These 7 Beautiful Trails Are Perfect for a Winter Hike in Montana

When winter arrives in full force in Montana, you don't have to hibernate. While you won't be able to access some of Montana's trails, plenty of our beautiful hiking spots are still accessible for both winter treks and snowshoeing. The following are some of our picks for the best winter hikes in Montana:

1. Swan River Trail, Bigfork

The Swan River Trail is a nice, easy 2.5-mile trek located just outside of Bigfork. The river is the main attraction, but you'll find all kinds of stunning scenery throughout — and it's great for snowshoeing, too.

2. Hidden Lake Trail, Glacier National Park

Tucked away in Glacier National Park is the beautiful Hidden Lake Trail, one of the most popular trails in the park. This out-and-back hike is just over five miles and does have challenging areas you must tackle. However, the views are worth every single step.  Keep in mind that this trail may be closed in the winter due to inclement weather. You’ll want to visit the National Park Service for current trail status reports.

3. Beehive Basin, Big Sky

The Beehive Basin Trail is located near Big Sky Mountain Village, and it's open all year for outdoor fun. The trail is about seven miles long in its entirety, and it looks gorgeous when it's dusted with snow. This is one of the best places for winter hiking in Montana.

4. Bozeman Creek Trail, Bozeman

Bozeman Creek Trail is pretty massive — it's about 16 miles out and back. The hike parallels the beautiful Bozeman Creek and is ranked as moderate. The Bozeman Creek Trail may be one of the best winter hikes in Montana.

5. Bear Creek Trail, Victor

Located in the Bitterroot National Forest, this 5.5-mile trail is one of the best hiking and snowshoeing spots in the state. The Bear Creek Trail features a beautiful waterfall and isn't too tough to reach, even in the snow.

6. Lava Lake Trail, Gallatin Gateway

The 5.5-mile Lava Lake trail is stunning in any season, but it's truly magical in the wintertime. The lake itself looks beautiful surrounded by snow. The Lava Lake Trail is one winter hike in Montana that deserves a spot on your bucket list.

7. Sypes Canyon, Bozeman

The Sypes Canyon Trail is very close to Bozeman, so it's a great pick if you live there and don't want to make a long drive. The 6-mile hike is ranked as moderate, but it's a bit steep and hilly for snowshoeing.

Don't let the snow scare you from spending time in the great outdoors — Montana is beautiful in every season. What are some of your favorite winter hiking trails in Montana? Have you tackled any of the above trails? Before you tackle any of the above trails, make sure you have the proper gear and the right cold-weather accessories.