If you’re a seasoned hiker in Montana, you know that the hiking season doesn’t end when the sun sets on summer. Some might say that’s when the best hiking starts. That may mean strapping on some snowshoes or ice spikes, and you should always check road conditions beforehand, but the truth is that winter hiking in Montana can be absolutely beautiful. For a perfect example, just head to the Beehive Basin.

The Beehive Basin is located near Big Sky, and it's a top destination for locals and tourists alike.
Rebecca Johnson / AllTrails
This area has some of the best views in the entire Big Sky area, which is really saying something.
The seven-mile Beehive Basin Trail No. 40 is definitely a popular summertime destination, but by the late fall and early winter, the crowds are long gone.
Rebecca Johnson / AllTrails
If you have winter gear, this is a perfect trail to hit.
This trail stays open all year - or at least until it becomes inaccessible. The snowfall tends to start early in the season.
Michael Watt / AllTrails
However, by this time of year, the snow is often packed down by early hikers, making for a fairly easy trek.

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You'll definitely want to dress warmly and pack your snowshoes or micro-spikes.
Kristen Shaff / AllTrails
And depending on when you depart, you should plan on packing bear spray as well.
Once you get a few miles in, you'll reach a beautiful lake where nature will completely relax you.
John T / AllTrails
And if you're lucky, it will just be you, your hiking buddy, and the snowy scenery.
This trail is ranked as moderate, meaning it will be challenging, but far from impossible for a beginner.
Michael Watt / AllTrails
However, if you've never attempted a winter hike before, you'll want to go with someone more experienced.
Completing this trail just might make a winter lover out of you.
Rebecca Johnson / AllTrails
We're lucky to get to experience all four seasons here in Montana, and there really is nothing like Big Sky Country dusted with snow.

Winter hiking in Montana is a great way to see the stunning Montana wilderness in a whole new light. Would you hike the Beehive Basin in the winter? Share your favorite winter trails with us in the comments or by using our nomination form for a chance to see them featured.

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Winter In Montana

Chris Muras | January 19, 2024

What are some things to do in Montana in winter?
Montana winters can get pretty fierce, but if you love outdoor adventures there is nothing like Montana in winter. here are a few fun things to do in Montana in winter to start planning for:

  • Enjoy Winterfest at Big Sky: Since you are already planning to head to Big Sky for the Beehive Basin Trail make sure you plan your adventure around Winterfest in February. If you love outdoor activities in the winter, you'll love Winterfest. Try your hand at skijoring - imagine being pulled behind a racehorse on cross-country skis! If you aren't that crazy you can still enjoy sledding, tubing, and snowshoeing to your heart's content. Be sure to save some time for the Viking Run and the Frozen Foot Obstacle Course, too.
  • A romantic Lone Mountain Ranch sleigh ride dinner: Big Sky is also home to the Lone Mountain Ranch and its famed sleigh ride dinner. As the sun sets on a beautiful Montana landscape you can cozy up under a blanket while being pulled behind a team of Clydesdales. Then, head back to the ranch for a delicious meal illuminated by vintage oil lanterns - be sure to save room for a fresh huckleberry cobbler.
  • Warm up at Yellowstone Hot Springs: The charming town of Gardiner is about 10 miles from the North Entrance to Yellowstone National Park. There, you'll find a beautiful hot spring resort. In the wintertime, you'll be able to enjoy a quiet getaway without the summer crowds. You may not think about visiting a hot spring in the wintertime, but when you dip into the Hot Pool and its 105-degree warmth you'll quickly see why we love this place - even in the winter.

Of course, there are many more fun activities and adventures to enjoy in Montana in the winter. Here are even more Montana winter attractions to put on your bucket list. Another unique excursion you might enjoy is the Yellowstone Winter Wildlife Safari which starts in Bozeman. This naturalist-led tour is both informative and beautiful.

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Beehive Basin, Big Sky, MT 59730, USA