Lincoln/Garnet Ghost Town + Helena + Mount Haggin + Georgetown Lake + Anaconda + Big Hole Valley
Southwest Montana
Start your adventure with two options—you can’t go wrong either way. Head to Lincoln for 250 miles of powder-packed snowmobiling trails, including tree-lined routes, picture-perfect lakes and challenging trails with panoramic views. Or, explore Garnet Ghost Town, with more than 80 miles of groomed and ungroomed trails including the 32-mile Garnet National Winter Recreation Trail. Climb to 7,000 feet, where views of the Blackfoot Valley, the Mission Mountains, the Bob Marshall Wilderness and the Pintler Range make for an especially scenic ride. In winter, Garnet is only accessible by snowmobile, ski and snowshoe, and cabins are available for rent—making it a unique and memorable destination.
In the evening, unwind with local brews at Blackfoot River Brewing Company or Lewis & Clark Brewing Company, and savor a meal at Brewhouse Pub & Grill or Silver Star Steak Company. Overnight at the Comfort Suites Helena or Best Western Premier Helena Great Northern.
For more information:
Southwest Montana
Spend your second day exploring the snowmobile terrain surrounding Helena. With 175 miles of groomed trails spread across three major systems, there's plenty of variety. The Marysville system offers 45 miles of scenic trails, while Minnehaha-Rimini’s 120 miles provide more challenging terrain. Magpie-Sunshine adds another 45 miles of trails with beautiful views of the mountains. These trails offer everything from family-friendly routes to advanced rides for thrill-seekers.
Enjoy another evening of local dining and craft drinks, and spend a second night at the Comfort Suites Helena or Best Western Premier Helena Great Northern.
For more information:
Southwest Montana
From Helena, make your way to the Anaconda area to explore Mount Haggin, a remote snowmobiling spot along the Continental Divide in the Mount Haggin Wildlife Management Area. The peaceful setting and breathtaking vistas make for a memorable ride. Snowmobile rentals and guided tours are available from Sugar Loaf Lodge. For more powder play, head to Georgetown Lake, where three major trail systems with over 140 miles of trails await, offering everything from family-friendly routes to deep snowpack adventures. Stop at Peterson Meadows Shelter for a scenic lunch break before continuing your ride.
Treat yourself to a hearty dinner at O’Bella! or Barclay II Supper Club and enjoy a local brew at Smelter City Brewing. Overnight in Anaconda at Sugar Loaf Lodge, The Forge Hotel or Fairmont Hot Springs Resort.
For more information:
Southwest Montana
On day four, drive to Butte and explore the Elk Park Snowmobile Area, where you can ride over 80 miles of trails without the crowds. This family-friendly area offers a mix of wide-open meadows and forested paths, taking you through scenic routes along the Continental Divide. You'll travel through stunning landscapes with expansive views of mountain ranges and wide valleys, making it a perfect spot for both leisurely riders and those seeking a bit more adventure.
After your ride, travel south to Wise River for a meal at H Bar J Saloon or Wise River Club. Then make your way to Jackson Hot Springs for relaxing soak. Overnight in Polaris at Montana High Country or The Grasshopper Inn.
For more information:
Southwest Montana
On the final day of your adventure, explore the vast snowmobile trails of the Big Hole Valley and the Pioneer Scenic Byway near Dillon, where you’ll find grand vistas of towering mountain ranges and wide valleys. Highlights of the area include Reservoir Lake, as well as historic ghost towns like Coolidge and Elkhorn—reminiscent of the area's mining past. Major groomed trails here interconnect with the Wisdom, Jackson and Wise River systems, providing an extensive network for all levels of riders.
For those seeking even more exploration, additional trails link to Salmon, Idaho, or cross the Continental Divide into the Bitterroot Valley. With elevations reaching up to 8,000 feet, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to carve through powder-filled meadows, explore hidden backcountry lakes and ride across expansive high plateaus, all set against the backdrop of beautiful Southwest Montana.
For more information:
Always check road reports and weather conditions when traveling through Montana in the wintertime.
If you're flying in:
Southwest Montana Airports
If you're renting a car:
Southwest Montana Car Rentals
Plan ahead and be prepared, ensuring safer, more enjoyable travels and less impact.
Pack the right gear, take precautions, know your limits, and engage in activities that match your skill level.
Take care of our trails and waterways by riding responsibly specific to your motorized activity.
Help prevent aquatic invasive species by following Clean.Drain.Dry. principles and watercraft inspections requirements.
Recognize and acknowledge when you enter tribal lands, know tribal guidelines, and secure a tribal conservation permits for recreation.
Help prevent wildland fires. Attend to and extinguish campfires properly, and know current fire restrictions.
View wildlife from a safe distance. Never approach, touch or feed wildlife. Carry bear spray and know how to use it.
Respect all public lands, waters, tribal lands and local communities. Pack it in, pack it out.
Be thoughtful about and aware of your impact, embrace inclusivity, and respect communities and fellow adventurers.
