Western Montana’s winter landscapes offer more than 22,000 square miles of terrain for exploration. With so much ground to cover, make exploring easier by utilizing one of the region’s local guides. They’re ready to lead the way, from dog sledding to snowmobiling and everything in between. These experienced, knowledgeable guides will plan a seamless and memorable adventure.

Adventure awaits in Western Montana’s winter wonderland. Photo: Noah Couser

DOG SLEDDING

Dog sledding in Glacier Country offers a unique winter experience. Traverse our winter wonderland behind a team of well-trained, enthusiastic dogs. Whether you’re taking the reins with Base Camp Bigfork in the Flathead Valley or settling in for a scenic ride with Dog Sled Adventures Montana just north of Whitefish, each moment promises to be memorable. These hands-on excursions are suitable for any experience level, with options for guided half-day or full-day adventures.

Mushing in Western Montana will be the highlight of your winter trip. Photo: Jason Savage

SNOWSHOEING

Snowshoeing is easy and straightforward, making it an ideal activity for beginners and families. You can find snowshoeing trails, rentals and guides throughout the region. Snowshoeing is also one of the quietest and most serene ways to experience Glacier National Park. The iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road is a popular route, with multiple tour options from Glacier Tourbase and Whitefish Outfitters.

See Glacier Country on snowshoes for a memorable outdoor experience. Photo: Noah Couser

SLEIGH RIDES

Enjoy the allure of a horse-drawn sleigh ride, complete with blankets and hot chocolate. Glide through wintry landscapes by day and under starry skies by night. Book a sleigh ride with Bar W Guest Ranch in Whitefish, Double Arrow Lodge in Seeley Lake or Cripple Creek Horse Ranch in Trego. For a romantic getaway, Live Oak Belgians in St. Ignatius offers a Valentine’s Day package complete with wine, chocolates, flowers and a mini photoshoot.

Sleigh rides can be booked for large groups or in a more intimate, smaller carriage. Photo: Noah Couser

ICE CLIMBING

Ice climbing in Western Montana offers a thrilling challenge with dramatic frozen waterfalls and icy rock formations. Be ready to climb icefalls while taking in the winter scenery. Whitefish Vertical Adventures can assist your ascent up frozen waterfalls on a half-day or full-day guided tour, open to novices and experts alike.

Your ice-climbing adventure will be a story you’ll never stop telling.

NORDIC SKIING

Slow things down with a Nordic skiing adventure through Glacier Country’s extensive trails, featuring both groomed and classic tracks suitable for all skill levels. Notable destinations like Glacier National Park and Garnet Ghost Town become serene winter destinations, accessible only by snowshoe or Nordic ski. Whether you’re new to the sport or an experienced skier, Glacier Adventure Guides can provide the necessary equipment and guidance for an unforgettable cross-country experience.

Nordic ski to some of Glacier Country’s most remarkable places.

SNOWMOBILING + SNOWBIKES

Western Montana is a mecca for snowmobilers. Explore miles of steep climbs, flat trails and vast backcountry areas, accessible via logging and forest service roads closed to other vehicles during winter. Find guides throughout our region including Action Rentals in Olney, Whitefish Marine in Whitefish, Swan Mountain Snowmobiling in the Flathead Valley and Swan Valley, and Northwest Montana Adventures in Olney and Whitefish. Alternatively, try your hand at snowbiking by joining a guided tour with Snowbike Nation, available for single-day and multiday adventures. Visit Glaciers to Geysers for a free snowmobiling guide and itinerary options for the best riding in Western Montana, Southwest Montana and Yellowstone Country.

It’s no secret that Western Montana is a sledder’s paradise. Photo: Noah Couser

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.

January 27, 2025

Related: Bigfork, Dog Sledding, Fat Biking, Glacier National Park, Greenough, Guided Tours, Ice Climbing, Montana, Nordic Skiing, Outfitters, Ovando, Seeley Lake, Seeley-Swan Corridor, Snowmobiling, Snowshoeing, Whitefish, Winter Fun

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