MacDonald Pass + Stemple Pass + Georgetown/Echo Lake + Mount Haggin + Homestake
Southwest Montana
Begin your adventure at MacDonald Pass, located just west of Helena. This scenic spot offers 14 km of groomed trails that wind through beautiful forests and offer stunning views of the Continental Divide. Enjoy reliable snow, perfect for both classic and skate skiing, and link trails to ski one of the four popular loops. After a day of skiing, head back to Helena, where you can take in the historic charm of Last Chance Gulch and Reeder's Alley, enjoy a hearty meal, and relax for the night.
Overnight at Comfort Suites or Best Western Great Northern Hotel in Helena.
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Southwest Montana
Your second day takes you to Stemple Pass, about 37 miles northwest of Helena, toward Lincoln. The pass offers 32 km of ungroomed ski trails in five connected loops for beginner to difficult cross-country skiing in the Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest. The peaceful landscape and well-defined tracks make it a perfect spot for a day of skiing. Afterward, return to Helena for another cozy evening.
Overnight at Comfort Suites or Best Western Great Northern Hotel in Helena.
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Southwest Montana
Travel southwest to Georgetown Lake, situated between Anaconda and Philipsburg. This area offers a variety of trails around the lake and through the surrounding forests, perfect for all skill levels. The nearby Echo Lake also provides serene skiing opportunities on 14 km of trails for both classic and skate skiing with an additional marked 15 km of ungroomed trails plus breathtaking views of the Pintler Mountains. After a fulfilling day on the trails, unwind at a local spot for dinner.
Overnight at the Forge Hotel in Anaconda, or Fairmont Hot Springs Resort.
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Southwest Montana
Next, head to Mount Haggin near Anaconda. This area offers 25 km of well-groomed trails across open meadows and through dense forests on the Continental Divide. The high elevation guarantees good snow, and you’ll find wide valleys and scenic vistas as you ski meadows and hill trails. Roughly 10 km are groomed for both classic and skate skiing while the remaining trails are tracked for classic skiing. After a day in this winter wonderland, enjoy a meal before settling in for a relaxing evening.
Overnight at the Forge Hotel in Anaconda, or Fairmont Hot Springs Resort.
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Southwest Montana
Head east to Homestake Lodge, which offers 35 km of groomed classic and skate trails plus stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The trails are perfect for all skill levels, and the lodge itself is a charming, off-the-grid retreat, ideal for relaxing after your final day of skiing. The Lodge offers lessons, ski and snowshoe rentals, and delicious homemade food on weekends. Though these trails are open to the public, Homestake Lodge feels like your own private winter paradise.
Overnight at Homestake Lodge.
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Always check road reports and weather conditions when traveling through Montana, especially on seasonal roads like the Going-to-the-Sun Road and the Beartooth Highway.
It can get a little (or a lot) chilly at high elevations, even in the summer. Dress accordingly and always check the weather before you ride, especially in the spring and fall when the weather can change at the drop of a hat
Plan your route in terms of where to fuel up, and note that cell service can be spotty (or nonexistent) at times.
