Idaho

Nowhere near the beaten path

When some people call Montana “God’s Country” or “Heaven”, they must be thinking of winter. After all, our landscape beneath its vast blue sky, adds a magical touch to any season. Montana is filled with snowmobile trails that will get your heart pumping. But is that pumping caused by the challenging ride, the ear-to-ear grin you’re experiencing or the scenic beauty surrounding you? Fields of untouched powder provide an uncontrollable itch in the right hand for the expert. Groomed trails beckon the novice to become familiar with both the sled and forests. As the sun sets, treat yourself to great burgers or t-bones, a hot tub or hot springs pool and hospitality that will make you feel as if you’re family.

Montana is home to what many consider the premier snowmobiling destination in America: West Yellowstone, gateway to Yellowstone National Park. But beyond West, discover trails bordering scenic byways, trails to and in ghost towns and mountain meadows for adventure for both novice and sledhead alike. Big Sky Country offers over 3,700 miles (5,900 km) of groomed trails, ranging from backcountry mountain excursions to wide-open bowls. Here’s a sampling to assist you to explore the rush of winter from a sled.

West Yellowstone Snowmobiling – “THE” place to sled – whether it’s viewing Yellowstone’s wonders and wildlife or taking in Two Top or beyond; sledding time here is unforgettable. As your “hub” for both play and stay, West offers access to national forests in two states and one national park.

Seeley Lake – Swan Valley Snowmobiling – Tucked between two ranges – the Missions and the Swan – deep powder, picturesque views and cozy cabins encourage you to get off the beaten path and explore Montana’s northwest corner.

Kings Hill & Little Belts Snowmobiling – Crisp air, abundant powder and 250+ miles (400 km) of trails combined with small town comforts offer both thrill seekers and gentle riders a chance to rev the engine.

Cooke City & Silver Gate Snowmobiling – Winter comes early and leaves late, offering outstanding sledding from November to April. These two communities form the northeast entrance of Yellowstone National Park and boast “80 people, dogs, moose and occasional bison.”

Flathead Valley – For a peak experience, tour the valley on a snowmobile. You can ride up high among the “snow ghosts” or travel some 200 miles of groomed snowmobile trails. Want to roam farther? Another 2,000 miles of National Forest roads are open to motorized “sledding” to alpine ridges, deep powder bowls and alpine forests.

Yellowstone National Park – Montana, with three of the five access points into the park, is the perfect gateway to this national treasure. Native wildlife, geysers and snowcapped trees can all be seen by signing yourself up for a guided tour. Planning on brining your own sled? Just remember you’ll need an approved guide and your sled must meet the parks Best Available Technology (BAT) requirements.

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