Winter in Western Montana offers a fresh way for groups to experience Glacier Country’s wide-open landscapes and welcoming communities. From snow-covered peaks to cozy lodges, the season reveals another side of the region—where guests can experience the magic of fresh snowfall, the warmth of a crackling fire and the camaraderie of shared adventure. With activities suited for all ages and abilities, expert outfitters and group-friendly accommodations, it’s easy to create itineraries that balance adventure with comfort. Here are five winter experiences that showcase the best of Montana’s snowy season.
Snowshoeing
Snowshoeing is one of the most accessible winter activities in Western Montana, making it an excellent choice for groups of all sizes and ability levels. Trails, rentals and guided tours can be found throughout the region, including inside Glacier National Park. Along the way, participants can search for signs of wildlife and learn about the plants and animals that thrive in this winter landscape.
Popular routes include sections of the iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road, the shores of Lake McDonald and the trail systems around Marias Pass. Tour Glacier, Glacier Tourbase and Whitefish Outfitters all offer guided snowshoeing excursions, including combination tours that pair scenic driving routes with snowshoe treks through the park. Additionally, The Glacier Institute provides educational winter programs that can be customized to meet the interests and needs of each group.
Sleigh Rides
A horse-drawn sleigh ride captures the magic of winter in Western Montana—complete with warm blankets, hot chocolate and snow-covered scenery. Groups can glide through quiet forests and open meadows by day or enjoy a twilight ride in the evening. Many lodges with this option can accommodate a group meal after the ride.
Several outfitters across the region offer guided sleigh rides suitable for group experiences, including Bar W Guest Ranch in Whitefish, Double Arrow Lodge in Seeley Lake, Cripple Creek Horse Ranch in Trego or Live Oak Belgians in St. Ignatius. In Whitefish, Clydesdale Outpost adds a distinctive touch with sleigh rides paired with barn tours, grooming workshops, and even the option to rent the barn for a private reception or event.
Downhill Skiing
For the active adventurer, few winter experiences rival the appeal of skiing in Western Montana, where seven downhill ski areas offer terrain and amenities suited for every level of skier. For group travel planners, Glacier Country provides easy access to the slopes with affordable lift tickets, convenient rentals and short-to-no lift lines—making coordination seamless.
Guided ski experiences and group packages are available at several resorts, with options for lessons, equipment delivery and on-mountain dining. Whitefish Mountain Resort provides child care for the littles who aren’t skiing yet, while the ski school offers early ski and board programs for those just starting out. With six ski resorts across the region, planners can match the perfect ski area to their group’s interests and ability levels.
Nordic Skiing
For groups seeking a slower-paced winter adventure, Nordic skiing offers an ideal way to experience the quiet beauty of Glacier Country. The region’s extensive trail systems feature both groomed and classic tracks suitable for all skill levels. Notable destinations such as Glacier National Park and Garnet Ghost Town transform into peaceful, snow-covered landscapes accessible only by Nordic ski or snowshoe.
Guided cross-country excursions are available throughout the region, with outfitters like Glacier Adventure Guides providing equipment, instruction and expert insights into the area’s natural and cultural history. It’s an approachable and rewarding winter activity that combines fitness, scenery and exploration—perfect for groups looking to balance adventure with relaxation.
Winter Retreats With Activities On-Site
Adventure and comfort come together at Western Montana’s winter lodges, where group-friendly accommodations pair seamlessly with guided outdoor activities.
At Double Arrow Lodge in Seeley Lake, guests can enjoy cozy lodging accented with rustic charm—antique furnishings, warm comforters and snow-season adventures right outside the door. Groups can tailor their day’s activities, choosing from snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, ice fishing or a horse-drawn sleigh ride, then warm up by the massive stone fireplace in the historic main lodge before dining on-site for dinner.
Another historic property, the former Izaak Walton Inn, has been thoughtfully updated and reopened as LOGE Glacier in Essex. Located just outside Glacier National Park, this group-friendly lodge offers on-site gear rentals and access to 30 km of Nordic ski trails winding around the property.
Small groups will also appreciate the peaceful beauty of Dog Creek Lodge, a notable Nordic ski destination featuring more than 27 km of groomed trails. Set on 80 pristine acres surrounded by Stillwater State Forest and Dog Lake, the lodge is near Whitefish, Glacier National Park and the Flathead Valley. Amenities include an on-site ski shop, full coffee bar and restaurant—where homemade, wood-fired pizzas made from locally sourced ingredients are a guest favorite.
Know Before You Go
The lower elevations of the Going-to-the Sun Road from West Glacier to Lake McDonald Lodge remain open year-round, weather permitting. Keep in mind that park services and amenities typically close by late September, though drinking water and restrooms are available at the Apgar Visitor Center. For the most up-to-date details, visit Glacier National Park’s winter information page.
Across Western Montana, plan for extra travel time and drive with caution in winter conditions. Snowfall patterns vary from year to year—sometimes beginning as early as November or as late as December—but high-elevation areas and ski hills consistently receive more than 300 inches of quality snow annually. In the valleys, activities such as sleigh rides can often pivot to carriage rides if conditions require. January and February reliably deliver peak winter weather, while March brings the first signs of spring.
If you need planning assistance for your group or FIT clients, feel free to reach out—I’m always happy to help.
Stay Cozy,
DP
January 16, 2026
Related: Essex, FIT, Glacier National Park, Group Tours, Outdoor Adventure, Seeley Lake, St. Ignatius, Student tours, Tour Operator, Whitefish, Winter
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