Bozeman + West Yellowstone: Downhill Skiing + Ice Climbing + Hot Springs + Dog Sledding + Nordic Skiing + Snowmobiling + Fly-Fishing
Yellowstone Country
After flying into Bozeman, exploring the downtown scene and overnighting at a local hotel, start your first full day in Yellowstone Country on the slopes. Bridger bowl boasts 2,000 acres of terrain with an average of 350 inches of “cold smoke” per year. 75 named trails varying in level from beginner to expert. If you're a novice on the slopes, Snowsports will get you going with lessons and equipment rentals. Lunch at Jim Bridger Lodge. Take the Sunnyside Lift to two terrain parks, including the upper and lower Sunnyside runs. Then, catch a break at the Snowflake Warming Hut, before heading back out for more powder. If you're an expert, hike to the Ridge for steep chutes, rock cliffs, and open powder fields. Après ski, the nightlife in Bozeman ranges from beloved small-town dive bars to upscale restaurants, and the number of breweries cannot be counted on one hand. Close out the evening with a live show; Bozeman's music scene is top notch.
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Yellowstone Country
Whether you're a climbing novice or a total expert, gear up for a memorable day on the ice. Hyalite Canyon, just south of Bozeman, is one of the premier ice climbing destinations in the U.S. and includes more than 200 pitches. Enjoy diverse, accessible climbing on reliable ice with the help of some of the best and most experienced climbers in the business at Montana Alpine Guides. Then, climb on down and enjoy dinner and drinks in downtown Bozeman.
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Yellowstone Country
After two days of hard-core winter play, it's time for a little relaxation, Montana style. Soak in the healing mineral waters of the world-famous Bozeman Hot Springs, featuring nine pools plus dry and wet saunas. Next, head out on the town to check out Bozeman's eclectic charm and local vibes—from coffee shops, dining and shopping to the Museum of the Rockies. Stay another night in Bozeman or head an hour south to Gallatin Gateway where your next winter adventure awaits.
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Yellowstone Country
A stone's throw from Big Sky Resort, explore 85km of groomed skate and classic ski trails and over 2,200 vertical feet right outside your cabin door at this historic guest ranch. Lone Mountain Ranch was voted the No. 1 Nordic Ski Resort in North America by Cross Country Skier Magazine. Guides and shuttles are available and the views are spectacular. Lone Mountain offers the quintessential Montana Nordic experience with a diversity of trails on pristine woodland, creekside and meadow terrain. If you'd rather be pulled on a sled through Montana's pristine winter wonderland, the ranch can arrange a special dog-sledding excursion. Sit back and enjoy the views, or try mushing a dog sled yourself with the help of a guide.
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Yellowstone Country
Fly-fishing might sound like fun for a warmer time of year, but in Montana every season is angling season. There's no wrong time to cast a fly rod in West Yellowstone—the heart of fly-fishing in the Rocky Mountains where blue-ribbon trout streams abound. Float fish the icy waters of the Madison River—friendly and experienced local guides and outfitters can gear you up, get you there and tell you where and what to tie on. Then, tie one on in the idyllic town of West Yellowstone, where the nightlife is quite the catch.
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Always check road reports and weather conditions when traveling through Montana in the wintertime.
If you’re flying in:
Yellowstone Country Airports
If you’re renting a car:
Yellowstone Country Car Rentals
Check the status of your destination before arriving.
Make reservations in advance and pack essentials like water.
Take it slow and choose low-risk activities.
Learn wildlife safety. View from a safe distance, never approach or feed, and carry bear spray.
Be mindful of your impact on communities.
Take your trash, including fruit rinds, with you and clean up properly.
Make outdoor spaces safe and welcoming for all.
Follow the steps Clean. Drain. Dry. and pull over for inspections.
Check avalanche forecasts, carry gear and know your snow.
Properly use outdoor equipment, learn campfire safety and check fire restrictions.
