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Montana has a way of feeling larger than life—from its sweeping valleys and rugged mountain peaks to its stunning landscapes and extraordinary adventures. But the real magic shows up in the small towns, at its local ski hills, and with off-the-radar winter experiences. Let us show you a side of Montana that you haven’t met yet. Here are five ways to experience a winter in Montana.
Enjoy the Drive
While it may seem like a winter trip doesn’t truly begin until you arrive to the mountains, in Montana it begins as soon as you get in the car. No place is it as much about the journey as the destination than in Montana. Experience one of the state’s most beautiful routes by taking a drive down Highway 93 through the Bitterroot Valley on the way to Lost Trail Ski Area. You’ll travel through stunning landscapes and past dramatic peaks and unique destinations like the 2,800-acre Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge. Be sure to check out the charming small towns along the way—they’re perfect pit stops to have a meal, grab a coffee, or refuel.
Ski Local Mountains
Across Montana are welcoming local ski areas that are full of heart and stoke, but without the lift lines and crowds of huge ski resorts. When skiing at these hometown hills, you can expect wide-open runs, unique terrain, and cozy lodges that capture Montana’s spirit and hospitality. At Great Divide Ski Area, you’ll find 1,500 skiable acres, with glades, bowls, and terrain parks to suit all skill levels and abilities. Just a couple hours south is Discovery Ski Area, a mom-and-pop mountain outside of Anaconda. It boasts great tree skiing, powder bowls, immaculate groomers, moguls, and everything in between. Don’t miss their famous shortbread chocolate chip cookies in between powder runs.
Two hours south of Discovery Ski Area is Maverick, which is one of Montana skiers’ best-kept secrets, tucked away in the mountains of Southwest Montana. Maverick is a humble ski area, with two lifts and 24 runs, but has a relatively even mix of terrain for skiers and riders of all abilities.
Experience Unique Adventures Off The Slopes
Snow blankets much of the state during the winter, making for unique adventures that you can’t have during the rest of the year. Looking for a different way to kick up some powder? Rent cross-country skis, snowshoes or a fat bike and explore any number of beautiful, snow-covered trails in Montana. Ready for even more excitement? Speed over the snow by snowmobile or dog sled, or enjoy a leisurely horse-drawn sleigh ride. For history lovers, check out the Montana Dinosaur Trail, a historic Montana ghost town or a great local museum.
Soak in Hot Springs
After an exciting day of adventures, there’s no place better, or more quintessentially Montana way, to warm up than at a nearby hot spring. Grab a beanie and a bathing suit and step into the steamy, mineral-rich waters. If you’re lucky, you may even get to enjoy fresh snowfall while you’re soaking. After a day of ripping through powder at Showdown Montana in the Little Belt Mountains, for example, pack up and head to nearby Spa Hot Springs in White Sulphur Springs to ease your tired muscles. You’ll find on-site accommodations at several of Montana’s hot springs, so you can go from soaking to sleeping in no time—it’s the perfect end to a day of playing in the snow.
Wind Down in Small Towns
As a day of winter adventures comes to a close, it’s time to unwind in any one of Montana’s incredible small towns. Enjoy a cold beer at a local brewery in Libby after sending it down Turner Mountain, savor a hearty steak dinner in Choteau to recover from your day at Teton Pass, or take in a live show in Philipsburg at Montana’s oldest functioning opera house after a day of ripping through powder at Discovery.
This winter, head to Montana and discover unforgettable ways to experience the season. Plan your winter getaway to Montana at visitmt.com.
November 25, 2025
