By Jessica Wick|Updated on November 20, 2022(Originally published November 15, 2022)
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Jessica Wick
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Jessica Wick is a writer and travel enthusiast who loves exploring new places, meeting new people and, of course, beautiful Big Sky Country and every part of Washington State.
If you’re the kind of Montanan who embraces the long, snow-filled winters, you’re in luck: the majority of the state sees freezing temperatures and plenty of snowfall for months, and while you definitely won’t find a warm winter here, there are a few places you can go where winter isn’t quite so harsh. If you live near one of these cities or towns, make the drive before March to get a hint of a break from the elements. These towns are all thought to have the best weather in Montana: enjoy them when everywhere else is too chilly! Winter in Montana has never been so normal! Well, sort of.
Billing's climate is surprisingly mild for its location. The average winter snowfall is 59 inches, but it tends to melt quickly. The shelter of the river valley offers some protection. There are lots of reasons why people tend to see Billings as one of the best places to live in the United States, and its pleasant weather is one of them.
Great Falls does get some freezing cold winds, so winters there definitely aren’t entirely mild. But on wind-free days, the winter temps can be almost pleasant. This charming little river town in Montana really is everything that's right with the world.
Livingston sees 190 sunny days a year. It does tend to get a lot of snow, but the temperatures are almost always tolerable. Come out and see why Livingston is often called the best warm-weather town in Montana.
The Bitterroot Valley is often spared most of the harsh blizzard winds and record-breaking wind chill temperatures. Hamilton sees around 25 inches of snow per year, which is on par with the national average. Hamilton is one of those downright charming small towns in MT whose wonderful weather is just one of its perks.
Kalispell’s climate is a bit humid, and summers are pleasantly warm. Winters tend to be mild for the area as well. We cannot get enough of this beautiful little mountain town in Montana, and we don't think you will, either!
Laurel gets its share of snow, but it’s typically intermittent. Its close proximity to Billings means it gets some of the tamer winter weather. Laurel is easily one of the best, friendliest towns in Montana and it's sure to capture your imagination.
Darby is located in the Bitterroot Valley, meaning you’ll find the same tamer temps that you do in Hamilton. It does snow a lot here, but since the area is known for its winter sports and activities, that’s a good thing. You're never going to want to leave this small town in MT.
Missoula tends to see less snowfall than the surrounding areas and you will see temperatures in the twenties (quite warm for a Montana winter). However, sometimes an arctic blast rolls in and sends the temperature dropping. Plan for all kinds of weather when you visit Missoula during winter. This is a cute little hippie town in Montana you are sure to find delight in year-round.
Tame or not, winter is a beautiful time to be in Montana. These photos prove just how amazing Montana in the winter is and why you should plan a visit.
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Best Weather in Montana
Tori Jane|November 20, 2022
What cities have the best weather in Montana?
Though the term “best” is subjective, there are several cities thought to have the best weather in Montana, such as:
Bitterroot Valley, which is famous for having less severe weather than other parts of the state
Billings, which often sees less snowfall than other cities
