground – Top Montana vacation spots

Once you descend into the caverns you’ll notice it’s naturally air conditioned, which is a delight if you decide to visit this Montana vacation spot on one the hottest June or July days. 

Stalagmites, stalactites, helictites and columns are stacked all around you, coming from the ceiling of the caves and shooting up from the ground. 

The caverns and their stalactites and columns are electrically lit, making for a very dramatic environment. The lights also ensure it is safe and easy to see as you walk the pathway and its stairs.

Above the caverns are 10 miles of trails above ground, which give you a great opportunity to explore the surrounding beautiful nature. 

For those that want to stick around for more than just a couple hours, there is a campground nearby the park, fully equipped with:

• camping cabins: max 6 people; disabled access; no plumbing, kitchen facilities or bedding provided. Equipped with electric lights 
• Picnic area
• Toilets (flush and vault)
• RV dump station
• Grill and fire rings
• Garbage cans
• Food, beverage concession

Your pets are welcome on the campgrounds if they are on a leash.

The Lewis and Clark cabins are such a sought after Montana vacation spot that they’re open year round. This makes them one of the best places to visit in Montana, no matter which time of the year you come. 

However, guided tours are available only from May 1 to September 30. Also, the event program in the summer makes this one of the best places to visit in Montana in the summer. 

Nearby are the towns of Three Forks and Whitehall where you’ll find access to all the amenities you missed while camping out, including a golf course and museums.

8. Best Places to Visit in Montana – Billings

(Zimmerman Park)

Billings is the largest city in Montana. This means it can be one of the most interesting Montana destinations. It’s population is about 100,000 people. This fact, alone, is good enough reason to at least see it once. The large population makes it one of the best cities to visit in Montana. If you’re flying to Montana, there’s a good chance you’ll fly into Billings. 

It’s worth it to stay a couple nights if you have the time, because it truly is one of the best places to visit in Montana if you’re interested in Montana’s cities.  

Largest City in Montana – Best places to visit in Montana

Because Billings is the largest city in the state, it has more to offer than other cities in terms of services, restaurants, neighborhoods and city activities. Billings’ historic downtown is a great place for a walk. 

Despite being the largest city in the state, the population is only 100,000, which means downtown is almost never overcrowded. 

Downtown has a wide range of western boutiques, book shops, restaurants and more. You can get a lot of your Montana souvenir shopping done if you are in billings. There are also several shops selling Native American items and souvenirs.

Outside of downtown are a number of pleasant neighborhoods to drive through. One neighborhood, referred to by residents as ‘the avenues’ is a historic neighborhood with a historic feel. 

Leaving downtown past the hospital heading northwest, you can turn off Poly Dr. and cruise through the avenues. If you turn back onto Rimrock road and go west, you’ll drive past many houses and the local private college called Rocky Mountain College.

Zimmerman Park – Best places to visit in Montana

Continue heading west on Rimrock for about 10 minutes until you reach Zimmerman trail. Turn right on Zimmerman trail to wind your way and around the sandstone cliff that borders the whole northern side of the central part of Billings. 

You’ll wind your way up to the top of the cliffside to the open prairie and farmland up top. At the roundabout at the top, take the third exit and drive west. 

Several hundred yards ahead of you you’ll see a small gravel parking lot on the left. This is Zimmerman Park. Here you can park your car and walk the trails all across the top of the sandstone cliff. 

There are several levels that cascade down to the cliff’s edge. Before the edge are various trails to stroll on, past boulders, drops, caves and open areas all overlooking the city below. If you like views, Zimmerman Park is one of the best places for views in Billings, especially if you want to experience pristine nature at the same time.

Looking out over the city, you’ll see the green trees, the farm land out west and further south on a clear day you can see the Pryor Mountains, one of the best places to visit in Montana, which is just a short drive from Billings.

Lake Elmo – Best places to visit in Montana

If you leave Zimmerman Park and drive back East towards the roundabout and continue straight past Zimmerman trail you’ll reach the airport. Past the airport lies Billings Heights. 

A vacation in Montana is always special. If you’re in the heights on a summer day, I recommend stopping by Lake Elmo, a small state park in the heights with a small man made lake. It’s a nice place to unwind and have a picnic by the water. 

Billings is a relatively large town, so I recommend driving around and exploring each neighborhood as you come across it. There’s lots to see. 

9. Best Places to Visit in Montana – Pryor Mountains

The Pryor Mountains are a unique mountain range that don’t get much recognition outside of the state of Montana. Those who visit the Pryors are often locals, from Billings or one of the other nearby towns. 

They are near the top of our list for a reason. They feature an extra degree of that dry, otherworldly desert landscape that is so often found in Montana and North & South Dakota. There are forests in the Pryor Mountains as well, which balance out the dry, winding coulees, red rocks and low lying desert vegetation. 

Wild Horses – Montana vacation spots

Amidst it all, if you’re out driving through the Pryors or riding your mountain bike, you’re likely to be met with a herd of wild mustangs (horses) led by a couple wild stallions darting through the forest or cutting across the fields. 

These aren’t horses from a nearby farm. They are the live wild mustangs of the Pryor Mountains. While wild horses aren’t aggressive in nature, they are still wild animals, so if you come across a herd while exploring this top Montana vacation spot, it’s a good idea to give them their space if you want to capture some photos. 

As I mentioned, the Pryor mountains feature a dry arid landscape that is reminiscent of the southwestern US with desert vegetation, multiple shades of red and beige colored hill and cliff sides. 

Hiking and Biking – Best places to visit in Montana

Many visitors come by car and cruise slowly around the dirt roads in the region, but if you have the energy and the desire to see more of this mountain range, a hike or a mountain bike through the trails and dirt roads is a great way to explore where the roads don’t lead. 

It can be extremely hot in the Pryor Mountains in the summer, so be sure to remember to pack lots of water. 

Cell service is spotty in the Pryor Mountains, so also be sure to tell someone where you’re going and for how long, to be sure that help will be on the way if you run into trouble.

Billings, the biggest city in the state, is just about an hours’ drive from the Pryors, making it a perfect day trip if you are in Billings for a couple days.

10. Top Montana Vacation Spots – Garden of One Thousand Buddhas

The Garden of One Thousand Buddhas is a unique Montana destination. It sits just outside of the small town of Arlee in the Jocko Valley. This is a calm and natural area of the state that isn’t visited as often as Glacier or Yellowstone National Park. 

It is an International Peace Center with the goal of helping the human race cultivate inner peace via preserving the ancient culture of Tibet. 

A Thousand Stupas – Best places to visit in Montana

The central statue of the grounds is a 24-foot tall figure of the Great Mother of Transcendent Wisdom, Yum Chenmo. 

Surrounding the whole garden complex are one thousand stupas, which are one one of the human race’s oldest forms of architecture. They honor past great warriors and kings.

The Garden was established by Tulku San-ngag Rinpoche and is situated on the land of Ewam Sang-ngag Ling. The Garden is a piece of Bhuddist culture in Montana that aims to bring about awakening of the human qualities of compassion, joy and wisdom.

The garden is open from dawn to dusk to people of any religion. Visitors to the garden enjoy walking around and absorbing the atmosphere while admiring various Bhuddhist statues, images, symbols and structures. 

The unique atmosphere makes this garden one of the best places to visit in Montana. It’s especially popular because visitors of Montana can spend an afternoon connecting with another culture. 

It is one of the top Montana vacation spots for those interested in making an afternoon trip or stopping for a few hours to see an interesting site on their way to their final destination.

11. Best Places to Visit in Montana – Beartooth Mountains

The Beartooth Mountains are devastatingly beautiful and dramatic. If you’ve ever seen a picture of the Beartooth Mountains then you already understand their beauty and why many consider them to be one of the best places to visit in Montana. 

The Beartooth Pass, which is the road leading up and over the Beartooth Mountains, begins right in the nearby town of Red Lodge. From Red Lodge, you can follow main street out of the town and continue on until the road starts climbing upward. 

From here, the road winds back and forth up a steep mountain side all the way to the top. As you climb higher and higher, the view from the road becomes greater and greater. There are several pull-outs on the way up where you can park your car and gaze out across the landscape below. 

The sheer elevation of the pass can make major mountains down below seem small. Once you’ve reached the top, you’ll continue driving across flatlands and tundra with very unique vegetation. At this point, you are far above the treeline and the surrounding vegetation reminds you of this fact. 

Short vegetation that clings to the ground are likely a result of the high winds that come across this area. It’s absolutely beautiful. 

The Bear’s Tooth

A famous mountain that can be seen from certain points along the road is the Bear’s Tooth. This is a jagged peak that is so narrow and pointed that the top of it resembles a tooth of a wild animal. 

In the spring, when the road is finally cleared by snow plows and the pass opens up to the public, visitors come from all over to drive the pass and enjoy the views. Some people come to ski the glaciers up top. 

To explore the Beartooth Mountains more deeply, you can park your car at a trailhead and hike one of the many trails that lead across the tundra, through the forests, past lakes and deep into the mountain range. 

12. Best Places to Visit in Montana – Red Lodge

If you’re thinking about visiting the Beartooth Pass, then you’ll likely go through Red Lodge, unless you start the drive from the other side of the pass. Red Lodge is easily one of the best places to visit in Montana. It is an incredibly charming town with an atmosphere of an old western town with lots of dense forest in the surrounding nature.

From Billings, Red Lodge is a scenic one hour drive through small towns and open fields and hills. The highway to Red Lodge becomes Main Street once it reaches there. Upon driving up Main Street you’ll notice new and old restaurants, cafes, diners, antique shops, boutiques, toy stores, historic hotels and more. As I mentioned above, historic hotels are some of the best places to stay in Montana 

Red Lodge is a small town tucked away in the hills of Montana. The population is about 2,000 people, so it’s surely a place where you can experience the way people in Montana live. 

Skiing and Snowboarding – Top things to do in Montana

One of the best places to visit in Montana in the winter is one of the many ski resorts. Red Lodge Mountain is a ski area a few minutes’ drive from the town. 

Red Lodge is one of the best places to visit in Montana in summer. If you visit during the summer, there’s plenty to enjoy, including the drive there, the many restaurants and any of the hiking trails and creeks nearby. The Rock Creek runs through the town, making for some pleasant spots for a picnic. 

Red Lodge’s residents are a diverse group of people with different heritages. They are known for preserving their history and culture and celebrate it each year at the local Festival of Nations in Lion’s Park. If you’re in Red Lodge at the end of July, it may be of interest to you. It’s free. 

 See it on the map .

13. Best Places to Visit in Montana – Missoula

Missoula isn’t known as a tourist destination in Montana, but it’s definitely one of the best places to visit in Montana. It’s in an absolutely beautiful region of the state, with the Clark Fork River running straight through town. Missoula sits at the convergence of five mountain ranges: Bitterroot Mountains, Sapphire Range, Garnet Range, Rattlesnake Mountains and the Reservation Divide. 

But most locals and visitors, if they’ve heard of Missoula, know the town as one of the major cities of Montana, with a lot of university students and a lively, liberal environment. It’s large population of young university students tends to continuously attract more young people from around the state, especially those getting ready to attend university. 

Missoula really is a quaint, comfortable town in Montana, making it one of the top Montana vacation spots, if you’re interested in checking out one of the most interesting and pleasant towns in Montana. 

Access to Nature – Best places to visit in Montana

As with most cities in Montana, Missoula is surrounded by beautiful nature that is quickly and easily accessible. If you’re into outdoor activities like skiing, biking, rafting, paddleboarding, kayaking and more, Missoula is a great place for you. 

Endless hiking trails cut through the surrounding forests. You can see the remnants of an ancient lake and discover the signs of the former Indian tribe that used to occupy this area – the Salish American Indian Tribe.

From Missoula you can also visit one of the nearby ghost towns. Missoula almost has it all and is easily one of the best places to visit in Montana. 

14. Best Places to Visit in Montana – Whitefish

Whitefish is a great town in the northwestern part of the state. If you fly into Billings, it’s about a seven hour drive to Whitefish. But once you’re up in this part of the state, it’s easy to see why it’s considered one of the best places to visit in Montana.

Whitefish Lake – Best places to visit in Montana

Right in town is Whitefish Lake. Visitors to Whitefish in the summer can enjoy the convenience of having a pristine lake right on the edge of town. Not only is the water fresh, the landscape of mountains and forests surrounding the lake and town add to the atmosphere. It’s one of the many wonderful lakes of Montana in the summer.

Whitefish is also home to Whitefish ski resort. If you visit this town in the winter, it’s likely because you’re interested in Montana skiing and you’ve heard of Whitefish Mountain Resort. 

Just south of Whitefish is the town of Kalispell, an equally beautiful town that is almost synonymous with Whitefish. When Montanans refer to Whitefish, they often refer to Kalispell as well, since it’s considered the Whitefish/Kalispell region among Montana residents. 

Flathead Lake – Best places to visit in Montana

Drive 10 minutes south of Kalispell and you’ll reach one of the most beautiful lakes in Montana – Flathead Lake. Flathead is a popular lake among Montana residents and visitors from out of state. The lake is enormous and its waters are crystal clear. 

Glacier National Park – Best places to visit in Montana

And, of course, not far from Whitefish and Kalispell is Glacier National Park. There is a lot to see in the top Montana vacation spot. It’s clear to see why this area is considered one of the best places to visit in Montana.

15. Best Places to Visit in Montana – Butte

If you’re driving from Bozeman to Missoula, Butte is a highlight of the journey. It’s one of the best cities to visit in montana. I highly recommend stopping and staying for a day or two if you have the time. Butte is one of the best places to visit in Montana because of its history and its unique atmosphere. 

It’s best known for its history as a major mining town of Montana. Today, visitors to the mine walk out on a viewing platform and look down into the Berkeley Pit, a former open pit copper mine. 

At one point in time, Butte was the largest city in the Rocky Mountains. Even back then, it was one of the best places to visit in Montana. The World Museum of Mining preserves the history and culture of Butte. 

After visiting the museum, I suggest having a stroll through town and stopping in one of the many restaurants or cafes. There is a strong Irish population in Butte who are proud of their heritage, so you’ll likely see signs of Irish heritage in some places in the city. 

Irish Heritage – Top Montana vacation spots

Butte is a storied city that has changed greatly over the past 100 years. This is another reason why it’s one of the best places to visit in Montana. Its booming years were around 1917. Some people estimate that the city had around 100,000 inhabitants back then. It now has around 34,000 inhabitants. 

After exploring the history and culture of Butte, you may very well understand why so many people consider Butte as one of the best places to visit in Montana. 

16. Best Places to Visit in Montana – East Rosebud

(East Rosebud road)

East Rosebud is, yet again, another one of the pristine natural areas that people in Montana cherish. It’s one of the best places to visit in Montana if you want to explore the nature of the Southwestern part of the state. 

If you decide to drive through Columbus and up to Absarokee, as I described above in this article, you may want to consider visiting East Rosebud. From Absarokee, you’ll take highway 78 to Roscoe. And from Roscoe, there’s a road that leads directly to East Rosebud. 

When you reach East Rosebud, you’ll see an incredible, crystal clear lake with a small grouping of cabins, all surrounded by the walls of incredible mountains shooting to the sky on either side of the lake.

It’s an incredible sight. 

At the East Rosebud Lake there is also a trailhead for hiking. There is a campground there if you’d like to stay the night. The water is cold year round. The peacefulness and beauty of the East Rosebud lake is worth seeing at least once, especially if you’re already nearby. It’s easily one of the best places to visit in Montana.

17. Top Montana Vacation Spots – Helena

(Montana State Capitol)

Helena is the capital of Montana. It’s located right in between Yellowstone National Park and Glacier National Park. If you’re driving from Billings, Bozeman, Yellowstone National Park or anywhere in the southern part of the state to Glacier, you may want to stop in Helena at least for the afternoon. If you can stay for a day or two, that’s better.

Helena is one of the best places to visit in Montana also because of its history and its access to nature. All throughout the town are areas of historical significance including the State Capitol Building, the Mansion District and Carroll college. 

There are also 75 miles of nearby trails for hikers and bikers to access straight from town.

Helena is a very quaint, pleasant Montana town with a wide range of restaurants and comfortable small town feel. Many visitors love to stay at least a night in Helena to explore the capitol, learn about the history of the town, stroll the sidewalks of the different districts and neighborhoods and get out for a walk on one of the local trails. 

After a rest in Helena, you’ll be fully energized to continue on to Glacier or Yellowstone.

18. Best Places to Visit in Montana – Great Falls

Great Falls is a small, but spectacular town. It’s surroundings make it one of the best Montana destinations. Any direction you look in, you’ll see either the rolling Missouri River, snow-capped mountains, soaring buttes or rolling endless plains. 

The city is also in the center point between five waterfalls. Visitors of Great Falls immediately see why this is considered one of the best places to visit in Montana. 

Great Falls is one of the largest cities in Montana and has some interesting cultural events and sites for visitors. These include the C.M. Russell Museum, the Mansfield Center for Performing Arts, the Paris Gibson Square Museum and more.  

If you’re interested in learning about a unique part of Montana’s history, I can recommend the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail Interpretive Center. This is situated above the Missouri river on the bluff. 

The views from the center are spectacular. Visitors can gaze out across the terrain that Lewis and Clark crossed in 1805, strategically finding their way around the region’s waterfalls and rivers.

Other historic and natural points of interest include: 

• First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park
• University of Great Falls
• 40 miles of River’s Edge Trail
• The Electric City Water Park

The outdoors is a major aspect of this town’s beauty and is what makes it one of the best places to visit in Montana for an afternoon. It’s a short drive northeast of Helena.

19. Top Montana Vacation Spots – Chico Hot Springs

Chico Hot Springs is a resort and day spa about a 30 minutes’ drive south from Livingston. It is one of the best places to stay in Montana. 

If you happen to be in Livingston, you may want to consider driving up to Chico and spending the night. It’s one of the best places to visit in Montana because the man made pools are sourced by chemical-free, geothermally heated mineral water from the ground. 

There are several pools, varying in temperature. Find the one that’s right for you and sit back, relax and gaze over the absaroka mountains. The pools are open earlier and later for guests staying in the hotel. Admission to the pools is included in the lodging cost. 

Montana History – Top Montana vacation spots

The best places to visit in Montana always have a storied history. The first records of people using the springs in this region were of gold miners working in the nearby Emigrant Gulch. By the 1890s, the people in the region had constructed a little wooden building where the source of the springs was located. The springs then flowed into two wooden tubs, about 4 ft deep. 

Before the miners, the hot springs were used by the local Native American tribes for cooking, bathing and preparing hides.

Many Montanans see Chico Hot Springs as a top Montana vacation spot. This is one of the best places to visit in Montana for a reason. It’s a place to get away from the city, get in touch with the history of Montana and experience ultimate relaxation that penetrates deep into your soul.

20. Best Places to Visit in Montana – Big Timber

If you’re wondering where to visit in Montana besides majestic parks and major towns, I suggest exploring a small town.

If you drive from Billings to Bozeman, you’ll pass Big Timber on I-90. I recommend stopping in this small community for at least a day. It’s small population of 1,639 people make it one of the best vacation spots in Montana for relaxation and calm.

The territory between Billings and Bozeman, especially where Big Timber sits below the Crazy Mountains, is especially serene, which put it on the list of best places to visit in Montana. 

Here, you can hike, float the river, golf, souvenir shop or have a picnic and watch the sun set over the Crazies. 

To take a dive into the history of this special part of Montana, stop in the Crazy Mountain Museum. Inside you’ll see a miniature model of Big Timber as it stood back in 1907, called the “Cobblestone City”.

You’ll also find an example of a Norwegian Stabbur, a house made of stone. This is to display the Norwegian heritage of Big Timber. The cultural heritage of Big Timber is another reason we think it’s one of the best places to visit in Montana. You’ll also find a small, one-room school with images of Presidents and blackboards and chalk.

Yellowstone River – Top Montana vacation spot

The mighty Yellowstone River flows through Big Timber. This is one of the largest rivers in Montana and flows through many of the towns along I-90. I can recommend stopping in any town along I-90 between Billings and Bozeman for a small break or picnic. 

That whole drive is one spectacular scene unfolding after the next. They aren’t the most popular places to visit in Montana but they are truly Montanan. I can say they are some of the best places to visit in Montana. 

They offer a unique experience, especially if you decide to stay the night and spend some time strolling the sidewalks and along the waterways, enjoying the silence and atmosphere of small town Montana life.

20 Best Places to Visit in Montana – Final verdict

The best place to visit in Montana is the one that suits your preferences. Enjoy picking out your next Montana vacation spot !

Best 11 hot springs in and near Yellowstone National Park

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Marvelous Montana: The Best Places To Visit In The Treasure State

Posted: November 21, 2023 | Last updated: November 21, 2023

Top spots in the Treasure State

Big Sky Country. The Treasure State. The Last Best Place. Whichever of these nicknames you use for Montana, you won’t be wrong. America’s fourth largest state by area – which has just been named in Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2024 as one of the world’s top regions for travelers – is a real Western wonder. With endless beautiful and intriguing places to explore, from national parks and other natural attractions to small towns, slick cities, and historic landmarks, what are you waiting for?

Click through to discover the very best spots to see in Montana right now...

Swaddled by the spectacular landscapes of the Beartooth Mountains and Custer Gallatin National Forest, this charming enclave calls itself a town and has the quaint, community feel of one, but it’s actually a small city. A Native American trading post frequented by cowboys and outlaws back in the 19th century, Red Lodge has since retained its Western-style architecture and reputation for warm hospitality.

Head downtown to sample the fruits of its locally-owned independent stores and farm-to-table restaurants, or visit Yellowstone Wildlife Sanctuary to support animals from the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem who are unable to live in the wild. 

Yellowstone National Park

While Wyoming is the state most synonymous with Yellowstone, Montana has two gateways into America’s oldest national park. The little tourist town of West Yellowstone is just a short drive from the West Entrance and will steer you right into the heart of this geothermal marvel.

West Yellowstone is fun to visit in its own right, with the must-see Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center promising close encounters with Greater Yellowstone animals who can’t live in the wild. Yellowstone’s North Entrance – the original way into the park – can be found in Gardiner and leads into the so-called ‘American Serengeti’ year-round, via the iconic Roosevelt Arch.

Beartooth Highway

Beginning just south of Red Lodge, the Beartooth Highway is a 68-mile All-American Road snaking through Montana’s highest mountain peaks and into the state of Wyoming. After crossing the border via Montana's Cooke City, the road climbs to reach Beartooth Pass (elevation: 10,947 feet) and enters Shoshone National Forest before arriving at the northeast entrance of Yellowstone National Park.

The scenic route, with its hairpin bends and sharp switchbacks, is typically open between May and October. Allow at least three hours for the total drive (not including photo stops).

Gallatin River

Known to the Shoshone Tribe as Cut-tuh-o-gwa (swift water), the Gallatin River was renamed after the Lewis and Clark Expedition arrived in Montana during the early 1800s. Around a quarter of the river falls within the northern tip of Yellowstone National Park, attracting hikers, fly fisherfolk, and watersports nuts with its astonishing beauty, as well as local bears, deer, and moose.

Downstream, the river rushes through the Gallatin Canyon and the Gallatin Valley, where the scenery effortlessly shifts from pine forests to cottonwoods and hay fields.

Medicine Rocks State Park

Listed in the National Register of Historic Places, Medicine Rocks State Park is filled with unusual sandstone formations that look like lumps and shards of dusty honeycomb. Shaped by the elements over millions of years, these unique rocks were deemed sacred by some Native American groups (such as the Crow, Northern Cheyenne, and Sioux peoples), who convened in their shadows for ceremonial and religious gatherings.

Called “as fantastically beautiful a place as I have ever seen” by Theodore Roosevelt when he visited as a boy, Medicine Rocks is still a captivating haven for nature lovers.

Bannack State Park

Bannack, a former boomtown near the border with Idaho, was Montana’s first territorial capital and the site of its first major gold strike in 1862. Within a year, the settlement’s population had ballooned to over 3,000, which was then followed by a gradual decline as gold became less valuable.

Now labeled the best preserved of all the state’s ghost towns, Bannack is something of an open-air museum, showcasing more than 50 original Old West buildings seemingly frozen in time. There are 28 campsites (including a tipi to rent) open for year-round overnight stays in the park too.

Fort Peck Lake

Soaking a swathe of Montana’s Missouri River Country, Fort Peck Lake (really a reservoir) is the state’s largest body of water. Its 1,520 miles of shoreline outnumbers the length of the Californian coast and is home to the Charles M. Russell National Wildlife Refuge, populated by herds of mule deer, red foxes, mountain bluebirds, coyotes and so much more.

The lake was founded with a practical use in mind – to alleviate flooding, as well as post-Depression poverty by creating jobs – but has evolved into a hub of outdoor recreation.

Wrapped in blankets of trees on all sides, it’s no mystery how Missoula won its nickname. The ‘Garden City’ is uniquely situated within driving distance of five of Montana’s seven national forests; Lolo National Forest surrounds it entirely.

Within Lolo, visitors will find myriad walking and cycling trails sewn throughout the picturesque Rattlesnake and Blue Mountain National Recreation Areas – but there’s plenty to do indoors too. Missoula is a burgeoning university city; its downtown neighborhood and the so-called ‘Hip Strip’ are awash with music venues, cool art galleries, and coffee houses.

We can’t round up the most gorgeous places in Big Sky Country without mentioning Big Sky itself. Dramatic peaks crest all around this small town like rearing waves and wear whimsical names like Sphinx Mountain, Cinnamon Mountain, and Lone Mountain (pictured). Adrenaline-inducing winter sports and whitewater thrills are the main draws here, with the Big Sky Resort boasting some of the biggest skiing in the US.

While a sense of adventure is encouraged, it’s not mandatory to enjoy your time in Big Sky – just hit the Historic Crail Ranch Museum or the stores instead of the slopes.

Makoshika State Park

The name of Montana’s largest state park derives from the Lakota phrase meaning ‘bad earth’ or ‘bad spirit,’ relating to the harsh and inhospitable conditions of Montana’s eastern badlands. But life has been known to thrive in what is now Makoshika State Park; aside from the juniper and pine scrub that peppers its rocky landscape today, dinosaurs once roamed here.

At the park’s visitor center, you’ll find the fossilized remains of tyrannosaurus rex, triceratops, and even more prehistoric creatures. As well as archaeological wonders, Makoshika is laced with nature trails, scenic driving routes, and campsites. An open-air theater hosts an annual Shakespeare festival too.

Blackfoot Pathways: Sculpture in the Wild

This sculpture park in Lincoln features large-scale installations by Montana natives and international artists that celebrate Blackfoot Valley’s precious cultural, environmental, and industrial heritage. Carving through the western corner of the state, the Blackfoot Valley cradles a free-flowing river of the same name and has been inhabited by Native American peoples for at least 10,000 years.

One of the most striking pieces you can see at Blackfoot Pathways: Sculpture in the Wild is “Tree Circus” by Patrick Dougherty (pictured), created out of willow and alder wood.

Glacier National Park

Forming part of the Crown of the Continent – a Venn diagram of vast temperate ecosystems shared by Montana and the Canadian provinces of British Columbia and Alberta – Glacier National Park is a wilderness of alpine meadows, gleaming lakes, majestic valleys, and vanishing glaciers. It is vast, but we think hiking in the Many Glacier area is a particularly jaw-dropping introduction to exploring this national park.

Tripping the Going-to-the-Sun Road can’t be missed either; take an interpretive tour with Blackfeet-owned tribal business Sun Tours to fully understand the national park’s complex history.

First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park

Set within the High Plains, First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park is where Indigenous hunters used to kill herds of buffalo and bison by driving them over a sheer cliff. Believed to be the largest such jump in North America, this site was used for at least two thousand years and features a mile-long sandstone ledge where compacted bovid remains lie entombed beneath.

While this all might make you shudder, a single jump could feed, clothe and shelter the hunters’ people for a whole year, so they were necessary for survival.

Butte was once called the Richest Hill on Earth, owing to the abundant copper lodes that transformed it from a humble mining town on the slopes of the Continental Divide into Montana’s first major city. At the turn of the 20th century, Butte was the largest city west of the Mississippi and was also the biggest between San Francisco and Chicago for a considerable stretch of time.

Nowadays, while the copper boom has long since dwindled, the city remains a monument to its past – it contains one of the USA’s largest National Historic Landmark Districts and some fascinating museums that document its 1800s prime.

Bozeman is Montana’s other university city, which has been called “the most liveable place.” Combining ample opportunities for backcountry exploring and adventure sports with diverse festivals, farmers’ markets, theaters, cafes, and craft breweries, the growing town is keen to show off its experimental and eclectic vibe.

Spare some time for the Museum of the Rockies, an affiliate of the illustrious Smithsonian Institution and home to one of the country’s largest dinosaur collections, as well as exhibits on regional Native American culture and Western art. If that wasn’t enough, the planetarium and outdoor living-history sections will leave you equally entertained and educated.

Paradise Valley

If you’re visiting Bozeman, supplement your trip with a gorgeous 90-minute drive through the heart of Paradise Valley to the North Entrance of Yellowstone – the only way into the national park during the winter months. With the Absaroka mountain range to its eastern flank and the Gallatin range to the west, Paradise Valley offers some amazing outdoor experiences, including cross-country skiing, dude ranches, dog-sledding, ziplining, and river rafting.

Head to Chico Hot Springs, a spa resort that’s been in operation for over a century, to toast yourself up.

Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area

With one foot in Wyoming and the other in Montana, Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area boasts 17 miles of designated trails and spans over 120,000 acres in its entirety. The park has been touted as the state’s best-kept secret; pontoon boats can be rented and steered between the rugged canyon walls, while the visitor center at Fort Smith overlooks Yellowtail Dam and tells its origin story.

Named after Robert Yellowtail, leader of the Crow Nation, the dam siphoned the once-volatile Bighorn River into a serene lake that now forms the centerpiece of the park.

Kootenai Falls

The largest undammed falls in Montana (and one of the largest free-flowing falls in the American northwest), Kootenai Falls is certainly impressive. The rushing cascade sits on the sacred lands of the Kootenai Tribe, to whom the falls represent the center of the world.

Community members come here for spiritual guidance and direction from their ancestors. For visitors, this is a place to feel grounded and close to nature. Follow the forest trail from the parking lot down to the Swinging Bridge, which promises a great perspective of the falls if you’ve got a head for heights (and aren’t put off by the wobble).

Ross Creek Cedars

Ross Creek Cedars Scenic Area is a 100-acre grove of giant red cedar trees. Many tower above Kootenai National Forest as they have for the past thousand years, their striped trunks sentinels of the past.

Thriving in the shadows of the damp understory are mosses, mushrooms, hemlocks, and lichens, delighting nature lovers with their earthy perfume. For a gentle day hike through a closed canopy of ancient western cedars, follow the Ross Creek Trail 142; a shorter circular trail, lined with information boards and picnic benches, is ideal for families.

Swan Lake might be small in size compared to its neighbor Flathead Lake, but don't let that fool you – it belongs to a big-hearted community, softened and shaped by their connection to nature. The lake lends its name to a nearby town, established in the early 20th century to accommodate lumberjacks felling timber to build the Great Northern Railroad.

It has since grown around the lake, building a modest reputation for its sought-after fish stocks. Nestled among blue peaks and cozy forests, Swan Lake spawns a host of hiking trails and also holds its signature huckleberry festival annually, which has been going for over 40 years.

Whitefish Mountain Resort

Also borne out of the railway, Whitefish (adjacent to Glacier National Park) in northwest Montana was incorporated in 1905 and frequented by loggers, miners, and railroad workers in its early days. Now, there’s one main reason that people come in their droves to this compact city.

Whitefish Mountain Resort is renowned as one of the biggest and best ski spots in North America, featuring over 3,000 skiable acres. But contrary to what you might expect, it’s something of an all-seasons destination – when the powder melts, zipline tours, downhill mountain biking, and treetop walkways become the signs of summer.

Gates of the Mountains

Just north of Helena, Montana’s capital city, you’ll find the magical Gates of the Mountains. Split by the Missouri River, this bewildering limestone canyon has more than 28,000 acres of designated wilderness area named after it, where airy forests, high-altitude meadows, and slender gorges give a different flavor in every season.

It caught mainstream attention after Meriwether Lewis and William Clark passed through on their 8,000-mile journey across what was (in the early 19th century) an uncharted corner of the United States; those following the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail today will find this landmark a highlight of the route.

Humbug Spires

The wilderness study area of Humbug Spires relates to a swathe of peculiar rock formations that form part of the Boulder Batholith, where quartz monzonite shards have pushed up from beneath the surface of the Earth and calved jagged, shark-tooth-like peaks. Pristine and car-free, you’ll seldom see another soul on the trail here, which runs for three miles along Moose Creek and meanders through an old-growth forest.

A boon for rock climbers, the views of Big Sky Country from the spires are top tier.

Terry Badlands

The town of Terry in Montana’s Prairie County is your gateway to the Terry Badlands Wilderness Study Area and the stunning Big Sky Back Country Byway, which ends at Wolf Point on the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail. Its stark badlands are a striking departure from the snow-capped mountains and glacial lakes that most would associate with the Treasure State, comprising weathered escarpments of neatly banded sedimentary rock, fairy chimneys, and sandstone buttes.

The Terry Badlands are remote, but definitely worth the adventure – follow the Natural Bridges Trail for a punchy introduction to the park’s unique geology.

Located on the shores of Flathead Lake, in the midst of Montana’s Glacier Country, Bigfork has been called one of the best small art towns in America. This idyllic enclave may seem sleepy to those just passing through, but stay a while and you’ll discover a thriving community with creativity and curiosity at its core.

From outstanding art galleries to artisanal stores, coffee stops, and markets, Bigfork has a lot to offer within its tiny footprint. Annual celebrations like Bigfork Whitewater Festival and Bigfork Brewfest give the town even more excuses to demonstrate its gregarious spirit.

Flathead Lake

With water so clear in summer that you can see 20 feet into its depths, Flathead Lake is the largest natural freshwater lake west of the Mississippi River in the contiguous US and one of Montana’s best places for aquatic activities. Look out for the mysterious Flathead Lake Monster though, which has reportedly been sighted several times in the past 130 years. Note that the southern half of Flathead Lake rests on tribal land, so you’ll need to secure a recreation permit from the Confederated Salish and Kootenai peoples if you’re planning to spend time here.

Now discover the most mysterious place in every US state

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Your last-minute guide to Monday's total solar eclipse

A total solar eclipse will cross North America on Monday , offering millions a rare opportunity to see afternoon skies temporarily darken as the moon blocks the face of the sun.

Tune into NBC News NOW as Lester Holt hosts a two-hour special at 2 p.m. ET Monday from Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

The eclipse's path fortuitously cuts across Mexico, 15 U.S. states and a small part of eastern Canada. In all other states in the continental U.S., viewers will be treated to a partial solar eclipse, with the moon appearing to take a bite out of the sun and obscuring part of its light.

Here’s everything you need to know about the rare celestial event.

What is a solar eclipse?

Solar eclipses occur when the sun, moon and Earth align. The moon passes between Earth and sun, temporarily blocking the sun’s light and casting a shadow on Earth.

A total solar eclipse is when the moon fully obscures the sun, whereas a partial solar eclipse means it blocks just a portion of the sun’s face.

Solar eclipses occur only with the new moon. Because the moon’s orbit around Earth is tilted, the three bodies don’t always line up in a way that creates an eclipse.

“Imagine if the moon’s orbit were in the plane of Earth’s orbit around the sun — if that were the case, then every new moon, you’d have a total solar eclipse and every full moon, you’d have a lunar eclipse,” Neil DeGrasse Tyson, director of the Hayden Planetarium at the American Museum of Natural History, told NBC News. “So, because things don’t always align, it lends to the rarity of the event and the specialness of the event.”

Where and when will the eclipse be visible?

This year’s eclipse will follow a slightly wider path over more populated areas of the continental U.S. than other total solar eclipses have in the recent past.

NASA estimates that 31.6 million people live within what’s known as the path of totality, where the total solar eclipse will be visible. An additional 150 million people live within 200 miles of the path, according to the agency.

The path travels through Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine. Tiny parts of Michigan and Tennessee will also be able to witness totality if conditions are clear.

After the eclipse crosses into Canada, it will pass over southern Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island and Cape Breton, at the eastern end of Nova Scotia.

Those outside the path of totality can still take part in the astronomical event by viewing a partial solar eclipse — visible throughout all 48 states of the contiguous U.S. — or a NASA livestream.

The timing, including how long totality lasts, depends on the location, but some spots will see the moon fully cover the sun for up to 4 minutes and 28 seconds.

Below is a list of timings for some cities along the path of totality, as  provided by NASA . A number of other resources, including NationalEclipse.com  and  TimeandDate.com , can also help people plan.

• Dallas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:23 p.m. CT and totality at 1:40 p.m.
• Little Rock, Arkansas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:33 p.m. CT and totality at 1:51 p.m.
• Cleveland: Partial eclipse begins at 1:59 p.m. ET and totality at 3:13 p.m.
• Buffalo, New York: Partial eclipse begins at 2:04 p.m. ET and totality at 3:18 p.m.
• Lancaster, New Hampshire: Partial eclipse begins at 2:16 p.m. ET and totality at 3:27 p.m.

How to safely view a solar eclipse

It is never safe to gaze directly at the sun, even when it is partly or mostly covered by the moon. Special eclipse glasses or  pinhole projectors  are required to safely view solar eclipses and prevent eye damage. Failing to take the proper precautions can result in severe eye injury,  according to NASA .

Eclipse glasses are thousands of times darker than normal sunglasses and specially made to enable wearers to look at the sun during these kinds of celestial events.

Sky-watchers should also never view any part of the sun through binoculars, telescopes or camera lenses unless they have specific solar filters attached. Eclipse glasses should not be used with these devices, as they will not provide adequate protection.

However, during the few minutes of totality, when the moon is fully blocking the sun, it is safe to look with the naked eye.

Beware of fake eclipse glasses. On legitimate pairs, the lenses should have a silver appearance on the front and be black on the inside. The manufacturer’s name and address should be clearly labeled, and they should not be torn or punctured. Check, as well, for the ISO logo and the code “IS 12312-2” printed on the inside.

If you don’t have eclipse glasses, you can make a homemade pinhole projector, which lets sunlight in through a small hole, focuses it and projects it onto a piece of paper, wall or other surface to create an image of the sun that is safe to look at. 

All you need is two pieces of white cardboard or plain white paper, aluminum foil and a pin or thumbtack. Cut a 1- to 2-inch square or rectangle out of the center of a piece of white paper or cardboard. Tape aluminum foil over that cut-out shape, then use a pin or thumbtack to poke a tiny hole in the foil.

During the eclipse, place a second piece of white paper or cardboard on the ground as a screen and hold the projector with the foil facing up and your back to the sun. Adjusting how far you hold the projector from the second piece of paper will alter the size of the image on the makeshift screen.

What to look for while viewing the total solar eclipse

For people along the path of totality, there are some fun milestones to keep track of as the total solar eclipse unfolds.

As the eclipse progresses and the sun gets thinner in the sky, it will start to get eerily dark, according to Tyson.

When the last beams of sunlight are about to become obscured, look out for the “diamond ring effect”: The sun’s atmosphere will appear as an illuminated halo, and the last light still visible will look like the diamond of a giant ring.

As the sunlight decreases even further, an effect known as Baily’s beads will be created by the moon’s rugged terrain. Tiny “beads” of light will be visible for only a few seconds around the dark moon, as the last bits of sunlight peer through the moon’s mountains and valleys.

When the moon is fully blocking the sun, it is safe to remove eclipse glasses and look at the total solar eclipse with the naked eye.

Some lucky sky-watchers may even catch a glimpse of a comet .

Comet 12P/Pons-Brooks — nicknamed the “ devil comet ” because an eruption last year left it with two distinct trails of gas and ice in the shape of devil horns — is currently visible from the Northern Hemisphere as it swings through the inner solar system.

The comet can be seen in the early evenings by gazing toward the west-northwest horizon. During the eclipse, when skies darken during totality, it may be possible to see the comet near Jupiter, but its visibility will depend on whether it’s in the middle of an outburst and thus brighter than normal.

Most likely, all eyes will be on the alignment of the moon and sun.

“Most people won’t even notice,” Tyson said. “But if you know to look, it’s there.”

When is the next solar eclipse?

The next total solar eclipse will be in 2026, but it will mostly pass over the Arctic Ocean, with some visibility in Greenland, Iceland, Portugal and northern Spain. In 2027, a total solar eclipse will be visible in Spain and a swath of northern Africa.

The next total solar eclipse visible from North America will be in 2033, but only over Alaska. Then in 2044, a total solar eclipse will cross Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, parts of Canada and Greenland.

The next total solar eclipse to cross the continental U.S. coast-to-coast in will occur in 2045. The path of totality for that eclipse will cut through California, Nevada, Utah, Colorado, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Kansas, Texas, Arkansas, Missouri, Mississippi, Louisiana, Alabama, Georgia and Florida.

Denise Chow is a reporter for NBC News Science focused on general science and climate change.

Lucas Thompson is a content producer for the NBC News Climate Unit.