Winter in Western Montana brings deep snow, quiet forests and an open invitation to explore the region’s remarkable backcountry. For those seeking untouched alpine terrain, the mountains here offer opportunities for experienced skiers. To help you
1. CONSIDER A GUIDED CAT-SKIING EXPERIENCE
For high-elevation adventure paired with expert guidance, Great Northern Powder Guides near Whitefish provides access to more than 10,000 vertical feet of backcountry terrain. Their trips are tailored to advanced and expert skiers looking for steep, challenging lines. GNPG also offers avalanche safety instruction and the option to stay overnight in a backcountry yurt, creating a unique winter experience in the mountains.
2. EXPLORE WITH EXPERIENCED BACKCOUNTRY GUIDES
For a true backcountry immersion, Downing Mountain Lodge in the Bitterroot Mountains offers direct access to some of Western Montana’s finest ski terrain. Guests can step out the door and into deep powder, supported by the experience of Bitterroot Backcountry Guide Service. Their guides bring decades of snow science, avalanche awareness and terrain expertise to every outing, helping skiers of various abilities explore safely and confidently. With cozy lodge accommodations, wood-fired saunas and ski-in/ski-out access, it’s a prime basecamp for long days in untouched snow.
3. SKIING IN GLACIER NATIONAL PARK
Glacier National Park offers exceptional winter access for backcountry skiers. While lodging and road access are limited this time of year, winter transforms the park into a quiet, snowy escape. Before heading out, check National Park Service resources for updates on trail conditions, area closures and safety recommendations. Avalanche forecasts and road status updates—including the Going-to-the-Sun Road conditions—are essential tools for planning. Backcountry permits, as well as skiing and snowshoeing information, are available at the Apgar Visitor Center.
4. RENT THE GEAR YOU NEED
Not everyone has all the right gear to face the exhilarating elements and snow-covered landscape of Western Montana, but someone here always has what you need. Try out one of these local rental shops:
- Stumptown Snowboards – Whitefish
- Sportsman & Ski Haus – Kalispell and Whitefish
- Trail Head – Missoula
- LB Snow – Missoula
- Black Tie Ski Rentals – Whitefish
5. BE AVALANCHE AWARE
The wild and rugged nature of Montana’s high country should never be an afterthought, especially when it’s covered in snow. Avalanche safety should always be top of mind when you’re headed back into the deep stuff. Proper gear and know-how are everything.
Always check the local avalanche forecast before you recreate in the backcountry. The U.S. and Canada use a five-category avalanche danger estimation system. This North American Avalanche Danger Scale allows avalanche forecasters to communicate avalanche threat—low, moderate, considerable, high, extreme. Visit avalanche.org for conditions and warnings. For local Western Montana avalanche conditions, advisories and information, visit Missoula Avalanche and the Flathead Avalanche Center.
Get educated with a course in avalanche safety. Learn the basics of avalanche safety gear, snow testing, avalanche awareness and avalanche rescue.
Carry avalanche gear. Learn what gear you need for the backcountry, get the right gear, and know how to use it. This is critical. Find the beacon, shovel, probe and airbag pack that are right for you.
Read more about avalanche awareness here and here.
Please note: We ask that all our visitors and residents recreate responsibly by being mindful of the following: know before you go; plan ahead; play it safe; leave no trace; tread lightly; and help build an inclusive outdoors.
Updated: December 12, 2025
January 23, 2017
Related: Backcountry Skiing, Bitterroot Valley, Glacier National Park, Hamilton, Kalispell, Missoula, Montana, Olney, Outdoor Fun, Recreate Responsibly, Whitefish, Winter Fun
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