This Scenic Montana State Park Trail Is Even Better in the Winter

With 55 state parks in Montana, there are many extraordinary places to explore regardless of the season. While many of these parks can be quite busy during the summer months, winter visits should never be overlooked. In fact, Lone Pine State Park in Kalispell is one beautiful winter day trip destination, especially if you are in the mood for a snowy hike.

Located approximately five miles from Kalispell, Lone Pine State Park is nestled in one of the most beautiful corners of the state. In the summer months, this is a popular destination for mountain biking, horseback riding, taking in the wildflowers, and admiring Flathead Valley views. In the winter, it’s a great place to strap on some snowshoes or take a winter hike.

In my opinion, the Lone Pine Trail in this state park is the perfect winter challenge. This Montana hike is just shy of three miles and has an elevation gain of approximately 700 feet. There are some difficult areas along the trail, but for the most part, this is the type of hike where you can more easily enjoy yourself and your surroundings, rather than focus on your heavy breathing and tired feet.

The first part of this out-and-back trail is where you’ll experience the most incline, but just remember that what goes up must come down. This trail is easy to follow as it is quite wide. Even in the winter months, the trail is well trafficked, so you can easily follow footprints, or there are markers hung in the trees to help guide you along your way.

Along this route, you'll walk through a beautiful forest of towering pine trees. This area is not only beautiful as branches are heavy with snow, but it’s typically quiet and serene—you can easily enjoy a day of nature therapy. However, there’s nothing quite like the view from the top of the trail, where you can enjoy some breathtaking views of the Flathead Valley. Under a blanket of snow, this area is even more majestic.

If you are willing to get up early for a winter hike, you can also capture the sunrise as it brightens up the snowy city landscape. There’s something about this view that makes you want to slow down, count your blessings, and just be still, even if it’s just for a few moments.

The Lone Pine Trail in Montana’s Lone Pine State Park isn’t a hard trail, and it’s not too long a journey, but there’s something magical about this path in the winter months. Maybe it’s the quiet, the snowy forest scenes, or the wintry city below, but it’s a beautiful way to get outdoors and into the fresh air. It’s a type of magic you won’t find just anywhere.

For even more winter hikes in Montana, check out our list featuring some of our favorites. And before you hit the trails, make sure you are prepared for the cold—proper gear is an absolute must when outdoors during a Montana winter.

Feeling inspired? Try planning your own winter trip to the Flathead Valley using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.