Snowmobiling in Montana: Guide & Trails

Montana is fondly called the Treasure State, and it isn’t just because of its long mining history. Apart from its rich mineral resources, the state boasts breathtaking sceneries and thrilling outdoor recreational opportunities.

Today’s guide will focus on Montana snowmobiling — considered among the western region’s best and most unforgettable leisure activities.

West Yellowstone, Big Sky, and Swan Range are a few of the snowmobiling spots in Montana. Over 4,000 miles of groomed trails offering diverse terrain, amenities, and rentals cross the Beaverhead-Deerlodge, Lolo, and Gallatin National Forests, with more ungroomed backcountry trails unaccounted for.

This article will delve into everything there is to know about snowmobiling in the state. But for starters, here is a list of the best trails for snowmobiling in Montana:

1. West Yellowstone
2. Seeley Lake
3. Marias Pass
4. Flathead Valley
5. Skalkaho Pass
6. Garnet Ghost Town in Greenough
7. Cooke City
8. Lincoln in Western Lewis and Clark County
9. Red Lodge, Carbon County
10. Red Lion, Georgetown Lake
11. Swan Lake
12. Bighorn Canyon
13. Kootenai County Region
14. Lolo Pass
15. Mission Mountains

Explore scenic mountain passes and deep forests, bounce off snow trenches, or weave through the wilderness in these top destinations. With a wide range of Montana snowmobile rentals, tour packages, and trails, you can create long-lasting memories in this winter wonderland — whether you are a hobbyist or an enthusiast.

Best Trails for Snowmobiling in Montana

1. West Yellowstone

Located at the entrance to the National Park, this region offers an estimated 400 miles of beautiful wilderness, untouched terrain, and groomed snowmobile trails. One can see stunning national park views while riding through the Gallatin National Forest or conquer winding trails while squeezing through the Madison Arm Loop.

Venturing within the park boundaries necessitates a permit. Conversely, there are no special requirements for exploring forests and trails outside the park — except maybe for a guided service.

Either way, you will have large stretches of pillowy snow to enjoy. Bring essentials and an emergency kit when riding, as the towns are few and far between.

2. Seeley Lake

This mesmerizing lake in Montana gives snowmobilers access to roughly 400 miles of interconnected trails that weave through the Swan and Mission Mountain Ranges.

Portions of the groomed trails are suitable for beginner riders. Meanwhile, winter sport enthusiasts can enjoy the vast expanse of snow-covered peaks, open meadows, and dense forests while traversing less-frequented backcountry trails.

3. Marias Pass

Despite its unassuming name, Marias Pass is one of the snowmobiling trails in MT, most sought-after by advanced riders and enthusiasts. Sitting along the Continental Divide, it offers over 80 miles of secluded, steep trails — 35 miles of ungroomed and 45 miles groomed — running the length of the famous Cut Bank.

This snowmobiling spot provides plenty of lodging. Nonetheless, it is not for nouveau riders (nor the faint of heart). Even for the experienced, locals still highly recommend having a guide due to difficult terrain and capricious weather conditions.

4. Flathead Valley

This northwestern county in Montana encompasses the towns of Kalispell, Whitefish, Columbia Falls, and Bigfork. It offers approximately 200 miles of groomed trails alongside an estimated 2,000 miles of Forest Service roads — most of which are regularly groomed and maintained by local snowmobile clubs.

Popular trails in this area include Stillwater, Blacktail Mountain, Crane Mountain, and Canyon Creek trail systems. If you want a less-frequented part of Flathead Valley, cutting fresh trails up north will reward you with stunning views of the Glacier National Park and Canadian Rockies!

5. Skalkaho Pass

Located along Montana’s State Highway 38, the Skalkaho Pass is a popular snowmobiling destination due to several reasons. In addition to its convenient accessibility from nearby towns (like Hamilton and Missoula) and picturesque surroundings, this pass offers great terrain variety — from open meadows to tough mountain passes.

This snowmobile paradise has 56 miles of trails (26 of which are designated and the other 30 groomed). Grantsdale and Anaconda — where you can find food, lodging, and equipment rentals — are near them.

Skalkaho Pass is closed to automobiles during winter, making the entire area a ‘dream come true’ for experienced snowmobilers, hobbyists, and families.

6. Garnet Ghost Town in Greenough

This famed town in Granite County is well known for its well-preserved architecture, historical significance, and beautiful surroundings. Its trail system provides hundreds of miles of snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling trails.

Some sections offer as much as 7,000 feet of elevation — alongside spectacular views of the Garnet Mountain Range and Sapphire Mountains.

7. Cooke City

Cooke City is a world-renowned snowmobiling destination with great opportunities for backcountry riding. The area offers terrain and trails suitable for all skill levels (although some technical and remote conditions exist).

Snowmobilers can access the town through 50 miles of groomed trails from Yellowstone’s northeast gateway or via a more remote backcountry experience from the Pilot Creek Parking Area on the east side of the Gallatin National Forest.

The trails are open from December through April and provide breathtaking views of the Beartooth Mountains.

8. Lincoln in Western Lewis and Clark County

This snowmobiling trail in central Montana offers over 200 miles of groomed trails and backcountry access. The area is managed by the Lincoln Ranger District and is suitable for riders of all skill levels.

The trails traverse snow-covered peaks, dense forests, and rolling hills, with abundant wildlife sightings. Because safety is a top priority in Lincoln, riders are advised to follow the rules, wear safety gear, and avoid alcohol and illegal substances.

9. Red Lodge, Carbon County

Red Lodge provides access to over 200 miles of excellent snowmobiling trails. This trail system offers riders a unique experience through the beautiful scenery of the Beartooth Mountains and is suitable for snowmobilers of every skill level.

The town has a variety of services available for snowmobilers, including rentals, tours, and repairs. As if that were not enough, snow conditions in the region are consistently excellent, with an average annual snowfall of 250 inches.

10. Red Lion, Georgetown Lake

Red Lion Georgetown Lake is a popular snowmobiling trail in Montana with easy accessibility from the town of Anaconda. Riders of all levels can enjoy scenic views of the mountains and forests while treading over 80 miles of groomed trails passing through the Anaconda-Pintler Wilderness.

The area is known for its abundant snowfall, perfect for snowmobiling and other winter activities such as ice fishing, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing. Furthermore, dining and lodging options are available, making Georgetown Lake an excellent choice for a snowmobiling vacation.

11. Swan Lake

Swan Lake is a popular winter destination in Montana for snowmobiling enthusiasts. Located in the Seeley-Swan Valley, the area offers roughly 100 miles of groomed trails that wind through beautiful scenery, snow-covered peaks, and diverse terrain.

Trails provide access to backcountry areas in the nearby Bob Marshall Wilderness and are suitable for all skill levels.

Despite its amicable trail system, Swan Lake is big on safety and strongly advises its patrons to follow all rules and regulations to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

12. Bighorn Canyon

The Bighorn Canyon snowmobile trails in Fort Smith, MT, offer riders a unique winter experience with approximately 70 miles of groomed trails through stunning landscapes. Nestled in the Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area, the trail system enables riders to explore the snow-covered canyons and mesas while enjoying views of the Bighorn Mountains.

The trails accommodate all skill levels, and riders can access backcountry areas for even more adventure. Since safety is a top priority, frequenters of the Big Canyon ensure they follow all rules and regulations implemented on the snowmobile trails.

13. Kootenai County Region

Situated at the northwesternmost part of the Treasure State, this county boasts long snowmobiling trails, including the Purcell Mountain and Grave Creek trail systems. The latter, in particular, begins in the Birch Creek Recreation Area and goes all the way to the Canadian border in Roosville.

This makes for a long but satisfying snowmobile ride, as the distance between these two points is approximately 62 miles.

Barring weather, terrain, and navigational challenges, this stretch can ideally be covered in 2-3 hours at an average speed of 20-30 mph (32-48 km/h). But should you prefer shorter Montana snowmobile trips, start from Troy and follow the trails to Libby. You should reach your destination in time for lunch and a hot toddy!

14. Lolo Pass

Featuring around 250 miles of interwoven loop trails that navigate through the Lolo and Clearwater National Forests, this area was first explored by Meriwether Lewis and William Clark during the Corps of Discovery Expedition between 1804 and 1805.

Thanks to that 200-year-old endeavor, avid snowmobilers now enjoy an abundance of open meadows and backcountry terrain the region offers.

15. Mission Mountains

Not to be confused with the Mission Mountains Wilderness Area, this hidden gem is a fantastic spot for snowmobiling in Montana. It is a demanding trail for the most part, with steep, rugged peaks and highly technical areas.

This snowmobiling destination lies in the Flathead Indian Reservation — meaning you need a reservation permit from the tribal wildland recreation program to access the area. More importantly, only a portion of the mountain range (Flathead Lakes, Jocko Lake, and Boulder trail systems included) is open to snowmobiling.

It is difficult to provide a definitive length of the trails good for snowmobiling (some are not well-documented and may vary yearly based on snowfall and other factors). Therefore, check with local snowmobile clubs and outfitters for specifics on trail length and off-limit areas in Mission Mountains.

Special Mentions

• Elk Lake Resort — a premiere snowmobile resort in West Yellowstone with thousands of acres of powdery snow and wilderness for its patrons. The resort provides equipment, meals, and accommodations after a long day of snowmobiling. Outside of winter, the place is a popular venue for weddings, family reunions, and vacations.
• Haugan Area — considered one of the most family-friendly snowmobile trails in the state. Its trails are generally safe and easy to navigate. Moreover, it is surrounded by restaurants, shops, and several lodging options that take away the hassle of planning multi-day Montana snowmobile trips with kids or the entire family.
• Philipsburg — offers a winter paradise for riders of all levels. The area boasts miles of groomed trails that weave through stunning scenery, including the Pintler Mountains and snow-covered meadows. The Philipsburg Ranger District manages the trails, and backcountry areas in the Anaconda-Pintler Wilderness are also accessible.

Pointers for New Snowmobilers

• Complete beginners should never get into the winter sport blindly. Learn the basics and gain confidence by taking a snowmobiling lesson.
• To best prepare for unpredictable weather, check the forecast and account for potential climatic changes before heading to your destination.
• Winters in Montana can be bitterly cold, so dress warmly in layers.
• Rent equipment if you are new to snowmobiling. This way, you can figure out if it will pique your interest for the long haul (before you decide to invest in your gear).
• Be familiar with the snowmobile trails. As a precaution, always carry a map or GPS device with you.
• Respect private property, especially in snowmobiling destinations within a wildlife conservation area or near residents. Respect landowners’ rights, and always stick to designated trails.
• Adhere to safety protocols by wearing protective gear, following trail markers, and obeying speed limits (among others).
• Be respectful of wildlife and their habitat. If you see them on the sidelines while you ride, never approach or disturb them.
• For added safety, always ride with a buddy or group. If you are newer to snowmobiling, it is best to have a guide.
• Have an emergency kit containing food, water, a first-aid kit (view on Amazon), extra clothing, etc., as it will come in handy in emergencies.

Frequently Asked Questions

Renting a Snowmobile in Montana Cost

Snowmobile rental costs in Montana range from $100 to $300 per day, depending on the company, location, and snowmobile type. For example, Big Sky Montana snowmobiling rentals range from $100 to $300 (even more with complete protective gear and other accessories).

Rates typically include a basic snowmobile and a helmet like HJC Helmets i90 Modular Electric Snowmobile Helmet (view on Amazon), with additional equipment available for extra fees.

For information that will best match your budget and preferences, research and compare the services and prices offered by various rental companies in the Treasure State. Reviews and ratings from previous customers can also help you make an informed decision.

How Much Does It Cost to Snowmobile in Montana?

Snowmobiling in Montana can cost $300-$500 daily per person. This price range includes trail fees ($10-$25/day), equipment rentals ($150-$250/day), and guided tours ($250-$350/person).

Lodging costs vary ($100-$500/night), depending on how posh or furnished the accommodation is. All in all, your total expenditure will be contingent on your preferences and other specific trip details.

(Note that these figures have yet to include rates for a mandatory snowmobile trail pass.)

What Is a Montana Snowmobile Trail Pass?

A Montana snowmobile trail pass is mandatory for all snowmobiles, dog sleds, and other mechanized equipment used on designated trails in the state. It costs $20 for residents and $35 for non-residents (per machine) and can be purchased at snowmobile dealerships, state parks, and vendors.

The pass is valid from October 1st to September 30th the following year — proceeds go towards maintaining Montana’s snowmobile trail systems. Displaying the pass while on designated trails is a must, as failure to do so can lead to a fine.

What is the Best Backcountry Snowmobiling in Montana?

Montana houses several backcountry snowmobiling destinations. Among the most-recommended places are West Yellowstone, Cooke City, Gallatin National Forest, Bighorn Canyon, and Lincoln Ranger District.

Bozeman Pass and the Tobacco Root Mountains offer groomed trails and backcountry access, while Flathead National Forest has a variety of trails.

What are the Best All-Inclusive Snowmobile Vacation Packages in Montana?

The best all-inclusive snowmobile vacation packages in Montana include Yellowstone Vacation Tours in West Yellowstone, Big Sky Montana in Bozeman, Mountain Madness Snowmobile Tours in Cooke City, Sage Lodge in Pray, The Ranch at Rock Creek in Philipsburg, and Snowmobile Montana in various locations.

Their packages include lodging, snowmobile rentals, meals, and guided tours of the surrounding areas.

Are Snowmobiles Banned in Yellowstone?

Snowmobiling is not banned in Yellowstone National Park. However, it is highly regulated.

As of this writing, the national park only allows guided commercial tours on designated routes with strict noise and emission controls. Tour arrangements must be made with authorized operators and in compliance with regulations for a safe and pleasant visit.

The National Park Service has issued temporary bans in the past to address air and noise pollution and wildlife impact concerns. But as of 2013, the temporary bans have been changed into a winter-use plan defining certain conditions and limiting the number of snowmobiles and snow coaches that could enter the park.

Conclusion — Snowmobiling in Montana

To summarize, let’s go over the best snowmobiling trails in Montana once again:

1. West Yellowstone
2. Seeley Lake
3. Marias Pass
4. Flathead Valley
5. Skalkaho Pass
6. Garnet Ghost Town in Greenough
7. Cooke City
8. Lincoln in Western Lewis and Clark County
9. Red Lodge, Carbon County
10. Red Lion, Georgetown Lake
11. Swan Lake
12. Bighorn Canyon
13. Kootenai County Region
14. Lolo Pass
15. Mission Mountains

Montana’s snowmobiling trails offer an exhilarating experience for all winter adventurers. With diverse landscapes, riders can explore mountain ranges, valleys, and backcountry areas.

From beginners to snowmobile enthusiasts, Montana has something for everyone. So grab your gear, hop on a sled, and discover the stunning beauty of the Big Sky Country from the back of a snowmobile!