These 9 Hikes Prove Montana Is Absolutely Magical In The Winter
By Jessica Wick|Updated on November 18, 2022(Originally published November 13, 2022)
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Jessica Wick
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Jessica Wick is a writer and travel enthusiast who loves exploring new places, meeting new people and, of course, beautiful Big Sky Country and every part of Washington State.
It may be the dead of winter, but that doesn’t mean Montana looks (or feels) any less alive. In fact, our winter landscapes are breathtaking – and although the temperatures are low, we should all bundle up and get out and enjoy them. Although you may need snowshoes for a few of these trails, they all showcase the sheer beauty of our state during this season. Here are nine amazing winter hiking trails in Montana that prove winter hiking in MT is, indeed, the best:
The Beehive Basin trail is located near Big Sky Mountain Village, and it's a seven-mile stretch of pure winter wonderland. It's a little challenging, but the scenery makes it worth it. This is one of the best hikes in MT all year, but in the winter, it's especially perfect.
2. Lava Lake Trail
Lava Lake Trailhead, 501-901 Cascade Creek Rd, Gallatin Gateway, MT 59730, USA
This incredibly gorgeous Gallatin Gateway trail is open all year, and for that, we are grateful. The 5.5-mile stretch looks absolutely magical dusted with snow, especially the lake itself. This is one of our favorite things to do in MT in the winter.
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3. Four Dances Recreation Area
Four Dances Recreation Area, 03092721101010000, Billings, MT 59101, USA
Four Dances Recreation Area is where you go to see the best views of the Billings area, and this 2.6-mile hiking trail is the perfect way to see them. The views are to die for.
Located in Gallatin County near Bozeman, this trail takes you on a 12-mile tour through some of Montana's most breathtaking scenery. This area does get a lot of snowfall, so come prepared. Winter hiking in MT has never been so filled with magic.
The Lolo Peak Trail is located in the Bitterroot National Forest, just outside of Lolo. This nine-mile-long trail is not for beginners, but experienced cross-country skiers will absolutely love it.
Big Creek Trail (which you'll find near the town of Victor in the Bitterroot) is best known for its gorgeous fall colors. But this 6.6-mile stretch is also beautiful this time of year, and it's nice and easy to navigate.
7. Blacktail Mountain Trail
Blacktail Mountain Road, Blacktail Mountain Rd, Montana, USA
Snowshoers, rejoice: This six-mile loop near Lakeside will become your new favorite trail. Much of it is uphill, so you'll get a great workout. This amazing hiking trail in MT makes for an excellent day trip.
This is an absolutely gorgeous Montana hiking trail for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, but it's also incredibly challenging, so you should skip it if you're a beginner. But if you're a pro, you'll love this 15-mile path near Whitefish.
You'll find snow in this part of Glacier National Park for about half the year, and you may not be able to access the trail during the most treacherous parts of winter. But if you can, you'll find breathtaking views for the entire five-mile journey. Hidden Lake Trail is the adventure of a lifetime.
We might have some mixed feelings about winter in Montana, but in the end, we appreciate all four seasons in the Treasure State. What are your favorite things to do in Montana during the winter? Do you have any favorite winter hikes in MT to share? Let us know!
For even more ideas about fun things to do in Montana in the winter, be sure to check out some more of our all-time favorite winter hikes in MT. If you’re feeling less up for a hike and more up for a winter wonderland, then you’ll love a visit to any (or all) of the best holiday towns in Montana.
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