Bozeman and Big Sky have some of the best downhill and Nordic skiing and snowboarding in the west, but we get it; only some people love to ski! However, that doesn’t mean you should forego a winter trip to Montana; there are plenty of other things to do! We’ve compiled five of our favorite activities. For more information, stop at the local Visitors Centers where you can get up-to-date events, conditions, and suggestions for other local favorites!

Dog Sledding

If this hasn’t been on your bucket list, we highly suggest adding it – particularly if you’re a dog lover! Most tours are half day, which includes time spent with the dogs. Some companies have you to help prepare the team, and some even allow you to mush! You’ll get deep into the forest to explore areas you wouldn’t get to on foot. The dogs are powerful, bred to run, and love their jobs, you’ll love watching how excited they get!

Yellowstone Dog Sled Adventures

Spirit of the North Dog Sled Adventures

Winter Tours In Yellowstone

The North entrance of Yellowstone near Gardiner, Montana, is the only road open to vehicles during the winter. If you enjoy driving, this is a great area to explore during winter, especially for wildlife watching and Mammoth Hot Springs Terraces. If you enter from the West side, there are several tour options, including snowmobile and snowcoach tours right from town! Skiing, snowshoeing, and photography tours are also available. The National Park Service has a list of approved tour guides, so be sure you are booking with an approved vendor!

Showshoeing

For those who love to hike, there’s no reason winter should hold you back! Snowshoes have come a long way over the years, and today’s models are lightweight and compact, making trekking through the snow a cinch. Explore the trails in Big Sky or Bozeman, or, for a more curated experience, Lone Mountain Ranch and Crosscut Mountain Sports Center have miles of groomed trails. Also, watch for the Moonlight Snowshoes with the USFS at Rendezvous Ski Trails in West Yellowstone—these beautiful nights include a bonfire with s’mores and hot cocoa!

Photo Used Courtesy of Max McDonough

Shopping and Dining

Montana is no longer known as a purely western town (although the Western goods and clothing selection is still spectacular.) Today, you’ll find many stores and styles, from locally owned boutiques and art galleries to national brands such as The North Face, Lulu Lemon, and Athleta. In addition, you’ll want to make time to explore the culinary scene. Chefs from around the nation move to Bozeman and Big Sky for the lifestyle, bringing their talents to our neck of the woods. You won’t go hungry around here!

Ice Skating

Ice skating always stays in style. It’s as popular with families today as before the internet existed! In Big Sky, the Marty Pavelich Ice Rink has open skating – and adult and youth hockey leagues, curling, and learn-to-skate programs! In Bozeman, Gallatin Ice has two indoor rinks with open skating. If you’re a hockey fan, watch the schedule for the Bozeman Ice Dogs games! The City of Bozeman also maintains three ice rinks accessible to the public. Public rinks are located at South Side Park (including a drop-in hockey rink), Beall Park, and Bogert Park.

For more trip planning ideas, check out Visit Bozeman and Visit Big Sky.